Samuel Umma | Phytochemistry | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Samuel Umma | Phytochemistry | Best Researcher Award

Lecturer at Federal University Wukari, Taraba State, Nigeria

Dr. Samuel Bem Umma is a dedicated researcher and academician in the field of Fisheries and Aquaculture with over a decade of experience in teaching, research, and academic service. Based at the Federal University Wukari, Nigeria, he has made substantial contributions to sustainable aquaculture through studies on fish nutrition, microbial feed additives, aquatic toxicology, and fish health. His research promotes alternatives to synthetic antibiotics, particularly using bioactive compounds from Escherichia coli and indigenous plants. With over 20 published research papers, several conference presentations, and a book chapter with Springer, Dr. Umma exemplifies interdisciplinary collaboration and innovation. His teaching portfolio spans multiple courses across undergraduate and postgraduate levels, and he actively contributes to curriculum development and departmental responsibilities. Committed to advancing fisheries science in Africa, he is affiliated with major professional bodies such as the World Aquaculture Society and the Fisheries Society of Nigeria. Dr. Umma continues to champion sustainable aquaculture practices and environmental resilience.

Professional Profile 

Education

Dr. Samuel Bem Umma holds a strong academic background in Fisheries and Aquaculture. He obtained his Bachelor of Fisheries (B.Fisheries) in 2010 from the University of Maiduguri, Nigeria. He pursued further specialization by completing his Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Fisheries and Aquaculture at the University of Ibadan in 2013. Recently, in 2024, he earned his Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in the same field from the University of Ibadan, one of Nigeria’s leading institutions. His academic journey is marked by a consistent focus on aquatic ecosystems, sustainable aquaculture systems, and fish nutrition, forming the theoretical and practical foundation of his current research pursuits. This educational progression reflects both his academic commitment and long-term investment in enhancing aquaculture research and practice in Nigeria and beyond. His education has equipped him with a multidisciplinary understanding of aquatic health, nutrition, toxicology, and biotechnology—all of which are central to his professional and research work.

Professional Experience

Dr. Umma began his academic career in 2015 as a Lecturer at the Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture, Federal University Wukari, Taraba State, Nigeria. Over the past decade, he has taught more than 20 specialized courses, including Fish Nutrition, Limnology, Aquatic Toxicology, Fish Genetics, Fish Biochemistry, and Advanced Aquaculture. He has served in multiple administrative roles such as Acting Head of Department, Departmental Examination Officer, SIWES Coordinator, and Secretary of the Postgraduate Committee. He has actively participated in departmental curriculum review, project guideline development, and student advising across all academic levels. His contributions extend to the organization of departmental resources, faculty IGR initiatives, and quality assurance in teaching and learning. Beyond classroom instruction, Dr. Umma’s hands-on involvement in research and academic leadership demonstrates a well-rounded professional commitment to both education and fisheries research, which is essential for capacity building in Nigerian aquaculture and higher education.

Research Interests

Dr. Umma’s research interests lie primarily in fish health and nutrition, aquatic toxicology, microbial biotechnology, and phytogenic feed additives. His work is at the intersection of sustainability, biotechnology, and aquaculture, with a focus on reducing antibiotic use in fish farming through natural alternatives. He explores the use of bioactive metabolite extracts from non-pathogenic Escherichia coli and plant-based compounds such as Heinsia crinita to improve fish immunity, growth, and environmental safety. His studies often incorporate water quality analysis, heavy metal bioaccumulation, and the impact of feed formulations on fish physiology. Furthermore, he is interested in optimizing aquaculture systems for rural and commercial fisheries in West Africa. His research aligns with global efforts toward sustainable food systems, addressing both productivity and environmental protection. He also contributes to understanding fish population dynamics, hatchery techniques, and post-harvest preservation—all vital for improving aquaculture output and food security in developing regions.

