Ananta Vashisth | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Ananta Vashisth | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute New Delhi | India

Dr. Ananta Vashisth is a Principal Scientist at the Division of Agricultural Physics, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi. She is an eminent researcher, educator, and extension specialist who has contributed significantly to the advancement of agricultural physics and climate-resilient farming systems. With more than two decades of professional excellence, she has developed innovative approaches in crop-weather modeling, yield forecasting, and weather-based agricultural advisories. Her work bridges the gap between scientific research and field-level applications, ensuring that farmers benefit directly from cutting-edge knowledge in agricultural sciences.

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Education

Dr. Ananta Vashisth pursued her higher education with distinction and excellence, consistently standing out as a meritorious scholar. She completed her graduation and post-graduation from H.N.B. Garhwal University, Uttarakhand, where she earned recognition as a gold medalist at both levels. She later earned her doctoral degree from the ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi. Her doctoral research on the “Biophysical Characterization of Seeds Subjected to Magnetic Field” combined innovation with practical applications, establishing a strong foundation for her future scientific endeavors.

Professional Experience

Dr. Ananta Vashisth has devoted her professional career to agricultural research, teaching, and extension. She began her journey as a scientist and steadily progressed to the position of Principal Scientist at ICAR-IARI. Over the years, she has worked extensively in the field of crop-weather relationships, agrometeorological services, and climate risk management. She has actively designed and delivered training programs for agricultural professionals, scientists, and farmers, equipping them with the latest tools in agrometeorology and resource management. Her contributions extend beyond research to include teaching and mentoring of postgraduate students and capacity building of agricultural extension personnel. Through her long service, she has not only advanced knowledge but also strengthened the interface between science and society.

Research Interests

The research interests of Dr. Ananta Vashisth focus on crop-weather modeling, micrometeorology, remote sensing applications, and yield forecasting under diverse climatic conditions. She has a deep commitment to addressing the challenges posed by climate variability and change on agriculture. Her studies have improved understanding of how micro-environmental management strategies can enhance crop productivity and sustainability. She has been a pioneer in integrating advanced simulation models, statistical techniques, and agrometeorological tools for providing real-time advisories. Her work has continuously emphasized the translation of scientific results into actionable practices that directly benefit farmers and policymakers.

Awards and Recognition

Dr. Ananta Vashisth has received widespread recognition for her outstanding scientific achievements and leadership in the field of agricultural physics. She has delivered invited lectures at international and national platforms, served as a resource person in training programs, and contributed to several collaborative initiatives across institutions. She has been entrusted with responsibilities in major national projects and has actively represented ICAR-IARI in high-level scientific and policy forums. Her leadership in developing climate-smart agriculture strategies, together with her role in advancing weather-based advisory services, has established her reputation as a leading scientist dedicated to sustainable agricultural development.

Selected Publications

Dr. Ananta Vashisth has published extensively in reputed journals of international and national repute. Her publications are widely cited, reflecting the significance of her research contributions. A selection of her impactful works includes:

Title: Effect on germination and early growth characteristics in sunflower (Helianthus annuus) seeds exposed to static magnetic field
Journal: Journal of Plant Physiology
Published on: 2010
Citation: 608

Title: Exposure of seeds to static magnetic field enhances germination and early growth characteristics in chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.)
Journal: Bioelectromagnetics: Journal of the Bioelectromagnetics Society
Published on: 2008
Citation: 314

Title: Growth characteristics of maize seeds exposed to magnetic field
Journal: Bio electro magnetics
Published on: 2017
Citation: 84

Title: Modelling soil water balance and root water uptake in cotton grown under different soil conservation practices in the Indo-Gangetic Plain
Journal: Agriculture, Ecosystems & Environment
Published on: 2017
Citation: 81

Title: Characterization of water distribution and activities of enzymes during germination in magnetically-exposed maize (Zea mays L.) seeds
Journal: Indian Journal of Biochemistry & Biophysics
Published on: 2010
Citation: 55

Title: Germination characteristics of seeds of maize (Zea mays L.) exposed to magnetic fields under accelerated ageing condition
Journal: Journal of Agricultural Physics
Published on: 2009
Citation: 53

