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.

Meng Ning | Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Meng Ning | Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

Chiba University | China

Dr. Meng Ning is an accomplished researcher at Chiba University, Japan, recognized for her pioneering work in the epigenetic regulation of cancer. She has made substantial contributions to understanding the non-catalytic roles of chromatin regulators, particularly in gastric cancer. Her expertise bridges molecular biology and clinical gastrointestinal oncology, enabling her to translate laboratory discoveries into potential therapeutic strategies. Meng Ning is known for her meticulous experimental design, innovative application of genome-editing technologies, and dedication to advancing cancer research through both independent studies and collaborative projects.

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Education

Dr. Meng Ning completed her doctoral studies at Chiba University, Japan, where she focused on elucidating novel mechanisms of cancer progression. Her Ph.D. research revealed a previously unrecognized non-catalytic function of SETD1A in gastric cancer via the E2F4–TAF6 axis. Employing advanced techniques including transcriptomics, epigenomics, and genome-editing approaches, she was able to demonstrate this mechanism independently of traditional methyltransferase activity. Her academic training combines rigorous laboratory research with a strong foundation in clinical oncology, preparing her to conduct translational studies that link fundamental discoveries with therapeutic potential.

Experience

Dr. Meng Ning has extensive experience in both experimental and translational cancer research. She has collaborated with the Department of Pathology at the University of Tokyo to analyze clinical gastric cancer specimens, integrating molecular findings with patient data. Her work spans NGS-based studies, CRISPR genome editing, and multi-omics analyses, reflecting a versatile approach to cancer biology. Beyond laboratory research, she has contributed to the mentorship of junior researchers, participated in collaborative projects across institutions, and actively engaged in the scientific community through professional society memberships and research networks.

Research Interests

Dr. Meng Ning’s primary research interest lies in the epigenetic regulation of cancer, with a focus on non-catalytic functions of chromatin regulators. She investigates how these regulators influence tumor proliferation, cellular signaling, and transcriptional networks using advanced molecular biology techniques. Her research integrates next-generation sequencing, genome editing, and integrative bioinformatics to identify novel mechanisms underlying cancer progression. By connecting these molecular insights with clinical oncology, she aims to identify potential therapeutic targets and contribute to the development of innovative cancer treatments.

Awards

Dr. Meng Ning is nominated for the Best Researcher Award in recognition of her outstanding contributions to cancer epigenetics and translational oncology. Her research has introduced novel concepts in understanding chromatin regulator function and tumor biology, demonstrating originality, technical excellence, and significant impact in the field. Her dedication to advancing cancer research through rigorous experimentation and collaborative endeavors positions her as a leading researcher in her discipline.

Publications

Dr. Meng Ning has authored several high-impact, SCI-indexed publications as first or contributing author. Her work demonstrates innovative methodologies and deep insights into the molecular mechanisms of cancer:

Title: Non-catalytic role of SETD1A promotes gastric cancer cell proliferation through the E2F4–TAF6 axis in the cell cycle
Journal: Cell Death & Disease
Published on: 2025-08-23

Title: Non-enzymatic SETD1A activity drives breast cancer cell proliferation via cyclin K
Journal: Breast Cancer Research
Published on: 2025-08-11

Title: Integrated enhancer regulatory network by enhancer–promoter looping in gastric cancer
Journal: NAR Cancer
Published on: 2024-04-08

Conclusion

Dr. Meng Ning exemplifies excellence in scientific research through her innovative studies in cancer epigenetics and her commitment to translational application. Her work bridges basic molecular discoveries and clinical oncology, offering new avenues for therapeutic development. With a combination of technical skill, collaborative engagement, and visionary research, Meng Ning stands out as a highly deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Her contributions not only advance the understanding of cancer biology but also inspire ongoing innovation in epigenetic and translational research.

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

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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.

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.