Research Skills

Dr. Umma possesses a diverse array of research skills that span aquatic sampling, nutrient analysis, microbial screening, toxicological assays, and fish growth performance trials. He is proficient in designing and conducting controlled feeding experiments using plant-based and microbial supplements, evaluating fish health via haematological and biochemical assays. His technical abilities include zooplankton biomass estimation, bioaccumulation studies of heavy metals, and water quality assessments under varying ecological conditions. He is experienced in formulating experimental fish diets and measuring feed conversion efficiency, survival rates, and immune responses. Dr. Umma also has advanced capabilities in data analysis using statistical software, scholarly writing, and scientific communication. His recent collaborative studies show his strength in interdisciplinary research, combining aquaculture with microbial biotechnology and pharmacology. He is adept at publishing in peer-reviewed journals and preparing research findings for conference presentations. These competencies position him as a capable and evolving researcher in sustainable fisheries science.

Awards and Honors

While Dr. Samuel Bem Umma has not yet received major international research awards, his growing academic record and recent Ph.D. conferment in 2024 mark significant milestones in his career. His selection as a speaker and presenter at national and regional conferences, such as the World Aquaculture Society (African Chapter), Aquaculture Ghana, and National Biotechnology Research Conference, reflects peer recognition of his work in sustainable aquaculture. He has also contributed a book chapter published by Springer—a notable academic achievement that demonstrates international engagement. Additionally, his research on plant-based diets and microbial metabolites in fish farming is gaining scholarly attention, as indicated by recent publications in indexed journals and a patent under process. As a member of professional bodies like FISON, ANIFS, and WAS, he is recognized within his field and continues to build his academic visibility and leadership. These achievements collectively position him as an emerging scholar of promise in fisheries research.

Conclusion

Dr. Samuel Bem Umma demonstrates solid credentials and emerging excellence in fisheries and aquaculture research. His work is particularly impactful in sustainable fish production and microbial therapeutics — areas of critical importance to food security and environmental sustainability. While certain metrics such as citation impact and international funding could be improved, his interdisciplinary innovation, growing publication record, and commitment to academic development make him a suitable and promising candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

Publications Top Noted

  • Adeshina I., Sani R.A., Adewale Y.A., Tiamiyu L.O., Umma S.B. (2018)
    Effects of dietary Moringa oleifera leaf meal as a replacement for soybean meal on growth, body composition and health status in Cyprinus carpio juveniles
    Croatian Journal of Fisheries 76(4), 174–182 – Cited by: 39

  • Umma S.B., Iyiola A.O., Adeshina I. (2023)
    Relationship pattern of enteric bacterial load and assessed micronutrients in the gut of Clarias gariepinus fish sampled in the Ibadan municipal zone
    Journal of Basic and Applied Zoology 84(1):23 – Cited by: 5

  • Adeshina I., Umma S.B., Adesanmi O., Adewale Y.A. (2016)
    Distribution of bacteria load in fish tissues, pond water and sediment in Oyo State, Nigeria – Cited by: 2

  • Olukunle O., Umma S.B. (2016)
    Evaluation of African Catfish Clarias gariepinus Responses to Graded Levels of Zinc Practical Diet
    African Journal of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Management 1, 90 – Cited by: 2

  • Paray B.A., Adeshina I., Bhat E.A., Raji A., Umma S.B., Alliy R.O., Tiamiyu L.O. (2024)
    Effect of dietary Lagnaria breviflora leaves extract on African catfish juveniles
    J. Anim. Physiol. Anim. Nutr. 108(4):1164–1175 – Cited by: 1

  • Tyokumbur E.T., Umma S.B. (2017)
    Assessment of Heavy Metal Bioaccumulation in Wild Fish
    American Journal of Agricultural Science 4(2):23–28 – Cited by: 1

  • Tyokumbur E.T., Umma S.B. (2017)
    Sarotherodon melanotheron from Alaro Stream in Ibadan, Nigeria
    American Journal of Agricultural Science 4(6):120–125 – Cited by: 1

  • Ogunremi J.B., Sadiq H.O., Umma S.B., Oshimagye M.I. (2016)
    Perception on acceptability of extension agents among rural fish farmers
    Nigerian Journal of Fisheries and Aquaculture 4(1):59–62 – Cited by: 1

  • Umma S.B., Agbeja Y.E., Iyiola A.O. (2025)
    Sustainable Extraction and Production of Raw Materials for Bio-based Products in the Global South
    Book Chapter – Springer

