Rafiq Ahmad | Biotechnology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Rafiq Ahmad | Biotechnology | Best Researcher Award

Research associate | National Ilan University | Taiwan

Rafiq Ahmad is a dedicated researcher specializing in poultry nutrition, biotechnology, and animal sciences. With a strong academic background and extensive research experience, he focuses on improving poultry health and productivity through innovative nutritional strategies. His work spans multiple disciplines, including molecular biology, veterinary medicine, and fisheries, contributing to the advancement of sustainable poultry farming.

Profile👤

Google Scholar

ORCID

Scopus

Strengths for the Awards🎗️

  • Strong Research Output

    • Published multiple high-impact research papers in indexed journals (e.g., Animals, Fermentation, Animal Bioscience).
    • Research covers heat stress, probiotics, and gut health in poultry, which are crucial for sustainable animal nutrition.
    • Involvement in working papers and book chapters demonstrates ongoing contributions to the field.
  • International Recognition & Contributions

    • Acted as a reviewer for high-impact journals (Animals, Animal Nutrition, Journal of Animal Physiology and Animal Nutrition), proving expertise in peer-reviewed research evaluation.
    • Presented research at international conferences, including the BEST Conference in Taiwan (2024).
  • Academic Excellence & Awards

    • Received fully funded Ph.D. scholarship from National Ilan University (Taiwan), indicating academic merit.
    • Recognized for outstanding performance (ICI Life Sciences Award, 2014-2015) and Prime Minister’s Tuition Waiver Scholarship (Pakistan).
  • Technical Expertise & Methodological Rigor

    • Strong lab skills: qRT-PCR, cDNA synthesis, gut microbiota analysis, Western blot analysis, and solid-state fermentation.
    • Research applies molecular biology techniques to poultry nutrition, making it highly interdisciplinary and impactful.

Education 🎓

Rafiq Ahmad pursued his Ph.D. in Poultry Nutrition (Biotechnology) at National Ilan University, Taiwan (2021-2024). Prior to that, he earned a Master’s degree in Animal Nutrition from the University of Agriculture Peshawar, Pakistan (2015-2017) and a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) from the same institution (2009-2014). His academic journey is marked by excellence and a commitment to research-driven advancements in animal nutrition.

Experience 💼

Rafiq Ahmad has gained significant experience in academia and industry. He has served as a reviewer for esteemed journals such as Animals (March 2024), Animal Nutrition (September 2024), and the Journal of Animal Physiology and Animal Nutrition (October 2024). He worked as a Project Assistant at Quaid-e-Azam University, Islamabad, Pakistan (2017-2020) and as a Technical Services Officer at ICI Pakistan (2014-2016). His roles have enriched his expertise in poultry diet formulation, molecular biology, and veterinary medicine.

Research Interests On Biotechnology 🔍

Rafiq Ahmad’s research focuses on poultry nutrition, poultry diet formulation, molecular biology, animal sciences, veterinary medicine, fisheries, and ruminant nutrition. His Ph.D. thesis explores the efficacy of probiotics in mitigating heat stress, improving gut health, and enhancing growth performance in poultry.

Awards 🏆

He has received several prestigious awards, including the Fully Funded Scholarship for his Ph.D. at National Ilan University (2021-2024), the ICI Life Sciences Nationally Best Performance Award (Turkey, 2014-2015), and the Prime Minister of Pakistan’s Tuition Waiver Scholarship for his Master’s degree (2015-2017). These accolades highlight his academic and professional excellence.

Publications 📚

  • Influence of heat stress on poultry growth performance, intestinal inflammation, and immune function and potential mitigation by probiotics

    • Authors: R. Ahmad, Y.H. Yu, F.S.H. Hsiao, C.H. Su, H.C. Liu, I. Tobin, G. Zhang, …
    • Year: 2022
    • Citations: 62
  • Probiotics as a friendly antibiotic alternative: assessment of their effects on the health and productive performance of poultry

    • Authors: R. Ahmad, Y.H. Yu, F.S.H. Hsiao, A. Dybus, I. Ali, H.C. Hsu, Y.H. Cheng
    • Year: 2022
    • Citations: 21
  • Management and control of coccidiosis in poultry—A review

    • Authors: R. Ahmad, Y.H. Yu, K.F. Hua, W.J. Chen, D. Zaborski, A. Dybus, F.S.H. Hsiao, …
    • Year: 2023
    • Citations: 17
  • Impact of Bacillus licheniformis-Fermented Products on Growth and Productivity in Heat-Stressed Laying Ducks

    • Authors: Y.H.C. Rafiq Ahmad, Yu-Hsiang Yu, Felix Shih-Hsiang Hsiao, Hsiu-Wei Liu, Chin …
    • Year: 2024
    • Citations: 1*
  • Probiotics as an Alternative to Antibiotics in Poultry

