Lilya Boucelha | Biology | Women Researcher Award

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Assist. Prof. Dr. Lilya Boucelha | Biology | Women Researcher Award

University Of Science And Technology Houari Boumediene | Algeria

Assist. Prof. Dr. Lilya Boucelha is a plant physiologist and academic researcher specializing in seed priming, abiotic stress tolerance, and plant physiological adaptation to water deficit conditions. Her scientific contributions focus on understanding the molecular, biochemical, and physiological mechanisms underlying seed vigor, aging, and germination responses in legume species, particularly Vigna unguiculata (cowpea) and Trigonella foenum-graecum (fenugreek). Through her innovative studies, Dr. Boucelha has advanced the field of seed physiology by exploring redox regulation, antioxidant defense systems, and the signaling role of molecules such as silicon, proline, and ascorbate in improving plant resilience under drought and oxidative stress. Her work integrates biochemical assays, molecular markers, and eco-physiological analyses to link laboratory findings with agronomic improvement strategies, contributing to sustainable crop productivity and food security. She has actively collaborated on national and international research projects, including programs focusing on the enhancement of drought tolerance and physiological responses through priming and silicon treatments. Dr. Boucelha’s scientific productivity is reflected in her growing research impact, with 16 peer-reviewed international publications, including several in high-impact journals such as Functional Plant Biology, Journal of Plant Growth Regulation, and Plants. According to Google Scholar, her work has been cited over 80 times, with an h-index of 5 and an i10-index of 3, while her Scopus profile records comparable citation metrics, underscoring the scientific visibility and influence of her studies in plant physiology and seed science. Recognized for her excellence as a woman researcher, she was honored with a Women Researcher Award, acknowledging her sustained contribution to advancing knowledge in plant stress physiology and her leadership in promoting women in science. Her publications consistently address the biochemical and physiological determinants of seed vigor, aiming to improve germination performance and stress tolerance—crucial for crop adaptation to climate change and arid environments.

Publication Profile

Orcid | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Boucelha, L., Djebbar, R., & Abrous-Belbachir, O. (2021). Is protein carbonylation a biomarker of seed priming and ageing? Functional Plant Biology, 48(6), 611–623.

Boucelha, L., Djebbar, R., & Abrous-Belbachir, O. (2019). Vigna unguiculata seed priming is related to redox status of plumule, radicle and cotyledons. Functional Plant Biology, 46(6), 584–594.

Boucelha, L., Djebbar, R., & Benlahrech, S. (2025). The ambiguous role of silicon in the pregermination treatment of Vigna unguiculata seeds. Journal of Plant Growth Regulation.

Boucelha, L., Djebbar, R., Gueridi, S., & Merah, O. (2025). Modifications in carbon and nitrogen metabolites of Vigna unguiculata L. seed organs induced by different priming treatments. Plants, 14, 3218.

Beggah, S., Ellouzi, H., Boucelha, L., Zorrig, W., Djebbar, R., & Abrous-Belbachir, O. (2023). Ascorbate attenuates damages caused by paraquat-induced oxidative stress in fenugreek seedlings. Journal of Soil Science and Plant Nutrition, 23(1), 1185–1199.

 

 

 

Muhammad Nawaz | Life Sciences | Best Research Article Award

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Dr. Muhammad Nawaz | Life Sciences | Best Research Article Award

University of Queensland | Australia

Academic Background

Dr. Muhammad Nawaz holds a PhD in Weed Biological Control from the University of Queensland, Australia, where his research centered on the classical biological control of Acacia auriculiformis in collaboration with USDA, CSIRO, and the University of Queensland. He also earned his M.Sc. (Hons.) and B.Sc. (Hons.) degrees in Agricultural Entomology from leading agricultural universities in Pakistan. His academic journey has provided him with a strong foundation in weed management, entomology, and plant-insect interactions. Dr. Nawaz’s scholarly contributions have been recognized globally, with 65 citations (50 since 2020), an h-index of 5, and an i10-index of 3 according to Google Scholar, reflecting the growing impact of his research within the scientific community. His publications are also indexed in Scopus, further validating the international recognition of his academic work.

