Ali Ashraf Jafari | Plant Breeding | Best Academic Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Ali Ashraf Jafari | Plant Breeding | Best Academic Researcher Award

Professor at Iranian Research Institute forests and rangelands,  Iran

Prof. Dr. Ali Ashraf Jafari is a distinguished Iranian scientist with expertise in biometrical genetics and plant breeding, currently serving as Professor and Head of the Gene Bank Division at the Research Institute of Forests and Rangelands (RIFR), Tehran. With over two decades of research experience, he has significantly contributed to forage agronomy, genetic resource conservation, and medicinal plant breeding. His scientific output includes numerous peer-reviewed publications addressing critical agronomic and ecological challenges in dryland farming systems. Dr. Jafari is recognized for integrating traditional breeding approaches with advanced phenotyping tools, particularly Near Infrared Reflectance Spectroscopy (NIR), in evaluating forage quality traits. His leadership in managing Iran’s gene bank has had a national impact on biodiversity preservation and sustainable agriculture. As a collaborative researcher and mentor, he has advanced both theoretical and applied aspects of plant science, bridging research excellence with policy-level conservation goals.

Professional Profile 

Education 🎓

Prof. Dr. Jafari earned his Ph.D. in Plant Breeding in 1998 from the University College Dublin (UCD), National University of Ireland, a reputable institution renowned for agricultural sciences. His doctoral training emphasized advanced genetic methodologies and statistical analysis applied to plant improvement. This academic foundation laid the groundwork for his lifelong research in forage crops and genetic diversity. Prior to his doctorate, he completed degrees in agricultural science in Iran, focusing on field crop production and breeding. His international academic exposure, combined with his deep knowledge of Iran’s native flora and agroecosystems, enabled him to apply globally accepted genetic techniques to local crops. Throughout his education, Dr. Jafari cultivated a strong proficiency in experimental design, genotype-environment interaction studies, and quantitative genetics, equipping him to address the unique challenges of arid and semi-arid agriculture in West Asia.

Professional Experience 💼

Since 1998, Prof. Jafari has held a continuous academic and research role at the Research Institute of Forests and Rangelands (RIFR), first as a Scientific Board Member and since 2010 as Head of the Gene Bank Division. His early work focused on evaluating genetic variation in forage crops, while his current leadership involves directing national programs for plant germplasm conservation and documentation. Under his guidance, the gene bank has expanded its collection, characterized native and endemic species, and facilitated national efforts in food security and biodiversity protection. Beyond institutional roles, he has led multiple collaborative projects addressing pasture improvement, seed technology, and the agronomy of medicinal plants. He has also been active in publishing, peer-reviewing, and mentoring young researchers. His longstanding career reflects a blend of administrative leadership, field-based research, and national policy engagement in agricultural sustainability and genetic resource conservation.

Research Interest 🔬

Prof. Jafari’s research interests lie at the intersection of plant breeding, genetic conservation, and forage quality enhancement. He focuses on improving yield, quality, and stress resilience in forage grasses and legumes, particularly under rain-fed and dryland conditions. He also investigates germplasm evaluation, seed biology, and genotype-environment interactions. A core interest includes the application of Near Infrared Reflectance Spectroscopy (NIR) for rapid and non-destructive quality assessment of plant materials. His research extends to medicinal plants, where he studies agronomic performance, essential oil yield, and morphological variation across ecotypes. Prof. Jafari is deeply invested in understanding and preserving indigenous genetic resources through ex situ and in situ strategies. Through his interdisciplinary work, he bridges ecological conservation with genetic enhancement, aiming to support resilient agriculture and biodiversity protection in arid ecosystems.

Research Skill🔎

Prof. Jafari possesses a robust set of research and technical skills that span classical plant breeding, biometrical genetics, and modern phenotyping tools. His core strengths include quantitative trait analysis, experimental design for multi-location trials, and statistical modeling of genotype-by-environment interactions. He is highly proficient in the use of NIR spectroscopy to assess forage quality traits, enabling high-throughput screening in breeding programs. In germplasm management, he is skilled in seed conservation techniques, trait documentation, and accession evaluation. He has led multiple studies involving multivariate analysis, variance partitioning, and trait correlation in forage crops and medicinal species. Furthermore, he has strong command over research planning, data interpretation, manuscript writing, and collaborative project execution. His combined field, lab, and data-driven skills allow him to contribute meaningfully to both applied and theoretical aspects of plant genetic research.

