Jianxiu Hao | Plant Pathology | Women Researcher Award

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Jianxiu Hao | Plant Pathology | Women Researcher Award

Senior Agronomist at College of Horticulture and Plant Protection, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University | China

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Jianxiu Hao is a dedicated scholar in the field of plant pathology, with a focus on the biological control of plant diseases and the application of beneficial microorganisms in agriculture. Her professional journey reflects a strong blend of academic excellence, research leadership, and practical innovation aimed at sustainable plant protection. She has contributed to advancing knowledge through impactful publications, books, and patents while playing an important role in the development of green agricultural practices. Her research addresses critical challenges in managing soil-borne plant diseases, particularly in economically important crops such as potatoes and strawberries. By integrating multidisciplinary approaches, she has developed solutions that combine molecular biology, microbiology, and applied agricultural sciences. Recognized for her contributions through various scientific awards and honors, Dr. Hao continues to lead research initiatives that not only expand academic understanding but also offer tangible benefits to agricultural productivity and food security.

Professional Profile 

Education

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Jianxiu Hao completed her doctoral studies in plant pathology, establishing a strong academic foundation in the study of plant diseases and their management. Her doctoral research focused on the mechanisms of biological control and the role of functional microorganisms in enhancing plant resistance. This advanced training allowed her to explore innovative techniques for combating soil-borne pathogens, providing both theoretical insights and practical methods for disease management. Throughout her education, she developed expertise in molecular techniques, microbial screening, and pathogen interaction analysis. Her academic training was complemented by active involvement in collaborative projects, academic writing, and contributions to textbooks and teaching materials, enhancing her profile as both a researcher and an educator. The educational journey of Dr. Hao has been distinguished by a consistent emphasis on excellence, innovation, and the pursuit of knowledge that directly contributes to solving real-world challenges in sustainable agriculture and plant health management.

Professional Experience

Over the course of her professional career, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Jianxiu Hao has established herself as a respected academic and researcher in plant pathology. As an associate professor and senior agronomist, she has successfully combined teaching, research, and project leadership roles. She has published widely in international journals and contributed as deputy editor-in-chief to academic monographs, reflecting her strong commitment to scholarly communication. In addition to her teaching responsibilities, she has led multiple scientific research projects and participated in several others, contributing significantly to advancements in her field. Her professional experience also includes the application of research outcomes to industry, with patents that demonstrate innovation in agricultural biotechnology. She has been recognized with prestigious awards for her contributions to science and technology, highlighting her role as both a thought leader and practitioner. Her professional career reflects a balance of academic scholarship, applied research, and service to the scientific and farming communities.

Research Interests

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Jianxiu Hao primary research interests center on the biological control of plant diseases and the discovery and application of beneficial microorganisms and their metabolites. She is particularly interested in developing innovative strategies to manage soil-borne diseases that pose major threats to crops such as potatoes and strawberries. Her research integrates molecular biology, microbial ecology, and agricultural biotechnology to identify effective microbial strains and their active compounds. She also explores the structural and functional mechanisms of microbial metabolites, aiming to understand their role in inducing plant resistance and suppressing pathogens. Another area of her research involves the concept of “plant vaccines,” where beneficial microorganisms are utilized to stimulate plant immune responses. Her work is highly interdisciplinary, involving plant science, microbiology, and biochemistry, and it seeks to provide sustainable alternatives to chemical pesticides. This research not only contributes to scientific knowledge but also addresses global agricultural challenges related to food security and sustainability.

Research Skills

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Jianxiu Hao possesses extensive research skills that span both fundamental and applied plant sciences. She is adept at designing and conducting experiments on pathogen–host interactions, microbial screening, and metabolite analysis. Her expertise includes molecular biology techniques for identifying target genes, bioassays for evaluating plant resistance, and advanced analytical methods for studying the structural properties of microbial metabolites. She has strong skills in project management, demonstrated by her ability to lead large-scale research projects and coordinate multidisciplinary teams. Her capacity to translate scientific findings into practical applications is evident from her patents and technology transfers in biological control. Additionally, she has contributed to scientific writing, textbook preparation, and the supervision of research students, enhancing her role as an academic mentor. Dr. Hao’s research skills are complemented by her ability to apply innovative approaches to sustainable agriculture, making her a versatile scientist capable of bridging the gap between laboratory research and field application.