Research Focus

Dr. Muhammad Nawaz research primarily focuses on weed biological control, insect-plant interactions, and integrated pest management. His work combines classical taxonomy, molecular techniques, and field ecology to enhance the sustainability of agricultural systems through environmentally sound pest and weed management strategies.

Work Experience

Currently serving as a Research Officer in Weed Biological Control at the Department of Primary Industries (DPI), New South Wales, Australia, Dr. Muhammad Nawaz leads initiatives aimed at identifying and managing invasive weed species using biological agents. Previously, he contributed to several research projects at the University of Queensland, including molecular screening and identification of insect herbivores, population genetics, and host-specificity studies for biocontrol candidates. His earlier professional career in Pakistan involved extensive work in agricultural research, development, and extension, where he trained agricultural officers and farmers in pest management and sustainable production techniques.

Key Contributions

Dr. Muhammad Nawaz has played a pivotal role in the identification and prioritization of biological control agents against invasive weeds, integrating molecular tools to improve the accuracy of host specificity testing. His collaborative work has contributed to advancing the understanding of phylogeographic patterns in plant-insect systems, influencing biocontrol strategies worldwide. His applied research has significantly supported Australian biosecurity efforts by introducing new biocontrol candidates and improving management protocols for invasive species.

Awards & Recognition

Dr. Muhammad Nawaz has received multiple honors including the Outstanding Reviewer Recognition from Entomologia Experimentalis et Applicata (Wiley) and several prestigious research travel awards from CSIRO and UQ. He was also a recipient of the Australian Postgraduate Award and various international research grants. His Best Research Article Award highlights his exceptional contributions to agricultural science and biological control innovation.

Professional Roles & Memberships

Dr. Muhammad Nawaz is affiliated with the Department of Primary Industries (NSW), and he maintains active collaborations with CSIRO and international research networks focused on biological control. He has also served as a trainer for capacity-building programs in pest management and integrated crop protection.

Profile: 

Google Scholar | Orcid

Featured Publications

McCulloch, G. A., Madeira, P. T., Makinson, J. R., Dutoit, L., Blair, Z., Walter, G. H., & Nawaz, M. (2021). Phylogenomics resolves the invasion history of Acacia auriculiformis in Florida. Journal of Biogeography, 48(2), 453–464.

Nawaz, M., Brookes, D. R., McCulloch, G. A., & Walter, G. H. (2022). Significant genetic structure in Macrobathra moths feeding on Acacia auriculiformis: Implications for prioritising biological control agents. Biological Control, 172, 104969.

Nawaz, M., McCulloch, G. A., Brookes, D. R., Zonneveld, R., & Walter, G. H. (2021). Native range surveys for host-specific Acacia auriculiformis biocontrol agents: A role for DNA barcoding. Biological Control, 158, 104594.

Nawaz, M., Ashfaq, M., & Amjad, A. (2008). Studies on improvement of artificial diet and its effect on biological characters of Chrysoperla carnea. Pakistan Journal of Entomology, 30(1), 73–76.

Nawaz, M., Ali, S., & Abbas, Q. (2016). High pressure water spray technique for controlling mustard aphid (Lipaphis erysimi) on Brassica crop. American-Eurasian Journal of Agricultural & Environmental Sciences, 16(2), 224–228.*

Impact Statement / Vision

Dr. Muhammad Nawaz envisions strengthening sustainable agriculture through innovative biological control research that reduces chemical dependency and enhances ecological balance. His goal is to advance global weed and pest management strategies by integrating molecular and field-based biocontrol approaches to ensure food security and environmental safety.

Mushtaq Ahmed | Life Sciences | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Mushtaq Ahmed | Life Sciences | Best Researcher Award

University of Science and Technology, Bannu | Pakistan

Academic Background

Prof. Dr. Mushtaq Ahmed holds a PhD in Biochemistry and Toxicology from the Federal University of Santa Maria, Brazil, and completed his postdoctoral research at Lund University, Sweden, focusing on enzymatic hydrolysis and bioactive compounds derived from agricultural waste. He has maintained a consistent first-class academic record throughout his career and is an HEC-approved PhD supervisor. His Google Scholar profile reflects over 2,500 citations with an h-index of 24 and an i10-index of 52, while Scopus highlights his strong and growing international research visibility. These metrics underscore his influence in biochemical and toxicological research, showcasing a well-established scientific reputation supported by impactful publications and extensive academic collaborations.