Title: Weather based agromet advisories for enhancing the production and income of the farmers under changing climate scenario
Journal: International Journal of Agriculture and Food Science Technology
Published on: 2013
Citation: 47

Title: Wheat yield prediction based on weather parameters using multiple linear, neural network and penalised regression models
Journal: Journal of Agrometeorology
Published on: 2022
Citation: 43

Conclusion

Dr. Ananta Vashisth is a visionary researcher whose contributions have greatly advanced the understanding and application of agricultural physics and agrometeorology. Her career embodies a rare combination of academic brilliance, scientific rigor, and practical outreach to farming communities. By integrating modern technologies with field-based research, she has developed innovative solutions to address the challenges of climate change, sustainability, and food security. With her vast experience, scholarly impact, and commitment to agricultural advancement, Dr. Ananta Vashisth is a highly deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

Gulnar Ultanbekova | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Gulnar Ultanbekova | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Al-Farabi Kazakh National University | Kazakhstan

Dr. Gulnar Ultanbekova is an accomplished scientist and Acting Associate Professor of Biotechnology at Al-Farabi Kazakh National University. With more than two decades of dedicated service in microbiology and biotechnology, she has established herself as a leading figure in microbial research, applied agricultural biotechnology, and the development of innovative bioproducts. Her leadership at the Institute of Microbiology and Virology of Kazakhstan was instrumental in the creation of groundbreaking microbial preparations, including Rizovit-AKS and the antifungal drug Roseofungin-AS, both of which have been widely recognized for their scientific and practical impact. She has consistently demonstrated the ability to bridge fundamental research with real-world agricultural applications, earning her a reputation as a pioneer in microbial biotechnology and sustainable agriculture.

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Education

Her academic journey began with a Bachelor’s degree in Biology, followed by a Master’s in Ecology, and culminating in a Doctorate in Biological Sciences from Al-Farabi Kazakh National University. This strong academic foundation provided her with expertise in microbial ecology, soil microbiology, and applied biotechnology. Over the years, she has complemented her formal education with continued professional development, mentorship under leading academicians, and hands-on research in microbial innovations. Her educational background has equipped her with the knowledge and skills necessary to address the challenges of soil fertility, crop productivity, and sustainable agricultural practices through microbial biotechnology.

Experience

Dr. Gulnar Ultanbekova professional career spans over twenty years in academic teaching, laboratory leadership, and applied research. She headed the Antibiotics Laboratory at the Institute of Microbiology and Virology of Kazakhstan, where she contributed to the development of novel antibiotics and microbial biofertilizers. In her role, she collaborated with agricultural enterprises to implement microbial technologies that improved soil fertility and crop yields in practical farming systems. She has authored several scientific books, guided numerous research projects, and supervised students in microbiology and biotechnology. Currently, as Acting Associate Professor at Al-Farabi Kazakh National University, she continues to balance teaching, mentorship, and high-impact research, ensuring the growth of both science and future scholars in her field.

Research Interest

Her primary research interests lie in microbial biotechnology, soil microbiology, plant-microbe interactions, and the design of microbial biofertilizers. She has specialized in exploring plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria, nitrogen-fixing actinobacteria, and antibiotic-producing microorganisms. Her work focuses on the development of multifunctional microbial preparations that restore soil fertility, enhance crop yield, and support sustainable agricultural systems. Through her projects, she has developed microbial strains with high infectivity and growth-stimulating activity, patented bio-organic fertilizers, and applied technologies that are now being implemented in real agricultural environments. Her research philosophy emphasizes sustainability, ecological balance, and the integration of advanced science with practical farming solutions.

Awards

Dr. Gulnar Ultanbekova has been recognized at the highest national level for her significant contributions to science and technology. She was honored with the State Prize of the Republic of Kazakhstan for her leadership in the development and commercialization of the antifungal drug Roseofungin-AS, a pioneering achievement in microbial biotechnology. Additionally, she has received the YEREN YENBEGI USHIN Medal from Al-Farabi Kazakh National University in recognition of her exceptional service, dedication to academic excellence, and contributions to institutional growth. These prestigious awards highlight both her scientific achievements and her role as a transformative figure in biotechnology.