Awards and Honors

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Jianxiu Hao has received multiple awards and honors in recognition of her outstanding contributions to plant pathology and agricultural science. Her achievements have been acknowledged through scientific and technological awards at institutional and regional levels, including recognition for her innovative work in guiding student research and entrepreneurship. She has been honored for her contributions to advancing green and sustainable agricultural practices, particularly in developing biological control methods that reduce reliance on chemical pesticides. These honors not only highlight her scientific excellence but also her impact on agricultural innovation and rural development. She is an active member of professional societies, which further acknowledges her influence and leadership within the scientific community. Her role as president of a science and technology service association underscores her commitment to applying research outcomes for the benefit of farmers and herdsmen. Collectively, these recognitions affirm her position as a leading researcher and educator in plant science.

Publications Top Noted

Title: Genome Sequencing and Comparative Genomic Analysis of Attenuated Strain Gibellulopsis nigrescens GnVn.1 Causing Mild Wilt in Sunflower
Year: 2024

Title: Protein elicitor PeVn1 induces resistance to Botrytis cinerea in strawberry and differential transcriptomic analysis
Year: 2025

Title: Mechanism of N-Acetyl-D-alloisoleucine in Controlling Strawberry Black Root Rot
Year: 2024

Title: A protein elicitor PeVn1 from Verticillium nonalfalfae HW recognized as a MAMP triggers plant immunity response
Year: 2024

Title: Potential Candidate Molecule of Photosystem II Inhibitor Herbicide—Brassicanate A Sulfoxide
Year: 2024

Conclusion

Overall, the nominee presents a strong case for the Women Researcher Award through her impactful contributions in plant disease management, innovative research on beneficial microorganisms, and active role in academic and professional societies. With her proven record of scientific achievements and leadership, she stands as a deserving candidate for recognition. By expanding her international collaborations and increasing visibility in global research forums, her future contributions have the potential to make an even greater impact on sustainable agriculture and plant sciences.

Debasis Mitra | Soil-Plant Relations | Excellence in Research Award

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Dr. Debasis Mitra | Soil-Plant Relations | Excellence in Research Award

Assistant Professor at Graphic Era Deemed to be University, India

Dr. Debasis Mitra is an accomplished microbiologist and plant science researcher whose work spans cutting-edge areas such as plant-microbe interactions, soil microbiology, biocontrol, and nutrient cycling. With a Ph.D. awarded in 2024 from Raiganj University in collaboration with ICAR-National Rice Research Institute, Dr. Mitra has shown strong commitment to advancing agricultural microbiology. He currently serves as an Assistant Professor at Graphic Era (Deemed to be University), Dehradun, where he mentors Ph.D. scholars and leads research in sustainable crop productivity. His prolific publication record—over 120 research articles, 6 books, and numerous chapters—highlights his thought leadership in microbiology. Beyond publishing, he actively contributes to scientific communities as an editor, reviewer, and special issue guest editor in over a dozen international journals. Dr. Mitra’s work reflects both academic excellence and practical relevance, particularly in areas like mycorrhizal fungi, phosphorus uptake, and strigolactone signaling in crops. His ongoing research and international exposure make him a vital contributor to global discussions on food security and soil health. 🌱🧫🌍

Professional Profile 

🎓 Education

Dr. Mitra’s academic foundation is deeply rooted in life sciences and biotechnology. He earned his Ph.D. in Microbiology (2019–2024) jointly from Raiganj University, West Bengal, and ICAR – National Rice Research Institute, Odisha, with research focused on arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi and their influence on phosphorus uptake in aerobic rice—a topic highly relevant to sustainable agriculture. His Ph.D. work was complemented by coursework (SGPA: 8.00) and awarded in January 2024. Prior to his doctoral studies, he completed an M.Sc. in Biotechnology (2017) from Graphic Era University, Uttarakhand, with a CGPA of 8.28, undertaking his thesis at ICAR-IIHR, Bengaluru. His undergraduate studies culminated with a B.Sc. in Biotechnology (2014) from Vidyasagar University, West Bengal. His academic journey is marked by early interest in microbial interactions and nutrient mobilization, demonstrated in his B.Sc. and M.Sc. theses. He has also enriched his knowledge through international online certifications in fields such as climate change, microbiology, and agriculture from institutions like Macquarie University (Australia), Massey University (New Zealand), and Jordan University of Science and Technology. 📘🧪🎓

