Zeineb JRAD | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Zeineb JRAD | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Assist. Prof. Dr Zeineb JRAD, Higher Institute of Applied Biology/ Livestock and Wildlife Laboratory-IRA, Tunisia

Dr. Zeineb Jrad is a dedicated food biotechnologist and researcher from Tunisia, currently serving as Maitre-assistant d’enseignement supérieur and Head of the Agro-food Department at the Institut Supérieur de Biologie Appliquée de Médenine. With a strong background in biological sciences and biotechnology, her research primarily focuses on antimicrobial peptides from camel milk and the bio-preservation of dairy products. She has contributed to numerous national and international projects, including PRIMA, ARIMNET, and PHC Utique, and has published 28 peer-reviewed papers, including 22 in indexed journals. Zeineb holds a notable h-index of 12 on Scopus and is recognized for her innovations, including a national patent for a camel milk-derived dairy product. She actively participates in scientific workshops, congresses, and collaborative research stays across Europe. Her work bridges traditional food technology and modern biotechnological approaches to improve food quality, safety, and sustainability in arid and Mediterranean ecosystems.

Publication Profile

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🎓 Education

Dr. Zeineb Jrad earned her Doctorate in Sciences Biologiques et Biotechnologie from the Institut Supérieur de Biotechnologie de Monastir, Tunisia. Her PhD research was focused on the “Identification, characterization, and exploitation of antimicrobial activity of peptides derived from camel milk.” She later completed her Postdoctoral Fellowship (2020–2021) at the Laboratoire d’élevage et faune sauvage, Institut des Régions Arides, Médenine, as part of the international ARIMNET2 “AROMATIC” project. Zeineb has also participated in several research stays, including at BioDyMiA Laboratory, Université Lyon 1 – ISARA Lyon (France), Platform ASIA at Université de Lorraine (France), and Centro Tecnologico de la Carne (Spain). Her academic journey reflects a strong commitment to integrating scientific innovation with traditional food technologies. Through continuous training in areas like ISO 9001, food safety, market analysis, and experimental design, she has strengthened her foundation in both the scientific and practical aspects of food biotechnology.

💼 Experience

Dr. Zeineb Jrad currently holds the position of Assistant Professor in Food Industry and Head of the Agro-Food Department at the Institut Supérieur de Biologie Appliquée de Médenine. She was previously engaged in the MOBIDOC project (2018–2020) with Société Crèmerie Général de Djerba and has collaborated on several national and international initiatives. Her professional journey includes participation in the PROCAMED project and leadership roles in educational development, such as the PAQ initiative for improving food science teaching. In addition to teaching and departmental responsibilities, she has contributed extensively to the organization of scientific workshops and conferences. Zeineb’s practical knowledge in dairy product innovation and research dissemination, coupled with her technical training in ultrafiltration, food additives, and traditional dairy production, makes her a prominent figure in the Tunisian agro-food sector. Her career combines research, teaching, field application, and international collaboration, enriching both academic and industry perspectives.

🏆 Honors and Awards

Dr. Zeineb Jrad’s work has been recognized through various national and international research projects and distinctions. She is the co-holder of a national patent titled “Préparation d’un produit lacté à base du lait de dromadaire ultrafiltré supplémenté à la poudre de datte” (N°026120, INNORPI Tunisia). Her contribution to the PAQ and PEJC projects highlights her commitment to educational reform and food preservation. She has also been a key contributor to several European and Mediterranean collaborative initiatives, including PRIMA, PHC UTIQUE, and ARIMNET2, where she worked on sustainable food systems and biopreservation. Zeineb has presented her findings through 10 posters, 18 oral communications, and has organized multiple scientific workshops and congresses. Her recognition in international forums and affiliations with prestigious platforms such as Scopus (h-index 12), ResearchGate, and Web of Science reflects her reputation and leadership in food biotechnology, especially in arid and Mediterranean contexts.

🔬 Research Focus

Dr. Zeineb Jrad’s research focuses on bioactive compounds, antimicrobial peptides, and biopreservation of dairy products, with a strong emphasis on camel and goat milk. Her work integrates traditional food processes like fermentation with modern techniques such as ultrafiltration to enhance food safety, quality, and shelf-life. She actively explores the biological activities of milk proteins, including alpha-lactalbumin and its hydrolysates. Zeineb has been involved in the development of functional dairy products, reformulation of meat products using camel meat, and comparative studies on microbial behavior in different milk sources. Her interdisciplinary research combines food chemistry, microbiology, biotechnology, and sustainability, aiming to support small-scale producers and rural economies. She also contributes to the valorization of local animal resources and the innovation of artisanal fermented foods under projects such as PRIMA, PROCAMED, and AROMATIC. Her vision is to create safe, nutritious, and culturally rooted food systems through innovative biotechnological applications.