Award and Honor🏆

While specific international awards are not listed, Prof. Dr. Jafari’s prestigious academic standing and leadership of Iran’s Gene Bank Division are indicative of national recognition and institutional trust. His appointment as Head of the Gene Bank at RIFR since 2010 is a testament to his excellence in research management and contribution to Iran’s plant genetic resources. Through his numerous peer-reviewed publications, he has earned scientific credibility and influence within the regional plant science community. Additionally, his collaborative works and involvement in national agricultural strategies reflect recognition by fellow experts and policymakers. It is highly likely that he has received institutional commendations, project-based funding acknowledgments, or certificates of merit from Iranian scientific bodies for his contributions to dryland forage improvement and biodiversity conservation. Future award nominations would be well-deserved given his long-standing impact and scientific productivity.

Conclusion📝

Professor Ali Ashraf Jafari is highly suitable for the Best Academic Researcher Award, especially in fields related to forage breeding, genetic resources, and sustainable agriculture. His longstanding commitment to both fundamental and applied plant sciences, leadership in gene bank development, and scholarly output make him a commendable candidate. Enhancing international engagement, innovation dissemination, and citation visibility could further solidify his standing as a globally recognized academic leader.

Publications Top Noted📚

  1. Vosough, A., Jafari, A.A., Karami, E., Safari, H., Talebi, R. (2023)
    Herbage yield stability of cocksfoot (Dactylis glomerata L.) genotypes across rain-fed environments.
    The Rangeland Journal
    DOI: 10.1071/RJ23015

  2. Farshadfar, M., Kakaei, M., Salehabadi, Y., Baghaeifar, Z., Jafari, A.A. (2022)
    Study of Diversity for Yield and Quality Traits in Alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) and Determination of the Best Population for Cultivation in Dryland Farming in Iran.
    Journal of Rangeland Science
    EID: 2-s2.0-85123712515

  3. Sepahvand, A., Jafari, A.A., Sefidkon, F., Kalatejari, S. (2021)
    Effects of Water Stress on Seedling Growth and Physiological Traits in Four Thyme Species.
    Journal of Rangeland Science
    EID: 2-s2.0-85102782879

  4. Alizadeh, M.A., Jafari, A.A., Sepahvand, K., Davazdahemami, S., Moeini, M.R., Moaied, F.N., Naseri, B. (2021)
    Evaluation of sainfoin accessions exposed to powdery mildew disease at four locations in Iran.
    Tropical Grasslands-Forrajes Tropicales
    DOI: 10.17138/TGFT(9)97-108

  5. Jafari, A.A., Afkar, S., Faraji, M. (2021)
    Genetic Diversity of Agropyron Pectiniforme Using Morphological Traits and RAPD Markers.
    Iranian Journal of Plant Physiology
    EID: 2-s2.0-85110433894

  6. Ansari, E., Khosrowshahli, M., Ashraf Jafari, A., Etminan, A. (2021)
    Induction of autotetraploidy and its effects on morphophysiological traits in some annual and perennial medics.
    Caryologia
    DOI: 10.36253/caryologia-809

  7. Hadi, N., Shojaeiyan, A., Sefidkon, F., Jafari, A.A., Mišić, D., Banjanac, T., Šiler, B. (2020)
    Assessment of infraspecific genetic diversity in Nepeta kotschyi Boiss., a native Iranian medicinal plant.
    Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology
    EID: 2-s2.0-85093883927

  8. Riasat, M., Jafari, A.A., Saed-Mouchehsi, A. (2020)
    Effect of drought stress on seedling morpho-physiological traits of alfalfa (Medicago sativa) populations grown in glasshouse.
    Journal of Rangeland Science
    EID: 2-s2.0-85085993049

  9. Moradi, R., Alizadeh, M.A., Hervan, E.M., Shanjani, P.S., Khaghani, S., Jafari, A.A. (2020)
    Variation and relationships of aerial yield, morpho-agronomic traits and essential oil composition in domestic populations of Ziziphora tenuior in Iran.
    Acta Scientiarum Polonorum, Hortorum Cultus
    DOI: 10.24326/asphc.2020.1.11

  10. Abbasi Khalaki, M., Ghorbani, A., Esmali Ouri, A., Shokouhian, A.A., Jafari, A.A. (2019)
    Varying the vegetative and morphological traits of Thymus kotschyanus L. submitted to potassium silicate nanoparticles, superabsorbent hydrogel, effective microorganisms and animal manure.
    Bioscience Journal
    DOI: 10.14393/BJ-v35n1a2019-41832

