Vladimir Sikora | Plant Breeding | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Vladimir Sikora | Plant Breeding | Best Researcher Award

Head of Department at Institte of Field and Vegetable Crops Novi Sad, Serbia

Dr. Vladimir Sikora is an accomplished plant geneticist and breeding expert with over 18 years of experience in the field of alternative crops, seed production, and agro-technological innovation. Based at the Institute of Field and Vegetable Crops, Novi Sad, he has served in ascending roles from Research Associate to Senior Research Advisor and currently coordinates advanced plant breeding programs. His expertise lies at the intersection of genetics, sustainability, and modern crop science, making him a leading voice in enhancing crop diversity and resilience. With involvement in multiple EU Horizon projects like MIDAS, CROPDIVA, and CARINA, Dr. Sikora actively contributes to addressing global agricultural challenges such as climate change, marginal land usage, and food security. His leadership extends into academic mentoring, editorial roles, and collaboration with institutions in the USA and Europe. A fluent speaker of English and Slovak, he is known for integrating traditional agricultural knowledge with modern biotechnological approaches. His forward-thinking vision and strong international network make him a highly respected figure in both scientific and farming communities.

Professional Profile 

Education

Dr. Vladimir Sikora’s academic journey is rooted in a strong specialization in Plant Breeding and Genetics, which he pursued at the University of Novi Sad, Serbia. He obtained his PhD in Plant Breeding in 2005 from the Faculty of Agriculture, after completing a five-year Bachelor’s program in the same field (2000–2005). His academic excellence was not limited to classroom learning; he demonstrated an early aptitude for hands-on crop improvement and genetic research. Further enhancing his skills, Dr. Sikora participated in post-doctoral research training and professional visits to internationally renowned institutions such as Texas A&M (USA) in 2006 and Oregon State University (USA) in 2019. These experiences broadened his research horizons and exposed him to advanced breeding technologies and global agricultural systems. His education laid the foundation for a lifelong commitment to crop improvement, alternative plant species, and sustainable agriculture. This academic background, combined with international exposure, has allowed him to engage in both regional agricultural innovation and global scientific discourse.

Professional Experienc

Dr. Sikora has built a distinguished career at the Institute of Field and Vegetable Crops in Novi Sad, starting as a Research Associate (2006–2012), moving up to Senior Research Associate (2012–2017), and ultimately becoming a Research Advisor in 2017. Over nearly two decades, he has led initiatives in the breeding and seed production of alternative crops, including industrial hemp, buckwheat, and oil plants. As the Coordinator for Genetics and Plant Breeding, he oversees a diverse portfolio of scientific and breeding projects, manages collaborative research teams, and contributes to national policy discussions on crop development. His role is multifaceted, involving research execution, institutional leadership, and strategic planning. He has been deeply involved in the development of agronomic practices and new crop varieties, responding to the evolving demands of climate change and sustainability. In addition to his research commitments, Dr. Sikora serves as a mentor for doctoral students, ensuring the transfer of knowledge to the next generation of agricultural scientists. His contributions have significantly influenced the genetic improvement of underutilized crops and the revitalization of traditional knowledge in modern contexts.

Research Interests

Dr. Sikora’s research interests span a broad spectrum of topics within plant science, with a primary focus on genetics, plant breeding, seed production, agro-technology, and alternative crops. He is particularly passionate about developing climate-resilient and underutilized species, which play a critical role in diversifying agriculture and improving sustainability. His work addresses the urgent need to adapt farming systems to marginal lands and shifting environmental conditions. Through programs like CROPDIVA and MIDAS, he explores the genetic diversity of crops such as buckwheat, Camelina, Carinata, and industrial hemp, aiming to improve yield, quality, and stress tolerance. He combines conventional breeding methods with advanced phenotyping, genomic tools, and field experimentation to accelerate cultivar development. His research is guided by a systems approach, considering ecological, economic, and social factors in crop design. Moreover, Dr. Sikora actively promotes biodiversity conservation, supports the re-introduction of traditional crops, and investigates the bio-industrial potential of neglected species.

