Guoping Zhang | Agronomy | Editorial Board Member

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Prof. Guoping Zhang | Agronomy | Editorial Board Member

Professor at Zhejiang University | China

Prof. Guoping Zhang is a distinguished Professor in the Department of Agronomy at Zhejiang University, China, recognized internationally for his extensive contributions to crop stress physiology, barley germplasm improvement, and molecular mechanisms underlying plant responses to abiotic and heavy metal stresses. After obtaining his bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees from Zhejiang Agricultural University and Zhejiang University, he advanced through academic positions from Assistant Lecturer to full Professor, establishing a strong research legacy in plant molecular physiology and genetic improvement. His primary research areas encompass the identification and development of barley germplasm tolerant to salinity, drought, and acid soils, alongside investigations into nutrient-use efficiency and the molecular and physiological determinants of heavy metal accumulation and phytoremediation in crops. Over his career, he has completed more than thirty competitive research projects, including multiple national natural science foundation grants, and has authored over three hundred sixty publications in leading peer-reviewed journals such as Nature, Plant Physiology, Environmental and Experimental Botany, Advanced Science, and the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, accumulating over fifteen thousand citations and a highly influential h-index above sixty. He has contributed seminal findings on sodium transporters, microRNA regulation under salt stress, transcriptomic and alternative splicing responses during salinity adaptation, trypsin-family gene control of tillering and leaf morphology, negative regulatory roles of HKT and calmodulin-related genes in salt tolerance, and multi-omics insights into wild barley adaptation mechanisms. Beyond research, he has served in major international academic roles, including chairing the International Barley Genetics Symposium organizing committee and holding editorial responsibilities for key journals in agronomy, plant physiology, and integrated agricultural sciences, solidifying his standing as a global leader in stress biology and barley genetics.

Profile : Scopus 

Featured Publications : 

An integrated analysis of transcriptome and metabolome reveals aerenchyma-mediated antioxidant defense and energy metabolism conferring high waterlogging tolerance in sea barley. (Open access). Plant Stress.

Interactions of arsenic and phosphorus in their uptake and transportation in plants: Advances and prospective research on the mechanisms and approaches for alleviating arsenic stress. (Review, Open access).

Plant secondary metabolites—Central regulators against abiotic and biotic stresses. (Review, Open access).

Utilization of antagonistic interactions between micronutrients and cadmium (Cd) to alleviate Cd toxicity and accumulation in crops. (Review, Open access).

A comprehensive analytical method ‘Regulatome’ revealed a novel pathway for aerenchyma formation under waterlogging in wheat. Physiologia Plantarum.

A barley pan-transcriptome reveals layers of genotype-dependent transcriptional complexity. Nature Genetics.

 

Dr. Mostafa Sagharyan | Plant Physiology | Editorial Board Member

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Dr. Mostafa Sagharyan | Plant Physiology | Editorial Board Member

Postodoc at Tarbiat Modares University | Iran

Dr. Mostafa Sagharyan is an accomplished plant physiologist whose academic journey spans advanced training from leading Iranian universities, culminating in a doctorate focused on microRNA-mediated regulation of phenylpropanoid biosynthesis in Linum album cell cultures under elicitor treatments such as methyl jasmonate and phenylalanine. His academic foundation began with undergraduate studies in plant biology, followed by a master’s specialization in plant physiology, where he optimized callus induction and plant regeneration protocols in Nepeta binaloudensis, achieving distinguished academic performance at both graduate levels and earning top ranking in doctoral program entrance examinations. His research portfolio reflects deep expertise in plant biochemistry, molecular signaling pathways, metabolic engineering, and plant stress resilience, with notable contributions to understanding how regulatory molecules, elicitors, and environmental factors modulate phenolic compound production, lignan biosynthesis, carbohydrate and amino acid metabolism, nitric-oxide-mediated signaling, and defensive responses in various plant systems. As the primary designer, performer, data analyst, and lead author of multiple impactful publications in international journals, his work has explored hydrogen sulfide interaction mechanisms in plants, microRNA expression dynamics influencing secondary metabolite pathways, metabolic shifts triggered by exogenous amino acids, the biochemical consequences of melatonin application, and pollution-responsive phenolic enhancement in medicinal species. His experience includes operating advanced analytical platforms such as HPLC and preparative-HPLC, conducting enzyme assays, spectrophotometric and fluorometric analyses, and applying molecular techniques ranging from nucleic acid extraction and PCR-based quantification to gene cloning, Western blotting, and flow cytometry. Mostafa is also proficient in bioinformatic and statistical analysis using R, SPSS, Prism, FlowJo, MetaboAnalyst, and primer design tools, complementing his strong background in plant tissue culture, hairy root transformation, and metabolite assessment. Alongside his research activities, he has contributed to teaching biostatistics, SPSS analysis, and plant physiology for Olympiad students, demonstrating a commitment to scientific training and academic mentorship. His scholarly achievements, research excellence, and technical versatility position him as a dynamic and innovative researcher in modern plant science.

