Ishita Biswas | Botany | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Ishita Biswas | Botany | Best Researcher Award

Assistant Professor, S.B.S. Government College, India

Dr. Ishita Biswas is an accomplished Assistant Professor in Botany (W.B.E.S.) at S.B.S. Government College, Hili, West Bengal, India. With a Ph.D. in Microbiology from Raiganj University (2024), Dr. Biswas has significantly contributed to the fields of botany, microbiology, and bioinformatics. Her research spans bioactive compounds, sustainable agriculture, enzyme technology, and microbial remediation. She is widely recognized for her innovative studies, securing several national awards, including the APJ Abdul Kalam Award 2025. Dr. Biswas has a dynamic academic presence with numerous impactful publications in reputed journals. Apart from her research, she actively serves on various academic and administrative committees, demonstrating leadership in student welfare and institutional development. Her work reflects a commitment to advancing scientific knowledge and fostering sustainable solutions in plant sciences and microbial applications.

Professional Profile

Education

Dr. Ishita Biswas holds a distinguished academic record. She completed her Ph.D. in Microbiology from Raiganj University in 2024, where her research focused on microbial bioactive compounds and their industrial applications. She earned her Master of Science in Botany, specializing in Biochemistry, from the University of North Bengal in 2013, where she secured the first-class second position and was awarded a Silver Medal by the Honorable Governor. Her Bachelor of Science in Botany (Honours) was also completed at the University of North Bengal in 2011. Additionally, Dr. Biswas has qualified several prestigious competitive exams, including UGC JRF-NET (2018), NET-LS (2016, 2017), SET (2015), and GATE (2017), consistently achieving high All India Ranks. Her robust educational background has laid the foundation for her interdisciplinary research and academic leadership in plant sciences, microbiology, and bioinformatics.

Professional and Administrative Experience

Dr. Ishita Biswas currently serves as an Assistant Professor in Botany at S.B.S. Government College, Hili, under the West Bengal Education Service. She actively contributes to the academic, administrative, and welfare landscape of the institution. Dr. Biswas has held key positions such as Convener of the Students’ Welfare & Disciplinary Sub-Committee and Joint Convener of the Routine and Women Grievance & Redressal Cell. She has also served on various committees, including the External Examination, Sports, UGC, Website, Internal Complaint, and NIRF Ranking Committees. Her administrative roles demonstrate a proactive commitment to student development, institutional governance, and quality education. Dr. Biswas is also known for her excellent organizational skills and collaborative leadership, significantly impacting the academic environment and fostering a culture of continuous improvement within the college.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Ishita Biswas has been the recipient of several prestigious awards recognizing her academic and research excellence. She was honored with the Silver Medal by the Honorable Governor for securing the first-class second position in her Master’s degree in Botany in 2013. She achieved the Best Presenter Award at the 7th Annual International Conference Biospectrum 2023 and the Outstanding Paper Award at the 6th Regional Science & Technology Congress 2023-24. Her research was again acknowledged with the Best Presenter Award at the 8th Annual International Conference Biospectrum 2024. The crowning recognition came with the APJ Abdul Kalam Award 2025, presented by ARAI for her outstanding professional and research achievements in Botany. These accolades underscore Dr. Biswas’s significant contributions to scientific research and her growing influence in the academic community.

Research Focus

Dr. Ishita Biswas’s research focuses on plant-microbe interactions, bioactive compounds, microbial enzyme technology, sustainable agriculture, and in-silico drug discovery. Her innovative studies include the use of microbial fermentation for producing industrially significant compounds like tannase and gallic acid, as well as valorization of agricultural waste through biotechnological interventions. She is particularly interested in the application of metabiotics, microbial biocatalysis, and bioinformatics to address modern challenges in environmental sustainability and healthcare. Her work extends to the in-silico screening of plant bioactives for cancer inhibition and diabetes management, contributing to green technology and modern drug discovery. Dr. Biswas’s research aligns with global trends in developing sustainable and eco-friendly biotechnological solutions, making her contributions highly relevant and impactful across multiple disciplines.

📚 Publication Top Notes

  1. Bioactive compounds as a potential inhibitor of colorectal cancer: an in-silico study of Gallic acid and Pyrogallol
    Annals of Colorectal Research, 9(1), 32-39 (2021) | Cited by: 27

    • This study used computational approaches to investigate Gallic acid and Pyrogallol as potential inhibitors of colorectal cancer, providing a promising insight into bioactive compounds for cancer therapeutics.