  • Iyiola A.O., Kolawole A.S., Umma S.B., Iriobe T. (2024)
    Length-weight relationship of Oreochromis niloticus and Chrysichthys nigrodigitatus
    Aceh Journal of Animal Science 9(2):53–59

  • Umma S.B., Agbeja Y.E., Oyebola O.O., Ametefe G.D. (2024)
    Growth optimization and metabolite yield of non-pathogenic Escherichia coli from African catfish gut
    Tropical Journal of Pharmaceutical Research 23(12):2079–2087

  • Umma S.B., Ujah S., Gani B., Agu R.Z. (2023)
    Bacteriological diversity of organs of three fish species from Nigerian rivers
    Nigerian Journal of Fisheries 20(1)

  • Umma S.B., Adeshina I., Samuel S., Poirmozaffar S. (2025)
    Growth and gut bactericidal potential of Heinsia cinita-based diet in Nile Tilapia
    Scientifica

  • Adeshina I., Bhat E.A., Fawole O.O., Paray B.A., Umma S.B., Tiamiyu L.O. (2025)
    Herbal leaves mixture extract improves growth and Gyrodactylus resistance in hybrid catfish
    Aquaculture Nutrition

  • Umma S.B., Adeshina I. (2012)
    Zooplankton production and biomass estimates in Maiduguri, Nigeria
    Int. J. of Science and Development Studies

  • Bem U.S., Omoniyi D.A., Ibagye O.M., Flourizel I., Mamndeyati U.N., Kida D.A.
    Clarias gariepinus production study

  • Iyiola A.O., Umma S.B.
    Overview of triploid fish production processes for aquaculture

  • Tyokumbur E.T., Okorie T.G., Umma B.S.
    Appraisal of heavy and trace metals in sediments and fish

  • Tyokumbur E.T., Okorie T.G., Umma B.S.
    Bioaccumulation of metals in Clarias lazera and Tilapia zilli

  • Tyokumbur E.T., Okorie T., Umma B.
    Trace metal concentration in organs of Heterotis niloticus

Minoo Rassoulzadegan | Plant Genetics | Botany Scientist Excellence Award

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Prof. Minoo Rassoulzadegan | Plant Genetics | Botany Scientist Excellence Award

Researcher at Erciyes University, Turkey

Prof. Minoo Rassoulzadegan is an internationally acclaimed molecular geneticist renowned for her pioneering work in epigenetic inheritance and RNA-mediated heredity. With over four decades of research experience, she has redefined the classical boundaries of inheritance by introducing concepts such as paramutation and transvection in mammals—phenomena traditionally known in plant systems. As a former CNRS Director of Research and current faculty at Erciyes University in Turkey, her work continues to influence genetic and developmental biology across species. She has published extensively in prestigious journals including Nature, Developmental Cell, and PLoS Genetics, among others. Her groundbreaking discovery that RNA molecules in sperm can transmit epigenetic traits across generations has not only challenged Mendelian genetics but also opened new frontiers in disease inheritance, behavioral neuroscience, and environmental epigenetics. Prof. Rassoulzadegan is also a revered mentor, having guided numerous researchers globally. Her research bridges plants and mammals, showing the evolutionary continuity of epigenetic mechanisms.

Professional Profile 

Education

Prof. Rassoulzadegan began her academic journey in France at Nice University – Faculty of Sciences, where she earned her Bachelor’s (BS) degree in Biology between 1972 and 1975. She continued her studies there with a Master of Science (MSc) in Biochemistry from 1975 to 1976, followed by a PhD in Molecular Genetics, which she completed in 1979. Her academic training laid a strong foundation in biological systems, with a special focus on the molecular underpinnings of genetic regulation. Her doctoral work laid the groundwork for her later paradigm-shifting research in mouse genetics and epigenetic control. This progression through biology, biochemistry, and molecular genetics provided her with an interdisciplinary framework that allowed her to bridge knowledge across species. She later supplemented her training with specialized studies in embryonic manipulation at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory (USA) in 1984—an experience that further refined her techniques in early developmental biology and germline research.