Profile : Scopus | ORCID

Featured Publications : 

Sagharyan, M., & Sharifi, M. (2024). Metabolic and physiological changes induced by exogenous phenylalanine in Linum album cells. Journal of Plant Growth Regulation.

Esmaeili, S., Sharifi, M., Ghanati, F., Soltani, B. M., Samari, E., & Sagharyan, M. (2023). Exogenous melatonin induces phenolic compounds production in Linum album cells by altering nitric oxide and salicylic acid. Scientific Reports.

Sagharyan, M., Sharifi, M., & Samari, E. (2023). Methyl jasmonate redirects the dynamics of carbohydrates and amino acids toward lignans accumulation in Linum album cells. Plant Physiology and Biochemistry.

Khodamoradi, S., Sagharyan, M., Samari, E., & Sharifi, M. (2022). Changes in phenolic compounds production as a defensive mechanism against hydrogen sulfide pollution in Scrophularia striata. Plant Physiology and Biochemistry.

Tashackori, H., Sharifi, M., Ahmadian Chashmi, N., Behmanesh, M., Safaie, N., & Sagharyan, M. (2021). Physiological, biochemical, and molecular responses of Linum album to digested cell wall of Piriformospora indica. Physiology and Molecular Biology of Plants.

Mridul Umesh | Plant Stress Physiology | Biotechnology in Botany Award

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Assist. Prof. Dr. Mridul Umesh | Plant Stress Physiology | Biotechnology in Botany Award

Assistant Professor, Department of Life Sciences at Christ University, Bangalore, Karnataka, India

Dr. Mridul Umesh is an accomplished academician and researcher in the field of Microbial Biotechnology, currently serving as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Life Sciences, Christ University, Bangalore. With an academic career that spans over a decade, he is known for his interdisciplinary research connecting microbiology, biotechnology, and sustainable plant-based innovations. Dr. Umesh has authored over 86 research articles in reputed journals, published 22 book chapters, and holds a patent on cellulose-based sheets from cabbage waste. His notable expertise in bioplastic production, aquaculture biofeeds, and waste valorization aligns closely with global sustainability goals. With an H-index of 23 (Google Scholar) and active roles as a reviewer and section editor in Scopus-indexed journals, he is widely respected in academic circles. Dr. Umesh has received several accolades for his work, including Best Research Paper Awards and shortlistings for national-level recognitions. His ability to merge fundamental research with applied outcomes positions him as a leader in green biotechnology and plant-based innovations. Through effective teaching, research mentorship, and collaborations, he continues to contribute to scientific advancement and societal benefit.

Professional Profile 

Education

Dr. Mridul Umesh has pursued a focused academic journey in biotechnology and microbiology. He holds a Ph.D. and M.Phil. in Microbial Biotechnology from the prestigious Bharathiar University, Coimbatore. His doctoral work explored the biosynthesis, characterization, and application of bioplastics derived from fruit peel waste using Bacillus species, reflecting a deep integration of microbiology with plant-based industrial applications. Prior to this, he completed an M.Sc. in Industrial Biotechnology, also from Bharathiar University, where he worked on lactic acid and biosurfactant production using agro-waste. His undergraduate studies were in Microbiology at Sree Narayana Guru College, Coimbatore. Additionally, Dr. Umesh completed a Communicative English course to enhance his teaching and presentation skills. His academic training is further strengthened by hands-on research internships and training projects in diagnostic microbiology and molecular biology, including work on Listeria monocytogenes detection. This solid educational foundation equips him with interdisciplinary skills essential for research and academic leadership in microbial and plant biotechnology.