💼 Professional Experience

Dr. Mitra brings a solid blend of academic teaching and field-based research experience. He is currently serving as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Microbiology at Graphic Era (Deemed to be University) since February 2024, where he supervises Ph.D. students and teaches microbiology-related subjects. Prior to this role, he worked at ICAR-National Rice Research Institute (NRRI), Odisha, in multiple capacities. From 2018 to early 2024, he served as a Researcher and later as a Project Assistant on high-impact government-funded projects focused on nanofiber biofertilizers and plant nutrition. His roles included experimental design, molecular analyses, microbial isolation, and application of biofertilizers in rice systems. He also completed valuable internships, including a virtual international internship at Universidad de Santander, Colombia, in 2021. Additionally, he gained early research exposure during his M.Sc. and B.Sc. studies, working in reputed labs like ICAR-IIHR, Bengaluru and Oriental Institute of Science and Technology, West Bengal. His experience bridges academic rigor and real-world problem-solving in plant health and microbiome studies. 🧑‍🏫🧬🔬

🧠 Research Interests

Dr. Mitra’s research interests are centered on plant-microbe interactions, with a focus on enhancing crop productivity through ecological and molecular approaches. His Ph.D. explored the association of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) with rice plants and their role in strigolactone-mediated phosphorus uptake, a key factor for plant nutrition. He is deeply engaged in soil microbiology, biocontrol mechanisms, and molecular signaling between plants and microbes. Other focus areas include crop stress physiology, bioremediation, nanofertilizer technologies, and sustainable agricultural practices. His interest in strigolactones, a plant hormone involved in root symbiosis, positions him at the frontier of molecular plant-microbe signaling research. Furthermore, his inclination towards integrated soil fertility management, biofertilizer development, and microbial biostimulants aligns with global goals in climate-smart agriculture and organic farming. With a strong vision for eco-friendly crop solutions, Dr. Mitra’s research aims to reduce chemical input in farming systems while improving soil health and yield. 🌾🔬🌿

🛠️ Research Skills

Dr. Mitra possesses a comprehensive skill set in microbial techniques, molecular biology, bioinformatics, and field trial management. He is proficient in isolation and characterization of microbial strains, molecular identification (PCR, sequencing), and metagenomics. His lab expertise extends to mycorrhizal staining and quantification, plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) screening, and soil enzymatic assays. He is well-versed in designing and conducting greenhouse and field experiments, particularly in rice and horticultural crops. His familiarity with bioreactor technologies, biopolymer encapsulation for biofertilizers, and data analysis tools (R, SPSS) showcases a multidisciplinary edge. Dr. Mitra is also experienced in research writing, peer review, and academic editing, as evidenced by his editorial roles and large number of reviewed manuscripts. Additionally, his international training exposure, including virtual internship experience in Colombia, has enriched his understanding of global standards in environmental and agricultural microbiology. 🔍🧪🧫

🏅 Awards and Honors

Dr. Mitra has received numerous accolades for his scholarly contributions and professional service. Notably, he was awarded the Best Presentation Award at the International Conference on Microbes and Social Equity (2023) and honored as Best Reviewer (2022) by multiple journals including Current Agriculture Research Journal. He is a Fellow of the Scholars Academic and Scientific Society (FSASS) and holds the title of Dignitary Fellow from the International Organization for Academic and Scientific Development (FMIOASD). His name appears in the AD Scientific Index 2023 & 2022 with impressive institutional and national rankings. In addition, he received the Best Editor of the Year (2021) from the Indian Journal of Microbiology Research. Dr. Mitra is also an editorial board member for over a dozen reputed international journals, including BMC Plant Biology, Discover Sustainability, and Frontiers in Sustainable Food Systems. These recognitions reflect his leadership, peer recognition, and contribution to scientific excellence in microbiology and agriculture. 🏆📚🌍

🏁 Conclusion

This candidate is highly suitable for the Excellence in Research Award based on:

  • Exceptional scholarly output,

  • Substantial editorial and reviewer roles,

  • Recognized leadership in microbiology and plant sciences,

  • National and global contributions to research dissemination.

The candidate stands out as a research-centric academic with strong potential for further international recognition. Minor enhancements in grant visibility and global outreach could position them as a leader in their field globally.