    • Authors: R.A. Abdul Qadeer, Qismat Ullah, Baitullah Khan, Muhammad Idrees, Noor …
    • Year: 2024
    • Citations: Not provided
  • Role of Probiotics in Prevention of Avian Coccidiosis

    • Authors: Zulfiqar Ahmad, Hanif Ur Rahman, Rafiq Ahmad, Abdul Qadeer, Muhammad Ahmad …
    • Year: 2023
    • Citations: Not provided
  • The Impact of Fermented Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid on Poultry Growth Performance Through Insulin-like Growth Factor-1 Activation

    • Authors: Not provided
    • Year: Not provided
    • Citations: Not provided

Conclusion 🏞️

Rafiq Ahmad’s contributions to poultry nutrition and biotechnology are shaping the future of sustainable animal agriculture. His interdisciplinary expertise, impactful research, and dedication to improving poultry health make him a valuable asset to the field. With a strong foundation in academia and industry, he continues to drive innovation and excellence in animal sciences.

Xiao Li | Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Mrs. Xiao Li | Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Associate Professor | Northwest A&F University | China

 Xiao Li is an Associate Professor at the College of Animal Sciences and Technology, Northwest A & F University. His research focuses on the genetic and epigenetic mechanisms that regulate skeletal muscle and adipose tissue development, with significant implications for the livestock industry. His studies explore the roles of noncoding RNAs, epigenetic pathways, and the interactions between skeletal myofibers and intramuscular adipocytes to enhance pig growth and pork quality.

Profile👤

ORCID

Strengths for the Awards🎗️

  • Outstanding Research Contributions – Xiao Li has a strong research focus on skeletal muscle and adipose tissue development, with particular interest in epigenetic and genetic mechanisms regulating myogenesis, adipogenesis, and lipogenesis. These areas have significant implications in both livestock industries and human health.

  • High-Impact Publications – Xiao Li has 19+ publications in renowned journals like the American Journal of Physiology-Cell Physiology, Journal of Biological Chemistry, Animal Biotechnology, and Acta Biochimica et Biophysica Sinica. These papers demonstrate substantial contributions to muscle biology, adipogenesis, and epigenetic regulation.

  • Interdisciplinary Research Impact – Xiao Li’s work bridges animal science, genetics, and nutrition, contributing to both fundamental research and practical applications in improving pig growth and meat quality.

  • International Collaborations & Experience – Xiao Li has collaborated with leading global institutions, including Virginia Tech, Cornell University, and Washington State University, showcasing a strong international research network.

Education 🎓

  • Ph.D. (2005-2011) – Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology & Biochemistry, Nanjing Agricultural University
  • Joint Ph.D. (2009-2010) – Laboratory of Muscle Biology, Virginia Tech
  • Visiting Scholar (2010-2011) – Division of Nutritional Sciences, Cornell University

Experience 🎓🌐

  • Lecturer (2012-2018) – College of Animal Sciences and Technology, Northwest A & F University
  • Visiting Scholar (2017-2018) – Department of Animal Sciences, Washington State University
  • Associate Professor (2018-present) – College of Animal Sciences and Technology, Northwest A & F University

Research Interests On Biological Sciences 🌿

  • The role and mechanisms of noncoding RNAs in myogenesis, adipogenesis, and lipogenesis
  • Epigenetic pathways mediating maternal/paternal programming in skeletal muscle and adipose tissue development
  • The cross-talk between skeletal myofibers and intramuscular adipocytes
  • Nutritional strategies to enhance pig growth and improve pork quality

Awards 🏆

Xiao Li has been recognized for his contributions to the field of animal physiology and genetics through various academic and research awards. His work has received funding and accolades from prestigious institutions supporting advancements in livestock research.

Publications 📚

  1. Screening of lncRNA profiles during intramuscular adipogenic differentiation in longissimus dorsi and semitendinosus muscles in pigs

    • Authors: Yanru Yue, Zihao Ge, Zhicheng Guo, Yuhe Wang, Gongshe Yang, Shiduo Sun, Xiao Li
    • Publication Year: 2023
    • DOI: 10.1080/10495398.2023.2176319
  2. Effects of maternal supplementation of fish oil during late gestation and lactation on growth performance, fecal microbiota structure and post-weaning diarrhoea of offspring piglets

    • Authors: Peiyuan Han, Zhaohui Du, Xiaowei Liu, Junyi You, Xin’e Shi, Shiduo Sun, Gongshe Yang, Xiao Li
    • Publication Year: 2023
    • DOI: 10.1017/S0007114522003981
  3. Rosiglitazone-induced PPARγ activation promotes intramuscular adipocyte adipogenesis of pig

    • Authors: Zhaolu Wang, Youlei Li, Lingling Wu, Yuan Guo, Gongshe Yang, Xiao Li, Xin’e Shi
    • Publication Year: 2023
    • DOI: 10.1080/10495398.2023.2206872
  4. Effect of fermented corn–soybean meal on carcass and meat quality of grower‐finisher pigs