Publications

Dr. Gulnar Ultanbekova has published more than fifty scientific papers in national and international journals. Her articles address themes such as soil fertility restoration through nitrogen-fixing actinobacteria, the role of microbial biofertilizers in enhancing legume productivity, and ecological approaches to crop improvement. Representative publications include:

Title: Antifungal activity against pathogens of cereals and characterization of antibiotics of Streptomyces sp. strain K-541 isolated from extreme ecosystems in Kazakhstan
Journal: Agricultural Biology
Published on: 2018
Citation: Cited by 7

Title: Isolation and selection of nodulating bacteria from the rhizosphere of legume (Vigna radiata) and bean (Phaseolus lunatus) plants and enhancement of specific properties
Journal: BIO Web of Conferences
Published on: 2024
Citation: Cited by 1

Title: Effect of UV irradiation of PGPR bacteria on seed germination and plant growth of mung bean (Vigna radiata)
Journal: European Science
Published on: 2019
Citation: Cited by 1

Title: Agrochemical compositions of soils and rhizosphere microorganisms of Rosa potentilliflora Chrshan. et M. Pop. in the eastern and central parts of the Zailiyskiy Alatau
Journal: Ecological Processes
Published on: 2025

Title: The use of predatory fungi of the genus Arthrobotrys isolated from soils of farmland in Southern Kazakhstan to control nematode infections in tomato plants
Journal: BIO Web of Conferences
Published on: 2024

Title: Influence of halophilic microorganisms Bacillus sp. PK-1 on the growth and development of maize under irrigated saline soil conditions in the Turkestan region
Journal: Eurasian Journal of Ecology
Published on: 2020

Title: Study on the effect of biopreparations based on streptomycete strains on wheat growth under conditions of Fusarium oxysporum infection
Journal: Biology and Medicine Series
Published on: 2017

Conclusion

Dr. Gulnar Ultanbekova is a highly accomplished researcher whose career exemplifies the integration of fundamental microbiology with applied biotechnology for agricultural sustainability. Through her research, she has introduced microbial solutions that improve soil fertility, crop productivity, and ecological balance. Her publications, patents, and books showcase a lifetime commitment to advancing science and technology, while her awards affirm the national recognition of her achievements. With a proven record of innovation, leadership, and impact, she stands as an exemplary candidate for the Best Researcher Award, embodying excellence in scientific research and dedication to societal advancement.

Jon Ashley | Biotechnology | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Jon Ashley | Biotechnology | Best Researcher Award

Liverpool John Moores University | United Kingdom

Dr. Jon Ashley is a distinguished Senior Lecturer in Analytical and Forensic Science at Liverpool John Moores University, UK. With a robust background in analytical chemistry, molecular recognition, and biosensor development, his career spans academia and research institutions across Europe and Asia. Driven by innovation, Dr. Ashley focuses on advancing biosensing technologies for healthcare and environmental applications.

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Strengths for the Awards✨

  • Outstanding Research Record:
    Dr. Ashley has an extensive research portfolio, focusing primarily on analytical chemistry, biosensors, molecular recognition, aptamer development, and nanomaterials. His publication list includes high-impact journals like Angewandte Chemie, Advanced Materials, Biosensors and Bioelectronics, Nucleic Acids Research, and Biomaterials, demonstrating a strong contribution to scientific advancement.

  • International Experience:
    His research career spans multiple prestigious institutions across the UK, Denmark, Portugal, Switzerland, and Singapore, indicating international recognition and collaboration.

  • Grant Success:
    He has secured significant funding as a principal investigator (PI), including the Villum Experiment Grant (1.5 million DKK) and a Discovery Grant for a spinout company (150,000 DKK), showing leadership in research innovation and commercialization.

  • Academic Service and Leadership:
    Dr. Ashley holds leadership roles as a senior lecturer and module leader at Liverpool John Moores University, along with serving as a topic editor for Chemosensors and Biosensors journals. He also contributes actively to scientific communities through committees (e.g., RSC Liverpool Local Section) and public outreach (e.g., Shotgun Science events).