Publications Top Noted

  • Microbial pollution of water with special reference to coliform bacteria and their nexus with environment
    Year: 2021 | Citations: 220

  • Actinobacteria-enhanced plant growth, nutrient acquisition, and crop protection: Advances in soil, plant, and microbial multifactorial interactions
    Year: 2022 | Citations: 185

  • Current scenario and future prospects of plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria: An economic valuable resource for the agriculture revival under stressful conditions
    Year: 2020 | Citations: 166

  • Role of mycorrhiza and its associated bacteria on plant growth promotion and nutrient management in sustainable agriculture
    Year: 2019 | Citations: 120

  • Arbuscular mycorrhizal symbiosis: Plant growth improvement and induction of resistance under stressful conditions
    Year: 2021 | Citations: 109

  • Rhizobacteria mediated seed bio-priming triggers the resistance and plant growth for sustainable crop production
    Year: 2021 | Citations: 101

  • Phosphate-Solubilizing Microbes and Biocontrol Agent for Plant Nutrition and Protection: Current Perspective
    Year: 2020 | Citations: 85

  • Impacts of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi on rice growth, development, and stress management with emphasis on strigolactone effects
    Year: 2021 | Citations: 72

  • Solid-State Fermentation: Applications and Future Perspectives for Biostimulant and Biopesticides Production
    Year: 2023 | Citations: 65

  • Involvement of strigolactone hormone in root development and interaction with mycorrhizal fungi: Mini-review
    Year: 2021 | Citations: 65

  • Potential inhibitors of SARS-CoV-2 proteases PLpro and Mpro/3CLpro: Docking and simulation of medicinal plant components
    Year: 2021 | Citations: 60

  • Decrypting multifunctional biological activators and inducers of defense responses against biotic stresses in plants
    Year: 2023 | Citations: 58

  • Amelioration of thermal stress in crops by plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria
    Year: 2021 | Citations: 54

  • Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal association boosted the arsenic resistance in crops with special responsiveness to rice
    Year: 2022 | Citations: 49

  • Molecular docking and simulation studies of Vitex negundo compounds against SARS-CoV-2 PLpro
    Year: 2022 | Citations: 46

  • Understanding interaction effect of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi in rice under elevated carbon dioxide conditions
    Year: 2019 | Citations: 46

  • Rice straw recycling: A sustainable approach for ensuring environmental quality and economic security
    Year: 2023 | Citations: 45

  • Multifactorial role of nanoparticles in alleviating environmental stresses for sustainable crop production
    Year: 2023 | Citations: 43

  • Articulating beneficial rhizobacteria mediated plant defenses through induced systemic resistance
    Year: 2023 | Citations: 42

  • Advances in microbial based bio-inoculum for amelioration of soil health and sustainable crop production
    Year: 2024 | Citations: 41

Xing-Yu Ji | Plant Pathology | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Xing-Yu Ji | Plant Pathology | Best Researcher Award

Post doc at yunnan agricultural university, China

Dr. Xing-Yu Ji is a postdoctoral researcher at Yunnan Agricultural University, specializing in conservation biology and agroforestry systems. With a diverse academic background from China and Ireland, She has developed a strong foundation in agricultural and environmental sciences. Her research focuses on interspecific allelopathy, plant-microbe interactions, and induced resistance in agroforestry. Notably, her recent study on the allelochemical endo-borneol, published as a cover article in Plant Communications, highlights its dual role in enhancing plant immunity and suppressing pathogens, offering a sustainable alternative to chemical pesticides. Dr. Ji has secured competitive funding from national and provincial agencies and filed a patent related to her work on endo-borneol. She received the second prize from the Chemical Ecology Professional Committee of the Chinese Ecological Society in 2024. Her work reflects innovation, practical relevance, and commitment to sustainable agriculture, positioning him as a rising researcher with significant contributions to eco-friendly plant disease management.

Professional Profile 

Education 🎓 

Dr. Xing-Yu Ji has a well-rounded and internationally diverse educational background in biological and agricultural sciences. She began her academic journey with a Bachelor of Science in Biological Science from South China Agricultural University (2013–2015), followed by a second bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Environmental Science from University College Dublin (2015–2017). She continued at the same institution to complete a Master’s degree in Agri-Environmental Resource Management in 2018, gaining interdisciplinary expertise in sustainable land and crop management. Dr. Ji then pursued her doctoral studies at Yunnan University (2019–2024), earning a Ph.D. in Conservation Biology with a focus on allelopathy and plant-pathogen interactions in agroforestry systems. Her education has equipped him with a deep understanding of plant ecology, environmental sustainability, and advanced research methodologies. Currently, She is enrolled in a postdoctoral research program at Yunnan Agricultural University, where She is further applying her academic training to cutting-edge research in plant defense and agroecology.