Research Focus

Prof. Dr. Mushtaq Ahmed primary research interests include biochemical toxicology, enzyme kinetics, oxidative stress mechanisms, and pharmacological exploration of natural bioactive compounds. His work bridges fundamental biochemistry with applied biotechnology, aiming to develop therapeutic and environmentally sustainable biological solutions.

Work Experience

Prof. Dr. Mushtaq Ahmed is currently serving as Professor and Chairman of the Department of Biotechnology at the University of Science and Technology, Bannu, where he also holds the position of Dean of the Faculty of Arts and Humanities. With more than twenty years of academic and research experience, he has previously served as Associate Professor, Director of ORIC, and Chief Proctor. His career reflects a deep commitment to teaching, research supervision, and institutional development in the field of biotechnology and life sciences.

Key Contributions

Prof. Dr. Mushtaq Ahmed has made substantial contributions to the understanding of enzyme inhibition, oxidative stress biology, and the pharmacological potential of natural compounds. His multidisciplinary research has advanced drug design models and therapeutic approaches derived from biochemical analysis and bioactive plant compounds.

Awards & Recognition

Prof. Dr. Mushtaq Ahmedhas received multiple prestigious awards recognizing his excellence in academia and research. He is a two-time recipient of the HEC Best University Teacher Award and has also been honored with the Best Researcher Award for his outstanding scientific contributions and international publications. These accolades highlight his leadership in advancing biotechnology research and his dedication to scientific innovation and mentorship.

Professional Roles & Memberships

Prof. Dr. Mushtaq Ahmed has served on several high-level academic and administrative committees including the Syndicate, Finance and Planning Committee, and the Advanced Studies and Research Board of UST Bannu. Additionally, he has acted as a reviewer for renowned international journals such as Life Science, Physiologia Plantarum, Chemico-Biological Interactions, and Ecotoxicology, contributing to the global advancement of scientific standards and peer review integrity.

Profile

Google Scholar

Featured Publications

  • Khan, R. A., Khan, M. R., Sahreen, S., & Ahmed, M. (2012). Evaluation of phenolic contents and antioxidant activity of various solvent extracts of Sonchus asper (L.) Hill. Chemistry Central Journal, 6(1), 12.

  • Khan, R. A., Khan, M. R., Sahreen, S., & Ahmed, M. (2012). Assessment of flavonoids contents and in vitro antioxidant activity of Launaea procumbens. Chemistry Central Journal, 6(1), 43.

  • Abbasi, A. M., Khan, M. A., Ahmed, M., & Zafar, M. (2010). Herbal medicines used to cure various ailments by the inhabitants of Abbottabad district, North West Frontier Province, Pakistan. Indian Journal of Traditional Knowledge, 9(1), 175–183.

  • Bagatini, M. D., Martins, C. C., Battisti, V., Gasparetto, D., Da Rosa, C. S., … [other authors]. (2011). Oxidative stress versus antioxidant defenses in patients with acute myocardial infarction. Heart and Vessels, 26(1), 55–63.

  • Ahmed, M., Rocha, J. B. T., Corrêa, M., Mazzanti, C. M., Zanin, R. F., Morsch, A. L. B., … [other authors]. (2006). Inhibition of two different cholinesterases by tacrine. Chemico-Biological Interactions, 162(2), 165–171.

Impact Statement / Vision

Prof. Dr. Mushtaq Ahmed envisions strengthening biotechnology and biochemical research through innovation, collaboration, and applied discovery. His vision emphasizes bridging scientific inquiry with societal benefits by promoting sustainable and health-oriented research. As an academic leader and accomplished researcher, he continues to inspire excellence, integrity, and scientific curiosity among emerging scholars in Pakistan and beyond.