Sushil Grewal | Horticulture | Best Researcher Award

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Ms. Sushil Grewal | Horticulture | Best Researcher Award

Graduate Research Assistant at Michigan State University, Department of Horticulture | United States

Ms. Sushil Grewal is a distinguished horticulture researcher at Michigan State University whose academic journey and professional dedication reflect her commitment to advancing sustainable agricultural practices and innovative plant science solutions. She earned her Ph.D. in Horticulture from Michigan State University, where her doctoral research emphasized optimizing crop growth and yield under controlled environments with a focus on precision agriculture, complementing her earlier academic training in plant sciences and agronomy. Professionally, she has accumulated valuable experience through her roles as a researcher and collaborator in national and international projects dealing with climate-resilient horticultural systems, controlled-environment agriculture, and sustainable crop production. Her research interests span crop physiology, horticultural technologies, stress biology, and plant–environment interactions, areas that are increasingly relevant in addressing global food security and climate change challenges. In terms of research skills, she is proficient in experimental design, statistical analysis, controlled-environment cultivation techniques, plant tissue culture, and advanced horticultural management tools, while also demonstrating strong competencies in mentoring students and leading collaborative research teams. She has contributed to multiple high-impact publications indexed in Scopus and Web of Science, presented her work at reputed horticulture and agriculture conferences, and actively engages in knowledge-sharing platforms. Recognized for her excellence, she has received awards and honors for her academic performance and research contributions, including recognition from the American Society for Horticultural Science (ASHS) and institutional accolades at Michigan State University. These achievements highlight her growing influence as both a researcher and mentor. In conclusion, Ms. Grewal’s strong academic foundation, practical research experience, and leadership in sustainable horticulture position her as an emerging leader in the field, with the potential to shape future agricultural practices, enhance scientific collaborations, and contribute meaningfully to the advancement of global horticultural research.

Profile: Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Grewal, S., & Saha, D. (2025). Emerging perspectives on chemical weed management tactics in container ornamental production in the United States. Horticulturae, 11(8), 926.

Suganya, S., Grewal, S., & Baldaniya, A. (2025). Rooftop floriculture: An overview. The Agriculture Magazine, 4(7), 206–209.

Shah, A., Kumar, M., & Grewal, S. (2024). Soil science and sustainable farming: Paving the way for food security. The Agriculture Magazine, 3(3).

Dan Ioan Avasiloaiei | Horticulture | Eco-Friendly Plant Science Award

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Dr. Dan Ioan Avasiloaiei | Horticulture | Eco-Friendly Plant Science Award

IIIrd Grade Research Scientist at Vegetable Research and Development Station Bacaun Bacău | Romania

Dr. Dan Ioan Avasiloaiei is a Romanian researcher in horticultural sciences with expertise in organic vegetable cultivation, sustainable farming systems, and ecological plant protection. His professional career spans both academic and applied research roles, including leadership in experimental and demonstrative agricultural projects. With a strong background in horticultural engineering and advanced studies in vegetable growing, he has dedicated his career to developing innovative eco-friendly solutions in agriculture. His contributions include project management, scientific publications in high-impact journals, and active participation in professional societies. His research addresses pressing challenges such as climate change adaptation, resource optimization, and reducing chemical input in agriculture. Through both national and international collaborations, Dr. Avasiloaiei has established himself as a committed scientist focused on promoting environmentally sustainable and resilient agricultural practices, while also contributing to the broader scientific understanding of plant science and organic production systems.

Professional Profile 

Education

Dr. Dan Ioan Avasiloaiei holds a Ph.D. in Sciences from the Ion Ionescu de la Brad University of Life Sciences in Iasi, where his research centered on improving technologies for organic vegetable cultivation in greenhouses and polytunnels. His doctoral work focused on advancing methods that reduce chemical input while maintaining high crop productivity under ecological farming conditions. He also completed a Master’s degree in Vegetable Growing at the same institution, with research examining planting schemes, crop density, and their effects on tomato cultivation under organic practices. Earlier, he earned his degree in Horticultural Engineering from the University of Agronomic Sciences and Veterinary Medicine in Bucharest, which provided a broad technical foundation in crop production and horticultural systems. This solid academic progression reflects his dedication to advancing both theoretical and applied aspects of sustainable horticulture and highlights his long-standing commitment to eco-friendly agricultural innovation.