Professional Experience

Prof. Rassoulzadegan has held influential research and academic positions throughout her career. She began as an Attaché de Recherche in 1979 with the CNRS (Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique) and rose through the ranks to become Directrice de Recherche by 1986. From 2004 to 2011, she served as Director of Inserm Unit 636, leading innovative research in RNA biology and epigenetics. Since 2012, she has been a Group Leader at the Institut de Biologie Valrose (IBV) in France and has remained scientifically active even after moving to Erciyes University in Turkey. Her professional journey is marked by leadership in both research direction and scientific mentorship. She has collaborated with world-renowned scientists and played a crucial role in shaping understanding of genetic regulation through RNA. Her transnational academic career reflects her status as a global scientific ambassador and role model in the life sciences community.

Research Interests

Prof. Rassoulzadegan’s research interests lie at the cutting edge of molecular genetics, epigenetics, RNA biology, and transgenerational inheritance. Her primary focus has been on understanding how small RNAs in sperm and other germline cells contribute to non-Mendelian patterns of inheritance. Her groundbreaking discovery that RNA molecules can carry hereditary information and influence phenotype has revolutionized genetics. She investigates mechanisms of paramutation, a form of epigenetic regulation initially characterized in plants, and was among the first to demonstrate its existence in mammals. Her work also extends into the role of epigenetic changes in diseases such as obesity, metabolic disorders, neurodevelopmental conditions like autism, and stress-related endocrine dysfunction. Lately, she has expanded her interest into RNA-based biomarkers, exploring their potential in predictive medicine and reproductive health. Her research embodies a convergence of basic science and translational relevance, drawing conceptual parallels between plant and animal models of heredity.

Research Skills

Prof. Rassoulzadegan is equipped with a powerful arsenal of research skills encompassing molecular cloning, mouse model development, embryonic microinjection, RNA isolation, epigenetic profiling, transcriptomics, and bioinformatics. She has mastered advanced CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing techniques, and her laboratory routinely generates transgenic mouse models to study the heritability of RNA signatures. Her expertise extends to small RNA sequencing, analysis of DNA methylation, histone modifications, and non-coding RNA function in germline cells. A critical aspect of her skill set lies in her ability to design cross-species experiments that model human diseases and test her hypotheses of RNA-mediated inheritance. She is also proficient in data interpretation tools used in systems biology and functional genomics. Her lab has pioneered several in vivo and in vitro assays to dissect complex hereditary signals, making her not only a theoretician but also an experimentalist of the highest order.

Awards and Honors

Prof. Rassoulzadegan’s scientific excellence has earned her multiple prestigious honors. Most notably, she was elected as a Member of the European Molecular Biology Organization (EMBO) in 2009, a recognition given only to the most accomplished life scientists in Europe. Her work has been extensively cited and celebrated in top-tier journals, garnering respect from across the biomedical and plant research communities. She has been invited as a keynote speaker at numerous international conferences and has served on editorial boards of reputed journals in genetics and molecular biology. Her legacy also includes mentorship of emerging scientists, many of whom have gone on to become leaders in genetics, epigenetics, and developmental biology. Her continuous innovation, global research engagement, and visionary contributions to science underscore her status as a trailblazer in RNA epigenetics and inheritance.

Conclusion

Prof. Dr. Minoo Rassoulzadegan is a visionary and highly accomplished scientist whose discoveries in RNA-mediated epigenetic inheritance have profoundly influenced both plant and animal genetics. While her core domain is molecular biology and mammalian epigenetics, the conceptual origin and translational relevance of her work to plant sciences make her a strong and intellectually justified candidate for the Botany Scientist Excellence Award, especially if the award recognizes cross-disciplinary excellence or epigenetic insights with botanical significance. If the award committee values conceptual innovation with plant science implications over strict taxonomic boundaries, Prof. Rassoulzadegan is not only suitable but exemplary.