  11. Safari, H., Zebarjadi, A., Kahrizi, D., Jafari, A.A. (2019)
    The study of inter-specific relationships of Bromus genus based on SCoT and ISSR molecular markers.
    Molecular Biology Reports
    DOI: 10.1007/s11033-019-04978-2

Anindita Ghosh Basu | Plant Biochemistry | Best Researcher Award

Mrs. Anindita Ghosh Basu | Plant Biochemistry | Best Researcher Award

Research scholar at University of North Bengal, India

Mrs. Anindita Ghosh Basu is a dedicated research scholar in the Department of Botany at the University of North Bengal, specializing in plant stress physiology. Her academic journey reflects consistent excellence, having completed her B.Sc. and M.Sc. with distinction, followed by a B.Ed. Currently, her research focuses on the effects of micro- and nanoplastics on terrestrial plants, a pressing environmental issue. She has authored three review articles in reputed international journals such as Chemosphere and Water Research, with one original research article under review. Her scholarly contributions have garnered 36 citations, and she has actively participated in international conferences, earning a Best Poster Presentation award. Though in the early stages of her career, her research shows significant potential for real-world impact in pollution mitigation and ecological resilience. With a strong foundation and growing visibility in the scientific community, Mrs. Basu is emerging as a promising young scientist in plant environmental physiology.

Professional Profile 

Education 🎓

Mrs. Anindita Ghosh Basu has pursued a strong and consistent academic path in the field of botany. She began her education with outstanding performance, securing 83% in the Madhyamik examination. She completed her Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Botany from Jhargram Raj College, where she built a solid foundation in plant sciences. Continuing her academic journey, she earned her Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Botany from Darjeeling Government College, graduating with 78% marks and a first-class distinction. To complement her scientific background with educational training, she completed a Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.), equipping herself with teaching and pedagogical skills. Currently, she is pursuing her doctoral research in the Department of Botany at the University of North Bengal. Her research focuses on plant stress physiology, particularly investigating the effects of micro- and nanoplastics on terrestrial plants. Her academic journey demonstrates diligence, discipline, and a deep commitment to scientific advancement in plant biology.

Professional Experience 💼

Mrs. Anindita Ghosh Basu is an emerging research scholar in the Department of Botany at the University of North Bengal, with a growing professional portfolio in plant environmental physiology. Her primary area of expertise lies in plant stress physiology, with current doctoral research focused on understanding the effects of micro- and nanoplastics on terrestrial plant systems. Though early in her research career, she has made commendable contributions by publishing three comprehensive review articles in reputable international journals such as Chemosphere and Water Research. She has also authored one original research article currently under review. Mrs. Basu has presented her work at two international conferences, earning the Best Poster Presentation award at one, which reflects peer recognition of her scientific rigor. In addition to her research, she maintains academic visibility through platforms like Google Scholar and ResearchGate. Her professional experience, though at a formative stage, showcases promise, dedication, and academic potential.

Research Interest 🔬

Mrs. Anindita Ghosh Basu’s research interests lie primarily in the field of plant stress physiology, with a particular focus on the impact of environmental pollutants on plant systems. Her current doctoral research explores the effects of micro- and nanoplastics on terrestrial plants, a cutting-edge and globally relevant area of study addressing the rising threat of plastic pollution in ecosystems. She is deeply interested in understanding how pollutants alter physiological, biochemical, and morphological processes in plants, aiming to uncover mechanisms of stress tolerance and resilience. Her broader interests include pollutant-induced stress responses, bioremediation, and the ecological implications of anthropogenic activities on plant health. Through her published review articles, she has also explored the influence of microplastics on aquatic flora, airborne pollutants on tree biology, and mitigation strategies through phytoremediation. Her work is driven by a passion for environmental sustainability and a commitment to using plant science to address pressing ecological challenges.

Research Skill🔎

Mrs. Anindita Ghosh Basu possesses a well-developed set of research skills rooted in experimental botany and environmental plant physiology. Her primary strength lies in designing and conducting studies related to plant responses under stress conditions, particularly from emerging pollutants like micro- and nanoplastics. She demonstrates proficiency in scientific literature review, data analysis, and critical evaluation, as evident from her three published review articles in reputed international journals. Her ability to synthesize complex scientific information and identify research gaps showcases her analytical and conceptual thinking. Additionally, she is skilled in laboratory techniques related to plant physiology, including stress assessment parameters and pollutant exposure experiments. Her experience presenting at international conferences has enhanced her communication skills, enabling her to effectively convey research findings to both academic and broader audiences. She is also adept in using academic platforms like Google Scholar and ResearchGate, enhancing her visibility and collaboration potential within the scientific community.