    • Authors: Junfeng Lu, Qichun Han, Shaoying Wang, Zhaolu Wang, Xiao Li, Jianhong Hu, Gongshe Yang, Lei Wang, Xin’e Shi
    • Publication Year: 2021
    • DOI: 10.1111/jpn.13444
  5. MiR-370 enhances cell cycle and represses lipid accumulation in porcine adipocytes

  6. Triptolide enhances lipolysis of adipocytes by enhancing ATGL transcription via upregulation of p53

    • Authors: Xiaoyu Wang, Meixue Xu, Ying Peng, Qimuge Naren, Yanting Xu, Xin Wang, Gongshe Yang, Xin’E Shi, Xiao Li
    • Publication Year: 2020
    • DOI: 10.1002/ptr.6779
  7. Elevated miR-10a-5p facilitates cell cycle and restrains adipogenic differentiation via targeting Map2k6 and Fasn, respectively

    • Authors: Xiaoyu Wang, Huifang Zhang, Meixue Xu, Xin’E Shi, Gongshe Yang, Shiduo Sun, Xiao Li
    • Publication Year: 2020
    • DOI: 10.1093/abbs/gmaa111
  8. Morus nigra L. leaves improve the meat quality in finishing pigs

    • Authors: Lujie Fan, Ying Peng, Dan Wu, Jianhong Hu, Xin’E Shi, Gongshe Yang, Xiao Li
    • Publication Year: 2020
    • DOI: 10.1111/jpn.13439
  9. Screening of lncRNA Profiles During Intramuscular Adipogenic Differentiation in Longissimus Dorsi and Semitendinosus Muscles in Pigs

    • Authors: Xiaoyu Wang, Ying Peng, Meixue Xu, Xiaochang Chen, Gongshe Yang, Xin’e Shi, Xiao Li
    • Publication Year: 2020
    • DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-55654/v1
  10. The long noncoding RNA MyHC IIA/X-AS contributes to skeletal muscle myogenesis and maintains the fast fiber phenotype

  • Authors: Mingle Dou, Ying Yao, Lu Ma, Xiaoyu Wang, Xin’e Shi, Gongshe Yang, Xiao Li
  • Publication Year: 2020
  • DOI: 10.1074/jbc.RA119.010498

Conclusion 🔍

Xiao Li’s research has significantly contributed to understanding the molecular and genetic mechanisms regulating muscle and fat development in livestock. His work enhances knowledge in animal science and provides practical applications for improving meat quality and agricultural productivity. His continued efforts in noncoding RNA, epigenetics, and nutritional strategies will help advance the field and benefit both academia and the livestock industry.

Youming Hou | Biological Sciences | Outstanding Scientist Award

Prof. Youming Hou | Biological Sciences | Outstanding Scientist Award

College of Plant Protection, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry | China

Youming Hou is a distinguished entomologist and the Dean of the College of Plant Protection at Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University. With expertise in ecological pest control and invasive species management, he has significantly contributed to innovative strategies for managing agricultural pests. His groundbreaking research has led to key advancements in controlling major invasive species such as Solenopsis invicta (red imported fire ant) and Octodonta nipae (nipah palm beetle). His achievements have been recognized with prestigious national and provincial science and technology awards.

👤Profile

ORCID

Scopus

Strengths for the Awards

  1. Extensive Research Contributions 📚
    • Published 135 SCI-indexed journal articles, demonstrating a strong research output.
    • H-index of 23, indicating significant influence in the entomology and pest control research field.
    • 1,802 citations, showcasing global recognition and impact.
  2. Innovative Research & Patents 🔬
    • Specializes in ecological control of pests and monitoring and control of invasive organisms—an area of high agricultural and ecological importance.
    • Secured 16 patents, highlighting strong innovation and application-driven research.
  3. Major Research Projects & Leadership 🌍
    • Leading two national key research and development projects related to pest control.
    • Heads two National Natural Science Foundation projects on Tuta absoluta control.
    • Actively collaborates with international institutions (Egyptian Academy of Sciences and Dalhousie University), demonstrating global research engagement.
  4. Awards & Recognitions 🏆
    • Received national and provincial science and technology progress awards for contributions to pest control and invasive species management.
  5. Editorial & Professional Contributions ✍️
    • Holds editorial positions in multiple entomology and biosafety journals.
    • Serves as President of the Fujian Entomological Society and Standing Director of the China Entomological Society, reflecting leadership and recognition in the field.

🎓 Education

Youming Hou obtained his degree in entomology from South China Agricultural University in 1999. Under the mentorship of Academician Pang Xiongfei, he developed a strong foundation in pest ecology and control strategies. His academic journey laid the groundwork for his extensive contributions to integrated pest management and biosecurity measures.

