Mukesh Kumar | Ecology | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Mukesh Kumar | Ecology | Best Researcher Award

Assistant Professor at Govt. College Bahadurgarh | India

Dr. Mukesh Kumar is a dedicated researcher and academician in the field of Botany with expertise spanning ecology, environment conservation, crop modeling, irrigation management, and drought monitoring. Over his career, he has made substantial contributions to addressing pressing agricultural and ecological challenges, particularly within the Indo-Gangetic Plains. His research blends theoretical knowledge with applied innovations, focusing on food security, sustainable agriculture, and climate change adaptation. Dr. Kumar has been actively involved in teaching, research, and extension activities, ensuring that his scientific insights reach both students and farming communities. His professional journey is marked by the publication of numerous high-quality research papers, books, book chapters, and conference proceedings. He has also developed practical technologies to address agricultural stress conditions, benefiting farmers and policymakers alike. Through his work, Dr. Kumar has demonstrated a commitment to linking ecological sustainability with socio-economic benefits, positioning himself as an influential figure in applied plant sciences.

Professional Profile 

Education

Dr. Mukesh Kumar pursued his higher education in Botany, beginning with a bachelor’s degree in medical sciences, followed by a master’s degree in botany, and later advancing to research-oriented degrees. He obtained his M.Phil. with a focus on plant science, which laid the foundation for deeper explorations into ecological and environmental issues. His academic journey culminated in a doctoral degree in Botany, where he specialized in ecology and environmental conservation, with additional expertise in crop modeling and irrigation management. Throughout his academic path, he acquired a comprehensive understanding of plant sciences, environmental systems, and climate change impacts on agriculture. His educational background not only provided him with a strong theoretical framework but also fostered practical competencies in applied research. This foundation has enabled him to contribute meaningfully to both academia and society, developing innovative solutions to agricultural problems and enhancing the resilience of farming systems against climate variability.

Professional Experience

Dr. Mukesh Kumar has built a diverse professional career combining teaching, research, and extension education. He has over a decade of experience as a lecturer in botany, where he has guided undergraduate students with dedication and academic rigor. His role as a Research Associate at a premier agricultural research institute provided him with six years of intensive research exposure in the fields of climate change, water management, and agroforestry. This phase of his career allowed him to integrate field-based observations with advanced modeling techniques, producing work of high academic and practical value. Additionally, he has contributed to farmer training programs, workshops, and extension services, bridging the gap between scientific research and rural communities. His professional journey is also marked by leadership roles in research training and collaborative projects. Through these experiences, Dr. Kumar has built an impressive portfolio of academic service, research innovations, and practical knowledge dissemination.

Research Interests

Dr. Mukesh Kumar’s research interests lie in the areas of ecology, environmental conservation, and sustainable agriculture. He is particularly focused on crop modeling, irrigation management, and drought monitoring, with an emphasis on mitigating the impacts of climate change on agriculture. His work explores the development of agroforestry systems for saline soils, bio-drainage methods for combating waterlogging, and composite drought indices for drought-prone regions. He is also deeply engaged in analyzing water resource availability, streamflow trends, and the socio-economic implications of climate variability on farming communities. A central theme in his research is the integration of scientific innovation with real-world applications, ensuring that his findings are relevant and accessible to farmers and policymakers. His interests extend to developing resource conservation technologies and enhancing food security through sustainable agricultural practices. By addressing ecological challenges with practical solutions, Dr. Kumar’s research contributes to both environmental resilience and socio-economic development.

