Shyam Saran Vaish | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Shyam Saran Vaish | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Banaras Hindu University | India

Dr. Shyam Saran Vaish is a highly accomplished Professor and Former Head of the Department of Mycology and Plant Pathology at the Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Banaras Hindu University. He has devoted more than three decades to advancing plant pathology research, with special emphasis on wheat, barley, and mustard disease management. His pioneering work on the biological control of plant parasitic nematodes, host–pathogen interaction studies, and the development of resistant crop varieties has been instrumental in strengthening agricultural productivity and sustainability. As a dedicated teacher, researcher, and academic leader, Dr. Vaish has significantly contributed to both scientific knowledge and farmer-focused solutions, making him one of the most respected figures in his field.

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Education

Dr. Vaish earned his doctoral degree in Mycology and Plant Pathology from Banaras Hindu University, where his research on Catenaria anguillulae explored innovative biocontrol solutions for plant parasitic nematodes. His academic journey also includes a postgraduate degree in Mycology and Plant Pathology from the same university and an undergraduate degree in Agriculture with Honours from Meerut University. He is also a two-time qualifier of the ICAR-NET examination in Plant Pathology, demonstrating his exceptional command over the subject and research aptitude.

Experience

Dr. Vaish began his academic career as a lecturer before taking up a research and teaching position as Assistant Professor-cum-Junior Scientist at the Regional Agricultural Research Station under SKUAST-K in Leh, where he worked extensively on cereal crop diseases. Later, he joined Banaras Hindu University as Assistant Professor, steadily advancing through various academic ranks to become a Professor. His professional journey reflects deep engagement in teaching, research, educational administration, and scientific collaboration. He has served as editor for national journals, led organizing committees for major scientific events, chaired technical sessions in international conferences, and participated in expert monitoring teams for national crop improvement programs. His mentorship has guided numerous postgraduate and doctoral scholars toward impactful careers in plant sciences.

Research Interest

Dr. Vaish’s research interests span the biological control of plant parasitic nematodes through predaceous fungi such as Catenaria anguillulae, breeding of wheat and barley for resistance against Bipolaris sorokiniana and rust pathogens, genome-wide association studies for trait mapping, and exploration of soil microbial diversity for plant growth promotion. His work bridges fundamental and applied research, leading to the release of several disease-resistant and high-yielding crop varieties. He also actively contributes to the identification, registration, and conservation of valuable germplasm, ensuring genetic diversity for future breeding programs.

Awards

Dr. Vaish has received prestigious recognitions for his scientific and academic contributions, including the Best Teacher Award from his home institute and Fellowship of the Indian Phyto pathological Society. He has participated in several internationally sponsored programs and delivered invited presentations across Asia, Africa, and Europe. His leadership roles in organizing national and international symposia, as well as his participation in expert panels for crop monitoring and disease surveillance, highlight his influence in both scientific and policy-level discussions in agricultural research.

Publications

Title: Genome wide association studies (GWAS) of spot blotch resistance at the seedling and the adult plant stages in a collection of spring barley
Journal: Molecular Breeding
Published on: 2018
Citation: Cited by: 62

Title: First documentation on status of barley diseases from the high altitude cold arid Trans-Himalayan Ladakh region of India
Journal: Crop Protection
Published on: 2011
Citation: Cited by: 47

Title: Mining of Indian wheat germplasm collection for adult plant resistance to leaf rust
Journal: PLoS ONE
Published on: 2019
Citation: Cited by: 35

Title: Management of spot blotch of wheat caused by Bipolaris sorokiniana in wheat using fungicides
Journal: Indian Phytopathology
Published on: 2014
Citation: Cited by: 28

Title: Pathogenicity and development of Catenaria anguillulae on some nematodes
Journal: Mycological Research
Published on: 1996
Citation: Cited by: 25

Title: Identification of new donors for spot blotch resistance in cultivated wheat germplasm
Journal: Cereal Research Communications
Published on: 2018
Citation: Cited by: 19

Title: Distribution of Catenaria anguillulae Sorokin, a facultative endoparasite of nematodes in soils from different locations of India
Journal: World Journal of Microbiology and Biotechnology
Published on: 2002
Citation: Cited by: 15

Title: Techniques for selective isolation, semiquantification and rapid virulence testing of Catenaria anguillulae
Journal: Mycological Research
Published on: 1998
Citation: Cited by: 12

Conclusion

Dr. Shyam Saran Vaish exemplifies the qualities of an outstanding researcher scientific innovation, academic mentorship, international collaboration, and a sustained commitment to agricultural advancement. His achievements in crop disease resistance breeding, biological pest control, and germplasm conservation have significantly benefited both scientific communities and farming systems. With a record of excellence in teaching, research, and leadership, he is a highly deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

Zhi Guo Wen | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Zhi Guo Wen | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Institute of Feed Research of Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (IFR CAAS) | China

Prof. Wen Zhiguo is a Ph.D., researcher, and doctoral supervisor, currently serving as the Chief Scientist of the Waterfowl Nutrition and Feed Innovation Team at the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences. He also holds positions as Post Scientist of the National Waterfowl Industry Technology System, Project Leader of the National Key R&D Program Young Scientists, and Member of the Waterfowl Nutrition Branch of the National Animal Nutrition Steering Committee. Recognized for his outstanding scientific leadership, he has been honored as an Outstanding Young Talent of the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences and has contributed extensively to the sustainable development of the waterfowl industry in China.