Professional Experience 💼

Dr. Xing-Yu Ji has built a focused and impactful professional career in plant biology and sustainable agriculture. Following the completion of her Ph.D. in Conservation Biology from Yunnan University in 2024, She began her postdoctoral research at Yunnan Agricultural University in 2025, where she continues to explore plant defense mechanisms and allelopathic interactions within agroforestry systems. Her professional experience centers on investigating natural, eco-friendly strategies for plant disease management, with particular emphasis on interspecies biochemical signaling and rhizospheric microbiota. Dr. Ji has contributed to several nationally funded research projects, including the National Key Research and Development Program of China and provincial-level scientific initiatives. Her research achievements include publishing a high-impact study in Plant Communications, securing a patent on the application of endo-borneol, and receiving a national research award. Through her postdoctoral role, she collaborates with leading laboratories and contributes to advancing sustainable practices in agriculture and biodiversity conservation.

Research Interest 🔬

Dr. Xing-Yu Ji’s research interests lie at the intersection of plant ecology, chemical ecology, and sustainable agriculture, with a primary focus on interspecific allelopathy and plant-microbe interactions in agroforestry systems. She is particularly interested in understanding how natural chemical signals between plants can enhance disease resistance and ecosystem stability. Her work explores how specific allelochemicals, such as endo-borneol, not only trigger direct defense responses in plants but also indirectly shape rhizospheric microbial communities to promote plant health. Dr. Ji is committed to developing environmentally friendly alternatives to synthetic agrochemicals by leveraging these natural processes. Her research also investigates the mechanisms by which root secretions influence beneficial microbial recruitment and induce systemic resistance, offering new strategies for integrated pest and disease management. Through Her innovative studies, Dr. Ji aims to contribute to sustainable agricultural practices, biodiversity conservation, and the development of resilient agroecosystems capable of withstanding environmental stressors.

Research Skill🔎

Dr. Xing-Yu Ji possesses a strong set of interdisciplinary research skills that enable him to conduct advanced studies in plant ecology, allelopathy, and sustainable agriculture. She is proficient in experimental design, molecular biology techniques, and plant pathology assays, with specialized expertise in gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS) for identifying and quantifying bioactive compounds such as allelochemicals. Dr. Ji is skilled in analyzing plant-microbe interactions, particularly how root secretions influence microbial community structures in the rhizosphere. She has experience conducting controlled environment and field-based experiments, allowing him to bridge laboratory findings with real-world agricultural applications. Her ability to synthesize biochemical, ecological, and microbiological data supports a systems-level understanding of plant defense mechanisms. Additionally, Dr. Ji demonstrates competency in scientific writing, having published in high-impact journals, and is adept at preparing patent applications. Her collaborative approach and involvement in multidisciplinary research projects highlight her capacity to work effectively within diverse scientific teams.

Award and Honor🏆

Dr. Xing-Yu Ji has received notable recognition for her contributions to ecological and agricultural research. In November 2024, She was awarded the Second Prize by the Chemical Ecology Professional Committee of the Chinese Ecological Society, acknowledging her innovative work on allelopathic interactions and sustainable plant disease management. Her research achievements have also been honored through publication in the prestigious journal Plant Communications, where her article was selected as the cover story for the January 2025 issue—an indication of both scientific excellence and broad relevance. In addition to these honors, Dr. Ji has secured funding from competitive national and provincial programs, including the National Key Research and Development Program of China and the Major Science and Technology Project of Kunming, reflecting the significance and impact of her research in conservation biology and agroforestry systems. These awards and recognitions underscore her rising profile as an innovative and impactful researcher in sustainable agriculture.

Conclusion📝

Dr. Xing-Yu Ji exhibits a compelling combination of groundbreaking research, peer recognition, and translational potential—key hallmarks of an outstanding researcher. Her work on allelochemical-mediated disease suppression not only advances fundamental plant-microbe ecology but also addresses critical needs in sustainable agriculture.

While further engagement in international forums, editorial leadership, and mentorship would enhance her already distinguished profile, these are natural next steps in a rapidly ascending career. On balance, Dr. Ji is highly suitable for the Best Researcher Award, and her nomination is strongly recommended.

Publications Top Noted📚

  • Author(s): Xing-Yu Ji, Chen Ye, Wenting Kang, Wenjie Luan, Yixiang Liu, Xiahong She, Min Yang, Lifu Sun, Wensong Sun, Huichuan Huang, et al.

  • Year: 2025

  • Title: Interspecific allelopathic interaction primes direct and indirect resistance in neighboring plants within agroforestry systems

  • Journal: Plant Communications

  • Volume/Issue: January 2025

  • DOI: 10.1016/j.xplc.2024.101173

  • ISSN: 2590-3462