Lei Zhang | Agriculture | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Dr. Lei Zhang | Agriculture | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Lei Zhang, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, China

Prof. Dr. Lei Zhang is a Professor at the School of Mechanical Engineering, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, China, and a Visiting Scholar at the Robotics Laboratory of Texas State University. He holds a Doctor of Engineering in Mechatronics from the Chinese Academy of Sciences and specializes in mechanism synthesis, agricultural machinery, and robotics. With leadership in numerous national and provincial research projects, he has published over 40 academic papers and holds more than 70 patents. He is an active member of IEEE and serves as an editor and reviewer for several international journals.

Profile

Scopus

Summary:

Prof. Dr. Lei Zhang’s extensive research in mechatronics, agricultural machinery, and robotics has positioned him as a leader in his field. His ability to integrate complex engineering solutions with real-world applications is exemplified by his numerous patents, high-impact publications, and successful project leadership. As a professor at Zhejiang Sci-Tech University and a visiting scholar at Texas State University, he continues to influence the next generation of engineers and researchers. His contributions not only advance technical knowledge but also promote innovation in sustainable agricultural practices and automation.

🎓 Education

Lei Zhang holds a Doctor of Engineering degree in Mechatronics Engineering from the Shenyang Research Institute of Automation, Chinese Academy of Sciences. He earned his Master’s degree in Mechatronics Engineering from the College of Mechanical Engineering and Applied Electronics Technology, Beijing Polytechnic University, and a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Design and Manufacturing from the School of Mechanical Engineering, Shandong University of Technology.

💼Experience

Lei Zhang is a Professor at the School of Mechanical Engineering, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, where he has served since 2008 in various academic roles including Lecturer, Associate Professor, and Master’s Supervisor. He is also a Visiting Scholar at the Robotics Laboratory of Texas State University. Earlier in his career, he worked as an Assistant Lecturer at Shandong Second Vocational College.

🔬Research Focus

Lei Zhang’s research focuses on mechanism synthesis, agricultural machinery, and robotics. He has led and participated in multiple high-level research projects, including a sub-project under the National Key Research and Development Program of the 14th Five-Year Plan, two National Natural Science Foundation of China projects, and several initiatives sponsored by provincial departments and industry partners. His work has led to the publication of over 40 academic papers, with more than 30 indexed by SCI and EI.

🛠️Skills

Professor Zhang possesses extensive expertise in mechanism synthesis, agricultural machinery equipment, and robot technology. His technical strengths are further demonstrated by his portfolio of over 40 invention patents and 36 utility model patents. He is highly skilled in managing and executing research projects and has successfully led numerous national and provincial-level research initiatives as well as enterprise-commissioned projects.

🏆Awards

Lei Zhang has received multiple prestigious awards in recognition of his contributions to science and technology. He was awarded the Second Prize in the Zhejiang Provincial Science and Technology Progress Award in 2017 for his work on adjustable-presser-foot thread-breakage-responsive wide-format embroidery machines. In 2021, he earned the Third Prize in the same award category for the development and industrial application of multi-head wide-format ultra-high-speed embroidery equipment.

📚 Publications

Title: Lightweight Classification of Lotus Seedpod Quality Using Improved YOLOv3-Tiny Model
Authors: L. Zhang; H. Yan; Y. Jia; B. Ye; Z. Ma
Year: 2024
Journal: Nongye Gongcheng Xuebao / Transactions of the Chinese Society of Agricultural Engineering

Title: Analysis and Optimization of Low-Resistance Animal Bionic Subsoiling Shovel Based on EDEM
Authors: L. Zhang; X. Wang; J. Chen; H. Wang; Y. Cao
Year: 2024
Journal: Agriculture (Switzerland)

Title: Optimization Design and Experiment of Cam-Elliptical Gear Combined Vegetables Curved Surface Labeling Mechanism
Authors: L. Zhang; H. Zhou; J. Chen; Y. Liu; X. Zhang
Year: 2024
Journal: Frontiers in Robotics and AI

Conclusion:

Prof. Dr. Lei Zhang’s excellence in research, patent contributions, and project leadership makes him a strong contender for the Best Researcher Award. His groundbreaking work in agricultural machinery and robotics showcases his potential to drive further advancements in technology that address real-world challenges. While opportunities for greater global collaboration and outreach exist, Prof. Zhang’s current body of work undeniably positions him as a leading researcher, deserving recognition for his innovative contributions to both academia and industry.