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Education

Prof. Wen obtained his doctoral degree in animal nutrition and feed science, specializing in nutrient metabolism and regulation in waterfowl. His academic background and research training provided the foundation for his expertise in nutritional value assessment of feed resources, optimization of feed formulations, and meat quality improvement strategies in waterfowl.

Experience

Prof. Wen has led multiple national and provincial-level projects, including those funded by the National Key R&D Program and the National Natural Science Foundation. His professional experience includes drafting the “Duck Husbandry Standards,” participating in the breeding of new meat duck varieties, and leading industry advisory groups for Sansui and fat liver meat ducks. Over the past five years, he has secured substantial research funding, developed patented technologies, and collaborated on international projects to advance feed efficiency and product quality in the waterfowl sector.

Research Interest

His primary research interests focus on nutrient digestion, absorption, and metabolic utilization in ducks, precise evaluation of conventional and alternative feed resources, and the development of efficient feed utilization systems to reduce dependence on corn and soybean meal. Additionally, he investigates the biochemical pathways influencing duck meat flavor and nutritional quality, aiming to create healthier and more flavorful meat products that align with consumer demands.

Awards

Prof. Wen has received significant recognition for his contributions, including being named an Outstanding Young Talent of the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Outstanding Communist Party Member of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, and Advanced Individual in Poverty Alleviation and Rural Revitalization. His awards reflect his exceptional research achievements and service to agricultural innovation and rural development.

Publications

Prof. Wen has authored over 100 academic papers, with more than 60 indexed in SCI journals, along with numerous patents and monographs. Selected publications include:

Title: Proteomic and phosphoproteomic analysis reveal threonine deficiency increases hepatic lipid deposition in Pekin ducks via reducing STAT phosphorylation
Journal: Animal Nutrition
Published on: 2023

Title: Feeding Laying Ducks Eucommia ulmoides oliv. Leaves Increases the n-3 Fatty Acids Content and Decreases the n-6: n-3 PUFA Ratio in Egg Yolk
Journal: Foods
Published on: 2023


Title: Dietary methionine deficiency stunts growth and increases fat deposition in Pekin ducks
Journal: Journal of Animal Science and Biotechnology
Published on: 2022


Title: Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Properties of Rubber Seed Oil in Lipopolysaccharide-Induced RAW 267.4 Macrophages
Journal: Nutrients
Published on: 2022


Title: Rubber seed oil supplementation attenuates immunological stress in laying hens
Journal: Poultry Science
Published on: 2022


Title: Severe choline deficiency induces alternative splicing aberrance in optimized duck primary hepatocyte cultures
Journal: Animal Bioscience
Published on: 2022


Title: Rubber seed oil supplementation enriches n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids and reduces cholesterol contents of egg yolks in laying hens
Journal: Food Chemistry
Published on: 2019


Title: Effect of dietary stevioside supplementation on growth performance and intestinal microflora in broilers
Journal: Food & Function
Published on: 2019

Conclusion

Prof. Wen Zhiguo’s pioneering work in waterfowl nutrition and feed technology has significantly advanced the efficiency, sustainability, and product quality of China’s duck industry. His integration of biochemical research, feed formulation innovation, and industry standard development has not only reduced the sector’s reliance on traditional feed resources but also improved meat flavor, nutritional value, and market appeal. With a proven record of impactful publications, patented innovations, and leadership in both academic and industry settings, Prof. Wen is a highly deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award, representing excellence in agricultural science and its practical application for economic and rural development.

Mahendra Aryal | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Mahendra Aryal | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Tribhuvan University | Nepal

Dr. Mahendra Aryal is a highly accomplished chemist and environmental scientist from Nepal, renowned for his innovative work in environmental remediation, biosorption, and bioremediation. He is currently a lecturer at Tri-Chandra College and NIST Higher Education in Kathmandu, where he teaches advanced courses in physical chemistry, instrumental analysis, and biotechnology. His academic journey has been marked by prestigious international research experiences, including postdoctoral research at Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece, where he focused on converting winery wastes into high-value products using sustainable and eco-friendly technologies. In addition to his extensive teaching career, Dr. Aryal plays a vital role in international scholarly publishing, serving on editorial boards, reviewing for leading journals, and contributing to the advancement of environmental chemistry and sustainable technologies.