Research Skills

Dr. Mukesh Kumar possesses a wide range of research skills encompassing field experimentation, data analysis, and advanced modeling techniques. He is proficient in using crop simulation and water management models such as CROPWAT, INFOCROP, and SWAT, along with statistical software like SPSS, XL-STAT, and M-STAT. His technical expertise also includes the use of instruments such as atomic absorption spectrophotometers, CHNS analyzers, neutron probes, and sap flow meters, allowing him to conduct in-depth plant and soil analysis. Additionally, he has extensive experience in remote sensing and GIS applications for ecological and agricultural studies. His capacity to design and evaluate innovative technologies, such as automated drip irrigation systems and agroforestry models, highlights his applied research capabilities. These skills enable him to address challenges in water use efficiency, climate change impact assessment, and sustainable farming systems. Dr. Kumar’s technical proficiency ensures a strong blend of academic research and practical problem-solving.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Mukesh Kumar has received multiple recognitions for his academic and research contributions. He has been honored with certificates of excellence in reviewing from numerous reputed international journals, reflecting his scholarly reputation and contributions to the peer-review process. His achievements also include the qualification of national-level competitive examinations in plant genetic resources, further demonstrating his subject expertise. In addition to these accolades, he has served as an editorial board member and active reviewer for various journals in the fields of ecology, agriculture, and environmental sciences, which highlights his standing within the academic community. His invited lectures, training sessions for farmers, and special assignments on water and climate change for international organizations illustrate his influence beyond conventional academia. These honors underscore his dedication not only to advancing scientific knowledge but also to ensuring its application for societal benefit. Collectively, these achievements strengthen his profile as a recognized researcher and educator.

Publications Top Noted

  • Title: Crop water demand estimation and irrigation scheduling for sustainable water management and crop planning in selected watersheds of Meghalaya, India

  • Year: 2025

  • Citation: 1

Conclusion

Dr. Mukesh Kumar is a highly deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His contributions to ecology, climate change adaptation, irrigation management, and sustainable agriculture highlight both scientific excellence and socio-economic impact. His research achievements, coupled with technology development and knowledge transfer to farmers, make his work both academically valuable and socially relevant. With greater emphasis on international collaborations, high-impact publications, and innovation, his profile will continue to strengthen, making him not only suitable but also highly competitive for this award.

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

Sang Yeol Lee | Plant Physiology | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Dr. Sang Yeol Lee | Plant Physiology | Best Researcher Award

Professor at Gyeongsang National University, South Korea

Prof. Dr. Sang Yeol Lee is a renowned scientist in molecular biology, plant sciences, and biochemistry, with over 290 SCI-indexed international publications. He has made groundbreaking contributions to plant stress responses, enzymology, and cellular mechanisms. He earned his B.S. and M.S. from Seoul National University and a Ph.D. in Biochemistry from KAIST, followed by a postdoctoral fellowship at the NIH, USA. Since 1985, he has been a professor at Gyeongsang National University, currently serving as a Distinguished Professor. His career includes research positions at Kyoto University and NIH, along with leadership roles such as President of the Korean Society for Molecular and Cellular Biology (KSMCB) and Director of the National Core Research Center (NCRC). Recognized with multiple prestigious awards, including Best Scientist honors from KAIST, KSMCB, and NAS, Prof. Lee continues to shape global scientific advancements through his research and academic leadership.

Professional Profile 

Education 🎓

Prof. Dr. Sang Yeol Lee has an extensive academic background in biochemical and life sciences. He earned his B.S. in Food Science & Engineering from Seoul National University in 1980, where he developed a strong foundation in scientific research. He then pursued an M.S. in Enzymology from the same institution, completing it in 1982, focusing on biochemical processes and enzymatic functions. To further advance his expertise, he obtained a Ph.D. in Biochemistry from KAIST in 1985, specializing in molecular and cellular biology. Seeking international exposure, he completed a postdoctoral fellowship at the National Institutes of Health (NIH), USA, from 1987 to 1989, where he worked on advanced biochemical research. His educational journey across prestigious institutions equipped him with the knowledge and skills that have contributed to his outstanding research career, leading to significant advancements in molecular biology, enzymology, and plant sciences.

Professional Experience 💼

Prof. Dr. Sang Yeol Lee has had a distinguished career spanning several decades in academia and research. Since 1985, he has been a professor at Gyeongsang National University (GNU), where he currently serves as a Distinguished Professor. His international research experience includes positions as a Research Professor at Kyoto University, Japan (1990-1991), and at the National Institutes of Health (NIH), USA (1991-1992). He has held significant leadership roles, including serving as the Director of the National Core Research Center (NCRC) and as President of the Korean Society for Molecular and Cellular Biology (KSMCB) in 2015. Additionally, he has been an advisor and appraiser for major research organizations such as KOSEF and the Next Generation BioGreen 21 Project. His extensive contributions in research, academic leadership, and policy development have played a crucial role in advancing molecular biology, plant sciences, and biochemical research in Korea and internationally.