Award and Honor🏆

Mrs. Anindita Ghosh Basu has received early recognition for her academic and research excellence in the field of botany. Among her notable achievements is the Best Poster Presentation Award at an international scientific conference, highlighting the quality and impact of her research on plant stress physiology. This honor reflects her ability to communicate complex scientific concepts effectively and the relevance of her work to current environmental challenges. Her publications in prestigious, peer-reviewed journals such as Chemosphere and Water Research further attest to her scholarly merit and the recognition of her research within the scientific community. Although still in the early phase of her career, these accolades demonstrate a strong foundation of academic credibility and potential for future contributions to plant science. As she continues her research, her growing publication record and active participation in international forums position her well for further honors and awards in the botanical sciences.

Conclusion📝

Ms. Anindita Ghosh Basu is a promising early-career researcher with a focused area of work in plant stress physiology, specifically targeting pollution impacts—an area of growing global relevance. While she may not yet meet the full maturity and breadth expected of a ‘Best Researcher’ in an open-age competition, she shows exceptional potential and a clear trajectory toward impactful contributions.

Suggested Path Forward:

  • She would be a strong candidate for an “Emerging Researcher” or “Young Scientist” award category, if available.

  • If not, her candidacy for the Best Researcher Award would benefit from:

    • At least one to two published experimental studies.

    • Engagement in collaborative or funded projects.

    • Joining professional societies and increasing her academic outreach.

Publications Top Noted📚

  • “Effect of plastic pollution on freshwater flora: A meta-analysis approach to elucidate the factors influencing plant growth and biochemical markers”

    • Authors: D. Ghosh, A. Sarkar, A.G. Basu, S. Roy

    • Journal: Water Research, Vol. 225, Article 119114

    • Year: 2022

    • Cited by: 33

  • “Impact of microplastics on aquatic flora: Recent status, mechanisms of their toxicity and bioremediation strategies”

    • Authors: A.G. Basu, R.S. Paul, F. Wang, S. Roy

    • Journal: Chemosphere, Vol. 370, Article 143983

    • Year: 2025

    • Cited by: 3

  • “Changes in Biological Parameters of Trees by Airborne Pollutants”

    • Authors: DSR Anindita Ghosh Basu, Dr. Rita Som Paul

    • Journal: ÈKOBIOTEH

    • Year: 2020

Li Guan | Botanical Pharmacognosy | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Li Guan | Botanical Pharmacognosy | Best Researcher Award

Lecture/Master’s supervisor at Jinzhou Medical University, China

Dr. Li Guan is a dedicated researcher and lecturer at Jinzhou Medical University with a strong academic background in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. She earned her Ph.D. from Northeast Forestry University and is currently completing a postdoctoral fellowship at Hunan University. Her research focuses on the pharmacological effects of plant exosomes and protein signal transduction in plant nuclear membrane proteins—fields with growing biomedical relevance. Dr. Guan has published three SCI Q1-indexed journal articles and holds two patents, demonstrating both research quality and innovation. She actively mentors graduate students, one of whom has published under her guidance, and maintains collaborations with institutions such as the Liaoning Collaborative Innovation Center. In addition to her editorial role, she is a member of the Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Society. With a commitment to cutting-edge research and academic growth, Dr. Li Guan represents a promising early-career scientist with the potential for significant future contributions.

Professional Profile 

Education 🎓 

Dr. Li Guan has a solid and progressive academic background that reflects her dedication to the field of life sciences. She began her higher education at Northeast Forestry University, earning a dual bachelor’s degree in Forestry and English in 2014. She continued at the same institution to pursue a Ph.D. in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, which she completed in December 2020. Her doctoral research focused on plant vesicle transport, laying the foundation for her future work in molecular plant science. In January 2021, she commenced a postdoctoral fellowship at Hunan University, where she expanded her research into protein signal transduction in plant nuclear membrane proteins. Since December 2022, Dr. Guan has served as a lecturer and master’s supervisor at Jinzhou Medical University, where she guides graduate students and continues her investigations into plant exosomes. Her academic journey demonstrates a consistent focus on innovative and relevant research in the biological sciences.