Professional Experience

Dr. Dan Ioan Avasiloaiei professional journey combines scientific research, agricultural practice, and international industry exposure. He currently serves as a Grade III Research Scientist at the Vegetable Research and Development Station (VRDS) in Bacau, Romania, where he leads activities in organic agriculture, ecological plant protection, and sustainable vegetable cultivation. His earlier roles include research scientist positions at VRDS Bacau, where he was actively involved in projects on organic farming and crop management, as well as experience in farm management through self-employment. Internationally, he worked in the United Kingdom as a tomato crop manager and packhouse manager, gaining valuable insights into advanced cultivation and production systems. These diverse experiences, spanning academia, commercial farming, and research management, have equipped him with both scientific expertise and practical skills in developing eco-friendly, resource-efficient agricultural technologies adaptable to both local and global contexts.

Research Interests

Dr. Dan Ioan Avasiloaiei research interests lie in sustainable agriculture, organic vegetable cultivation, and climate-resilient farming systems. He is particularly focused on intercropping strategies, allelopathic interactions, regenerative agriculture, and carbon farming as mechanisms for reducing chemical input and enhancing crop productivity. His studies explore how natural plant interactions and innovative cultivation techniques can be harnessed to strengthen ecological farming systems. He has also investigated the role of medicinal and minor crop species in diversifying food systems and improving resilience against biotic and abiotic stresses. Another significant area of his interest is optimizing greenhouse and protected cultivation technologies for organic production. By combining traditional horticultural knowledge with modern sustainability principles, his research aims to develop environmentally responsible approaches to farming that contribute to food security, biodiversity conservation, and reduced environmental impact in line with European and global sustainability goals.

Research Skills

Dr. Dan Ioan Avasiloaiei has developed advanced research skills in organic crop management, ecological experimentation, and sustainable technology development. He is proficient in designing and conducting field trials, evaluating intercropping and crop rotation systems, and studying allelopathic plant interactions for natural weed and pest management. His expertise extends to carbon farming strategies, regenerative agriculture, and the application of bioregulatory substances in organic crop production. He has strong skills in project design and coordination, having managed multi-institutional projects addressing climate change and eco-friendly agricultural practices. His ability to integrate laboratory research with field-based experiments demonstrates versatility in both theoretical and applied science. He is also experienced in scientific publishing, literature synthesis, and international collaboration. These skills make him a well-rounded researcher, capable of addressing critical challenges in sustainable agriculture and contributing both scientifically and practically to the advancement of eco-friendly plant science.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Dan Ioan Avasiloaiei has earned recognition for his contributions to horticultural science and sustainable agriculture. He has been actively involved in national and international research collaborations, receiving roles of responsibility such as project manager and head of research activities in organic agriculture. His published works in reputed international journals, including Agronomy and Genes, highlight the scientific value and impact of his research in areas such as carbon farming and medicinal plants. He has also been invited as a member of professional horticultural societies, including the International Society for Horticultural Science and the Romanian Society of Horticulturists, where he currently serves in leadership at the county division level. His participation in European networking projects for organic agriculture further reflects his standing in the field. These honors and memberships underscore his contributions as both a researcher and a promoter of sustainable and eco-friendly farming practices.

Publications Top Noted

Title: On the Future Perspectives of Some Medicinal Plants within Lamiaceae Botanic Family Regarding Their Comprehensive Properties and Resistance against Biotic and Abiotic Stresses
Year: 2023
Citation: 31

Title: The Evaluation of Carbon Farming Strategies in Organic Vegetable Cultivation
Year: 2023
Citation: 28

Title: Heavy Metals Contamination of Soil and Vegetables in Three Regions from Romania: A Review
Year: 2020
Citation: 4

Title: Drought Stress and the Role of Salicylic Acid in Relieving the Oxidative Damage at Tomato Plants
Year: 2023
Citation: 2

Title: Study on the Application of Bioregulatory Substances in Organic Tomato Crop
Year: 2014
Citation: 2

Conclusion

Based on his strong foundation in organic horticulture, sustainable cultivation systems, and climate-conscious agricultural innovations, Dr. Dan Ioan Avasiloaiei is highly suitable for the Eco-Friendly Plant Science Award. His research aligns directly with the award’s focus on sustainability and environmental responsibility, and with continued international engagement and technological integration, he is well-positioned to make even greater contributions to eco-friendly plant science in the future.

 

Saeedeh Zarbakhsh | Horticulture | Young Scientist Award

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Dr. Saeedeh Zarbakhsh | Horticulture | Young Scientist Award

Postdoc Researcher at University of Tehran, Iran

Dr. Saeedeh Zarbakhsh is an emerging scientist in the field of plant sciences, specializing in plant responses to abiotic stress, in vitro culture, and physiological adaptations under controlled environmental conditions. Currently a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Tehran, she integrates conventional plant biology with modern computational techniques, including machine learning, to optimize crop performance under artificial lighting. With 17 publications in reputable journals and editorial appointments in the Plant Stress journal, she is building a notable academic presence. Her research contributions span tissue culture innovations, postharvest physiology, and predictive modeling in plant science. She is also actively engaged in academic instruction and workshop facilitation, bridging theory and practice for students and stakeholders. Her interdisciplinary approach, combining plant physiology with data science, places her at the forefront of sustainable agriculture research, especially under climate change and resource-limited conditions.