Ishrat Naz | Soil Pathology | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Ishrat Naz | Soil Pathology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Ishrat Naz, The University of Agriculture, Peshawar, Pakistan

Dr. Ishrat Naz is an Associate Professor at The University of Agriculture, Peshawar, Pakistan, specializing in Plant Pathology with a focus on Nematology. She holds a Ph.D. from the same university, supported by a Pak-Scotland scholarship. With over 20 years of experience in teaching and research, Dr. Naz’s work centers on the molecular characterization and sustainable management of plant-parasitic nematodes. She is renowned for her contributions to nematicidal phytochemicals and microbial biocontrol strategies. Dr. Naz has received numerous awards, including the XVIII Star Award, and has published extensively in her field.

Profile

Scopus

Summary:

Dr. Ishrat Naz is a highly accomplished researcher with expertise in plant pathology, nematology, and sustainable disease management. Her research contributions, student mentorship, and applied agricultural impact make her a strong candidate for a Best Researcher Award. While she has a solid research portfolio, increasing her citation impact, securing larger grants, and expanding international collaborations could further elevate her standing in the scientific community.

 

🎓 Education

Dr. Ishrat Naz earned her Ph.D. in Plant Pathology (Nematology) from The University of Agriculture, Peshawar, with an outstanding CGPA of 3.95/4.00, supported by a Pak-Scotland scholarship. She completed her M.Sc. (Hons) in Plant Pathology (Mycology) from the same university, securing a Faculty Silver Medal for her academic excellence. Her B.Sc. (Hons) in Plant Pathology also earned her a University Bronze Medal.

 

💼Experience

Dr. Naz is an Associate Professor in the Department of Plant Pathology at The University of Agriculture, Peshawar, with over 20 years of experience in teaching, research, and administration. She previously held positions as an Assistant Professor, Lecturer, and Research Officer. She has been actively involved in curriculum development and has supervised numerous graduate and postgraduate research students. Additionally, she has served in administrative roles, including Warden of the Girls Hostel.

 

🔬Research Focus

Dr. Naz’s research centers on the characterization and management of plant-parasitic nematodes, particularly root-knot nematodes, using molecular tools and natural products. She investigates nematicidal phytochemicals, microbial pesticides, and fungal endophytes as sustainable solutions for nematode control. Her work also explores plant-fungal interactions, epidemiology of root-infecting pathogens, and the molecular ecology of citrus nematodes. She is actively involved in mapping nematode diversity in major crop ecosystems and developing integrated pest management strategies.

Awards

Dr. Naz has received numerous academic distinctions, including the XVIII Star Award (Star Laureate 2007) for her contributions to agriculture. She was awarded an International Research Support Initiative Program (IRSIP) scholarship by the Higher Education Commission (HEC) of Pakistan to conduct Ph.D. research at the James Hutton Institute, Scotland. She has also received Indigenous Ph.D. Scholarships and multiple merit certificates for her academic and research excellence.

 

Skills

Dr. Naz possesses expertise in molecular nematology, plant disease diagnostics, allelopathic management, microbial pesticides, and fungal biocontrol of nematodes. She is skilled in DNA sequencing, morphological identification of plant-parasitic nematodes, and biochemical management strategies. Her technical competencies include research design, scientific communication, and grant writing.

 

Publications

  • Maria, I., Naz, I., Khan, R., Aljowaie, R. M., & Munir, S. (2024). Unleashing the synergistic effect of promising fungicides: A breakthrough solution for combating powdery mildew in pea plants. Frontiers in Microbiology. 0 Citations

 

  • Ain, N., Naz, I., Maria, S., Alam, S. S., & Haris, M. (2024). Assessment of susceptibility of potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) cultivars to root lesion nematode, Pratylenchus penetrans, and disease impact on plant growth and tuber weight. Potato Research. 0 Citations

 

  • Uddin, J., Ullah, F., Naz, I., Khan, S. S., & Salim, M. A. (2023). Root-knot nematode pathogen suppression in eggplant using antagonistic fungi. Egyptian Journal of Biological Pest Control. 0 Citations

Conclusion:

Dr. Ishrat Naz is a highly deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award due to her strong academic background, impactful research, and contribution to agricultural sustainability. Strengthening research impact through high-impact publications, funding acquisition, and global collaborations could further solidify her position as a leading researcher in her field.

Samia Daldoul | Agricultural | Women Researcher Award

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Dr. Samia Daldoul | Agricultural | Women Researcher Award

Dr. Samia Daldoul, Centre of biotechnology of borj cedria, Tunisia

Dr. Samia Daldoul is an Assistant Professor at the Centre of Biotechnology of Borj Cedria, Tunisia, specializing in plant biotechnology and molecular biology. She earned her Ph.D. in Plant Biotechnology from the Faculty of Sciences of Tunis in 2010, followed by a postdoctoral fellowship at the Center of Biotechnology, Technopark of Borj-Cédria, Tunisia. Her research focuses on plant stress responses, particularly in grapevines, investigating mechanisms of tolerance to salinity, drought, and diseases through genomics, transcriptomics, and biotechnology approaches. She has been actively involved in numerous international research collaborations, including DAAD-funded projects in Germany and COST actions in Europe.