  2. Recent advancement in metabiotics: A consortium with bioactive molecules after fermentation by probiotic bacteria with multidisciplinary application potential and future prospects
    Bioresource Technology Reports, 23, 101583 (2023) | Cited by: 25

    • The paper reviews the development and future potential of metabiotics derived from probiotic fermentation, emphasizing their biomedical and industrial applications.

  3. Valorization of vermicompost with bacterial fermented chicken feather hydrolysate for the yield improvement of tomato plant: A novel organic combination
    International Journal of Recycling of Organic Waste in Agriculture, 10(1) (2021) | Cited by: 25

    • This research presented a sustainable organic fertilizer strategy using vermicompost enriched with fermented chicken feather hydrolysate to boost tomato plant yield.

  4. Contributions of protein microenvironment in tannase industrial applicability: An in-silico comparative study of pathogenic and non-pathogenic bacterial tannase
    Heliyon, 6(11) (2020) | Cited by: 18

    • The study compared the structural dynamics of tannase enzymes from different bacterial sources, highlighting their potential in industrial applications.

  5. Structural and catalytic advancement of fungal tannase: A proteomic contribution in industrial applicability
    Bioresource Technology Reports, 19, 101103 (2022) | Cited by: 16

    • This research provided insights into fungal tannase properties, focusing on its industrial applicability and enzyme stability.

Conclusion

Dr. Ishita Biswas demonstrates all the core attributes of a strong contender for the Best Researcher Award: substantial research contributions, a multidisciplinary approach, national and international accolades, and proactive involvement in institutional development. While expanding international collaborations and targeting higher-impact publications could further enhance her standing, her current achievements and trajectory strongly position her as an excellent candidate for this award.

 

 

Koziba Gaothobogwe | Environmental Science | Young Scientist Award

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Ms. Koziba Gaothobogwe | Environmental Science | Young Scientist Award

MSc Student. Botswana International University of Science and Technology, Botswana

Koziba Gaothobogwe is a dedicated MSc student in Environmental Science (Soil Science) at Botswana International University of Science and Technology (BIUST). With a passion for addressing environmental contamination, particularly in agricultural land, her research focuses on mitigating potentially toxic elements (PTEs) in food crops. She has gained international exposure through the Sakura Exchange Program in Japan, where she presented her research on emerging pollutants and developed hands-on skills in advanced environmental analysis. Koziba’s academic journey is supported by her teaching assistantship at BIUST, where she mentors undergraduate students in soil science, environmental hazards, and waste management. Committed to sustainability, she aims to apply her knowledge to tackle soil and water contamination issues in Botswana and beyond.

Profile

Scopus

Education

Koziba Gaothobogwe earned her BSc in Environmental Science from Botswana International University of Science and Technology (BIUST) in 2021, where her project focused on analyzing the physico-chemical characteristics of surface and groundwater near the Morupule Power Station. Currently, she is pursuing an MSc in Soil Science at BIUST, with a thesis dedicated to mitigating the impact of potentially toxic elements (PTEs) in food crops grown near the BCL Cu-Ni mine using soil amendments. Throughout her studies, Koziba has developed a strong foundation in environmental science, particularly in soil chemistry, water quality analysis, and environmental remediation strategies. Additionally, she has completed various professional training courses in Geographic Information Systems (GIS), image classification, and spatial data science through the Environmental Systems Research Institute (ESRI), enhancing her research capabilities in environmental monitoring and analysis.

Experience

Koziba Gaothobogwe has diverse research and teaching experience in the field of environmental science. As a teaching assistant at Botswana International University of Science and Technology (BIUST), she has been instrumental in supervising undergraduate laboratory sessions on environmental pollution, soil science, microbiology, and waste management. Her responsibilities include tutoring, grading, and ensuring compliance with institutional policies. As a research assistant, she assisted in designing experiments, performing soil and water sample analyses, and utilizing statistical tools to interpret environmental data. Her international exposure as a visiting scholar in the Sakura Exchange Program at Kyoto University, Japan, broadened her skills in environmental analysis techniques such as FTIR, ICP-MS, and SEM. Koziba has also contributed significantly to academic research through her project focused on mitigating contamination in agriculture, with her findings expected to influence sustainable farming practices in contaminated areas.

