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

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

Assistant Professor at Graphic Era Deemed to be University, India

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

Professional Profile 

🎓 Education

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

💼 Professional Experience

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

🧠 Research Interests

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

🛠️ Research Skills

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

🏅 Awards and Honors

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

🏁 Conclusion

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

  • Exceptional scholarly output,

  • Substantial editorial and reviewer roles,

  • Recognized leadership in microbiology and plant sciences,

  • National and global contributions to research dissemination.

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

Recommendation: Strongly Recommend for the Excellence in Research Award.

Publications Top Noted

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Mariam Oyedeji Amusa | Botanical Pharmacognosy | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Mariam Oyedeji Amusa | Botanical Pharmacognosy | Best Researcher Award

Postdoctoral Fellow at University of Johannesburg, South Africa

Dr. Mariam Oyedeji Amusa is a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at the University of Johannesburg and a part-time Senior Lecturer at Kampala International University. With a Ph.D. in Botany and Plant Biotechnology, and prior degrees in Pharmacognosy and Plant Science, her research focuses on ethnobotany, phytochemistry, molecular taxonomy, and plant-based drug discovery. She has authored over 18 journal articles, contributed to scholarly books, and actively collaborates with international researchers across Africa, Europe, and Asia. Dr. Amusa has led and facilitated numerous workshops on systematic reviews and meta-analysis, mentored postgraduate students, and contributed to capacity building in African scientific communities. Her work addresses critical global challenges such as antimicrobial resistance, using indigenous knowledge and modern biotechnology. She is a member of professional bodies including the South African Association of Botanists and SACNASP. Her contributions exemplify academic excellence, scientific leadership, and a commitment to sustainable health solutions through plant-based innovations.

Professional Profile 

Education 🎓

Dr. Mariam Oyedeji Amusa holds a Ph.D. in Botany and Plant Biotechnology from the University of Johannesburg, South Africa, where she conducted a multidisciplinary study on the Meliaceae family, integrating systematics, anatomy, and antimicrobial research. She also earned a Master of Science (M.Sc.) degree in Pharmacognosy from the University of Ibadan, Nigeria, with a thesis focused on the antimicrobial properties of Nauclea latifolia. Her foundational academic training includes a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Plant Science from the University of Ilorin, where she studied seed germination and growth variability in cowpea varieties. Her educational background reflects a strong and progressive focus on plant biology, medicinal botany, and natural product research. Throughout her academic journey, Dr. Amusa has developed expertise in diverse areas such as ethnobotany, phytomedicine, molecular biology, and plant taxonomy, forming a solid foundation for her current research in metabolomics, nanotechnology, and drug discovery from natural sources.

Professional Experience 💼

Dr. Mariam Oyedeji Amusa has amassed diverse professional experience across research, teaching, and scientific capacity building. Currently, she serves as a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at the University of Johannesburg, where she conducts advanced studies in plant metabolomics, antimicrobial activities, and systematic reviews. She also holds a part-time position as a Senior Lecturer at Kampala International University, teaching courses such as biostatistics, microbiology, and genetics. Previously, she lectured at the Pan African University and tutored at the University of Johannesburg, where she also mentored postgraduate and undergraduate students, supervised fieldwork, and coordinated practical sessions. Dr. Amusa has contributed to academic development through her roles as a facilitator of workshops on systematic reviews and meta-analysis across Africa. Her early career included work as a Development Knowledge Facilitator during Nigeria’s National Youth Service Corps, where she trained over 400 graduates in entrepreneurship skills. Her experience reflects a strong commitment to research, education, and scientific empowerment.

Research Interest 🔬

Dr. Mariam Oyedeji Amusa’s research interests center on the discovery of plant-based solutions to global health challenges, with a strong emphasis on natural product research, ethnobotany, and biotechnology. Her work focuses on the therapeutic potential of indigenous medicinal plants, particularly in addressing antimicrobial resistance and promoting sustainable health practices. She has a keen interest in nanotechnology, metabolomics, and drug discovery, exploring the biochemical and pharmacological properties of plant secondary metabolites. Dr. Amusa also engages deeply in molecular taxonomy, using genetic and anatomical approaches to understand plant diversity and systematics, particularly in African flora. An advocate for evidence-based practice, she is actively involved in systematic reviews and meta-analyses, employing tools such as RevMan and Rayyan for research synthesis. Her interdisciplinary approach bridges traditional knowledge with modern scientific techniques, aiming to validate and harness the medicinal value of plants. Her ultimate goal is to contribute to integrative and accessible healthcare innovations from natural origins.

Research Skill🔎

Dr. Mariam Oyedeji Amusa possesses a robust set of research skills that span both laboratory and analytical domains, enabling her to conduct high-impact interdisciplinary studies in plant science and pharmacognosy. She is proficient in phytochemical analysis, antimicrobial assays, and toxicity evaluations, which she applies to investigate the medicinal potential of indigenous plants. Her expertise in molecular systematics and taxonomy is supported by advanced techniques in microscopy (LM and SEM) and DNA-based analysis. Dr. Amusa is also highly skilled in plant metabolomics and bioinformatics, using tools such as QGIS, Excel, and GraphPad Prism for data visualization and statistical analysis. She is an experienced facilitator of systematic reviews and meta-analyses, with strong command over research synthesis platforms like Rayyan and RevMan. Additionally, her mentoring and supervision of postgraduate students reflect her ability to guide complex research projects. Her integrative skillset positions her as a versatile researcher capable of bridging traditional knowledge with modern science.

