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 🔥

Yu Geon Lee | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Yu Geon Lee | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Yu Geon Lee, Korea Food Research Institute, KFRI, South Korea

Dr. Yu Geon Lee is an Assistant Researcher in the Precision Nutrition Research Group at the Korea Food Research Institute (KFRI), Republic of Korea. With a strong background in food science and technology, Dr. Lee focuses on how bioactive compounds from natural sources can influence metabolic and cellular health. His research explores areas such as mitochondrial dynamics, autophagy, lipid metabolism, and nutrikinetics. Dr. Lee is particularly interested in developing functional foods and therapeutic strategies for metabolic diseases and cancer. He has authored numerous peer-reviewed publications in high-impact journals and collaborates extensively across interdisciplinary fields. Known for his contributions to understanding nutritionally-induced cellular responses, Dr. Lee integrates both in vitro and in vivo approaches to examine the health benefits of phytochemicals. His work contributes significantly to advancing precision nutrition and promoting health through diet. He is committed to innovation at the intersection of nutrition, cellular biology, and disease prevention.

Publication Profile

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Education

Dr. Yu Geon Lee completed all his higher education at Chonnam National University in South Korea. He earned his Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Food Science and Technology in 2011, where he developed a foundational understanding of food composition, safety, and processing. Building on this, he pursued a Master of Science (M.S.) in the same field, completing it in 2013, with a focus likely on early-stage research in food biochemistry and nutrition. He went on to obtain his Ph.D. in 2016 in Food Science and Technology, specializing in cellular metabolism and the health impacts of functional food components. His academic training prepared him to integrate laboratory techniques with applied nutrition science, leading to his current research pursuits in nutrikinetics, mitochondrial biology, and anti-metabolic disease strategies. Throughout his studies, he demonstrated strong academic excellence and research capability in biochemical and molecular nutrition.

Experience

Dr. Yu Geon Lee currently serves as an Assistant Researcher at the Precision Nutrition Research Group, Korea Food Research Institute (KFRI), where he explores the molecular mechanisms by which nutrients and natural compounds influence human metabolism and health. With nearly a decade of experience in cellular and molecular nutrition research, he has developed expertise in studying insulin resistance, lipid accumulation, and mitochondrial function. Dr. Lee has led and contributed to numerous research projects involving cell metabolism, nutrikinetics, and anticancer agents, using state-of-the-art biochemical and molecular tools. His professional journey also includes mentoring junior researchers and collaborating with cross-functional teams on national and international research initiatives. Dr. Lee’s role at KFRI involves not only conducting experiments but also publishing results in reputed journals and contributing to Korea’s advancement in food science and health-oriented food products. His commitment reflects a balanced blend of academic insight and translational research application.

Awards and Honors

While the provided document does not list specific awards or honors, Dr. Yu Geon Lee’s impressive publication record and research contributions suggest he is a recognized figure in the field of food science and precision nutrition. Being consistently published in top-tier international journals such as Molecular Nutrition & Food Research, Cells, International Journal of Molecular Sciences, and Molecular Cell, speaks to the academic and research excellence he upholds. His involvement in impactful studies such as the regulation of mitochondrial respiration, insulin resistance, and autophagy in metabolic diseases positions him as a valuable contributor in biomedical nutrition science. He may also be a recipient of internal institutional recognitions or project grants, often awarded by KFRI or national research foundations, though specific titles are not listed. His growing influence is evident through collaborative publications and leadership in projects concerning natural bioactive compounds and disease prevention mechanisms.

Research Focus

Dr. Yu Geon Lee’s research centers on the interplay between nutrition and cellular metabolism, with a special focus on mitochondrial function, insulin resistance, lipid homeostasis, and autophagy. He studies how natural compounds—including bioactives from Glycyrrhiza uralensis, Schisandra chinensis, and other plants—affect cellular signaling pathways such as IRS/PI3K/Akt, AMPK, and PCSK9 regulation. A key part of his work involves nutrikinetics, understanding how food-derived molecules are absorbed, distributed, metabolized, and excreted (ADME). Dr. Lee is also interested in the role of mitochondrial stress responses in metabolic diseases and cancer progression. His holistic approach integrates molecular biology, biochemistry, and nutritional sciences to design precision nutrition strategies that can be used for disease prevention and treatment. By targeting specific pathways involved in metabolic dysfunction and inflammation, Dr. Lee’s work supports the development of functional foods and nutraceuticals aimed at promoting metabolic health and longevity.