Research Focus

Koziba Gaothobogwe’s research focuses on the mitigation of potentially toxic elements (PTEs) in agricultural systems, particularly the impact of soil amendments on food crops grown in contaminated soils. Her MSc thesis explores how soil amendments can reduce the bioavailability of toxic elements like heavy metals in crops near mining areas, with a focus on BCL Cu-Ni mine in Botswana. Through her research, Koziba aims to develop practical, sustainable solutions to improve soil health and reduce the environmental risks posed by mining activities. Her interest extends to the broader field of environmental science, including water quality analysis, environmental impact assessments, and remediation strategies. Additionally, her work in environmental chemistry seeks to advance analytical methods for detecting and quantifying pollutants in soil, water, and plant matrices, making her research valuable for both environmental policy and agricultural sustainability.

Publications

  • Mitigation of Potentially Toxic Elements in Corn (Zea Mays) Grown in Farmlands Near Cu-Ni Mine in Central Botswana – Soil and Sediment Contamination (2025)

 

 

 

Altaf Hussain Lahori | Environmental Sciences | Best Researcher Award

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Dr Altaf Hussain Lahori | Environmental Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Assistant Professor, Sindh Madressatul Islam University, Pakistan

Dr. Altaf Hussain Lahori is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Environmental Sciences at Sindh Madressatul Islam University, Karachi, Pakistan. With a profound commitment to environmental research, Dr. Lahori focuses on transforming organic waste into valuable agricultural resources. His expertise encompasses soil remediation, fertility enhancement, and sustainable waste management practices. An advocate for innovative technologies, he actively explores biochar and phytoremediation strategies. Dr. Lahori’s international experience includes advanced studies in China, enriching his academic perspective. He is recognized for his dedication to teaching and mentoring future scientists, significantly contributing to the field of environmental sciences.

Profile

Strengths for the Award

  1. Robust Academic Background: Dr. Lahori holds a Ph.D. in Environmental Science, complemented by a solid foundation in Soil Science through his M.Sc. and B.Sc. degrees. His academic qualifications reflect a deep understanding of environmental and agricultural sciences.
  2. Diverse Research Interests: His research encompasses critical areas such as soil remediation, phytoremediation, waste management, and biochar technology. This breadth of focus demonstrates his commitment to addressing pressing environmental challenges.
  3. Significant Contributions to Literature: Dr. Lahori has authored and co-authored multiple impactful publications, evidenced by high citation counts. His work on biochar and soil fertility has been influential in the field, showcasing his ability to contribute meaningfully to academic discourse.
  4. Mentorship and Student Production: As a HEC approved PhD supervisor, he has successfully guided multiple master’s students, fostering the next generation of researchers in environmental science. This highlights his dedication to education and research capacity building.
  5. International Recognition: His scholarships and collaborations, particularly in China, indicate his international standing and the global relevance of his research.

Areas for Improvement

  1. Increased Interdisciplinary Collaboration: While his research is robust, fostering partnerships across disciplines (e.g., economics, social sciences) could enhance the applicability and impact of his findings on policy-making and community engagement.
  2. Broader Outreach and Public Engagement: Developing outreach programs or workshops that communicate his research findings to local communities and stakeholders could help bridge the gap between research and practical application, particularly in sustainable practices.
  3. Diversification of Research Funding: Exploring diverse funding avenues, including grants from international organizations, could enhance the scope and scale of his research projects, allowing for larger studies and broader impacts.

Education  

Dr. Altaf Hussain Lahori earned his Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Environmental Science from Northwest A&F University, China, in 2018, achieving an impressive 86.5% (3.86 CGPA). Prior to that, he completed his Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Soil Science from Sindh Agriculture University, Tandojam, in 2013, securing 75.06% (3.00 CGPA). His academic journey began with a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Soil Science from the Z.A.B.A.C. Dokri campus of Sindh Agriculture University, where he excelled with 91.50% (3.66 CGPA) in 2010. Dr. Lahori’s educational background is marked by a strong emphasis on environmental and agricultural sciences, laying a solid foundation for his research and teaching career.

Experience 

Since August 2019, Dr. Altaf Hussain Lahori has served as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Environmental Sciences at Sindh Madressatul Islam University. His responsibilities include delivering lectures, conducting research, and supervising graduate students. Dr. Lahori has produced three master’s theses, guiding students in various environmental science topics. He has taught a wide range of courses, including Health, Safety and Environmental Management, Solid and Hazardous Waste Management, and Sustainable Agriculture. His teaching methodology integrates theoretical knowledge with practical applications, fostering critical thinking among students. Dr. Lahori’s research has been published in reputable journals, demonstrating his commitment to advancing knowledge in environmental science. His international exposure and collaborations further enrich his experience, making him a valuable asset to the academic community.