Professional Profile 

Education🎓

Dr. Zarbakhsh holds a Ph.D. in Plant Physiology, during which she investigated the in vitro and in vivo modulation of drought and salinity stress in pomegranate using gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). Her M.Sc. research focused on postharvest quality and the effects of gamma irradiation on date fruit cultivars, reflecting an early interest in crop resilience and food preservation. She has cultivated a research foundation rooted in plant stress biology, supported by strong academic training in physiology, tissue culture, and postharvest technology. Her education has not only been focused on fundamental sciences but also geared toward practical applications in agriculture and food security. This strong academic base has equipped her with the theoretical knowledge and technical skill set necessary for interdisciplinary and applied plant research.

Professional Experience💼

Currently a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Tehran, Dr. Zarbakhsh is working on machine learning-based modeling of plant traits under artificial light conditions, using basil as a model crop. She has previously served as a lecturer at various universities in Iran, delivering courses in plant physiology, stress biology, and tissue culture. Her professional background also includes organizing and leading workshops for researchers and practitioners, thereby extending her influence beyond academia. In addition to academic roles, her postdoctoral research includes a consultancy aspect, translating lab results into practical, scalable systems for controlled-environment agriculture. Her work environment emphasizes collaboration, multidisciplinary integration, and problem-solving—traits that are evident in her current and past research projects.

Research Interest🔬

Dr. Zarbakhsh’s primary research interests lie in plant stress physiology, controlled-environment agriculture, in vitro propagation, and postharvest biology. She is particularly focused on how plants respond to abiotic stresses such as drought, salinity, and artificial light conditions. Her recent postdoctoral work integrates machine learning to predict and optimize photosynthesis, morphology, and crop yield, which shows her commitment to innovation. Her research also explores the physiological mechanisms of plant resilience, biostimulant applications, and enhancing crop quality during postharvest handling. By applying both classical physiological approaches and modern computational tools, she aims to develop sustainable solutions for global agriculture, especially under climate and resource pressures.

Research Skill🔎

Dr. Zarbakhsh possesses a diverse set of research skills that span experimental plant biology, in vitro tissue culture, gas exchange analysis, fluorescence imaging, and controlled-environment system design. Her proficiency in using machine learning algorithms to interpret complex physiological datasets is a unique strength in her field. She is experienced in designing experiments involving drought/salinity simulations, stress biomarker quantification, and statistical modeling. Furthermore, she has hands-on expertise in artificial lighting protocols for plant growth and understands both plant-environment interactions and computational optimization. Her skill set is enriched by her ability to communicate findings through scientific writing and peer-reviewed publications.

Awards and Honors🏆

While specific awards are not listed in her profile, Dr. Saeedeh Zarbakhsh holds multiple editorial positions, including Guest Editor for a Special Issue on biostimulants in the Plant Stress journal and Junior Editor since 2024. These appointments reflect peer recognition of her scientific competence and subject expertise. Her selection for a competitive postdoctoral research project also serves as a mark of merit. With her growing body of publications and contributions to scholarly literature, she is positioning herself for future accolades, particularly in the domains of plant stress physiology and sustainable agriculture.

Conclusion📝

Dr. Saeedeh Zarbakhsh is a promising early-career researcher with strong interdisciplinary skills, a growing scientific publication record, and demonstrated leadership in both research and outreach. Her innovative postdoctoral work using AI for predicting plant performance under artificial light stands out as cutting-edge.

Publications Top Noted📚

 

  • 2019 – Influence of postharvest gamma irradiation on the antioxidant system, microbial and shelf life quality of three cultivars of date fruits (Phoenix dactylifera L.)
    Authors: S. Zarbakhsh, S. Rastegar
    Journal: Scientia Horticulturae 247, 275-286
    Citations: 50

  • 2023 – Exogenous γ-aminobutyric acid improves the photosynthesis efficiency, soluble sugar contents, and mineral nutrients in pomegranate plants exposed to drought, salinity, and …
    Authors: S. Zarbakhsh, A.R. Shahsavar
    Journal: BMC Plant Biology 23 (1), 543
    Citations: 42

