Mahendra Aryal | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

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

Tribhuvan University | Nepal

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

Professional Profile

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Education

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

Experience

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

Research Interests

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

Awards

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

Publications

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Conclusion

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

Muhammad Asrar | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Muhammad Asrar | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Government College University of Faisalabad | Pakistan

Dr. Muhammad Asrar is an accomplished academic and researcher currently serving as an Associate Professor in the Department of Zoology at Government College University, Faisalabad, Pakistan. He is widely recognized for his expertise in entomology, particularly Integrated Pest Management (IPM), and for his leadership in various academic and administrative capacities. Over the course of his career, he has made substantial contributions to teaching, research, and institutional governance, while also engaging actively in professional societies and editorial roles. His commitment to both science and service reflects a balance of scholarly rigor and organizational skill, earning him recognition at national and international levels.

Professional Profile

Google Scholar

Education

Dr. Asrar holds a Doctor of Philosophy in Zoology from Government College University Faisalabad, where his research focused on developing pest management strategies for key agricultural pests in cotton. Prior to his doctorate, he completed both Master’s and Bachelor’s degrees in Agricultural Entomology from the University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, equipping him with a strong foundation in crop protection and insect biology. His earlier academic training in the sciences provided the basis for a career that integrates biological research with practical applications in agriculture and environmental management.

Experience

His professional journey encompasses a wide range of roles in teaching, research, and university administration. At Government College University Faisalabad, he has advanced from Assistant Professor to Associate Professor, mentoring students, supervising research, and delivering lectures in zoology and related disciplines. Beyond teaching, he has served in pivotal administrative positions, including Deputy Controller and Controller of Examinations, Deputy Director of Advanced Studies, Assistant Registrar, and Research Officer. These positions have involved overseeing academic policies, managing examination systems, facilitating research approvals, and ensuring compliance with higher education standards. He has also represented his institution at numerous conferences, chaired scientific sessions, and contributed to academic boards and committees across multiple universities.

Research Interest

Dr. Asrar’s research expertise lies at the intersection of entomology, pest ecology, and sustainable agriculture. He has a particular interest in Integrated Pest Management (IPM), focusing on the control of insect pests such as jassids and whiteflies in cotton, as well as stored-product pests like Tribolium castaneum. His work integrates field trials, laboratory experiments, and molecular approaches to develop environmentally friendly pest control solutions. He is also engaged in research related to fisheries and molecular biology, expanding his scope to encompass aquatic ecosystems and genetic tools for species management. Through his research, he aims to reduce pesticide dependence, promote biodiversity, and support sustainable farming practices.

Awards

Throughout his career, Dr. Asrar has been honored with multiple awards and distinctions in recognition of his academic excellence, innovative research, and outstanding service to the academic community. He has received commendations from university leadership for his dedication to institutional responsibilities and for organizing major academic events. Internationally, he has been awarded competitive travel grants to present his work at prestigious scientific forums. His achievements also include recognition for his administrative leadership, active participation in professional societies, and editorial contributions to well-regarded scientific journals. One of his notable honors is the Best Research Award for exceptional contributions to innovative research in science and agriculture.

Publications

Title: Foliar exposure of zinc oxide nanoparticles improved the growth of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) and decreased cadmium concentration in grains under simultaneous Cd and water stress
Journal: Ecotoxicology and Environmental Safety
Published on: 2021
Citation: 267

Title: Combined use of different nanoparticles effectively decreased cadmium (Cd) concentration in grains of wheat grown in a field contaminated with Cd
Journal: Ecotoxicology and Environmental Safety
Published on: 2021
Citation: 84

Title: 6‐Phosphogluconate dehydrogenase fuels multiple aspects of cancer cells: From cancer initiation to metastasis and chemoresistance
Journal: BioFactors
Published on: 2020
Citation: 58

Title: Effect of gibberellic acid and titanium dioxide nanoparticles on growth, antioxidant defense system and mineral nutrient uptake in wheat
Journal: Ecotoxicology and Environmental Safety
Published on: 2021
Citation: 55

Title: Physcion and physcion 8-O-β-D-glucopyranoside: Natural anthraquinones with potential anticancer activities
Journal: Current Drug Targets
Published on: 2021
Citation: 46

Title: Exploration of polyacrylamide microplastics and evaluation of their toxicity on multiple parameters of Oreochromis niloticus
Journal: Saudi Journal of Biological Sciences
Published on: 2023
Citation: 43

Title: Phosphoglycerate mutase 1 in cancer: A promising target for diagnosis and therapy
Journal: IUBMB Life
Published on: 2019
Citation: 35

Conclusion

Dr. Muhammad Asrar exemplifies the qualities of a dedicated scholar, effective educator, and capable administrator. His career reflects a continuous pursuit of scientific advancement alongside a commitment to strengthening academic institutions. With expertise that spans both fundamental and applied research, he has contributed to solving critical agricultural challenges while also shaping the academic environment through leadership and mentorship. His professional record demonstrates not only technical proficiency in zoology and pest management but also a vision for integrating research, education, and service for the broader benefit of science and society.

Bio Gazali Sanni | Agriculture | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Bio Gazali Sanni | Agriculture | Best Researcher Award

University of Abomey-Calavi (UAC) | Benin

Gazali Bio Sanni is a passionate agricultural scientist and PhD candidate in Biotechnology and Plant Breeding at the University of Abomey-Calavi (UAC), Benin. With hands-on experience in crop genetics, plant physiology, and molecular biology, Gazali has contributed significantly to the advancement of agricultural sciences in West Africa. His dedication to improving crop productivity and sustainability is reflected through his work with Sesame, Soybean, Pumpkin, and other essential crops 🌱.