Publication Top Notes

  1. 📊 Improvement of Glucose Metabolism by Pennogenin 3-O-β-Chacotrioside via IRS/PI3K/Akt Signaling and Mitochondrial Respiration in Insulin-Resistant HepatocytesMol. Nutr. Food Res. (2025)

  2. 🔬 Tomatine Improves Glucose Metabolism and Mitochondrial Respiration via AMPK in Insulin-Resistant Hepatocyte Cell LinesCells (2025)

  3. 🌿 Licochalcone D from Glycyrrhiza uralensis Improves High-Glucose-Induced Insulin Resistance in HepatocytesIJMS (2024)

  4. 🧴 Natural Product-Derived Compounds Targeting Keratinocytes and Pathways in Psoriasis TherapeuticsIJMS (2024)

  5. 🔋 Pennogenin 3-O-β-Chacotrioside Attenuates Lipid Accumulation by Enhancing Mitochondrial Oxidative CapacityIJMS (2024)

  6. ❤️ Schisandrin A Upregulates LDL Receptor by Inhibiting PCSK9 Stabilization in Steatotic ModelJ. Microbiol. Biotechnol. (2024)

  7. 💊 Capsella bursa-pastoris Extract Mitigates Doxorubicin-Induced Cardiotoxicity via Antioxidant Enzyme UpregulationIJMS (2023)

  8. ⚖️ Anti-Obesity Effects of Glycyrrhiza uralensis Ethanol Extract in High-Fat Diet-Induced MiceKorean J. Food Preserv. (2023)

  9. 🔥 Patulin Ameliorates Lipid Accumulation and Inflammatory Response by Modulating Mitochondrial RespirationAntioxidants (2023)

  10. 🍷 Patulin Alleviates Hepatic Lipid Accumulation by Regulating Lipogenesis and Mitochondrial RespirationLife Sciences (2023)

  11. 🧬 Role of Mitochondrial Stress Response in Cancer ProgressionCells (2022)

  12. 🧫 SREBP-1c Impairs ULK1 Sulfhydration-Mediated Autophagy, Promoting Hepatic SteatosisMolecular Cell (2021)

Mudasir Hafiz Khan | Plant Breeding | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Mudasir Hafiz Khan | Plant Breeding | Best Researcher Award

Scientist at Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir, India

Dr. Mudasir Hafiz Khan is a distinguished academic with a robust background in Genetics and Plant Breeding. He earned his MSc in Agriculture with a thesis on genetic variability, diversity, and traits association in eggplant in 2003, and completed his PhD focusing on induced mutagenesis and cytogenetic studies in soybean in 2008. He has also qualified for the National Eligibility Test (ASRB) in 2010 and holds a life fellowship at the Directorate of Genetics and Plant Breeding, IASR. Dr. Khan’s professional journey includes serving as an Assistant Professor-cum-Jr. Scientist at the Division of Genetics and Plant Breeding at Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir, and various other roles such as Agriculture Extension Assistant and Technical Associate. His research contributions have been recognized with multiple awards, including the Best Thesis of the Year, the Carl Linnaeus Research Award in Botany, the Young Scientist Award, and several appreciation awards for his innovative work in saffron production technologies.

Professional Profiles:

📚 Education:

Dr. Mudasir Hafiz Khan has an extensive background in agriculture, with a focus on genetics and plant breeding. He obtained his MSc in Agriculture, specializing in Genetics and Plant Breeding, in 2003. His master’s thesis was titled “Genetic variability, diversity, and traits association of yield and quality components in eggplant (Solanum melongena L.).” Dr. Khan furthered his education by earning a PhD in Genetics and Plant Breeding in 2008, with his thesis focused on “Induced mutagenesis and cytogenetic studies in soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merrill.].” In 2010, Dr. Khan qualified for the National Eligibility Test (ASRB), demonstrating his proficiency and expertise in the field. He is a Fellow and Life Member of the Directorate of Genetics and Plant Breeding at IASR. Notably, Dr. Khan has contributed to the development of DUS (Distinctness, Uniformity, and Stability) testing guidelines for Saffron and Kalazeera, showcasing his commitment to advancing agricultural practices and standards.

Professional Experience:

Dr. Mudasir Hafiz Khan has amassed significant postdoctoral experience, marked by various academic and research positions. Since August 8, 2021, he has been serving as an Assistant Professor-cum-Junior Scientist (Senior Scale) in the Division of Genetics and Plant Breeding at Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir, Shalimar, Srinagar (J&K). Prior to this, from August 8, 2017, to August 8, 2021, he held the position of Assistant Professor-cum-Junior Scientist at the same division and institution. Before his tenure as an assistant professor, Dr. Khan worked as an Agriculture Extension Assistant from December 25, 2013, to August 7, 2017, at the Department of Agriculture Kashmir, Lal Mandi, Srinagar (J&K). His early postdoctoral roles also include serving as a Technical Associate from May 24, 2012, to December 24, 2013, on the project “In-vitro development of micro corms and stigma-like structures in saffron” at the Central Institute of Temperate Horticulture, Indian Council of Agricultural Research, Srinagar. Additionally, he was a Research Associate from November 10, 2009, to May 23, 2012, working on the “Integrated farming system in Horticulture” at the Division of Agronomy, SKUAST-K, Shalimar.