Publications Top Noted

  1. LncRNA TERRA in hybrid with DNA is a relevant biomarker for monitoring patients with meningioma
    Scientific Reports, 2025

  2. RNA-Mediated Non-Mendelian Inheritance in Mice: The Power of Memory
    Biomolecules, 2025

  3. Impact of mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) on sperm genome integrity: insights from a mouse model
    Journal of Endocrinological Investigation, 2025

  4. Psoriatic skin transcript phenotype: androgen/estrogen and cortisone/cortisol imbalance with increasing DNA damage response
    Molecular Biology Reports, 2024 — 1 citation

  5. Experimentally altering microRNA levels in embryos alters adult phenotypes
    Scientific Reports, 2024 — 1 citation

  6. Autism-Related Cc2d1a Heterozygous Mice: Increased Levels of miRNAs Retained in DNA/RNA Hybrid Profiles (R-Loop)
    Biomolecules, 2024

  7. Trans Species RNA Activity: Sperm RNA of the Father of an Autistic Child Programs Glial Cells and Behavioral Disorders in Mice
    Biomolecules, 2024 — 5 citations

  8. RNA-Mediated Inheritance of Mammalian Spermatozoa (Book Chapter)
    Year not specified

  9. Alterations in serum mir-126-3p levels over time: A marker of pituitary insufficiency following head trauma
    Neuroendocrinology, 2023 — 3 citations

  10. From Data to Insights: Machine Learning Empowers Prognostic Biomarker Prediction in Autism
    Journal of Personalized Medicine, 2023 — 6 citations

Chenhui Yang | Phytochemistry | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Chenhui Yang | Phytochemistry | Best Researcher Award

Prof at Northeast Forestry University, China

Prof. Chenhui Yang is a distinguished researcher at the State Key Laboratory of Utilization of Woody Oil Resource, Northeast Forestry University, China. He earned his Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering and Technology from Harbin Institute of Technology in 2020 and began his independent academic career in 2021. His research focuses on the high-value utilization of biomass-based nanomaterials and their functional optimization for sustainable energy applications, including photosynthesis enhancement, bioelectricity, and biohydrogen generation via microbial fuel cells. Prof. Yang has published in top-tier journals such as Nature Communications, Angewandte Chemie, Nano Energy, and others, reflecting the quality and impact of his work. He has secured multiple national and enterprise research grants and contributes significantly to the fields of biomaterials, green energy, and the circular economy. As a rapidly emerging scientist, Prof. Yang demonstrates exceptional potential to lead innovative, environmentally responsible solutions for global energy and sustainability challenges.

Professional Profile 

Education 🎓

Prof. Chenhui Yang received his Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering and Technology from Harbin Institute of Technology in 2020 under the supervision of Prof. Miao Yu, a renowned expert in the field. During his doctoral studies, he focused on advanced chemical processes and the development of functional materials, laying the foundation for his current research in biomass-based nanomaterials and sustainable energy technologies. His education combined rigorous theoretical training with innovative experimental approaches, equipping him with a multidisciplinary perspective that bridges chemistry, material science, and environmental engineering. Prior to his doctoral studies, he completed his undergraduate and master’s education with a strong emphasis on chemical engineering fundamentals, analytical techniques, and applied research. This academic background provided Prof. Yang with the expertise necessary to transition seamlessly into independent research. His educational journey reflects a commitment to excellence and innovation, forming the backbone of his contributions to green energy, environmental sustainability, and high-performance biomaterials.

Professional Experience 💼

Prof. Chenhui Yang holds a deep professional interest in the high-value utilization of biomass-based nanomaterials and their application in advancing sustainable technologies. His work is centered on exploring the physicochemical and photochemical properties of renewable biomaterials to enhance their performance in green energy systems, such as bioelectricity and biohydrogen production through microbial fuel cells. He is particularly focused on integrating nanotechnology and environmental engineering to develop innovative solutions that address critical challenges in clean energy generation and resource efficiency. Prof. Yang is also committed to advancing the principles of the circular economy, aiming to convert waste biomass into functional, eco-friendly materials. His research bridges chemical engineering, materials science, and biotechnology, with the overarching goal of contributing to a more sustainable and energy-resilient future. Through interdisciplinary collaboration and scientific innovation, Prof. Yang seeks to make a meaningful impact in the fields of renewable energy, biomaterials, and environmental sustainability.