Professional Experience

Dr. Mridul Umesh has over 10 years of academic experience with a robust focus on teaching, research, and curriculum engagement. Since May 2018, he has been serving as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Life Sciences, Christ University, where he handles both undergraduate and postgraduate courses, mentors Ph.D. scholars, and coordinates internal quality initiatives as part of the IQAC. Previously, he held teaching positions as Assistant Professor and Guest Faculty at GURUJEE Institute of Science, Coimbatore, where he specialized in training students for NEET and IIT-JEE exams. Throughout his academic tenure, Dr. Umesh has taken on additional responsibilities such as research project leader, reviewer, doctoral committee member, and editorial board member. His teaching style is deeply research-integrated, encouraging students to bridge theory with practical innovation. He has also participated in faculty development initiatives and served as a Master Trainer in Christ University’s Teaching and Learning Cell (TLEC). His dynamic teaching profile, coupled with administrative and mentoring roles, exemplifies a balanced academic leadership ideal in higher education institutions.

Research Interests

Dr. Mridul Umesh’s research interests lie at the exciting intersection of environmental microbiology, industrial biotechnology, and plant-based innovation. His primary focus is on the valorization of agro-industrial waste, especially fruit peels and fish waste, to develop biodegradable polymers, probiotics, and bioactive compounds. His Ph.D. and postdoctoral research highlight the biosynthesis of polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) and their potential application in areas like wound healing, drug delivery, and eco-friendly packaging. He is equally invested in aquaculture, where he develops feed formulations and immunostimulants from sustainable sources. His work on organic acids, antioxidants, and endophytic metabolites reflects a broader goal of integrating microbial processes with botanical materials for environmental sustainability. Dr. Umesh is also interested in bioplastics, single-cell proteins, and the use of plant growth-promoting bacteria (PGPB) to enhance agricultural output. His interdisciplinary research connects lab science with ecological and industrial applications, ensuring both academic rigor and societal relevance. These interests make him a forward-thinking scientist in the field of green biotechnology and sustainable plant-microbe interactions.

Research Skills

Dr. Umesh is highly skilled in a range of experimental, analytical, and computational techniques relevant to biotechnology. His core laboratory competencies include microbial fermentation, biopolymer extraction and characterization, waste substrate optimization, and advanced spectroscopic and microscopic analyses. He is proficient in designing statistical optimization experiments using RSM (Response Surface Methodology) for process refinement. His skills extend to antibacterial and antioxidant activity assays, drug delivery system development, and biodegradation studies of fabricated biomaterials in diverse environments. In molecular biology, he is trained in gene sequencing, PCR techniques, and phylogenetic analysis. Dr. Umesh is also experienced in scientific writing, data visualization, and research dissemination through presentations and publications. Additionally, he is well-versed in MOOC-based learning platforms, regularly updating his skills with certifications in cutting-edge scientific methods. His ability to guide Ph.D. scholars and collaborate with international researchers reflects his capacity for project planning, funding acquisition, and scientific leadership. These combined skills position him as a well-rounded researcher capable of solving real-world problems through innovative science.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Mridul Umesh has received multiple recognitions that reflect the quality and impact of his research and academic contributions. He has won Best Paper Presentation Awards at several national and international conferences, highlighting the excellence of his work in biopolymer research and waste valorization. He also received the Best Research Paper Award from the Nature Science Foundation, Coimbatore, affirming the significance of his scholarly publications. In 2025, he was shortlisted for the prestigious Young Investigator Award by the International Altiora Excellence Award, further cementing his status as an emerging leader in biotechnology. Dr. Umesh’s nomination for the Biotechnology in Botany Award is well-deserved due to his interdisciplinary work that bridges microbial biotechnology with plant-derived innovation. He has been actively involved in professional societies such as AMI, MBSI, and ISRD, which enhances his visibility in the research community. Additionally, he serves as Section Editor for Plant Science Today (Scopus-indexed) and is a recognized reviewer for journals like Polymers and Biomass Conversion and Biorefinery. These honors not only showcase his academic merit but also his growing influence in the field of sustainable biotechnology. 🥇🌿