📚 Publications

  1. Effects of Operational Parameters Variation During Ultrafiltration Process on Goat Skim Milk (GSM) Concentration for Cheese Elaboration – Processes (2025) 🧀🔬

  2. The characterization of Lactobacillus strains in camel and bovine milk during fermentation: A comparison study – Heliyon (2024) 🐪🥛

  3. Reformulation of Tunisian Sun-Dried Merguez with Camel Meat: Characterization of Physicochemical and Compositional Changes – Foods (2024) 🌶️🥩

  4. Physico-chemical and antioxidant characteristics of goat milk kefir stored at refrigerated temperature – Journal of Food Measurement and Characterization (2022) ❄️🥛
    (Remaining 24 titles not provided; available upon request)

Hajar Pakyari | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Research Article Award

Hajar Pakyari | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Research Article Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr Hajar Pakyari, Islamic Azad University, Iran

Dr. Hajar Pakyari, born on September 16, 1981, in Shiraz, Iran, is an esteemed Associate Professor of Agricultural Entomology at the Islamic Azad University, Takestan Branch. With a dedicated career spanning over 18 years, she specializes in the biological control of agricultural pests, particularly focusing on the predatory thrips Scolothrips longicornis and its role in managing spider mite populations. As a pioneer female scientist in her field, she has been recognized as the youngest female Associate Professor in Iran and the first in Qazvin Province. Dr. Pakyari has contributed substantially through her research publications, book authorship, international conference presentations, and leadership roles, including heading the Department of Plant Protection. Her scientific excellence is acknowledged worldwide through various editorial responsibilities, such as her position as a Subject Editor for the Bulletin of Entomological Research. She continues to inspire through her impactful work in sustainable pest management and applied entomology.

Publication Profile

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🎓 Education

Dr. Hajar Pakyari holds a robust academic background in Plant Protection and Entomology. She completed her Bachelor of Science in Plant Protection from the Islamic Azad University, Shiraz Branch (1999–2002). Subsequently, she pursued her Master of Science in Entomology at the Islamic Azad University, Tehran Branch (2003–2005), where her thesis focused on the species diversity of soil mites in Sorkheh Hesar Forest Park. Driven by her passion for integrated pest management, she advanced to obtain her Ph.D. in Entomology from the same institution (2005–2008), where she investigated the efficiency of the predatory thrips Scolothrips longicornis in controlling Tetranychus urticae under controlled conditions. Her academic journey laid a strong foundation for her expertise in pest control, biological diversity, and ecological studies of beneficial arthropods, establishing her as a specialist in agricultural entomology.

💼 Experience

Dr. Pakyari began her professional career as a full-time Faculty Member at the Department of Plant Protection, Islamic Azad University, Takestan Branch in 2006, where she currently serves as an Associate Professor and Head of Department. From 2006 to 2008, she was also a Visiting Lecturer at the Science & Research Branch in Tehran. Her professional engagements include leadership as the Deputy of the Islamic World Women Scientists Network (2009–2024) and editorial duties as Subject Editor of the Bulletin of Entomological Research. She has managed several research projects on biological control, pest management, and pesticide effects on beneficial insects. Dr. Pakyari’s extensive peer-reviewing activity for renowned journals demonstrates her influence in the global entomological community. Additionally, she has shared her findings at key international congresses in countries such as the Netherlands, Tunisia, Thailand, and the USA, reinforcing her status as a leader in agricultural pest control research.

🏆 Honors and Awards

Dr. Hajar Pakyari’s outstanding scientific contributions have earned her multiple prestigious recognitions. She was honored as the Youngest Female Associate Professor in Iran and the first in Qazvin Province. Her pioneering research efforts led to her selection as Top Researcher of the Year at the Takestan Branch and the Young Researchers Club (2009), along with repeated recognitions in 2011, 2012, 2018, and 2024 at her university. As a long-standing member of the Elite Club of Young Researchers since 2001, Dr. Pakyari exemplifies academic excellence and leadership. Furthermore, she was acclaimed as the Provincial Top Researcher in Qazvin in 2020, underscoring her significant impact on regional agricultural advancements. These awards reflect her deep commitment to entomological science, particularly in biological pest management, making her a role model for aspiring researchers in Iran and globally.