  • Awards and Honors:
    Achieving Chartered Chemist (CChem) status and being recognized twice as a Top Reviewer in Chemistry reflects peer recognition of his academic excellence and service.

🎓 Education

Dr. Ashley completed his PhD in Analytical Chemistry at the National University of Singapore (2009–2013), where he developed protein-binding aptamers using capillary electrophoresis. Prior to that, he earned a PGCE with QTS in Secondary Science Education from the University of Newcastle Upon Tyne (2005–2006) and an MChem (Honours) in Chemistry with Industrial Experience (2:i) from the University of Manchester (2000–2004). His educational journey highlights a blend of deep scientific inquiry and a commitment to teaching excellence.

🏢 Experience

Dr. Ashley’s professional journey is marked by dynamic academic and research roles. Currently, he is a Senior Lecturer at Liverpool John Moores University (2022–Present). Previously, he served as an Assistant Professor at Denmark Technical University (2019–2022), a Marie Curie Co-Fund Research Fellow at INL, Portugal (2018–2019), and a Postdoctoral Researcher at DTU Nanotech (2016–2018). His earlier research roles at Cranfield University (2014–2016) and University Hospital Basel (2013–2014) provided rich experience in biosensor development and molecular neuroscience.

🔬 Research Interest On Biotechnology

Dr. Ashley’s research interests focus on molecular recognition, biosensor design, aptamer development, and nanomaterials for healthcare diagnostics. He has a strong focus on developing next-generation biosensors using enzyme-generated aptamers and has expanded his expertise into areas such as environmental sensing and nanomedicine for cancer therapy.

🏆 Awards and Honors

Dr. Ashley’s accolades include the Chartered Chemist Status (CChem) from the Royal Society of Chemistry (2018–Present) and multiple editorial roles at Chemosensors and Biosensors journals. He has been recognized as a Top Reviewer in Chemistry by Publons in 2018 and 2019, won the NUS Teaching Excellence Award in 2011, and recently received the LJMU Faculty Education Award in Digital Education (2025).

📚 Publications

Dr. Ashley has an impressive list of publications in prestigious journals:

1
Title: Molecularly imprinted polymers for sample preparation and biosensing in food analysis: Progress and perspectives
Authors: J Ashley, MA Shahbazi, K Kant, VA Chidambara, A Wolff, DD Bang, Y Sun
Year: 2017
Citations: 372

2
Title: Biodegradable poly (γ-glutamic acid)@ glucose oxidase@ carbon dot nanoparticles for simultaneous multimodal imaging and synergetic cancer therapy
Authors: M Zhang, W Wang, F Wu, T Zheng, J Ashley, M Mohammadniaei, …
Year: 2020
Citations: 128

3
Title: Quantitative detection of trace level cloxacillin in food samples using magnetic molecularly imprinted polymer extraction and surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy nanopillars
Authors: J Ashley, K Wu, MF Hansen, MS Schmidt, A Boisen, Y Sun
Year: 2017
Citations: 93

4
Title: Synthesis of molecularly imprinted polymer nanoparticles for α-Casein detection using surface plasmon resonance as a milk allergen sensor
Authors: J Ashley, Y Shukor, R D’Aurelio, L Trinh, TL Rodgers, J Temblay, …
Year: 2018
Citations: 91

5
Title: An SPR based sensor for allergens detection
Authors: J Ashley, M Piekarska, C Segers, L Trinh, T Rodgers, R Willey, IE Tothill
Year: 2017
Citations: 90

6
Title: Upregulating aggregation‐induced‐emission nanoparticles with blood–tumor‐barrier permeability for precise photothermal eradication of brain tumors and induction of local immune response
Authors: M Zhang, W Wang, M Mohammadniaei, T Zheng, Q Zhang, J Ashley, …
Year: 2021
Citations: 86

7
Title: Fluorometric determination of doxycycline based on the use of carbon quantum dots incorporated into a molecularly imprinted polymer
Authors: X Feng, J Ashley, T Zhou, Y Sun
Year: 2018
Citations: 82