Research Interest 🔬

Prof. Dr. Sang Yeol Lee’s research interests lie in molecular biology, plant sciences, enzymology, and biochemical stress responses. His work focuses on understanding plant stress tolerance mechanisms, particularly in relation to oxidative stress, redox signaling, and protein function in plants. He has made significant contributions to identifying key molecular pathways that regulate plant immunity, stress adaptation, and circadian rhythms. His studies on thioredoxin proteins, peroxiredoxins, and protein chaperones have provided critical insights into how plants respond to environmental challenges such as heat, salt, and oxidative stress. Additionally, his research extends to signal transduction, kinase regulation, and epigenetic modifications in plant development and defense. With over 290 SCI-indexed publications, his work has significantly influenced plant molecular biology and agricultural biotechnology, contributing to the development of stress-resistant crops. His research continues to shape advancements in plant stress physiology and biochemical adaptation strategies in response to climate change.

Award and Honor🏆

Prof. Dr. Sang Yeol Lee has received numerous prestigious awards and honors in recognition of his outstanding contributions to molecular biology, plant sciences, and biochemistry. His achievements include the Distinguished Research Award from Gyeongsang National University (2004) and multiple Best Scientist Awards from organizations such as the Korean Society for Molecular and Cellular Biology (KSMCB), the National Academy of Sciences (NAS), and the Ministry of Education, Science, and Technology (MOEST). He was also recognized as one of Korea’s Best Scientists by the Association of Korean Journalists (2004) and received The Best 100-Scientific Achievements of Korea Award (2022). His scientific leadership earned him the Distinguished Alumni Award from KAIST (2013). With a career marked by national and international accolades, Prof. Lee’s research has significantly influenced plant molecular biology, enzymology, and biotechnology, reinforcing his status as one of Korea’s most distinguished scientists in life sciences.

Research Skill🔎

Prof. Dr. Sang Yeol Lee possesses exceptional research skills in molecular biology, biochemistry, plant sciences, and enzymology. His expertise includes protein biochemistry, redox signaling, gene expression analysis, and stress physiology in plants. He has extensive experience in molecular cloning, protein purification, structural biology, and functional genomics, which he has applied to understanding plant stress responses and cellular adaptation mechanisms. His work on thioredoxin proteins, peroxiredoxins, and kinase signaling pathways has provided groundbreaking insights into oxidative stress regulation, plant immunity, and environmental stress tolerance. Additionally, he is skilled in epigenetic analysis, transcriptomics, and advanced biochemical assays, which have contributed to his over 290 SCI-indexed publications. His ability to integrate cutting-edge biochemical techniques with plant molecular biology has enabled him to make significant contributions to agricultural biotechnology, particularly in developing stress-resistant crops and understanding plant adaptation to climate change. His diverse research skill set continues to advance scientific knowledge in plant sciences.

Conclusion📝

Prof. Sang Yeol Lee is a highly accomplished researcher with exceptional contributions to molecular biology and plant sciences. His impressive publication record, leadership in scientific societies, and multiple prestigious awards strongly support his candidacy for the Best Researcher Award. While he already holds a distinguished position, enhancing international collaborations and industrial applications could further solidify his legacy. Based on his credentials, he is an excellent choice for the award.

Publications Top Noted📚

  • NTRC mediates the coupling of chloroplast redox rhythm with nuclear circadian clock in plant cells – Sang-yeol Lee et al., Molecular Plant, 2025

  • FAD and NADPH binding sites of YUCCA6 are essential for chaperone activity and oxidative stress tolerance in Arabidopsis thaliana – Sang-yeol Lee et al., Plant Physiology and Biochemistry, 2025

  • S-nitrosylation switches the Arabidopsis redox sensor protein, QSOX1, from an oxidoreductase to a molecular chaperone under heat stress – Sang-yeol Lee et al., Plant Physiology and Biochemistry, 2024 (3 citations)

  • Functional changes of OsTrxm from reductase to molecular chaperone under heat shock stress – Sang-yeol Lee et al., Plant Physiology and Biochemistry, 2023