Professional Profile

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Education

Dr. Aryal earned his Doctor of Philosophy in Bio-organic Chemistry from the Faculty of Chemical Engineering, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece. His doctoral research investigated the removal of toxic inorganic and organic substances from aqueous solutions using microbial processes, integrating advanced chemical engineering techniques with microbiology. He holds a Master’s degree in Physical Chemistry from Tribhuvan University, Nepal, and has also completed a Master’s-level program in Biotechnology at Aristotle University. His academic training is complemented by advanced foreign language studies in modern Greek, enabling him to engage deeply with international research communities.

Experience

Dr. Aryal has an extensive teaching career spanning multiple levels of education, from high school science instruction to university-level lectures for undergraduate and postgraduate students. At Tri-Chandra College, he has taught courses in chemical kinetics, surface chemistry, and catalysis, while at NIST Higher Education he has lectured on instrumental analysis, biophysical chemistry, and bioprocessing techniques. He has served as an external examiner for numerous thesis projects in biochemistry, environmental science, and nanotechnology, guiding and evaluating student research with a focus on scientific rigor. His professional journey also includes leadership roles in organizing scientific conferences and contributing to research initiatives aimed at improving environmental quality.

Research Interests

Dr. Aryal’s research focuses on environmental pollution control, with particular emphasis on biosorption and biodegradation processes for toxic heavy metals and organic pollutants. He has investigated the use of microbial and plant-based systems for the remediation of contaminated water and soil, explored phytoremediation strategies for sustainable pollutant removal, and examined rhizomicrobiome dynamics to enhance bioremediation efficiency. His work also encompasses waste management, water quality monitoring, and the valorization of industrial by-products into useful materials. His research approach blends theoretical analysis, laboratory experimentation, and applied field studies to create practical solutions for environmental challenges.

Awards

Dr. Aryal has received multiple national and international recognitions for his academic and research excellence. His achievements include prestigious governmental honors for scholarly contributions, competitive research fellowships that supported his doctoral and postdoctoral work in Greece, and awards for outstanding peer review contributions from leading international journals. These accolades reflect his dedication to advancing science, his high standards of academic integrity, and his impact on both the national and global research community.

Publications

Dr. Aryal has authored numerous influential publications in high-impact international journals, covering topics such as groundwater arsenic contamination, phytoremediation strategies, rhizomicrobiome interactions, solid waste management, and advanced biosorption techniques. Examples include:

Title: Study on arsenic biosorption using Fe (III)-treated biomass of Staphylococcus xylosus
Journal: Chemical Engineering Journal
Published on: 2010
Citation: 193

Title: Bioremoval of heavy metals by bacterial biomass
Journal: Environmental Monitoring and Assessment
Published on: 2015
Citation: 176

Title: A comprehensive study on the bacterial biosorption of heavy metals: materials, performances, mechanisms, and mathematical modellings
Journal: Reviews in Chemical Engineering
Published on: 2021
Citation: 74

Title: Biodegradation and Kinetics of Phenanthrene and Pyrene in the Presence of Nonionic Surfactants by Arthrobacter Strain Sphe3
Journal: Water, Air, & Soil Pollution
Published on: 2013
Citation: 62

Title: Equilibrium, kinetics and thermodynamic studies on phosphate biosorption from aqueous solutions by Fe (III)-treated Staphylococcus xylosus biomass: Common ion effect
Journal: Colloids and Surfaces A: Physicochemical and Engineering Aspects
Published on: 2011
Citation: 59

Title: Comparison of Cr (VI) and As (V) removal in single and binary mixtures with Fe (III)-treated Staphylococcus xylosus biomass: Thermodynamic studies
Journal: Chemical Engineering Journal
Published on: 2011
Citation: 57

Title: Characterization of Mycobacterium sp. strain Spyr1 biomass and its biosorption behavior towards Cr(III) and Cr(VI) in single, binary and multi‐ion aqueous systems
Journal: Journal of Chemical Technology & Biotechnology
Published on: 2014
Citation: 36

Conclusion

Dr. Mahendra Aryal’s professional journey demonstrates a rare combination of deep scientific knowledge, innovative problem-solving, and unwavering dedication to environmental protection. His research has addressed critical issues such as water contamination, waste management, and resource recovery, offering sustainable solutions that have both local and global relevance. Through his teaching, mentorship, and extensive contributions to academic literature, he has inspired the next generation of scientists and advanced the frontiers of environmental chemistry. His body of work and its impact make him an outstanding nominee for the Best Researcher Award.