8
Title: One-pot green synthesis of biocompatible graphene quantum dots and their cell uptake studies
Authors: A Halder, M Godoy-Gallardo, J Ashley, X Feng, T Zhou, L Hosta-Rigau, …
Year: 2018
Citations: 77

9
Title: Development of a β-Lactoglobulin sensor based on SPR for milk allergens detection
Authors: J Ashley, R D’Aurelio, M Piekarska, J Temblay, M Pleasants, L Trinh, …
Year: 2018
Citations: 75

10
Title: A multifunctional molecularly imprinted polymer-based biosensor for direct detection of doxycycline in food samples
Authors: J Ashley, XT Feng, Y Sun
Year: 2018
Citations: 72

🧩 Conclusion

✨ Dr. Jon Ashley exemplifies a modern scientific leader whose work bridges the gap between fundamental analytical chemistry and impactful biosensor innovation. His career trajectory, distinguished by international research, prolific publication, and academic contributions, highlights his role as a pioneer in developing next-generation diagnostic technologies for both clinical and environmental applications.

Dharmalingam Kirubakaran | Biology | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Dharmalingam Kirubakaran | Biology | Best Researcher Award

Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences (SIMATS), Saveetha University | India

Dr. Dharmalingam Kirubakaran is a dedicated researcher with over five years of experience in biomaterials, phytochemistry, nanotechnology, and their biological applications. He has a strong background in medicinal plant surveys and biodiversity conservation, actively contributing to innovative advancements in these fields. Currently serving as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Pharmacology at Saveetha Medical College and Hospital, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences (SIMATS), Saveetha University, Chennai, he continues to explore groundbreaking research in nanoscience and biotechnology.

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Strengths for the Awards✨

✅ Diverse Research Expertise – With specialization in biomaterials, phytochemistry, nanotechnology, and their biomedical applications, Dr. Kirubakaran has a strong interdisciplinary research background.

✅ Significant Publication Record – He has 21 publications in high-impact journals (Wiley, Elsevier, Springer, ACS, etc.), demonstrating a strong research contribution.

✅ Innovative Research Focus – His work on green synthesis of nanoparticles and their applications in medicine (antibacterial, anticancer, and wound healing) is highly relevant to modern scientific advancements.

✅ Academic and Professional Standing – Currently serving as an Assistant Professor at Saveetha Medical College, he contributes to both research and education.

✅ Research Impact & Collaboration – His contributions extend to toxicological studies, biodiversity conservation, and environmental remediation, making his work impactful in multiple domains.

Education 🎓

  • Ph.D. in Botany (2022 – 2024), Periyar University, Tamil Nadu, India
    Thesis: Green Synthesis of Nanoparticles, characterization from Strobilanthes cordifolia J.R.I. Wood and its Biomedical Applications.
  • M.Phil in Botany (2020 – 2021), Periyar University, Tamil Nadu, India
    Dissertation: Phytochemical analysis and evaluation of pharmacological applications from Strobilanthes cordifolia J.R.I. Wood leaves extract.
  • M.Sc. in Botany (2017 – 2019), Periyar University, Tamil Nadu, India
    Dissertation: Synthesis and characterization of TiO2 nanoparticles from Pleurotus sajor-caju edible mushroom extract and its biological activities.
  • B.Sc. in Botany (2014 – 2017), Government Arts College, Tamil Nadu, India.

Experience 💼

  • Assistant Professor – Department of Pharmacology, Saveetha Medical College and Hospital, SIMATS, Chennai.
  • Expertise in phytochemistry, nanotechnology, in-vitro experimental studies, environmental research, and toxicology.
  • Proficient in advanced techniques such as GC-MS, LC-MS, molecular docking, and synthesis of nanocomposite materials.

Research Interests On Biology🔍

  • Green synthesis of nanoparticles and their biomedical applications.
  • Phytochemical screening and pharmacological analysis of medicinal plants.
  • Toxicological studies and environmental sustainability.
  • Development of eco-friendly nanomaterials for antimicrobial and anticancer applications.