Awards and Honors 

Dr. Altaf Hussain Lahori has received several prestigious awards throughout his academic career. He was granted a USAID Scholarship from the Higher Education Commission (HEC) for his Master’s degree at Sindh Agriculture University (2010-2012), which reflects his academic excellence. Furthermore, he was awarded the “President’s Scholarship” for foreign students during his Ph.D. studies at Northwest Agriculture and Forestry University in China for the academic year 2017-2018. Dr. Lahori is also an HEC-approved Ph.D. supervisor, a recognition that underscores his expertise in the field of Soil and Environmental Sciences. His contributions to academia and research have positioned him as a respected figure in his field, and he continues to inspire future scholars through his work.

Research Focus 

Dr. Altaf Hussain Lahori’s research focuses on environmental sustainability and soil health. He is particularly interested in converting organic waste into value-added resources for plant nutrition, enhancing soil fertility, and exploring innovative soil remediation techniques. His work with biochar and mineral additives aims to reclaim salt-affected soils and improve nutrient availability for crops. Dr. Lahori emphasizes the environment-friendly utilization of waste resources and effective solid waste management strategies. He actively investigates smart biochar technologies and phytoremediation methods to address heavy metal contamination in soils. His dedication to compost technology and fertilizer innovation further demonstrates his commitment to sustainable agricultural practices. Through his research, Dr. Lahori aims to contribute to solving critical environmental issues while promoting sustainable development in agriculture.

Publication Top Notes

  • Challenges and opportunities in the phytoremediation of heavy metals contaminated soils: A review 🌍
  • Enhancing phosphate adsorption by Mg/Al layered double hydroxide functionalized biochar with different Mg/Al ratios ⚗️
  • Recovery of phosphate from aqueous solution by magnesium oxide decorated magnetic biochar and its potential as phosphate-based fertilizer substitute 🧪
  • Role of biochar amendment in mitigation of nitrogen loss and greenhouse gas emission during sewage sludge composting 🌱
  • Influence of zeolite and lime as additives on greenhouse gas emissions and maturity evolution during sewage sludge composting 🌿
  • Use of biochar as an amendment for remediation of heavy metal-contaminated soils: prospects and challenges ⚖️
  • Effect of biochar amendment on greenhouse gas emission and bio-availability of heavy metals during sewage sludge co-composting 🔄
  • Potential use of lime combined with additives on (im) mobilization and phytoavailability of heavy metals from Pb/Zn smelter contaminated soils 💧
  • Heterogeneity of zeolite combined with biochar properties as a function of sewage sludge composting and production of nutrient-rich compost 🔬
  • EDTA and organic acids assisted phytoextraction of Cd and Zn from a smelter contaminated soil by potherb mustard (Brassica juncea, Coss) and evaluation of its bioindicators 🌼
  • Impact of CaO, fly ash, sulfur and Na2S on the (im) mobilization and phytoavailability of Cd, Cu and Pb in contaminated soil 🚧
  • Evaluation of orange peel waste and its biochar on greenhouse gas emissions and soil biochemical properties within a loess soil 🍊
  • Influence of biochar on volatile fatty acids accumulation and microbial community succession during biosolids composting 🦠
  • Nitrate removal by combined heterotrophic and autotrophic denitrification processes: impact of coexistent ions 💡
  • Screening of native plants from wasteland surrounding a Zn smelter in Feng County China, for phytoremediation 🌱

Conclusion

Dr. Altaf Hussain Lahori stands out as a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award due to his exceptional academic achievements, influential research contributions, and commitment to mentorship. His work is not only relevant but crucial in addressing the challenges posed by environmental degradation and soil health. With some enhancements in collaborative efforts and public engagement, Dr. Lahori could further amplify the impact of his research, making him an even more formidable force in the field of environmental science. His dedication to innovation and sustainability positions him as an exemplary candidate for this prestigious recognition.

 

 

Kai Zhang | Resource Recovery | Best Researcher Award

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Prof.Kai Zhang | Resource Recovery | Best Researcher Award

Professor at Inner Mongolia University of Science & Technology, China 

Professor Kai Zhang is a distinguished academic at Inner Mongolia University of Science & Technology in China, specializing in solid waste management and resource recovery. With a strong background in chemical engineering, he has dedicated his career to developing innovative methods for the extraction and utilization of valuable materials from mining byproducts. Professor Zhang’s research has led to significant advancements in the fields of iron and niobium extraction, catalytic technology, and environmental sustainability. He has published over 40 research papers and holds five national invention patents, reflecting his commitment to scientific excellence and practical solutions. His leadership in various funded research projects showcases his influence in advancing resource recovery initiatives.