Conclusion

Dr. Mridul Umesh is a highly deserving and competitive candidate for the Biotechnology in Botany Award, especially due to:

  • His translational research in converting botanical waste into high-value bioproducts.

  • His interdisciplinary approach, integrating microbiology, waste management, and plant-based biotechnology.

  • His strong publication record, patent, mentoring experience, and academic leadership.

While the core of his work lies at the intersection of microbial and plant sciences, the innovative use of plant-derived biomaterials and focus on sustainability aligns closely with the spirit of this award.

Publications Top Noted

  • Emerging challenges for the agro-industrial food waste utilization: A review on food waste biorefinery
    📅 Year: 2022 | 🔢 Citations: 111

  • A critical assessment of technical advances in pharmaceutical removal from wastewater – a critical review
    📅 Year: 2023 | 🔢 Citations: 84

  • Production of Single Cell Protein and Polyhydroxyalkanoate from Carica papaya Waste
    📅 Year: 2017 | 🔢 Citations: 63

  • Microbial polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs): a review on biosynthesis, properties, fermentation strategies and applications
    📅 Year: 2022 | 🔢 Citations: 55

  • Toxicity analysis of endocrine disrupting pesticides on non-target organisms: A critical analysis on toxicity mechanisms
    📅 Year: 2023 | 🔢 Citations: 50

  • Micropollutants characteristics, fate, and sustainable removal technologies for landfill leachate
    📅 Year: 2023 | 🔢 Citations: 50

  • Statistical Optimization of Bioplastic (PHA) Production by Bacillus subtilis Using Orange Peel Medium
    📅 Year: 2018 | 🔢 Citations: 46

  • Optimized production of keratinolytic proteases from Bacillus tropicus and applications in dehairing and metal recovery
    📅 Year: 2023 | 🔢 Citations: 43

  • Eggshells biowaste for hydroxyapatite synthesis using Piper betel extract: Antibacterial and antibiofilm activity
    📅 Year: 2021 | 🔢 Citations: 39

  • Origin, ecotoxicity, and analytical methods for microplastic detection in aquatic systems
    📅 Year: 2024 | 🔢 Citations: 38

  • Potential of banana-based cellulose materials for advanced applications: Review on properties and challenges
    📅 Year: 2023 | 🔢 Citations: 35

  • Synthesis and characterization of chitosan nanofibers for wound healing and drug delivery
    📅 Year: 2023 | 🔢 Citations: 33

  • Biogenic PHA nanoparticle synthesis and characterization using orange peel medium
    📅 Year: 2018 | 🔢 Citations: 31

  • Bioconversion of papaya peel waste into vinegar using Acetobacter aceti
    📅 Year: 2014 | 🔢 Citations: 29

  • Microbial engineering strategies for synthetic microplastics cleanup: Recent approaches
    📅 Year: 2023 | 🔢 Citations: 28

  • Plant growth potential of halotolerant Bacillus licheniformis as green bioinoculant on Solanum
    📅 Year: 2023 | 🔢 Citations: 28

  • Integrated strategies and process modifications for PFAS removal: Current insights and prospects
    📅 Year: 2024 | 🔢 Citations: 27

  • Adsorption efficacy of Cassia fistula seed carbon for Cd (II) ion removal: Isotherm study
    📅 Year: 2023 | 🔢 Citations: 27

  • Mercury contamination and toxicity in environments: Retrospection and future prospects
    📅 Year: 2023 | 🔢 Citations: 27

  • Water hyacinth as a substrate for bioplastic (PHA) production using Pseudomonas aeruginosa
    📅 Year: 2015 | 🔢 Citations: 27