Dr, Gorgan University of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, Iran
Dr. Mostafa Koozegar Kaleji is an emerging voice in agroecology and sustainable agriculture. With a Ph.D. from Gorgan University of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, he combines academic research with practical expertise in field management and agricultural innovation. His work bridges plant physiology, soil-plant interactions, and ecosystem services, aiming to optimize food systems while preserving biodiversity. Beyond his publications in high-impact journals, Dr. Kaleji has co-authored several books addressing cultivation techniques and pest management. His role as an Agricultural Specialist in Mazandaran has strengthened his applied research capabilities, ensuring that scientific findings translate into sustainable agricultural practices. Fluent in Persian and English, he actively contributes to global discussions on agroecology.
Profile
Orcid
🎓 Education
Dr. Kaleji holds a Ph.D. in Agriculture specializing in Agroecology from Gorgan University of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources (2018–2023). His doctoral research delved into sustainable farming systems and plant-soil dynamics. He previously earned his M.Sc. in Agroecology from the Islamic Azad University, Karaj Branch (2012–2014), where he explored organic farming and ecosystem services. His academic journey began with a B.Sc. in Agronomy and Plant Breeding from Islamic Azad University, Qaemshahr Branch (2007–2011), focusing on crop genetic improvement and field management. This strong educational foundation has enabled Dr. Kaleji to develop a multi-disciplinary approach to agroecological research, blending theory with practice to address modern agricultural challenges.
🏢 Professional Experience
Dr. Mostafa Koozegar Kaleji brings over two decades of professional expertise to his research. Since 2013, he has served as an Agricultural Specialist and Production Manager for the Jahad-e-Agriculture Organization, Mazandaran Province, overseeing modernization initiatives in crop production. Previously, he conducted research on cotton cultivars at the Cotton Research Institute (2002–2003), enhancing the region’s fiber crop resilience. From 2001 to 2012, he worked as an Agricultural Expert for the Babolsar Defense Organization, managing large-scale cultivation and harvest programs. His dual engagement in applied and academic settings enables him to bridge gaps between research innovations and field-level applications, fostering sustainable agricultural advancements.
🔬 Research Focus
Dr. Kaleji’s research lies at the intersection of agroecology, sustainable agriculture, plant physiology, soil-plant interactions, and ecosystem services. He investigates how plant-microbial symbioses and ecological management practices improve crop performance, resource-use efficiency, and environmental sustainability. His current work emphasizes biofertilizers like mycorrhizal fungi and Azotobacter to reduce chemical inputs and enhance plant health under varying planting densities. His interest in modeling and simulation tools like DSSAT and spatial analysis via GIS technologies allows him to forecast ecological outcomes in agroecosystems. Dr. Kaleji’s interdisciplinary research aims to contribute directly to regenerative farming and food security strategies.
📚 Publications with Full Details and Summaries
1. Interplay Between ROS and Hormones in Plant Defense Against Pathogens
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Journal: Plants
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Publication Date: 2025-04-25
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DOI: 10.3390/plants14091297
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Authors: Mostafa Haghpanah, Amin Namdari, Mostafa Koozehgar Kaleji, Azam Nikbakht-dehkordi, Ahmad Arzani, Fabrizio Araniti
Summary:
This study examines the intricate network between reactive oxygen species (ROS) and plant hormonal pathways in combating pathogens. Highlighting novel crosstalk mechanisms, the work suggests integrated strategies for breeding disease-resistant plants.
2. Inoculation with Mycorrhiza and Azotobacter chroococcum Affects the Quantitative and Qualitative Characteristics of Eryngium caeruleum at Different Planting Densities
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Journal: Agronomía Colombiana
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Publication Date: 2023-08-14
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DOI: 10.15446/agron.colomb.v41n2.106390
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Authors: Mostafa Koozehgar Kaleji, Mohammad Reza Ardakani, Sheida Khoshniat
Summary:
This paper demonstrates that bio-inoculants improve both biomass and secondary metabolite content in Eryngium caeruleum, promoting the use of eco-friendly agricultural inputs.
3. Quantitative and Qualitative Performance of Froriepia subpinnata as Affected by Mycorrhizal Symbiosis, Compost Tea, and Vermicompost
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Journal: Unspecified (likely submitted/published in 2024)
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Author: Mostafa Koozehgar Kaleji
Summary:
The study highlights how integrating organic soil amendments and beneficial symbionts boosts the agronomic traits of Froriepia subpinnata, emphasizing low-input sustainable farming models.
Conclusion
Mostafa Koozegar Kaleji shows strong expertise, commitment to agricultural sustainability, real-world impact, and ongoing academic productivity. His profile is very suitable for national-level Best Researcher Awards, especially those emphasizing applied sciences and agriculture.