Profile:

ORCID Profile

Strengths for the Award:

  1. Extensive Research Experience: Professor Kai Zhang has led numerous significant research projects, notably focusing on innovative solutions in solid waste management and the utilization of resources from the Bayan Obo mining processes. His expertise in extracting valuable materials like iron and niobium showcases his commitment to sustainable practices.
  2. Innovative Contributions: The development of novel technologies, such as magnetic microcrystals from steel slag and SCR catalysts from cerium-rich minerals, demonstrates his ability to address pressing environmental challenges through innovative research.
  3. Impressive Publication Record: With over 40 publications, including more than 10 in SCI-indexed journals, Professor Zhang has made substantial contributions to the field, indicating both productivity and recognition by peers.
  4. Patent Portfolio: Holding five national invention patents highlights his capacity to translate research into practical applications, furthering advancements in chemical engineering and environmental science.
  5. Successful Funding Acquisition: Leading multiple projects funded by significant bodies, such as the National Natural Science Foundation of China, illustrates his capability in securing competitive grants, ensuring the continuation and expansion of his research initiatives

Areas for Improvement:

  1. Interdisciplinary Collaboration: While Professor Zhang has extensive expertise in his domain, fostering more interdisciplinary partnerships could enhance the scope and impact of his research. Collaborations with fields such as biotechnology or environmental policy could yield comprehensive solutions to complex issues.
  2. Increased International Engagement: Engaging in more international collaborations or conferences could elevate the global visibility of his work. Building networks beyond China can facilitate knowledge exchange and introduce diverse perspectives.
  3. Public Communication of Research: Enhancing the dissemination of research findings to broader audiences, including policymakers and the public, can improve the impact of his work on societal issues related to waste management and environmental sustainability.

Education:

Professor Kai Zhang holds a Doctorate in Chemical Engineering from a renowned institution, where he focused on innovative methods for resource recovery from industrial waste. His educational journey began with a Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering, followed by a Master’s degree that emphasized environmental technologies. During his doctoral studies, he developed a keen interest in solid waste management, particularly in the mining sector. This academic foundation laid the groundwork for his future research endeavors, where he combined theoretical knowledge with practical applications. Professor Zhang’s dedication to lifelong learning is evident in his participation in various workshops and conferences, keeping him updated with the latest advancements in his field. His educational background, combined with extensive research experience, positions him as a leader in resource recovery and environmental sustainability.

Experience:

With over a decade of teaching and research experience, Professor Kai Zhang has established himself as a prominent figure in the field of resource recovery. His tenure at Inner Mongolia University of Science & Technology includes roles as a principal investigator on numerous funded research projects, focusing on innovative extraction techniques and environmental catalytic materials. He has collaborated with various national and local research institutions, successfully securing competitive grants from the National Natural Science Foundation of China and other funding bodies. His experience also encompasses consulting roles in industry projects aimed at optimizing waste management practices. Through these experiences, Professor Zhang has not only contributed to scientific knowledge but has also facilitated technology transfer to practical applications, benefiting both academia and industry. His commitment to mentorship has inspired many students and young researchers, furthering the impact of his work in sustainable development.

Research Focus:

Professor Kai Zhang’s research primarily focuses on resource recovery from solid waste, particularly in the context of mining operations in the Bayan Obo region. His work addresses critical issues related to the sustainable extraction of valuable materials, such as iron and niobium, from low-grade ores and industrial byproducts. By developing innovative methodologies, including the creation of catalytic technologies and magnetic microcrystals from steel slag, he aims to optimize processes for environmental sustainability. Additionally, his research explores the performance of SCR catalysts derived from cerium-rich minerals, contributing to advancements in denitrification technologies. Professor Zhang’s interdisciplinary approach combines chemical engineering principles with environmental science, ensuring that his research not only enhances resource efficiency but also addresses ecological impacts. Through his projects, he strives to create practical solutions that support both economic viability and environmental stewardship in the mining and waste management sectors.

Publication Top Notes:

  • Research on the microscale effects of fuel pellets carrying chemical pesticide distillation residues 🌾
    Chemical Engineering Science | 2025-01 | DOI: 10.1016/j.ces.2024.120755

Conclusion:

Professor Kai Zhang is a highly qualified candidate for the Best Researcher Award due to his robust research portfolio, innovative approaches to environmental challenges, and significant contributions to chemical engineering. His ability to lead impactful projects and generate valuable patents underlines his dedication to advancing the field. By addressing areas for improvement, such as interdisciplinary collaboration and public engagement, he could further amplify the relevance and reach of his work. His nomination is strongly endorsed.