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.

Professional Profile

ORCID

Scopus

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.

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.

Curtis VanderSchaaf | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Curtis VanderSchaaf | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Mississippi State University | United States

Dr. Curtis Lee Vanderschaaf is a Certified Forester® with a prolific career spanning research, academia, and forest resource management. Currently serving as an Assistant Professor at Mississippi State University, he is widely recognized for his work in forest biometrics, growth and yield modeling, and forest carbon markets. With decades of dedication across multiple states, including Minnesota, Texas, Louisiana, and Mississippi, Dr. Vanderschaaf has become a leading figure in forestry extension and decision support systems. His cross-sector expertise bridges technical innovation and on-the-ground forest management, positively impacting both landowners and the academic community.

Author Profile👤

Google Scholar

Scopus

Strengths for the Awards✨

Curtis Lee Vanderschaaf, Certified Forester® and Assistant Professor at Mississippi State University, stands out as a deeply accomplished forest biometrician and silvicultural modeler. His extensive academic background—Ph.D. in Forest Biometrics from Virginia Tech, M.S. in Forest Management from the University of Idaho, and a B.S. from Stephen F. Austin State University—has laid a rigorous foundation for over two decades of high-impact contributions. His career includes academic positions and applied research roles with organizations like the Minnesota Division of Forestry, the Texas Forest Service, and Louisiana Tech University.

Curtis’s research strengths lie in growth and yield modeling, carbon sequestration modeling, forest inventory systems, and timber decision support systems (TDSSs). He has developed and implemented numerous advanced forest modeling tools, including LONGeOFIELD, LOBtech, and others for pine species management. His work has supported both academic communities and forest industries, ensuring sustainable forest productivity through applied science.

🎓 Education

Dr. Vanderschaaf earned his Ph.D. in Forest Biometrics from Virginia Tech University (2006), where he specialized in modeling size-density relationships in loblolly pine plantations under the guidance of Dr. Harold Burkhart. His Master’s in Forest Management was completed at the University of Idaho (1999), focusing on operational fertilization effects on understory vegetation. He began his academic journey with a B.Sc. in Forest Management from Stephen F. Austin State University (1996), where he received an academic scholarship from the International Society of Arboriculture.

🧑‍💼 Experience

Dr. Vanderschaaf’s diverse professional experience includes academia, government, and extension. At Mississippi State University, he leads forest modeling initiatives, teaches landowner workshops, and develops forest carbon market tools. Previously, he held a faculty role at Louisiana Tech University, where he taught forestry courses and developed various Timber Decision Support Systems (TDSS). He served as a biometrician with the Minnesota Division of Forestry, contributing to state-level forest management plans using strategic models like Remsoft Woodstock. Earlier, at the Texas Forest Service, he worked on forest inventory systems and bioenergy economics.

🔬 Research Interests On Agricultural and Biological Sciences

Dr. Vanderschaaf’s research centers on forest growth and yield modeling, forest carbon accounting, biometric analyses, and decision support tools for landowners. He actively develops simulators for southern pine species and works on carbon estimation in different pools—biomass, soil, and harvested wood products. His work spans from optimizing thinning and reforestation to integrating forest economics and climate resilience into long-term management.

🏆 Awards

  • 2012 Conservation Enhancement Employee Recognition Commissioner’s Award, MN DNR Extended Rotation Forestry Policy Team

  • Twice nominated for Louisiana Tech’s College of Applied and Natural Sciences Teaching and Research Awards

  • Recipient of the International Society of Arboriculture Academic Scholarship
    These accolades reflect his unwavering commitment to advancing sustainable forest management and education.

📚 Publications

  • Regional mixed-effects height–diameter models for loblolly pine (Pinus taeda L.) plantations
    Authors: G. Trincado, C.L. VanderSchaaf, H.E. Burkhart
    Year: 2007
    Citations: 163

  • Comparison of methods to estimate Reineke’s maximum size-density relationship species boundary line slope
    Authors: C.L. VanderSchaaf, H.E. Burkhart
    Year: 2007
    Citations: 90

  • The effect of density on the height-diameter relationship
    Authors: B. Zeide, C. Vanderschaaf
    Year: 2002
    Citations: 90

  • A multilevel individual tree basal area increment model for aspen in boreal mixedwood stands
    Authors: Y. Yang, S. Huang, S.X. Meng, G. Trincado, C.L. VanderSchaaf
    Year: 2009
    Citations: 77

  • Evaluation of population-averaged and subject-specific approaches for modeling the dominant or codominant height of lodgepole pine trees
    Authors: S.X. Meng, S. Huang, Y. Yang, G. Trincado, C.L. VanderSchaaf
    Year: 2009
    Citations: 55

  • Assessing the impacts of species composition, top height and density on individual tree height prediction of quaking aspen in boreal mixedwoods
    Authors: S. Huang, D.P. Wiens, Y. Yang, S.X. Meng, C.L. Vanderschaaf
    Year: 2009
    Citations: 51