🔬 Research Focus

Dr. Hajar Pakyari’s research primarily revolves around biological pest control, with an emphasis on the predatory efficiency of thrips (Scolothrips longicornis) against spider mites (Tetranychus urticae) under varied environmental conditions. Her studies investigate factors such as temperature, photoperiod, and pesticide impacts on the life cycle, fecundity, and predatory behavior of beneficial arthropods. She has also contributed to understanding functional response models, development thresholds, and sublethal pesticide effects on beneficial mites and insects, aiming to enhance integrated pest management (IPM) programs. Additionally, Dr. Pakyari’s research extends to evaluating the influence of abiotic factors such as light wavelengths and heat stress on predator-prey dynamics. Her work bridges the gap between theoretical models and applied agricultural practices, ensuring ecological safety and sustainability. Through national and international collaborations, she continues to pioneer innovative approaches for pest management in crop protection systems.

📚 Publications

1️⃣ Effect of temperature on life-table parameters of Scolothrips longicornis fed on Tetranychus urticae 🌿
2️⃣ Estimating Development and Temperature Thresholds of Scolothrips longicornis Using Models 🔬
3️⃣ Effect of temperature on consumption of Tetranychus urticae eggs by Scolothrips longicornis 🥚
4️⃣ Temperature-dependent functional response of Scolothrips longicornis preying on Tetranychus urticae 🌱
5️⃣ Prey stage preference of Scolothrips longicornis on Tetranychus urticae 🍃
6️⃣ Mutual interference of Scolothrips longicornis on Tetranychus urticae 🕷️
7️⃣ No choice prey stage preference and functional response of Scolothrips longicornis 🧩
8️⃣ Development Rate of Scolothrips longicornis at Various Temperatures 🌡️
9️⃣ The biology, life table and predation of Scolothrips longicornis fed on Tetranychus urticae 🦟
🔟 Spatial distribution pattern of Tetranychus urticae and its predator Scolothrips longicornis 🗺️
1️⃣1️⃣ Species diversity of soil mites in Sorkheh Hesar Forest Park 🌳
1️⃣2️⃣ First report of genus Evimirus for Iran 🇮🇷
1️⃣3️⃣ Oviposition model of Scolothrips longicornis on Tetranychus urticae 🐣
1️⃣4️⃣ Development and Life Table of Tyrophagus putrescentiae on Mushroom 🍄
1️⃣5️⃣ Influence of temperature and host plant on Tetranychus urticae development 🌾
1️⃣6️⃣ Effect of temperature on reproduction of Scolothrips longicornis 🥚
1️⃣7️⃣ Development time and fecundity of Two-Spotted Spider Mite 🍃
1️⃣8️⃣ Functional response of predatory thrips under pesticide influence ☠️
1️⃣9️⃣ Lethal and sublethal effects of Fenpropathrin on Scolothrips longicornis 💀
2️⃣0️⃣ Sublethal and transgenerational effects of Abamectin on Scolothrips longicornis 🧬
2️⃣1️⃣ Temperature effects on Eotetranychus hirsti development on fig leaves 🍂
2️⃣2️⃣ Cannibalism in phytoseiid mites 🕸️
2️⃣3️⃣ Sublethal pesticide effects on Scolothrips longicornis feeding behavior ⚠️
2️⃣4️⃣ Sublethal pesticide effects on Cryptolaemus montrouzieri 🐞
2️⃣5️⃣ Spirodiclofen effects on Scolothrips longicornis 🧪
2️⃣6️⃣ Oviposition model of Ephestia kuehniella 🦋
2️⃣7️⃣ Development of pale damsel bug under temperature variations 🔥❄️
2️⃣8️⃣ Repellency of plant extracts on storage pests 🌿
2️⃣9️⃣ Mealybug avoidance of ladybird semiochemicals 🐞
3️⃣0️⃣ Development thresholds of Ephestia kuehniella for mass production 🏭
3️⃣1️⃣ Light cycle effects on Ephestia kuehniella in the lab 💡
3️⃣2️⃣ Photoperiod effects on Scolothrips longicornis life table 🌙
3️⃣3️⃣ Life table of Ephestia kuehniella at constant temperatures 📊
3️⃣4️⃣ Cold storage effects on Scolothrips longicornis 🧊
3️⃣5️⃣ Wavelength impact on Scolothrips longicornis development 🌈
3️⃣6️⃣ Predation rate of Scolothrips longicornis on Tetranychus urticae 🐜
3️⃣7️⃣ Light wavelength effects on Phytoseiulus persimilis 🌓
3️⃣8️⃣ Photoperiod effects on Phytoseiulus persimilis population growth 🌞
3️⃣9️⃣ Fenpyroximate effects on Scolothrips longicornis toxicity evaluation ⚠️
4️⃣0️⃣ Temperature impact on mass production of Scolothrips longicornis 🌡️
4️⃣1️⃣ Light cycles affecting predation of Phytoseiulus persimilis 🌅
4️⃣2️⃣ Heat stress effects on Phytoseiulus persimilis demographics 🔥

