Ananta Vashisth | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

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

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.

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.

Manzar Abbas | Biotechnology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Manzar Abbas | Biotechnology | Best Researcher Award

R&D Manager | Inner Mongolia Saikexing Reproductive Biotechnology Company | China

Dr. Manzar Abbas is an accomplished Research & Development Manager at the Inner Mongolia Saikexing Institute of Livestock Breeding and Reproductive Biotechnology, China. With a Ph.D. in Tree Genetics and Breeding from Beijing Forestry University, he specializes in cutting-edge genetic engineering techniques such as CRISPR/Cas9, Prime editing, RNAi, and more. His focus spans multiple domains of biotechnology, cell biology, and microbiology, particularly in the development and transformation of mammalian, yeast, and plant cells. Dr. Abbas aims to contribute to advancements in biotechnology and agricultural sciences through his innovative research.

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Strengths for the Awards

  • Expertise and Knowledge: Dr. Abbas has extensive experience in various advanced fields of biotechnology, cell biology, and microbiology, including CRISPR/Cas9, RNAi, gene editing techniques, and stem cell research. His research focuses on impactful areas such as gene regulation, stem cell technology, and plant biotechnology.
  • Research Output: His academic contributions are numerous, with a remarkable list of publications in high-impact journals. Notable works include studies on cellulose synthesis in plants, gene silencing mechanisms, and microbial diversity, which demonstrate his broad research scope and the depth of his expertise.
  • Leadership and Collaboration: His role as a Research & Development Manager and past experiences as an assistant professor and educator showcase his ability to lead research initiatives and collaborate with international researchers. He also excels in mentoring and training, contributing to the development of young scientists.
  • International Recognition: Dr. Abbas’s publications in prominent journals, as well as his work in global research collaborations, underline his recognition in the scientific community. His research is frequently cited, which is a testament to the relevance and quality of his work.

Education 🎓

Dr. Abbas earned his Ph.D. in Tree Genetics and Breeding by Molecular Design from Beijing Forestry University, China (2016-2020). Prior to this, he completed his M.Phil. in Biotechnology at the University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, Pakistan (2012-2014), and his B.Sc. (Hons.) Agriculture with a focus on Agri-Biotechnology from the same university (2008-2012). He also completed Chinese language studies (HSK4) at Beijing Forestry University in 2015-2016.

Experience 💼

Dr. Abbas has an extensive professional background. He is currently the Research & Development Manager at the Inner Mongolia Saikexing Institute (2023-present). Previously, he served as Assistant Professor at Yibin University, China (2020-2023). He has also worked as an educator for the Government of Punjab, Pakistan (2014-2015). His broad range of roles in academia and research strengthens his leadership in biotechnological innovation.

Research Interests On Biotechnology 🔬

Dr. Abbas’s research interests lie at the intersection of genetic engineering, biotechnology, and cell biology. He has expertise in genetic techniques like CRISPR/Cas9 and RNAi, gene expression analysis, and protein purification. His work spans multiple organisms, including mammalian cell lines, yeast, plants, and bacteria, with a special focus on stem cell biology, iPSC culture, and gene editing for agricultural improvements and disease resistance.

Awards 🏆

Dr. Abbas has been recognized for his contributions to biotechnology and agricultural sciences. His research on gene editing and stem cell engineering has led to collaborations and invitations to participate in international conferences and award nominations in the field. His ongoing work continues to push the boundaries of biotechnological research.

Publications 📚

  • Comprehensive mechanism of gene silencing and its role in plant growth and development
    • Authors: AH El-Sappah, K Yan, Q Huang, MM Islam, Q Li, Y Wang, MS Khan, …
    • Year: 2021
    • Citations: 74
  • Heat Stress-Mediated Constraints in Maize (Zea mays) Production: Challenges and Solutions
    • Authors: AH El-Sappah, SA Rather, SH Wani, AS Elrys, M Bilal, Q Huang, ZA Dar, …
    • Year: 2022
    • Citations: 65
  • Involvement of CesA4, CesA7-A/B and CesA8-A/B in secondary wall formation in Populus trichocarpa wood
    • Authors: M Abbas, I Peszlen, R Shi, H Kim, R Katahira, K Kafle, Z Xiang, X Huang, …
    • Year: 2020
    • Citations: 44
  • Analysis of the fungal diversity and community structure in Sichuan dark tea during pile-fermentation
    • Authors: K Yan, M Abbas, L Meng, H Cai, Z Peng, Q Li, AH El-Sappah, L Yan, …
    • Year: 2021
    • Citations: 41
  • Genome-Wide Identification and Expression Analysis of Metal Tolerance Protein Gene Family in Medicago truncatula Under a Broad Range of Heavy Metal Stress
    • Authors: AH El-Sappah, RG Elbaiomy, AS Elrys, Y Wang, Y Zhu, Q Huang, K Yan, …
    • Year: 2021
    • Citations: 29
  • Selection and validation of reference genes for quantitative gene expression analyses in black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia L.) using real-time quantitative PCR
    • Authors: J Wang, M Abbas, Y Wen, D Niu, L Wang, Y Sun, Y Li
    • Year: 2018
    • Citations: 29
  • Genome-wide analysis and expression profiling of SlHsp70 gene family in Solanum lycopersicum revealed higher expression of SlHsp70-11 in roots under Cd2+ stress
    • Authors: M Abbas, Y Li, RG Elbaiomy, K Yan, AJ Ragauskas, V Yadav, SA Soaud, …
    • Year: 2022
    • Citations: 23
  • Genome-wide identification and expression analysis of metal tolerance protein (MTP) gene family in soybean (Glycine max) under heavy metal stress
    • Authors: AH El-Sappah, M Abbas, SA Rather, SH Wani, N Soaud, Z Noor, H Qiulan, …
    • Year: 2023
    • Citations: 22
  • Determination of Community Structure and Diversity of Seed-Vectored Endophytic Fungi in Alpinia zerumbet
    • Authors: K Yan, Z Pei, L Meng, Y Zheng, L Wang, R Feng, Q Li, Y Liu, X Zhao, …
    • Year: 2022
    • Citations: 22
  • Agri-nanotechnology and tree nanobionics: augmentation in crop yield, biosafety, and biomass accumulation
    • Authors: M Abbas, K Yan, J Li, S Zafar, Z Hasnain, N Aslam, N Iqbal, SS Hussain, …
    • Year: 2022
    • Citations: 20

Conclusion

Dr. Manzar Abbas is a highly skilled researcher and academic with a strong track record in biotechnological research, particularly in genetic engineering, stem cell technology, and crop improvement. His continued work promises to contribute valuable knowledge to biotechnology and agricultural research, fostering advancements in both academic and industrial settings.