Professional profile👤

ORCID

Strengths for the Awards✨

  1. Diverse Research Experience:
    Gazali has demonstrated consistent involvement in agronomic research, particularly in plant breeding, genetics, and biotechnology. His hands-on work with crops like Sesame, Soybean, Cowpea, and Pumpkin shows practical relevance and alignment with regional agricultural priorities.

  2. International Exposure:
    His fellowship at the University of Cologne, Germany and participation in interdisciplinary plant science seminars reflect global engagement, skill development in cutting-edge molecular techniques, and an ability to adapt to international research environments.

  3. Publication Record:
    With six publications, including peer-reviewed journal articles in International Journal of Agronomy, Scientifica, Heliyon, Oil Crop Science, and CABI Agriculture and Bioscience, he has contributed to both fundamental and applied aspects of plant breeding and agronomy. The focus on genetic characterization and agro-morphological traits strengthens his academic footprint.

  4. Awards & Recognition:
    The Jeff Schell Fellowship by the Bayer Foundation is a prestigious award that underlines his potential and credibility as a young scientist in agricultural biotechnology.

  5. Technical Proficiency:
    Skills in DNA/RNA extraction, PCR, gel electrophoresis, qPCR, and bioinformatics (R, SPSS, SAS) are particularly valuable in today’s interdisciplinary plant science landscape.

🎓 Education

Gazali began his academic journey with a Bachelor’s degree in Crop Science (2013–2016), followed by a Master’s in Biotechnology and Plant Breeding (2018–2021), both from FSA/UAC 🎓. He is currently pursuing his PhD at the same institution (2022–present), focusing on plant genetic improvement using modern biotechnological tools.

💼 Experience

Since March 2019, Gazali has served as a Research Assistant at the Faculty of Agronomic Sciences, UAC, assisting in high-impact research on staple crops and supporting students in plant physiology and ecophysiology 📘. He undertook a prestigious fellowship at the University of Cologne, Germany (Feb–Aug 2024), where he mastered advanced molecular biology techniques such as DNA/RNA extraction, PCR, and sequencing 🧪. He also gained early experience as a Laboratory Technician at INRAB (2017) and as an Agronomy Technician at GBioS (2016–2017), building a strong foundation in fieldwork and lab analysis 🌾.

🔬 Research Interest On Agriculture

Gazali’s research revolves around plant biotechnology, crop improvement, genetic diversity, molecular characterization, and sustainable agriculture 🌍. His focus lies in understanding the genetic and morphological variability in key African crops to enhance yield and resilience through modern breeding techniques and genomic tools 🔍.

🏆 Award

In 2023, Gazali was honored with the Jeff Schell Fellowship for Agricultural Science by the Bayer Foundation 🌟. This competitive international award enabled him to conduct part of his PhD research at the Institute for Plant Sciences, University of Cologne, recognizing his academic excellence and research potential in agricultural biotechnology 🎖️.

📚 Publications

Gazali has co-authored several peer-reviewed articles in respected journals, reflecting his strong research productivity. His works are already being cited and making a significant impact in the academic community :

  • “Characterization of Genetic and Agromorphological Variation in 30 Soybean (Glycine max) Accessions in Northern and Southern Benin”

    • Authors: Vincent Ezin, Fatimata Bachabi, Florida Corolle Mintodè Dubogan, Wassiou Ahanchede, Gazali B. T. A. Sanni, Mohamed Salim Moussa, Adam Ahanchede, Mohamed Abdelsalam

    • Publication Year: 2025

  • “Genetic and Agromorphological Characterization of Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) Genotypes for Dehiscence‐Related Traits and Grain Yield Performances”

    • Authors: Gazali B. T. A. Sanni, Vincent Ezin, Antoine Abel Missihoun, Quenum Florent, Adam Ahanchede, Mohamed Addi

    • Publication Year: 2025

  • “Production and Achievements in Sesamum indicum Industry in the World: Past and Current State”

    • Authors: Gazali B. T. A. Sanni, Vincent Ezin, Ifagbémi Bienvenue Chabi, Antoine Abel Missihoun, Quenum Florent, Zangui Hamissou, Mareme Niang, Adam Ahanchede

    • Publication Year: 2024

  • “Farmers’ Knowledge, Practices and Use of Sesame Genetic Resources in the Production Systems of Benin: Case Study of Agro-Ecological Zone IV”

    • Authors: Gazali B. T. A. Sanni, Vincent Ezin, Adam Ahanchede

    • Publication Year: 2022

  • “Ethnobotanical Study of Pumpkin (Cucurbita moschata Duchesne) Landraces in Benin”

    • Authors: Vincent Ezin, Ulrich Herbert Gbemenou, Gazali B. T. A. Sanni, Adam Ahanchede

    • Publication Year: 2021

  • “Fiche Technique Synthétique pour la Production de la Corète Potagère (Corchorus olitorius L.)”

    • Authors: Gazali Bio Sanni, Lègba C. E., Aglinglo A. L., Djido U., Francisco R., Fassinou Hotègni V. N., Achigan-Dako G. E.

    • Publication Year: 2018

✅ Conclusion

With a strong foundation in agricultural science, notable research contributions, and international recognition, Gazali Bio Sanni stands out as a promising young scientist in Africa’s agricultural transformation 🌟. His dedication to sustainable crop development and genetic research continues to support food security and scientific advancement both locally and globally 🌾🌍.