Ashish Kumar Singhi | Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Ashish Kumar Singhi | Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Scientist at ICAR-Vivekananda Parvatiya Krishi Anusandhan Sansthan, Almora, India

Dr. Ashish Kumar Singh is a distinguished professional in the field of nematology and agricultural research, renowned for his expertise and contributions. With a solid educational foundation including a Ph.D. in Nematology from ICAR – Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, he has garnered extensive experience and recognition in his field. Throughout his career, Dr. Singh has excelled in nematode biodiversity assessment, management under protected cultivation, and insect pest management. His research spans critical areas such as entomopathogenic nematodes, bacterial genomics, and the impact of fertilization on soil nematodes, emphasizing sustainable agricultural practices and soil health management.

Professional Profiles:

📚 Education:

Dr. Ashish Kumar Singh has an extensive educational background in agricultural sciences with a strong focus on nematology. He graduated with a B.Sc. in Agriculture from UPAC, Varanasi, India, from 2008 to 2012. Following this, he pursued an M.Sc. in Nematology at ICAR-IARI, New Delhi, India, from 2013 to 2015, specializing in plant pathology, plant biotechnology, and nematology. Dr. Singh further advanced his expertise by earning a Doctorate (Ph.D.) in Nematology from ICAR-IARI, New Delhi, India, between 2015 and 2021. During his doctoral studies, he worked on significant research projects including the evaluation of root knot nematode responsive promoters against important plant parasitic nematodes, and the draft genome of the seed gall nematode (Anguina tritici, Steinbuch, 1799). Dr. Singh possesses a diverse skill set encompassing nematology, plant pathology, molecular biology, biotechnology, and bioinformatics. His research and academic pursuits highlight his commitment to advancing agricultural sciences and addressing critical issues in plant health and nematode management. With practical experience in agriculture and rural settings, Dr. Singh’s work contributes significantly to the understanding and management of plant parasitic nematodes. You can follow his professional updates and research activities on Twitter at @ashishnematode.

Professional Experience:

Dr. Ashish Kumar Singh has garnered substantial professional experience in various facets of agricultural research and nematode management. Since July 2022, he has been working as a Scientist (Senior Scale) at ICAR-Vivekananda Parvatiya Krishi Anusandhan Sansthan, Almora. In this role, Dr. Singh focuses on nematode biodiversity assessment, nematode management under protected cultivation, insect pest management, and entomopathogenic nematodes. He also delves into bacterial genomics, white grub gut bacterial metagenomics, and the long-term impact of fertilization on soil nematodes, examining nematodes as indicators of soil health. Before his current position, from July 2018 to July 2022, Dr. Singh served as a Scientist at the same institution. His contributions during this period were crucial in advancing the understanding and management of nematodes and other related agricultural issues. In July 2018, Dr. Singh attended the 108th Foundation Course for Agricultural Research Service (FOCARS) at the ICAR-National Academy of Agricultural Research Management, Hyderabad. This three-month training program was designed to enhance the competencies of research management through various components and modules, equipping Dr. Singh with essential skills and knowledge for his scientific career. Dr. Singh’s professional journey reflects his dedication to improving agricultural practices and managing nematode-related challenges. His expertise and research continue to play a significant role in the field of agricultural science, particularly in the areas of nematode management and soil health.