Research Skills

Dr. Sikora possesses a diverse and advanced skill set in the fields of plant breeding, genetics, seed production, and agro-technological innovation. He is highly proficient in germplasm evaluation, trait selection, and the design and implementation of breeding programs for alternative crops. His experience includes both conventional breeding techniques and modern approaches such as marker-assisted selection and field-based genomic phenotyping. He has exceptional command over field trial management, data analysis, and crop productivity modeling in variable agro-climatic conditions. Furthermore, his leadership in coordinating multinational research projects demonstrates his capacity to manage cross-disciplinary teams, secure international funding, and deliver impactful outcomes. He also contributes to scientific publishing and peer review through his role on the editorial board of the journal Alternative Crops and Cultivation Practices. Fluent in English and Slovak, Dr. Sikora is an effective communicator, equally adept at delivering academic lectures, conducting scientific diplomacy, and engaging stakeholders in crop development. His practical knowledge of crop production systems combined with theoretical genetics enables him to bridge the gap between research and application.

Awards and Honors

While specific awards are not listed in the available profile, Dr. Vladimir Sikora’s continuous selection for leadership roles in EU Horizon-funded projects such as MIDAS, CARINA, and CROPDIVA speaks volumes about his research credibility and international recognition. Securing such competitive research funding in the European scientific arena is, in itself, a significant achievement. His election to editorial boards, including Alternative Crops and Cultivation Practices, and memberships in prestigious bodies like EUCARPIA, Serbian Genetic Society, and the Global Hemp Innovation Center, reflect his standing as a respected scientific authority. His mentorship of doctoral students and active participation in shaping research directions at both national and international levels further underscore the recognition of his contributions. His work directly supports United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially in sustainable agriculture, food security, and climate resilience, making him a valuable asset to the global research community. As more of his innovations translate into field applications and academic publications, formal honors are likely to follow.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Dr. Vladimir Sikora exemplifies excellence in plant breeding research, with a specialized focus on alternative crops that offer real-world solutions to food security and climate challenges. His combined academic background, extensive research leadership, international collaborations, and strong commitment to mentoring make him a prime candidate for global recognition and scientific awards. He has successfully translated fundamental genetic research into applied breeding practices that support sustainable farming and crop diversification, especially in marginal environments. Dr. Sikora’s work is not only scientifically significant but also socially relevant, as it aligns with modern agricultural needs and sustainability goals. His future potential includes further international engagement, innovation-driven plant variety development, and deeper contributions to global research agendas in agro-biotechnology. Recognizing Dr. Sikora with a Best Researcher Award would honor his legacy and encourage continued excellence in this vital scientific domain.

Publications Top Noted

  1. Assessing sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L) Moench] germplasm for new traits: Food, fuels & unique uses
    📅 Year: 2011 | 📚 Citations: 230

  2. Production of biofuels from sorghum
    📅 Year: 2020 | 📚 Citations: 165

  3. Industrial Hemp (Cannabis sativa L.) Agronomy and Utilization: A Review
    📅 Year: 2023 | 📚 Citations: 161

  4. Hydrolates: By-products of essential oil distillation: Chemical composition, biological activity and potential uses
    📅 Year: 2020 | 📚 Citations: 117

  5. Marrubium vulgare L.: A Phytochemical and Pharmacological Overview
    📅 Year: 2020 | 📚 Citations: 115

  6. Origin, history, morphology, production, improvement, and utilization of broomcorn [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench] in Serbia
    📅 Year: 2011 | 📚 Citations: 70

  7. Salvia sclarea: Chemical composition and biological activity
    📅 Year: 2018 | 📚 Citations: 68

  8. Effect of extraction solvent on total polyphenols content and antioxidant activity of Cannabis sativa L.
    📅 Year: 2018 | 📚 Citations: 66

  9. Variability of yield and chemical composition in soybean genotypes grown under different agroecological conditions of Serbia
    📅 Year: 2016 | 📚 Citations: 66

  10. Influence of agroclimatic conditions on content of main cannabinoids in industrial hemp (Cannabis sativa L.)
    📅 Year: 2011 | 📚 Citations: 62