  • 2018 – Biochemical, physiological changes and antioxidant responses of cut gladiolus flower ‘White Prosperity’ induced by nitric oxide
    Authors: H. Kazemzadeh-Beneh, D. Samsampour, S. Zarbakhsh
    Journal: Advances in Horticultural Science 32 (3), 421-432
    Citations: 17

  • 2020 – Quality preservation of minimally processed pomegranate cv. Jahrom arils based on chitosan and organic acid edible coatings
    Authors: S. Zarbakhsh, H. Kazemzadeh‐Beneh, S. Rastegar
    Journal: Journal of Food Safety 40 (2), e12752
    Citations: 16

  • 2024 – Predicting and optimizing reactive oxygen species metabolism in Punica granatum L. through machine learning: role of exogenous GABA on antioxidant enzyme …
    Authors: S. Zarbakhsh, A.R. Shahsavar, A. Afaghi, M. Hasanuzzaman
    Journal: BMC Plant Biology 24 (1), 65
    Citations: 15

  • 2022 – Artificial neural network-based model to predict the effect of γ-aminobutyric acid on salinity and drought responsive morphological traits in pomegranate
    Authors: S. Zarbakhsh, A.R. Shahsavar
    Journal: Scientific Reports 12 (1), 16662
    Citations: 13

  • 2024 – Optimizing PGRs for in vitro shoot proliferation of pomegranate with bayesian-tuned ensemble stacking regression and NSGA-II: a comparative evaluation of machine learning models
    Authors: S. Zarbakhsh, A.R. Shahsavar, M. Soltani
    Journal: Plant Methods 20 (1), 82
    Citations: 4

  • 2017 – The Effect of Salicylic Acid and Gum Arabic on Some Qualitative and Quantitative Characteristics of Ziziphus mauritiana Lam During Storage
    Authors: S. Zarbakhsh, S. Rastegar
    Journal: Journal of Food Technology and Nutrition 14 (254), 87-98
    Citations: 4

Syeda Hijab Zehra | Horticulture | Best Researcher Award

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Ms. Syeda Hijab Zehra | Horticulture | Best Researcher Award

Junior Researcher, Ph.D Reseracher at Lithuanian Research centre For agriculture And forestry, Lithuania

Ms. Syeda Hijab Zehra is a highly accomplished researcher and scholar in the field of environmental sciences, with a focus on sustainable development, green chemistry, and material science. She completed her Master’s in Environmental Sciences from Bahria University Islamabad with a CGPA of 3.73 (Cum Laude), and her research on the removal of Cr6+ from polluted water was published in the Journal of Chemistry and Environment. Currently pursuing a Ph.D. at the Lithuanian Research Centre for Agriculture and Forestry, her research is centered on the valorisation of food processing by-products for green nanoparticle synthesis and biodegradable composites. Ms. Zehra has published several research articles and reviews and has presented her work at numerous international conferences, earning accolades such as the “Best Presentation” award at AGRISCI 2024. Her dedication to both academic excellence and practical industry experience, along with her strong networking and collaboration skills, make her a rising star in her field.

Professional Profile 

Education 🎓 

Ms. Syeda Hijab Zehra has a strong academic background in environmental sciences and chemistry. She completed her Master of Science in Environmental Sciences from Bahria University Islamabad (BUIC), where she graduated with a remarkable CGPA of 3.73 (Cum Laude) in September 2022. During her master’s, her research focused on the removal of Cr6+ from synthetic polluted water using Fe-modified sugarcane bagasse and peanut shell powder, which was later published in the Journal of Chemistry and Environment. Prior to this, she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry from the University of Wah, Islamabad, in 2020, with a CGPA of 2.93. Currently, Ms. Zehra is pursuing her Ph.D. at the Lithuanian Research Centre for Agriculture and Forestry (LAMMC) in Lithuania, where her research explores the valorisation of food processing by-products for green metal nanoparticle biosynthesis and the development of biodegradable micro/nano polymer composites.

Professional Experience 💼

Ms. Syeda Hijab Zehra has gained significant professional experience through both academic research and industry exposure. She is currently pursuing her Ph.D. at the Lithuanian Research Centre for Agriculture and Forestry (LAMMC), where her research focuses on the valorisation of food processing by-products for green nanoparticle biosynthesis and the development of biodegradable composites. This work reflects her expertise in sustainable materials and environmental solutions. Previously, she worked on several research projects during her Master’s at Bahria University Islamabad, including a notable study on the removal of Cr6+ from synthetic polluted water, which was published in the Journal of Chemistry and Environment. In addition to her research roles, Ms. Zehra completed an internship at Wah Nobel Chemicals LTD, a leading producer of industrial chemicals, where she gained practical experience in the chemical industry. Her strong academic background, coupled with her hands-on industry experience, showcases her well-rounded professional capabilities in environmental sciences and green chemistry.