💼 Experience

With a career spanning over two decades, Youming Hou has led multiple national and international research projects on ecological pest control. He has played a pivotal role in the development of cutting-edge pest monitoring and control technologies. As a professor and researcher, he has mentored numerous students and collaborated with esteemed institutions, including the Egyptian Academy of Sciences and Dalhousie University, to tackle global agricultural pest challenges.

🔬 Research Interests On Biological Sciences

His primary research interests include:

  • 🌿 Ecological Control of Pests: Developing sustainable pest management techniques for major agricultural pests like Plutella xylostella (diamondback moth) and Phyllotreta striolata (striped flea beetle).
  • 🦟 Invasive Species Management: Investigating the invasion characteristics, ecological impacts, and control measures for invasive pests such as Tuta absoluta (tomato leaf miner) and Solenopsis invicta.
  • 🧬 Biological Control and Biotechnology: Exploring innovative biological and ecological solutions to mitigate pest outbreaks and enhance crop protection.

🏆 Awards

Youming Hou’s contributions to pest control and invasive species management have earned him numerous accolades, including:

  • 🏅 National Science and Technology Progress Awards for innovations in ecological pest control.
  • 🏅 Provincial Science and Technology Awards for groundbreaking research in invasive species monitoring and management.

📚 Publications

  • Floral Resource Integration: Enhancing Biocontrol of Tuta absoluta
    • Authors: Moazam Hyder, Inzamam Ul Haq, Muhammad Younas, Muhammad Adeel Ghafar, Muhammad Rehan Akhtar, Zubair Ahmed, Aslam Bukero, Youming Hou
    • Year: 2025
  • High Antennal Expression of CYP6K1 and CYP4V2
    • Authors: JiangXinyi Jiang, Jiacheng Shen, Peng Lin, Youming Hou
    • Year: 2025
  • Spätzle Regulates Developmental and Immune Trade-Offs
    • Authors: Pengju Li, He Zhang, Anran Tan, Zhuolin Hu, Lu Peng, Youming Hou
    • Year: 2024
  • Interactions Between Nanoparticles and Tomato Plants
    • Authors: Inzamam Ul Haq, Xiangyun Cai, Habib Ali, Muhammad Rehan Akhtar, Muhammad Adeel Ghafar, Moazam Hyder, Youming Hou
    • Year: 2024
  • Role of Gut Bacteria in Tuta absoluta Host Adaptation
    • Authors: Luohua Shang, Xiangyun Cai, Xiu-Jie Li, Yu-Zhou Wang, Jin-Da Wang, Youming Hou
    • Year: 2024
  • A C-Type Lectin, RfCTL27, Activates Immune Defense
    • Authors: Yanru Gong, Yongjian Xia, Zhiping Su, Xinghong Wang, Yishuo Kou, Bing Ma, Youming Hou, Zhanghong Shi
    • Year: 2024
  • The Diversity of Wolbachia and Other Bacterial Symbionts
    • Authors: Yuan Liu, Lina Zhang, Xiangyun Cai, Alexandre Rutikanga, Baoli Qiu, Youming Hou
    • Year: 2024
  • Histone Acetylation Enhancing Host Melanization
    • Authors: 堃 蒋, Yan Zhou, Wen Cui, Yan-Wei Han, Pei Chen, Gui-Ming Liao, Youming Hou, Baozhen Tang
    • Year: 2024
  • Host-Encoded Aminotransferase Import into Nardonella
    • Authors: Ying Huang, Zhen-Feng Feng, Fan Li, Youming Hou
    • Year: 2024
  • Symbiotic Bacteria Affecting Phenoloxidase Activation
    • Authors: Sanda N. B., Youming Hou
    • Year: 2023
  • Cellular Immunological Responses to Asecodes hispinarum
    • Authors: Zhiming Chen, Tingting Fu, Lang Fu, Bin Liu, Yaping Lin, Baozhen Tang, Youming Hou
    • Year: 2022
  • Entomopathogenic Nematodes Inhibiting proPO System
    • Authors: Sanda N. B., Bofeng Hou, Youming Hou
    • Year: 2022
  • Effect of Gut Bacteria on Rhynchophorus ferrugineus
    • Authors: Qian-Xia Liu, Zhi-Ping Su, Hui-Hui Liu, Sheng-Ping Lu, Bing Ma, Yue Zhao, Youming Hou, Zhanghong Shi
    • Year: 2021

🔚 Conclusion

Youming Hou’s pioneering research in ecological pest control and invasive species management has left a lasting impact on agricultural biosecurity. His extensive work on sustainable pest management techniques has not only advanced scientific knowledge but also contributed to global efforts in controlling invasive species. As a leader in entomology, he continues to drive innovative solutions to mitigate agricultural threats and protect food security worldwide.