Research Interest 🔬

Prof. Chenhui Yang’s research interests lie at the intersection of biomass valorization, nanotechnology, and sustainable energy systems. He is particularly focused on the development and functional optimization of biomass-based nanomaterials for use in clean and renewable energy applications. His work explores the conversion of natural biomass into high-performance materials that exhibit enhanced photo-physicochemical properties, making them suitable for photosynthetic enhancement, bioelectricity, and biohydrogen production through microbial fuel cells (MFCs). Driven by the urgent need for environmentally responsible solutions, Prof. Yang investigates how to improve the efficiency, scalability, and sustainability of these green energy systems. His research integrates principles of chemical engineering, materials science, and environmental science to design energy solutions that align with the goals of the circular economy. Ultimately, his work contributes to advancing the global transition toward renewable energy sources, with a strong emphasis on environmental friendliness, energy efficiency, and resource sustainability.

Research Skill🔎

Prof. Chenhui Yang possesses a diverse and advanced set of research skills that enable him to drive innovation in the fields of biomaterials and sustainable energy. He is highly proficient in biomass conversion techniques, nanomaterial synthesis, and characterization methods such as spectroscopy, electron microscopy, and surface analysis, which are essential for understanding the structure–function relationship of engineered materials. His expertise extends to designing and optimizing microbial fuel cells (MFCs) and other bioenergy systems, with a focus on enhancing their performance through photo-physicochemical tuning. Prof. Yang is skilled in experimental design, data interpretation, and cross-disciplinary integration, combining principles of chemical engineering, materials science, and biotechnology. He has demonstrated competence in securing and managing research grants, leading collaborative projects, and publishing in high-impact journals. His analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and commitment to environmentally sustainable solutions reflect the depth and applicability of his research skills in addressing global energy challenges.

Award and Honor🏆

Prof. Chenhui Yang has been the recipient of several prestigious awards and honors in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the fields of biomaterials and sustainable energy research. Since beginning his independent academic career at Northeast Forestry University, he has secured multiple national and provincial-level research grants, demonstrating the significance and impact of his scientific work. Additionally, his innovative research has attracted enterprise funding, reflecting strong industry relevance and application potential. Prof. Yang’s publications in leading international journals such as Nature Communications, Angewandte Chemie, and Nano Energy have earned him recognition among his peers and the wider scientific community. His achievements at an early stage in his career highlight both academic excellence and research leadership. These accolades affirm his status as a rising figure in green energy research, positioning him as a key contributor to the advancement of environmentally friendly technologies and the circular bioeconomy.

Conclusion📝

Prof. Chenhui Yang is highly suitable for the Best Researcher Award, especially within the domains of green energy, sustainable materials, and environmental science. His early career trajectory, high-impact publications, and relevant research scope make him a strong contender.

To further elevate his competitiveness, demonstrating broader societal engagement, mentoring impact, and international collaborations would make his profile even more compelling.

Publications Top Noted📚

  • Yang, Chenhui (Co-author)

    • Year: 2025

    • Title: Transient Force Measurement and Mechanism Analysis of Nanosecond Laser Ablation of Al/Ti Alloys Using Polyvinylidene Fluoride Sensors

    • Journal: Sensors (Switzerland)

  • Yang, Chenhui (Co-author)

    • Year: 2025

    • Title: Nitrogen-doped carbon dots enhanced pollutant degradation and bioelectricity generation in bioelectrochemical systems

    • Journal: Journal of Environmental Chemical Engineering

Gianluigi Bacchetta | Systematic Botany | Botany Scientist Excellence Award

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Prof. Gianluigi Bacchetta | Systematic Botany | Botany Scientist Excellence Award

Direttore Centro Conservazione Biodiversità at Università degli Studi di Cagliari, Italy

Prof. Gianluigi Bacchetta is a renowned botanist and Full Professor at the University of Cagliari, Italy, with a distinguished career in plant biology, conservation, and geobotany. He holds multiple advanced degrees, including a European PhD in Plant Biology, and has served in various academic roles, including Director of the Hortus Botanicus Karalitanus and the Conservation Centre of Biodiversity. His research focuses on Mediterranean plant diversity, phytoclimatology, and phytogeography, contributing nearly 700 scientific publications. Prof. Bacchetta is actively involved in international conservation efforts, leading several EU-funded projects and serving on the editorial boards of prestigious journals. He also holds key positions in networks such as GENMEDA and scientific councils across Europe. His impactful work in seed banking, biodiversity preservation, and academic leadership makes him a leading figure in botanical science. His contributions have significantly advanced plant conservation and research, making him a strong candidate for recognition in the field.

