Assoc. Prof. Dr. Muhammad Asrar | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award
Government College University of Faisalabad | Pakistan
Dr. Muhammad Asrar is an accomplished academic and researcher currently serving as an Associate Professor in the Department of Zoology at Government College University, Faisalabad, Pakistan. He is widely recognized for his expertise in entomology, particularly Integrated Pest Management (IPM), and for his leadership in various academic and administrative capacities. Over the course of his career, he has made substantial contributions to teaching, research, and institutional governance, while also engaging actively in professional societies and editorial roles. His commitment to both science and service reflects a balance of scholarly rigor and organizational skill, earning him recognition at national and international levels.
Professional Profile
Google Scholar
Education
Dr. Asrar holds a Doctor of Philosophy in Zoology from Government College University Faisalabad, where his research focused on developing pest management strategies for key agricultural pests in cotton. Prior to his doctorate, he completed both Master’s and Bachelor’s degrees in Agricultural Entomology from the University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, equipping him with a strong foundation in crop protection and insect biology. His earlier academic training in the sciences provided the basis for a career that integrates biological research with practical applications in agriculture and environmental management.
Experience
His professional journey encompasses a wide range of roles in teaching, research, and university administration. At Government College University Faisalabad, he has advanced from Assistant Professor to Associate Professor, mentoring students, supervising research, and delivering lectures in zoology and related disciplines. Beyond teaching, he has served in pivotal administrative positions, including Deputy Controller and Controller of Examinations, Deputy Director of Advanced Studies, Assistant Registrar, and Research Officer. These positions have involved overseeing academic policies, managing examination systems, facilitating research approvals, and ensuring compliance with higher education standards. He has also represented his institution at numerous conferences, chaired scientific sessions, and contributed to academic boards and committees across multiple universities.
Research Interest
Dr. Asrar’s research expertise lies at the intersection of entomology, pest ecology, and sustainable agriculture. He has a particular interest in Integrated Pest Management (IPM), focusing on the control of insect pests such as jassids and whiteflies in cotton, as well as stored-product pests like Tribolium castaneum. His work integrates field trials, laboratory experiments, and molecular approaches to develop environmentally friendly pest control solutions. He is also engaged in research related to fisheries and molecular biology, expanding his scope to encompass aquatic ecosystems and genetic tools for species management. Through his research, he aims to reduce pesticide dependence, promote biodiversity, and support sustainable farming practices.
Awards
Throughout his career, Dr. Asrar has been honored with multiple awards and distinctions in recognition of his academic excellence, innovative research, and outstanding service to the academic community. He has received commendations from university leadership for his dedication to institutional responsibilities and for organizing major academic events. Internationally, he has been awarded competitive travel grants to present his work at prestigious scientific forums. His achievements also include recognition for his administrative leadership, active participation in professional societies, and editorial contributions to well-regarded scientific journals. One of his notable honors is the Best Research Award for exceptional contributions to innovative research in science and agriculture.
Publications
Title: Foliar exposure of zinc oxide nanoparticles improved the growth of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) and decreased cadmium concentration in grains under simultaneous Cd and water stress
Journal: Ecotoxicology and Environmental Safety
Published on: 2021
Citation: 267
Title: Combined use of different nanoparticles effectively decreased cadmium (Cd) concentration in grains of wheat grown in a field contaminated with Cd
Journal: Ecotoxicology and Environmental Safety
Published on: 2021
Citation: 84
Title: 6‐Phosphogluconate dehydrogenase fuels multiple aspects of cancer cells: From cancer initiation to metastasis and chemoresistance
Journal: BioFactors
Published on: 2020
Citation: 58
Title: Effect of gibberellic acid and titanium dioxide nanoparticles on growth, antioxidant defense system and mineral nutrient uptake in wheat
Journal: Ecotoxicology and Environmental Safety
Published on: 2021
Citation: 55
Title: Physcion and physcion 8-O-β-D-glucopyranoside: Natural anthraquinones with potential anticancer activities
Journal: Current Drug Targets
Published on: 2021
Citation: 46
Title: Exploration of polyacrylamide microplastics and evaluation of their toxicity on multiple parameters of Oreochromis niloticus
Journal: Saudi Journal of Biological Sciences
Published on: 2023
Citation: 43
Title: Phosphoglycerate mutase 1 in cancer: A promising target for diagnosis and therapy
Journal: IUBMB Life
Published on: 2019
Citation: 35
Conclusion
Dr. Muhammad Asrar exemplifies the qualities of a dedicated scholar, effective educator, and capable administrator. His career reflects a continuous pursuit of scientific advancement alongside a commitment to strengthening academic institutions. With expertise that spans both fundamental and applied research, he has contributed to solving critical agricultural challenges while also shaping the academic environment through leadership and mentorship. His professional record demonstrates not only technical proficiency in zoology and pest management but also a vision for integrating research, education, and service for the broader benefit of science and society.