  11. Analysis of buckwheat production in the world and Serbia
    📅 Year: 2014 | 📚 Citations: 56

  12. Genotypic specificity of soybean [Glycine max.(L) Merr.] under conditions of foliar fertilization
    📅 Year: 2012 | 📚 Citations: 49

  13. Influence of agro-ecological conditions and foliar fertilization on yield and yield components of buckwheat in conventional and organic cropping system
    📅 Year: 2013 | 📚 Citations: 45

  14. Dracocephalum moldovica: cultivation, chemical composition and biological activity
    📅 Year: 2019 | 📚 Citations: 36

  15. Genetics and selection of hemp
    📅 Year: 2013 | 📚 Citations: 32

  16. Weather conditions influence on hyssop essential oil quality
    📅 Year: 2021 | 📚 Citations: 30

  17. Variability and stability of tuber yield of Jerusalem artichoke (Helianthus tuberosus L.)
    📅 Year: 2001 | 📚 Citations: 25

  18. Bioactivity of essential oils from cultivated winter savory, sage and hyssop
    📅 Year: 2019 | 📚 Citations: 22

  19. Nepeta cataria–cultivation, chemical composition and biological activity
    📅 Year: 2021 | 📚 Citations: 21

  20. What is Industrial Hemp?
    📅 Year: 2019 | 📚 Citations: 21

Abdul Hafeez | Agronomy | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Botany Scientist

Dr. Abdul Hafeez | Agronomy | Best Researcher Award

Post-doctoral researcher at Yunnan University, China

Dr. Abdul Hafeez is an accomplished agronomist and postdoctoral researcher with a profound specialization in sustainable agriculture and efficient farming systems. With over a decade of academic and research experience spanning Pakistan and China, he has demonstrated exceptional capabilities in advancing eco-agricultural practices. Currently positioned at Yunnan University, China, he is widely recognized for his work in crop nutrition, soil health, nanotechnology applications, and sustainable cropping models. He has published 34 peer-reviewed articles in high-impact journals with a cumulative JCR impact factor exceeding 115, reflecting his scientific rigor and contribution to global agricultural research. His research not only addresses yield optimization but also environmental sustainability and climate-resilient practices. Dr. Hafeez is also a proven educator and mentor, known for initiating student skill development programs and participating in interdisciplinary collaborations. With a clear focus on future-oriented agriculture, he has received numerous competitive grants and awards and maintains active collaborations with leading agricultural scientists across Asia. His unique blend of academic depth, practical research, and global outlook makes him a rising figure in agronomic innovation.

Professional Profile 

Education

Dr. Abdul Hafeez holds a Ph.D. in Agriculture (Agronomy) from Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China (2015–2019), where his research focused on cotton photosynthesis and sucrose metabolism under potassium-nitrogen interactions. He earned his M.Sc. (Hons) and B.Sc. (Hons) in Agronomy from Pir Mehr Ali Shah Arid Agriculture University, Rawalpindi, Pakistan, between 2008 and 2014, consistently graduating with top academic grades (Grade A). His strong educational foundation laid the groundwork for his research on plant-soil interactions, nutrient dynamics, and crop performance under stress conditions. From early on, he displayed a keen interest in addressing the growing demands for food security through advanced and sustainable farming practices. His postgraduate theses included innovative topics such as the use of copper nanoparticles to enhance wheat growth — a pioneering exploration into nano-agronomy. Dr. Hafeez’s educational journey is marked by a blend of academic excellence and innovation, supported by prestigious scholarships including the Chinese Government Scholarship and Punjab Educational Endowment Fund. His international academic exposure has equipped him with cross-cultural scientific insights and adaptability, enriching his contributions to global agronomic research.