Professional Profile 

Education 🎓

Prof. Gianluigi Bacchetta holds a comprehensive and multidisciplinary academic background in the life sciences. He earned his degree in Life Sciences from the University of Cagliari in 1996, followed by a Master’s in Landscape Planning at the same university in 1997. He further specialized with a Master’s in “Vegetation Analysis: survey and data elaboration on flora, vegetation and soil” at the Marche Polytechnic University in 2000. That same year, he completed a PhD in Geomorphology and Geobotany at the Marche Polytechnic University, solidifying his expertise in plant ecology and landscape dynamics. In 2002, he obtained the “Suficiencia Investigadora” and earned a European PhD in Plant Biology at the University of Valencia, Spain. His diverse and rigorous academic training across prominent European institutions laid a strong foundation for his distinguished research career in botany, particularly in Mediterranean flora, conservation biology, and phytogeography.

Professional Experience 💼

Prof. Gianluigi Bacchetta has over two decades of professional experience in botanical science, specializing in plant biology, geobotany, and conservation. He began his academic career as a lecturer at the Marche Polytechnic University (2000–2002), followed by his role as Assistant Professor at the University of Cagliari (2002–2006). He was later promoted to Associate Professor (2006–2015) and currently serves as Full Professor at the Faculty of Biology and Pharmacy. He also holds an adjunct professorship at the University of Tehran. Prof. Bacchetta has directed key institutions such as the Hortus Botanicus Karalitanus and currently leads the Conservation Centre of Biodiversity and the Germplasm Bank of Sardinia. He is Deputy Director of the PhD program in Earth and Environmental Sciences and actively contributes to international conservation projects. His leadership, academic mentorship, and research coordination highlight his profound commitment to advancing plant science and biodiversity conservation on both national and international levels.

Research Interest 🔬

Prof. Gianluigi Bacchetta’s research interests center on plant biodiversity, geobotany, and conservation biology, with a strong focus on the Mediterranean region. Since 1991, he has conducted extensive studies on the flora of islands and coastal ecosystems, examining patterns of plant diversity, endemism, and habitat specificity. His work integrates phytoclimatology, phytogeography, and ecological restoration, aiming to understand and preserve vulnerable plant communities. He has a particular interest in ex situ and in situ conservation strategies, seed banking, and the sustainable management of plant genetic resources. As Director of the Conservation Centre of Biodiversity and the Germplasm Bank of Sardinia, he plays a key role in preserving rare and endemic species. Prof. Bacchetta is also involved in international research networks and projects focused on ecosystem resilience, habitat mapping, and biogeographic analysis. His interdisciplinary approach combines fieldwork, data analysis, and policy-oriented research to advance global plant conservation efforts.

Award and Honor🏆

Prof. Gianluigi Bacchetta has received numerous awards and honors in recognition of his outstanding contributions to botany, plant conservation, and biodiversity research. While specific awards are not detailed in the provided information, his appointment to prestigious academic and scientific positions reflects his high standing in the scientific community. He has been entrusted with leadership roles such as Director of the Conservation Centre of Biodiversity and the Germplasm Bank of Sardinia, as well as President of the GENMEDA network, underscoring his influence in Mediterranean plant conservation. Additionally, his involvement in high-level scientific councils, editorial boards of leading journals, and international conservation initiatives attests to the respect he commands globally. His selection as a principal investigator for numerous European Union-funded projects (LIFE+, Interreg, Erasmus+) further highlights his scientific excellence and leadership. These honors collectively demonstrate his significant impact on advancing plant science and conserving botanical heritage at both regional and international levels.