 

Profile

Scopus

Summary:

Dr. Samia Daldoul is an outstanding researcher in plant biotechnology, specializing in grapevine stress responses and abiotic stress tolerance. Her contributions are scientifically relevant, internationally recognized, and impactful in the context of sustainable agriculture. She has a strong publication record, international collaborations, and interdisciplinary expertise, making her an excellent candidate for the Women Researcher Award.

 

🎓 Education

Dr. Samia Daldoul earned her Ph.D. in Plant Biotechnology from the Faculty of Sciences of Tunis, Tunisia, in 2010. Following her doctoral studies, she completed a postdoctoral fellowship in 2011 at the Center of Biotechnology, Technopark of Borj-Cédria, Tunisia.

 

💼Experience

Since 2012, Dr. Daldoul has held a permanent position as an Assistant Professor at the Center of Biotechnology of Borj-Cédria in Tunisia. She has also participated in multiple international fellowships and research collaborations, notably through the Deutscher Akademischer Austauschdienst (DAAD) program in Germany, where she worked with teams specializing in genomics, genetic engineering, virology, and plant pathology. Additionally, she undertook a short-term scientific mission funded by the European Network COST in France, focusing on grapevine defense mechanisms and stress adaptation.

 

🔬Research Focus

Dr. Daldoul specializes in plant biotechnology, with a strong emphasis on grapevine responses to abiotic and biotic stresses, particularly salinity and drought. Her research integrates genomics, transcriptomics, and metabolomics approaches to understand plant resilience mechanisms. She has been actively involved in international research projects addressing viticulture sustainability, grapevine improvement through omics technologies, genome editing, and epigenetic mechanisms for crop adaptation to climate change.

 

Awards

Dr. Daldoul has received multiple prestigious fellowships from DAAD, allowing her to work with leading research institutions in Germany. She has also contributed to several high-impact international projects, including those funded by the European Union and Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions.

 

Skills

With extensive expertise in molecular biology, plant genetics, and biotechnology, Dr. Daldoul is skilled in advanced gene sequencing, transcriptome analysis, functional genomics, and bioinformatics. She also has experience in plant stress physiology, cell culture techniques, and genetic transformation. Her proficiency extends to project management and international scientific collaboration.

 

Publications

  • Deciphering the regulatory networks involved in mild and severe salt stress responses in the roots of wild grapevine Vitis vinifera spp. sylvestris – Daldoul, S., Hanzouli, F., Boubakri, H., Mliki, A., Gargouri, M. (2024) – 0 citations.

 

  • Evidence of an active role of resveratrol derivatives in the tolerance of wild grapevines (Vitis vinifera ssp. sylvestris) to salinity – Hanzouli, F., Zemni, H., Gargouri, M., Vincenzi, S., Daldoul, S. (2024) – 0 citations.

 

  • Stilbene production as part of drought adaptation mechanisms in cultivated grapevine (Vitis vinifera L.) roots modulates antioxidant status – Hanzouli, F., Daldoul, S., Zemni, H., Mliki, A., Gargouri, M. (2024) – 0 citations.

 

  • Enhancing biological activities and phenolic content of wild grapevine roots by severe drought stress – Daldoul, S., Hanzouli, F., Fares, N., Mliki, A., Gargouri, M. (2024) – 1 citation.

 

  • A Tunisian wild grape leads to metabolic fingerprints of salt tolerance – Daldoul, S., Gargouri, M., Weinert, C., Mliki, A., Nick, P. (2023) – 5 citations.

 

  • Ectopic expression of a grapevine alkaline α-galactosidase seed imbibition protein VvSIP enhanced salinity tolerance in transgenic tobacco plants – Ben-Amar, A., Daldoul, S., Allel, D., Wetzel, T., Mliki, A. (2023) – 3 citations.

 

  • The root transcriptome dynamics reveals new valuable insights in the salt-resilience mechanism of wild grapevine (Vitis vinifera subsp. sylvestris) – Daldoul, S., Hanzouli, F., Hamdi, Z., Mliki, A., Gargouri, M. (2022) – 10 citations.

 

  • First report of grapevine Virus L in grapevine in Tunisia – Ben Amar, A., Daldoul, S., Zemni, H., Olmos, A., Ruiz-García, A.B. (2020) – 5 citations.

Conclusion:

Dr. Daldoul’s research contributions align well with the objectives of the Women Researcher Award, particularly in advancing sustainable agriculture, plant stress tolerance, and biotechnological applications. Given her strong scientific impact, international collaborations, and focus on climate resilience, she is a highly suitable candidate. However, expanding her leadership role, outreach, and grant acquisition would further solidify her candidacy.