Awards and Honors:

Dr. Ashish Kumar Singh has received numerous awards and honors throughout his academic and professional career, reflecting his significant contributions to the field of nematology and agricultural research. In February 2022, he was honored with the “Best Oral Presentation” award by the Phytopathological Society of India, New Delhi. This recognition was for presenting a research paper at the National Symposium on “Recent Trends in Phytopathology to Address Emerging Challenges for Achieving Food Security.” His outstanding presentation highlighted his research’s relevance and impact in addressing phytopathological challenges. Dr. Singh also won the “First Prize” from the State Department of Uttarakhand for an institute tableau display on Republic Day, showcasing his commitment to community engagement and public education. In March 2022, he was recognized as the “Best Trainee” at a capacity-building workshop in Nematode taxonomy and a satellite symposium on Advances in Nematology, hosted by the Department of Zoology, CCS University, Meerut, in collaboration with DRDO. This award underscored his expertise and excellence in the specialized field of nematode taxonomy. His academic journey was marked by securing a “Junior Research Fellowship” from the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), New Delhi, for pursuing an M.Sc. in Nematology from 2013 to 2015. He continued to excel by obtaining an “ICAR Senior Research Fellowship” from ICAR, New Delhi, for his Ph.D. studies in Nematology. Additionally, Dr. Singh was awarded the prestigious “IARI Meritorious Scholarship” from ICAR – Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, for his Ph.D. studies. Dr. Singh successfully passed the “National Eligibility Test (NET)” conducted by the Agricultural Scientists Recruitment Board (ASRB), New Delhi, further establishing his qualifications and readiness for a career in agricultural research. His research excellence was also recognized with the “Best Research Presentation Award” by the Nematological Society of India.

 

📚Publications :

Unveiling the Draft Genome of the Seed Gall Nematode, Anguina tritici: Insights and Analysis

Journal: Physiological and Molecular Plant Pathology

Date: June 2024

DOI: 10.1016/j.pmpp.2024.102330

Citations:

Authors: Ashish Kumar Singh

A Draft Transcriptome Announcement of Anguina tritici

Journal: Journal of Nematology

Date: March 2024

DOI: 10.2478/jofnem-2024-0007

Citations:

Authors: Ashish Kumar Singh

Detection of Meloidogyne graminicola (RRKN) in Kumaon region of the Indian Himalayas

Journal: The Indian Journal of Agricultural Sciences

Date: August 2023

DOI: 10.56093/ijas.v93i7.135351

Citations:

Authors: Ashish Kumar Singh

Unravelling geospatial distribution and genetic diversity of greenhouse whitefly, Trialeurodes vaporariorum (Westwood) from Himalayan Region

Journal: Scientific Reports

Date: July 2023

DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-37781-y

Citations:

Authors: Ashish Kumar Singh

Collective effect of host delivered RNAi splicing factor and integrase gene on the reproductive potential of root-knot nematode (Meloidogyne incognita)

Journal: The Pharma Innovation Journal

Date: May 2023

Citations:

Authors: Ashish Kumar Singh

Nematode Genome Announcement: A Draft Genome of Seed Gall Nematode, Anguina tritici

Journal: Journal of Nematology

Date: February 2023

DOI: 10.2478/jofnem-2023-0031

Citations:

Authors: Ashish Kumar Singh

Molecular characterization of necromenic nematode Pristionchus pacificus and associated bacteria: A new record

Journal:

Date: October 2022

Citations:

Authors: Ashish Kumar Singh

Chitosan and chitosan-based nanoparticles for eco-friendly management of plant diseases and insect pests: a concentric overview

Publication Type: Book Chapter

Book Title: Role of Chitosan and Chitosan-Based Nanomaterials in Plant Sciences

Date: 2022

DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-323-85391-0.00003-4

Citations:

Authors: Ashish Kumar Singh

Understanding the Relationship Between Pesticide Residue and Rhizospheric Process in Soil Ecosystems

Journal: Climate Change and Environmental Sustainability

Date: 2022

Volume: 10, Issue 2

Pages: 123-131

Citations:

Authors: Ashish Kumar Singh

Role of Plant-Associated Microbes in Phytoremediation of Heavy Metal Polluted Soils

Publication Type: Book Chapter

Book Title: Heavy Metal Toxicity in Plants

Date: November 2021

DOI: 10.1201/9781003155089-12

Citations:

Authors: Ashish Kumar Singh

Conferring root-knot nematode resistance via host-delivered RNAi-mediated silencing of four Mi-msp genes in Arabidopsis

Journal: Plant Science

Date: 2020

DOI: 10.1016/j.plantsci.2020.110592

EID: 2-s2.0-85087791294

Citations:

Authors: Ashish Kumar Singh