  • Determining productivity gains from herbaceous vegetation management with ‘age-shift’ calculations
    Authors: D.B. South, J.H. Miller, M.O. Kimberley, C.L. Vanderschaaf
    Year: 2006
    Citations: 50

  • Using segmented regression to estimate stages and phases of stand development
    Authors: C.L. VanderSchaaf, H.E. Burkhart
    Year: 2008
    Citations: 36

  • Winter nitrogen fertilization of loblolly pine seedlings
    Authors: C. VanderSchaaf, K. McNabb
    Year: 2004
    Citations: 32

  • Growth of graded sweetgum 3 years after root and shoot pruning
    Authors: K. McNabb, C. VanderSchaaf
    Year: 2005
    Citations: 29

✅ Conclusion

Dr. Curtis Lee Vanderschaaf is a visionary forest scientist whose expertise spans academic research, practical forestry, and landowner education. His dedication to advancing forest biometrics, sustainable forest management, and carbon market readiness makes him a compelling nominee for the Best Researcher Award. His career demonstrates a perfect blend of quantitative modeling, community service, and applied forest science that supports both policy and practice.

Dan Wu | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Dan Wu | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Jilin Agricultural University | China

Dr. Dan Wu serves as an Adjunct Professor and Ph.D. Supervisor at Jilin Agricultural University under the prestigious “Class A Talent Introduction Program”. With a strong background in biotechnology and peptide science, he is a dynamic academician committed to translational research. Dr. Wu is actively engaged in advancing bioactive peptide research and its applications in functional foods, with multiple industry collaborations and recognized publications to his credit.

Author Profile👤

Scopus

Strengths for the Awards✨

Dan Wu is a distinguished Adjunct Professor at Jilin Agricultural University and a PhD supervisor under the “Class A Talent Introduction Program.” His academic footprint includes over 10 SCI-indexed publications in top-tier journals (CAS Region I) as a first or corresponding author, indicating a consistent and high-impact research output.

He has also secured prestigious national and provincial research grants, such as the National Natural Science Foundation of China (Youth Fund) and other regional foundations. Notably, his industry collaborations have led to the successful commercialization of four bioactive peptide products, bridging academic research and real-world application. Additionally, he has served as a reviewer for high-impact journals like JAFC and FC and holds a nationally authorized patent. These combined achievements showcase his innovative research, leadership in academia, and industry relevance, all of which are key metrics for the Best Researcher Award.

🎓 Education

Dr. Dan Wu completed his doctoral studies in a specialized field related to bioactive peptides and food science, equipping him with the foundational expertise to lead cutting-edge research. His academic journey, marked by rigor and innovation, set the stage for his future roles as a supervisor and innovator in academia and industry.

💼 Experience

Dr. Wu has extensive experience in academic research, innovation, and supervision. He is a reviewer for top journals such as Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry (JAFC) and Food Chemistry (FC). As the chairperson for major scientific grants including the National Natural Science Foundation of China (Youth Fund), he has contributed significantly to project evaluation and development. He also collaborates with industry stakeholders, leading to successful product development and commercialization.

🔬 Research Interests On Agricultural and Biological Sciences

Dr. Wu’s primary research interests lie in the development, absorption, and metabolism of bioactive peptides, particularly those derived from ginseng and marine organisms. His investigations focus on functional foods, peptide delivery systems, and the biochemical mechanisms governing peptide absorption—aiming to bridge the gap between nutritional science and therapeutic applications.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Dr. Wu was recognized under the “Class A Talent Introduction Program”, reflecting his exceptional academic capabilities. He received national authorization for a patent as the first inventor, and his works have significantly impacted both academia and industry. His ongoing contributions to journals and his leadership in grant-funded research further reinforce his stature in the scientific community.

📚 Publications

Dr. Wu has authored more than 10 SCI-indexed papers in leading journals from the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) Region I, such as Food Chemistry, Journal of Functional Foods, and Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry. Here are sample publications:

  • Wu, D. Mechanism of intestinal paracellular absorption of shrimp peptide QMDDQ regulated by myosin light chain kinase, Food Chemistry, 2023, Cited by 23

  • Wu, D. Stability and bioavailability of ginseng-derived peptides in functional beverages, Journal of Functional Foods, 2022, Cited by 31

  • Wu, D. Peptide-enriched chlorella extracts and their bioactive potential, Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 2021, Cited by 40

🧪 Conclusion

Dr. Dan Wu exemplifies a blend of academic excellence, innovative research, and industry impact. Through his leadership in national research projects, high-impact publications, patented inventions, and successful product transformations, he has significantly contributed to advancing functional peptide applications in health and nutrition. His work not only enriches scientific understanding but also offers real-world benefits through commercialized bio-functional products.