Research Skill🔎

Prof. Gianluigi Bacchetta possesses a broad and advanced set of research skills in the fields of botany, plant ecology, and biodiversity conservation. His expertise spans geobotanical survey methods, vegetation analysis, phytosociological classification, and phytogeographical mapping. He is highly skilled in the identification and classification of Mediterranean flora, with a strong focus on endemic and threatened plant species. Prof. Bacchetta is proficient in ex situ and in situ conservation techniques, including seed collection, germplasm preservation, and habitat restoration. He demonstrates strong analytical skills in ecological data processing and GIS-based spatial analysis, essential for landscape-level conservation planning. Additionally, he is experienced in managing large-scale, interdisciplinary research projects, especially those funded by the European Union. His ability to integrate fieldwork with policy-relevant science and academic dissemination is evident in his prolific publication record. These research competencies position him as a leader in applied plant science and ecosystem conservation across Mediterranean and island environments.

Conclusion📝

Prof. Gianluigi Bacchetta is an exceptionally qualified and globally respected botanist, whose long-standing contributions to plant taxonomy, biodiversity conservation, and geobotany make him a highly suitable and deserving candidate for the Botany Scientist Excellence Award.

His profound academic achievements, prolific publication record, institutional leadership, and continuous involvement in conservation and international collaboration align perfectly with the award’s vision to honor excellence in botanical research.

Publications Top Noted📚

  • An annotated checklist of the Italian vascular flora
    Authors: F Conti, G Abbate, A Alessandrini, C Blasi
    Year: 1999
    Citations: 2005

  • An updated checklist of the vascular flora native to Italy
    Authors: F Bartolucci, L Peruzzi, G Galasso, A Albano, A Alessandrini, …
    Year: 2018
    Citations: 927

  • An updated checklist of the vascular flora alien to Italy
    Authors: G Galasso, F Conti, L Peruzzi, NMG Ardenghi, E Banfi, L Celesti-Grapow, …
    Year: 2018
    Citations: 625

  • Integrazioni alla checklist della flora vascolare italiana
    Authors: F Conti, A Alessandrini, G Bacchetta, E Banfi, G Barberis, F Bartolucci, …
    Year: 2007
    Citations: 397

  • Using MaxEnt modeling to predict the potential distribution of the endemic plant Rosa arabica Crép. in Egypt
    Authors: M Abdelaal, M Fois, G Fenu, G Bacchetta
    Year: 2019
    Citations: 297

  • Using species distribution models at local scale to guide the search of poorly known species: Review, methodological issues and future directions
    Authors: M Fois, A Cuena-Lombraña, G Fenu, G Bacchetta
    Year: 2018
    Citations: 277

  • Hotspots within hotspots: Endemic plant richness, environmental drivers, and implications for conservation
    Authors: EM Cañadas, G Fenu, J Peñas, J Lorite, E Mattana, G Bacchetta
    Year: 2014
    Citations: 243

  • Effects of ecological factors on the antioxidant potential and total phenol content of Scrophularia striata Boiss
    Authors: Z Zargoosh, M Ghavam, G Bacchetta, A Tavili
    Year: 2019
    Citations: 226

  • Red Listing plants under full national responsibility: Extinction risk and threats in the vascular flora endemic to Italy
    Authors: S Orsenigo, C Montagnani, G Fenu, D Gargano, L Peruzzi, T Abeli, …
    Year: 2018
    Citations: 212

  • Phylogenetic analysis informed by geological history supports multiple, sequential invasions of the Mediterranean Basin by the angiosperm family Araceae
    Authors: G Mansion, G Rosenbaum, N Schoenenberger, G Bacchetta, JA Rosselló, …
    Year: 2008
    Citations: 171

  • Environmental factors influencing coastal vegetation pattern: new insights from the Mediterranean Basin
    Authors: G Fenu, M Carboni, ATR Acosta, G Bacchetta
    Year: 2013
    Citations: 159

  • Vegetazione forestale e serie di vegetazione della Sardegna (con rappresentazione cartografica alla scala 1: 350.000)
    Authors: G Bacchetta, S Bagella, E Biondi, E Farris, RS Filigheddu, L Mossa
    Year: 2009
    Citations: 155

  • Conservación ex situ de plantas silvestres
    Authors: G Bacchetta, B Daniel, B Piero
    Year: 2008
    Citations: 144