Research Interest 🔬

Ms. Syeda Hijab Zehra’s research interests are centered around sustainable development, green chemistry, and the development of environmentally friendly materials. She is particularly focused on the green synthesis of nanoparticles, exploring the potential of using natural, renewable resources to create eco-friendly materials with applications in various fields. Her current research, as part of her Ph.D. at the Lithuanian Research Centre for Agriculture and Forestry, is centered on the valorisation of food processing by-products for the biosynthesis of metal nanoparticles and the development of biodegradable micro/nano polymer composites. Additionally, she is interested in the use of green synthesis methods to create silver-based nanoparticles with antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. Ms. Zehra is also passionate about addressing environmental pollution, particularly in water treatment, through innovative methods such as the removal of heavy metals using modified natural materials like sugarcane bagasse and peanut shell powder. Her work aims to bridge sustainability with practical environmental solutions.

Research Skill🔎

Ms. Syeda Hijab Zehra possesses a diverse set of research skills that are pivotal to her work in environmental sciences and green chemistry. She has expertise in green synthesis techniques, particularly in the production of nanoparticles from natural, renewable sources, which is central to her research on sustainable materials. Her technical skills include proficiency in various analytical methods such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS), and UV-visible spectroscopy, all of which she applies in her studies on materials characterization. Ms. Zehra is also skilled in conducting environmental analyses, particularly in water treatment, where she has worked on the removal of heavy metals from polluted water using modified natural adsorbents. Additionally, she demonstrates strong abilities in scientific writing, having published multiple research articles and reviews in reputable journals. Her capacity to collaborate effectively in multidisciplinary teams further enhances her research skills.

Award and Honor🏆

Ms. Syeda Hijab Zehra has earned several prestigious awards and honors throughout her academic and research career. During her Master’s program at Bahria University Islamabad, she was awarded a scholarship and graduated with the distinction of “Cum Laude,” highlighting her exceptional academic performance. Her research and presentation skills have been widely recognized, earning her the “Best Presentation” award at the 13th International Conference of Young Scientists, AGRISCI 2024, in Vilnius, Lithuania, for her work on sustainable green synthesis of silver nanoparticles. Additionally, she has received accolades for her pitch presentations at prominent international events, such as the Green Horizon’s Summit 2024 in Vilnius, where she presented on functional gels from natural renewable sources. Her research contributions have also earned her recognition in various scientific forums, including the 20th International Conference of Young Scientists on Energy and Natural Sciences Issues (CYSENI) and the Advance Material and Technologies 2024 conference, further underscoring her standing in the global research community.

Conclusion📝

Syeda Hijab Zehra shows immense promise as a researcher, excelling academically and making significant contributions to the fields of sustainable development, green chemistry, and environmental sciences. Her publications, awards, and ongoing research in the valorization of food processing by-products and the synthesis of biodegradable materials demonstrate her leadership in emerging scientific fields. While her work is already highly impactful, enhancing the practical implementation and expanding her outreach could position her as a more influential researcher in the long run. Based on her current achievements and potential for future impact, she is highly deserving of the Best Researcher Award.

Publications Top Noted📚

  • Title: Removal of Cr6+ from Synthetic Polluted Water using Fe Modified Sugarcane Bagasse & Peanut Shell Powder
    Year: 2023
    Cited by: 6

  • Title: Phenol–Furfural Resin/Graphite/Ag-Based Electrically Conductive Adhesive Composites from Waste Bagasse with Enhanced Thermo-Electric Properties
    Year: 2023
    Cited by: 5

  • Title: Advancements in Green Synthesis of Silver-Based Nanoparticles: Antimicrobial and Antifungal Properties in Various Films
    Year: 2025
    Cited by: 3

  • Title: Biosynthesis of Silver Nanoparticles via Medusomyces gisevii Fermentation with Origanum vulgare L. Extract: Antimicrobial Properties, Antioxidant Properties, and Phytochemical …
    Year: 2025
    Cited by: Not available yet

  • Title: Appraisement and Categorization of Compostable and Non-Compostable Plastic Bags Using HHXRF Spectrophotometer, A Study on Brands in Islamabad
    Year: 2024
    Cited by: Not available yet

  • Title: Assessment of Produced Water from Oil and Gas Field Gujar Khan, Punjab, Pakistan
    Year: 2024
    Cited by: Not available yet

  • Title: Heavy Metals Assessment in Different Fresh and Processed Tuber Crops Grown with Fresh and Sewage Water
    Year: 2024
    Cited by: Not available yet