Professional Experience

Dr. Hafeez’s professional trajectory spans academia, postdoctoral research, and project leadership. He is currently serving as a Postdoctoral Researcher at Yunnan University, China, focusing on soil health, cropping systems, and bio-organic practices. Prior to this, he worked as an Assistant Professor at the Institute of Hydroponics Agriculture, PMAS Arid Agriculture University, Rawalpindi (2022–2023), where he led student research, developed academic content, and mentored early-career scientists. He also completed a Postdoc at South China Agricultural University (2019–2021), contributing to breakthroughs in biochar technology and disease suppression. His early career included a pivotal role in the Seed Technology Transfer Project funded by the Endowment Fund Secretariat, where he served as a Research Fellow, managing field experiments and data-driven seed improvement initiatives. Across these roles, Dr. Hafeez demonstrated strong project management, cross-disciplinary research skills, and impactful teaching capabilities. He continues to inspire through his workshops, student training programs, and curriculum development efforts. His diverse institutional affiliations across Pakistan and China illustrate his adaptability, global outlook, and commitment to scientific excellence.

Research Interests

Dr. Abdul Hafeez’s research is centered on sustainable agriculture, with a primary focus on nutrient dynamics (K-N ratios), crop eco-physiology, and soil health restoration. He has a particular interest in optimizing cotton productivity under high-density and late-sown conditions — a theme prominent throughout his Ph.D. and postdoctoral studies. His interests also span nanotechnology in agronomy, where he investigates nano-fertilizer applications (e.g., copper nanoparticles) for enhanced plant growth and resilience. He is equally dedicated to biochar technology, especially modified biochars for improving microbial diversity and combating soilborne diseases. Dr. Hafeez is also deeply engaged in hydroponic agriculture, anaerobic soil disinfestation, and bio-organic fertilizer integration as alternatives to conventional methods, aiming to reduce chemical inputs. His multidisciplinary interests bridge crop physiology, soil science, plant pathology, and environmental sustainability — a holistic approach aligned with global food security and climate resilience goals. His long-term vision is to integrate ecological principles with modern agronomy to develop resource-efficient, climate-smart farming systems.

Research Skills

Dr. Hafeez possesses a rich portfolio of research skills, both experimental and analytical. His strengths include scientific writing, data interpretation, soil and plant analysis, and controlled environment studies. He is adept at using software like Statistix, SigmaPlot, and Mendeley for statistical modeling, visualization, and citation management. His technical expertise extends to field trials, lab-based soil testing, insect-pest management, and hydroponic system design. He has conducted multifactorial experiments under diverse cropping conditions, evaluating plant physiology, yield metrics, and stress tolerance. His ability to plan and lead projects is evident in his successful grant-funded research, including work on seed technology and nano-enabled fertilizers. Moreover, Dr. Hafeez has experience with anaerobic soil disinfestation techniques, biochar synthesis, and trait-based crop evaluations. He is known for effective academic communication, team coordination, and mentoring, supported by years of teaching and collaborative research experience. Whether in the lab, field, or classroom, his investigative mindset and precise execution define his research methodology.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Abdul Hafeez has received several prestigious honors throughout his academic and professional journey. Most recently, he secured the National Foreign Experts Program Funding (2024–25) from the Chinese government — a competitive grant worth 200,000 RMB, recognizing his international research excellence. Earlier, he was a Chinese Government Scholar (2015–2019) during his Ph.D. in Wuhan and a recipient of the Lab Contribution Award for cotton physiology research at Huazhong Agricultural University. In Pakistan, he was awarded the Seed Technology Transfer Project grant valued at over 2 million PKR and multiple scholarships including the Punjab Educational Endowment Fund and Shaheen Foundation Scholarship. His leadership and communication potential were recognized through participation in national programs such as the Faculty Development Program (NFDP) by the Higher Education Commission, and training in entrepreneurship, language proficiency, and skill development. These accolades reflect not only academic merit but also his commitment to lifelong learning, scientific innovation, and community impact.

Conclusion

Dr. Abdul Hafeez stands out as a dedicated, prolific, and impactful researcher in sustainable agriculture and agronomy. His strong scientific record, cross-country experience, research funding success, and contribution to critical agricultural challenges make him an exceptional candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His work embodies academic excellence, societal relevance, and future-oriented innovation, especially in eco-agriculture and resource-efficient farming systems.