Award and Honor🏆

Dr. Mariam Oyedeji Amusa has earned recognition for her outstanding contributions to botanical research and capacity building in African science communities. While specific awards are not extensively listed in her profile, her selection as a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at the University of Johannesburg itself reflects academic merit and research excellence. She has also served as a facilitator for research capacity development workshops, which underscores her leadership in scientific training and mentorship. Her role as a part-time Senior Lecturer at Kampala International University and past lecturer at Pan African University highlights her continued recognition as a trusted academic in plant science and pharmacognosy. Furthermore, her consistent collaboration with researchers across continents, as well as invitations to contribute to edited scientific volumes, demonstrates the respect she commands in her field. Dr. Amusa’s growing citation metrics, international visibility, and involvement in consultancy projects all reflect professional acknowledgment of her work and emerging global influence.

Conclusion📝

Dr. Mariam Oyefunke Oyedeji Amusa is a strong and promising candidate for the Best Researcher Award, especially considering her interdisciplinary research excellence, global collaborations, and commitment to mentorship and research dissemination across Africa. While there is room for growth in innovation-based outputs and editorial leadership, her profile aligns well with the award’s mission to recognize impactful, globally relevant research in botany and related sciences.

Suggested Category Fit:
✔ Best Researcher Award
✔ Women Research Award (Alternate strong fit)
✔ Excellence in Research Award (If innovation metrics grow further)

Publications Top Noted📚

  • Inclusion of nutritional counseling and mental health services in HIV/AIDS management: A paradigm shift
    EU Alum, EI Obeagu, OPC Ugwu, AO Samson, AO Adepoju, MO Amusa
    2023 – 205 citations

  • Effect of Ethanol leaf extract of Chromolaena odorata on lipid profile of streptozotocin induced diabetic wistar albino rats
    OPC Ugwu, EU Alum, EI Obeagu, MB Okon, PM Aja, AO Samson, MO Amusa
    2023 – 46 citations

  • Effect of Ethanol Leaf extract of Chromolaena odorata on hepatic markers in streptozotocin-induced diabetic wistar albino rats
    OPC Ugwu, EI Obeagu, EU Alum, MB Okon, PM Aja, MO Amusa
    2023 – 27 citations

  • Synthesis and computational investigation of N, N-dimethyl-4-[(Z)-(phenylimino) methyl] aniline derivatives: Biological and quantitative structural activity relationship studies
    I Waziri, MT Kelani, MO Oyedeji-Amusa, AK Oyebamiji, LCC Coetzee, et al.
    2023 – 22 citations

  • Medicinal properties of whole fruit extracts of Nauclea latifolia Smith.: Antimicrobial, antioxidant and hypoglycemic assessments
    MO Oyedeji-Amusa, AOT Ashafa
    2019 – 22 citations

  • The ethnobotany and chemistry of South African Meliaceae: a review
    MO Oyedeji-Amusa, NJ Sadgrove, BE Van Wyk
    2021 – 21 citations

  • Antimicrobial activity and toxicity of extracts from the bark and leaves of South African indigenous Meliaceae against selected pathogens
    MO Oyedeji-Amusa, S Van Vuuren
    2020 – 20 citations

  • Exploring natural plant products in breast cancer management: A comprehensive review and future prospects
    EU Alum, EI Obeagu, OPC Ugwu, OU Orji, AO Adepoju, MO Amusa, et al.
    2023 – 12 citations

  • Wood anatomy of South African Meliaceae: evolutionary and ecological implications
    MO Oyedeji Amusa, BE Van Wyk, A Oskolski
    2020 – 11 citations

  • Ethnoveterinary survey of tradomedical importance of Bos taurus L urine, bile and dung in Nigeria and South Africa
    MO Oyedeji-Amusa, OT Ojuromi, AO Ashafa
    2016 – 10 citations

  • Effect of Ethanol leaf extract of Chromolaena odorata on lipid profile…
    MO Amusa, AOA, OPC Ugwu
    2023 – 10 citations

  • Efficacy and safety of Mazdutide on weight loss among diabetic and non-diabetic patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
    DL Nalisa, N Cuboia, E Dyab, IL Jackson, HJ Felix, P Shoki, M Mubiana, et al.
    2024 – 9 citations

  • A taxonomic review of South African indigenous Meliaceae using molecular systematics and anatomical data
    MO Oyedeji Amusa, RD Stewart, M van der Bank, BE van Wyk
    2024 – 5 citations

  • Medicinal plants used in the treatment of Typhoid fever in Nigeria: A Systematic Review
    M Oyedeji-Amusa, N Cuboia, K Olofinsan
    2024 – 4 citations

  • Comparative investigation of derivatives of (E)-N-((E)-3-phenylallylidene) aniline: Synthesis, structural characterization, biological evaluation, density functional theory …
    I Waziri, MT Kelani, MO Oyedeji-Amusa, AK Oyebamiji, LCC Coetzee, et al.
    2024 – 4 citations

  • Ethnomedicinal importance and antimicrobial activity of Leonotis ocymifolia
    MO Oyedeji-Amusa, SF Van Vuuren, RD Rattray, BE Van Wyk
    2024 – 3 citations

  • Ethnopharmacological survey on medicinal plants utilization in Freetown, Sierra Leone
    A Adepoju, MO Oyedeji-Amusa, O Awotunde, O Ugwu
    2023 – 2 citations

  • Dietary nutrients, antinutritional factors, and valorization of food waste
    AJ Olaseni, M Moses, OA Mariam, SS Oyefunke
    2020 – 1 citation

  • Adoption of Climate Change Adaptation Strategies and Household Food Security of Smallholder Poultry Farmers in Lagos and Ogun states, Nigeria
    SA Abanigbe, P Orowole, MS Ngidi, M Yusuf-Oshoala, TO Ojo, et al.
    2024