Professional Experience 💼

Dr. Li Guan has cultivated a focused and steadily advancing professional career in academic research and teaching. Her professional journey began with her postdoctoral fellowship at Hunan University in January 2021, where she conducted research on protein signal transduction in plant nuclear membrane proteins. This role allowed her to deepen her expertise in molecular biology while contributing to high-impact scientific publications. In December 2022, she was appointed as a lecturer and master’s supervisor at Jinzhou Medical University. In this role, she has taken on both teaching responsibilities and active research, particularly in the area of plant exosomes and their pharmacological effects. Dr. Guan has successfully mentored graduate students, one of whom has published an SCI Q1-indexed article under her supervision. Her involvement in collaborative research with institutions such as the Liaoning Collaborative Innovation Center further reflects her growing influence in the scientific community and commitment to advancing plant-based biomedical research.

Research Interest 🔬

Dr. Li Guan’s research interests lie at the intersection of plant molecular biology and biomedical science, with a particular focus on the pharmacological effects of plant-derived exosomes and protein signal transduction mechanisms. She is deeply engaged in exploring how plant exosomes—nano-sized vesicles involved in intercellular communication—can influence biological processes and potentially serve as natural drug delivery systems. During her doctoral studies, she concentrated on plant vesicle transport, which laid the groundwork for her continued interest in cellular signaling pathways. Her postdoctoral research expanded into protein signaling within plant nuclear membrane proteins, further enhancing her understanding of intracellular communication. Dr. Guan is especially interested in the potential biomedical applications of plant exosomes, including their role in inflammation, immune modulation, and targeted therapies. Her research aims to bridge the gap between plant science and human health, offering innovative insights into how natural systems can inspire therapeutic advancements in modern medicine.

Research Skill🔎

Dr. Li Guan possesses a diverse set of research skills rooted in molecular biology, biochemistry, and plant science. She is proficient in advanced laboratory techniques such as protein extraction and analysis, gene expression profiling, vesicle isolation, and fluorescence microscopy. Her expertise extends to working with plant-derived exosomes, including their extraction, purification, and functional analysis, which are essential for investigating their pharmacological properties. Dr. Guan also has experience in molecular cloning, Western blotting, and signal transduction assays, particularly in the context of plant nuclear membrane proteins. She demonstrates strong analytical skills in interpreting experimental data and has contributed to peer-reviewed publications in high-impact journals. Additionally, her ability to manage independent research projects, guide graduate students, and collaborate across disciplines highlights her project management and leadership capabilities. Dr. Guan’s combined technical proficiency, scientific curiosity, and commitment to innovation enable her to contribute meaningfully to cutting-edge research in plant-based biomedical applications.

Award and Honor🏆

Dr. Li Guan is an emerging researcher who has begun to gain recognition for her contributions to plant molecular biology and pharmacological research. While she is still in the early stages of her academic career, her work has been acknowledged through the publication of multiple high-impact SCI Q1-indexed articles, which is a notable achievement in the scientific community. She has also successfully filed two patents related to her research, reflecting her focus on innovation and applied science. In addition, her appointment as a lecturer and master’s supervisor at Jinzhou Medical University, along with her editorial role in a scientific journal, highlights the professional trust and respect she has earned. Dr. Guan is an active member of the Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Society, which provides her with opportunities for academic networking and engagement. As her career progresses, she is well-positioned to receive further honors and awards for her valuable scientific contributions.

Conclusion📝

Li Guan is a promising early-career researcher with strong academic credentials, niche research specialization, and quality publications in high-impact journals. Her contribution to the understanding of plant exosomes and protein signaling is commendable and relevant to modern biosciences.

However, for a Best Researcher Award, which typically recognizes sustained excellence and broad impact, the current portfolio may be better suited for categories like:

  • Young Scientist Award

  • Best Research Scholar Award

  • Women Research Award

If citation impact and project volume improve in the coming years, Li Guan would be a stronger contender for the Best Researcher Award. For now, she shows strong potential and a commendable start to her academic career.

Publications Top Noted📚

  • Title: FERONIA interacts with NPL4 to regulate immunity gene mRNA nucleocytoplasmic transport in response to plant immunity

  • Journal: Plant Science

  • Publication Type: Journal Article

  • Year: 2025 (August)

  • DOI: 10.1016/j.plantsci.2025.112545

  • Authors: Li Guan, Peilong Wang, Yongliang Li, Sufang Zhang

  • Citation Count: [Citation data not yet available] (As it is an upcoming 2025 publication, citation count may not yet be recorded in databases)