Publications Top Noted

  • Soil compaction effects on soil health and crop productivity: an overview
    AN Shah, M Tanveer, B Shahzad, G Yang, S Fahad, S Ali, MA Bukhari, A Hafeez…
    Environmental Science and Pollution Research, 2017 – 431 citations

  • Potential of copper nanoparticles to increase growth and yield of wheat
    A Hafeez, A Razzaq, T Mahmood, HM Jhanzab
    J. Nanosci. Adv. Technol., 2015 – 204 citations

  • Planting density and sowing date strongly influence growth and lint yield of cotton crops
    A Khan, U Najeeb, L Wang, DKY Tan, G Yang, F Munsif, S Ali, A Hafeez…
    Field Crops Research, 2017 – 184 citations

  • A novel nanomaterial to enhance growth and yield of wheat
    A Razzaq, R Ammara, HM Jhanzab, T Mahmood, A Hafeez, S Hussain
    J. Nanosci. Technol., 2016 – 182 citations

  • Silver nanoparticles enhance the growth, yield and nutrient use efficiency of wheat
    HM Jhanzab, A Razzaq, G Jilani, A Rehman, A Hafeez, F Yasmeen
    Int. J. Agron. Agri. Res., 2015 – 112 citations

  • Optimal planting density and sowing date can improve cotton yield…
    A Khan, L Wang, S Ali, SA Tung, A Hafeez, G Yang
    Field Crops Research, 2017 – 111 citations

  • Mepiquat chloride effects on cotton yield and biomass…
    SA Tung, Y Huang, A Hafeez, S Ali, A Khan…
    Field Crops Research, 2018 – 75 citations

  • Modified biochars and their effects on soil quality: A review
    A Hafeez, T Pan, J Tian, K Cai
    Environments, 2022 – 71 citations

  • Mepiquat chloride application does not favor leaf photosynthesis…
    SA Tung, Y Huang, S Ali, A Hafeez, AN Shah…
    Field Crops Research, 2018 – 56 citations

  • Interactive effect of nitrogen fertilizer and plant density…
    AN Shah, Y Wu, M Tanveer, A Hafeez, SA Tung…
    Saudi Journal of Biological Sciences, 2021 – 55 citations

  • Potassium relative ratio to nitrogen favors carbon metabolism in cotton
    S Ali, A Hafeez, X Ma, SA Tung…
    Field Crops Research, 2018 – 51 citations

  • Equal K-N ratio regulated nitrogen metabolism and yield in cotton
    S Ali, A Hafeez, X Ma, SA Tung…
    Industrial Crops and Products, 2019 – 50 citations

  • Nitrogen and plant density effects on growth/yield of cotton cultivars
    AN Shah, Y Wu, J Iqbal, A Hafeez…
    Journal of King Saud Univ.–Science, 2021 – 47 citations

  • Mepiquat chloride effects on potassium acquisition…
    SA Tung, Y Huang, S Ali, A Hafeez…
    Industrial Crops and Products, 2019 – 37 citations

  • Morpho-physiological effects of mepiquat chloride in cotton: A review
    SA Tung, Y Huang, A Hafeez, S Ali…
    J. Soil Sci. Plant Nutr., 2020 – 35 citations

  • Influence of leaf vein density on photosynthesis in rice
    MA Tabassum, G Zhu, A Hafeez…
    Scientific Reports, 2016 – 34 citations

  • Potassium to nitrogen ratio favors photosynthesis in cotton
    A Hafeez, S Ali, X Ma, SA Tung…
    Industrial Crops and Products, 2018 – 33 citations

  • Silicon enhances plant resistance of rice under submergence stress
    T Pan, J Zhang, A Hafeez, K Cai…
    Plants, 2021 – 29 citations

  • Crop growth and yield losses in wheat due to seed canary grass
    S Hussain, A Khaliq, A Hafeez…
    Planta Daninha, 2017 – 29 citations

  • Optimal pre-plant irrigation improves cotton biomass
    Z Chen, H Ma, A Hafeez…
    Scientific Reports, 2017 – 20–30 citations