Awards & Recognitions 🏆

  • Recognized for contributions to nanoscience and phytochemistry.
  • Reviewer for reputed journals such as Plant Physiology and Biochemistry and Open Nano (Elsevier).
  • Active member of scientific societies related to biotechnology and nanotechnology.

Publications 📚

  1. Bio-fabrication of Zinc oxide nanoparticles using Strobilanthes cordifolia

    • Year: 2024
    • Authors: Kirubakaran, D.; Selvam, K.; Subramanian Shivakumar, M.; Rajkumar, M.; Kannan, S.; Navina, B.
    • Citations: Not provided

  2. Bioefficacy of Zinc oxide nanoparticle synthesis and their Biological, Environmental applications from Eranthemum roseum

    • Year: 2024
    • Authors: Adhavan, R.; Selvam, K.; Prakash, P.; Manimegalai, P.; Kirubakaran, D.; Shivakumar, M.S.
    • Citations: Not provided

  3. Biogenic synthesis of copper nanoparticle using Impatiens chinensis L

    • Year: 2024
    • Authors: Kirubakaran, D.; Selvam, K.; Dhaneeshram, M.; Shivakumar, M.S.; Rajkumar, M.; Shanmugarathinam, A.
    • Citations: Not provided

  4. Biosynthesis and biological activities of magnesium hydroxide nanoparticles using Tinospora cordifolia leaf extract

    • Year: 2024
    • Authors: Rajkumar, M.; Presley, S.I.D.; Menaa, F.; Elbehairi, S.E.I.; Alfaifi, M.Y.; Shati, A.A.; Albalawi, A.E.; Althobaiti, N.A.; Kirubakaran, D.; Govindaraj, P. et al.
    • Citations: Not provided

  5. Green synthesis of gelatin-loaded magnesium hydroxide nanocomposite biomaterial using Coleus amboinicus leaf extract

    • Year: 2024
    • Authors: Rajkumar, M.; Kirubakaran, D.; Selvam, K.; Prathap, N.; Thangaraj, R.; Vimala, K.; Kannan, S.
    • Citations: Not provided

  6. Green synthesis of zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles using aqueous leaf extract of Hardwickia binata

    • Year: 2024
    • Authors: Manimegalai, P.; Selvam, K.; Loganathan, S.; Kirubakaran, D.; Shivakumar, M.S.; Govindasamy, M.; Rajaji, U.; Bahajjaj, A.A.A.
    • Citations: Not provided

  7. Larvicidal, bactericidal, antioxidant, hypoglycemic effects and anti-proliferative activity of phyto-synthesized Ag-ZnO nanocomposites using Eranthemum roseum

    • Year: 2024
    • Authors: Adhavan, R.; Selvam, K.; Prakash, P.; Kirubakaran, D.; Shivakumar, M.S.
    • Citations: Not provided

  8. Nanomaterials for improving health of agricultural crops and forest trees

    • Year: 2024
    • Authors: Sethuraman, V.; Kumar, P.S.; Kirubakaran, D.; Shivakumar, M.S.
    • Citations: Not provided

  9. Revolutionary composites of silver and zinc oxide nanoparticles from Hardwickia binata

    • Year: 2024
    • Authors: Manimegalai, P.; Selvam, K.; Kirubakaran, D.; Subaramanian Shivakumar, M.; Nandhini, S.
    • Citations: Not provided

  10. Salvia coccinea Buc’hoz ex Etl. Leaf extract mediated synthesis of zinc oxide nanoparticles

  • Year: 2024
  • Authors: Kirubakaran, D.; Selvam, K.; Bagyalakshmi, G.; Manimegalai, P.; Adhavan, R.; Shivakumar, M.S.
  • Citations: Not provided

For a full list of publications, visit Google Scholar and ResearchGate.

Conclusion 🔖

Dr. Dharmalingam Kirubakaran is a passionate researcher and academician committed to bridging nanotechnology and phytochemistry for sustainable biomedical applications. His pioneering contributions to the synthesis of eco-friendly nanoparticles and their therapeutic potential are shaping the future of biomedicine. Through his dedication to teaching and research, he continues to inspire the next generation of scientists.