Teaching Experience:

Dr. Mudasir Hafiz Khan has extensive experience in teaching both undergraduate and postgraduate courses. At the undergraduate level, he has taught a variety of courses including Plant Tissue Culture and Genetic Transformation, Floral Biology, Seed Development and Maturation, Seed Legislation and Certification, In-situ and Ex-situ Conservation of Germplasm, Breeding for Field Crops-1, Principles of Plant Breeding, Seed Production in Field Crops, DUS Testing for Plant Variety Protection, Principles of Plant Breeding (Backlog Course), Principles of Cytogenetics, Advances in Seed Science Research, Hybrid Seed Production, Principles of Seed Technology, Breeding Designer Crops, Principles of Seed Production, and Seed Quality Testing. In addition to his teaching duties, Dr. Khan has also guided and advised several students in their research. He has served as the major advisor for two M.Sc. Agriculture (Genetics & Plant Breeding) students. Furthermore, he has been a member of the advisory committee for six M.Sc. Agriculture/Horticulture students and two Ph.D. students specializing in Genetics & Plant Breeding and Fruit Sciences. His mentorship has been instrumental in the academic and research development of his students.

Honors and Awards:

Dr. Mudasir Hafiz Khan has received numerous awards and honors in recognition of his contributions to the field of genetics and plant breeding. He was awarded the Best Thesis of the Year by the Directorate of Genetics and Plant Breeding, International Agency for Standards and Ratings. In 2016, he received the prestigious ‘Carl Linnaeus Research Award in Botany’ through an international competition by Photon eBooks Publications. In 2017, he was honored with the ‘Young Scientist Award’ by LAP Lambert Academic Publishing, OMNIScriptum GmbH & Co. KG Bahnhofstr. 28/D-66111 Saarbrucken. Dr. Khan’s efforts have also led to the Geographical Indications Tag for Kashmiri Saffron. He was honored with an Appreciation Award by the Advisor to LG Jenab Bashir Ahmad Khan for his promotion of saffron production technologies. The Hon’ble Vice Chancellor of SKUAST-Kashmir awarded him an Appreciation Certificate for his development of technologies such as “Indoor Saffron Cultivation” and “Saffron Kalazeera Intercropping” during a Felicitation Ceremony organized by the Directorate of Research SKUAST-K on January 1, 2022. His research work has earned him several accolades, including the Best Poster Presentation (1st prize) for his work titled “Indoor Saffron Cultivation – A novel Technology for Vertical Expansion of Saffron” at the International Conference on Saffron and Seed Spices held on November 7-8, 2021, organized by ARSSSS, SKUAST-Kashmir. He also received the Best Oral Presentation (1st prize) at the IV International Symposium on “Saffron Biology and Technology” held on October 22-25, 2012, at SKUAST-Kashmir. Additionally, he was honored with an Appreciation Letter from the Project Coordinator AICRP Spices on December 15, 2021, for his outstanding research work in saffron and Kalazeera. From October 4, 2017, to October 3, 2021, Dr. Khan served as the Academic Editor of the Research Journal “International Journal of Biochemistry Research and Review.

📚Publications :

Correlation and path coefficient analysis of some quantitative traits in wheat
Authors: MH Khan, AN Dar
Citations: 150
Year: 2010

Effect of Sowing Methods and NPK Levels on Growth and Yield of Rainfed Maize (Zea mays L.)
Authors: S Gul, MH Khan, BA Khanday, S Nabi
Citations: 130
Year: 2015

Status and strategies in breeding for rust resistance in wheat
Authors: MH Khan, A Bukhari, ZA Dar, SM Rizvi
Citations: 106
Year: 2013

Yield stability of some soybean genotypes across diverse environments
Authors: SS Alghamdi
Citations: 91
Year: 2004

Breeding strategies for improving rice yield—a review
Authors: MH Khan, ZA Dar, SA Dar
Citations: 90
Year: 2015

Studies on genetic variability and interrelationship among the different traits in microsperma lentil (Lens culinaris Medik.)
Authors: SD Tyagi, MH Khan
Citations: 83
Year: 2010

Production of nitrogen fixing Azotobacter (SR-4) and phosphorus solubilizing Aspergillus niger and their evaluation on Lagenaria siceraria and Abelmoschus esculentus
Authors: M Din, R Nelofer, M Salman, FH Khan, A Khan, M Ahmad, F Jalil, JU Din, …
Citations: 75
Year: 2019

Studies on effectiveness and efficiency of gamma rays, EMS and their combination in soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merrill)
Authors: MH Khan, SD Tyagi
Citations: 61
Year: 2010

Correlation, path-coefficient and genetic diversity in lentil (Lens culinaris Medik) under rainfed conditions
Authors: SD Tyagi, MH Khan
Citations: 60
Year: 2011

New emerging trends on production technology of saffron
Authors: FA Nehvi, SA Wani, SA Dar, MI Makhdoomi, BA Allie, ZA Mir
Citations: 60
Year: 2006