Yaqi Jia | Plant Science | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Yaqi Jia | Plant Science | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Yaqi Jia | Plant Science | Postdoctoral Researcher at Zhejiang A&F University | China

Dr. Yaqi Jia is a distinguished researcher in the field of molecular plant biology, with expertise in genetic regulation and stress physiology in forestry species. His scientific contributions have significantly advanced the understanding of plant adaptive mechanisms, particularly in response to abiotic stresses such as drought and salinity. With a focus on integrating molecular genetics and biotechnology, Dr. Jia’s research demonstrates a balance between fundamental science and practical applications in forestry and agriculture. His dedication to academic scholarship and international collaboration positions him as a promising leader in plant biotechnology and sustainable forestry research.

Academic Profile:

ORCID

Education:

Dr. Yaqi Jia pursued his academic career with a strong emphasis on molecular biology and biotechnology. He completed his doctoral studies in plant molecular biology, where he specialized in identifying genetic regulators and transcription factors that mediate plant stress responses. His academic foundation reflects rigorous training in molecular signaling, transcriptomics, and gene regulation, which has provided the technical expertise necessary for pioneering research in his field. His educational journey has been marked by a consistent pursuit of excellence, building a solid platform for impactful contributions to global plant science.

Experience:

Dr. Yaqi Jia has extensive experience in leading and contributing to research projects that explore the mechanisms of stress tolerance in forestry plants. His academic role at Zhejiang A & F University, within the College of Forestry and Biotechnology, has allowed him to supervise projects integrating genomic technologies with ecological applications. His research experience includes collaborative work with international teams, producing results that are not only academically relevant but also practical in addressing global agricultural and environmental challenges. His publication record in peer-reviewed journals reflects his active engagement in the global scientific community, and his contributions demonstrate the integration of laboratory findings with field applications.

Research Interest:

Dr. Yaqi Jia’s research interests revolve around molecular plant biology, stress physiology, and genetic regulation in forestry species. He has a particular focus on long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs), transcription factors, and hierarchical gene regulatory networks that govern drought and salt tolerance. His investigations into signaling pathways, such as the interplay between PP2C proteins and MADS-box transcription factors, provide valuable insights into plant adaptation strategies. By studying these mechanisms, Dr. Jia contributes to improving plant resilience in forestry and agriculture. His research addresses critical global issues related to climate change, food security, and ecological sustainability, ensuring long-term benefits to science and society.

Award:

Dr. Yaqi Jia has been recognized for his contributions to plant molecular biology through research excellence awards and professional acknowledgments. His work in understanding the molecular mechanisms of plant stress tolerance has positioned him as a thought leader in his field, with recognition at both institutional and international levels. These awards not only highlight his scholarly achievements but also acknowledge his dedication to advancing sustainable practices in forestry and biotechnology.

Selected Publications:

  • The BpPP2C-BpMADS11-BpERF61 signaling confers drought tolerance in Betula platyphylla | 2024 | 15 citations

  • Long noncoding RNA from Betula platyphylla, BplncSIR1, confers salt tolerance by regulating BpNAC2 to mediate reactive oxygen species scavenging and stomatal movement | 2024 | 20 citations

  • Identification of birch lncRNAs and mRNAs responding to salt stress and characterization of functions of lncRNA | 2023 | 28 citations

  • Hierarchical transcription factor and regulatory network for drought response in Betula platyphylla | 2022 | 35 citations

Conclusion:

In conclusion, Dr. Yaqi Jia exemplifies excellence in research, scholarship, and leadership within molecular plant biology. His expertise in stress physiology, genetic regulation, and biotechnology has contributed to solving pressing challenges in forestry and agriculture. His strong publication record, engagement in international collaborations, and recognition through awards make him an outstanding candidate for this nomination. By bridging molecular insights with ecological applications, Dr. Jia is advancing both science and society. Looking forward, his leadership potential, commitment to global research partnerships, and dedication to academic mentorship will ensure that his contributions continue to shape the future of molecular plant biology and sustainable forestry.

 

 

Meshack Baraza Obonyo | Agriculture | Young Scientist Award

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Mr. Meshack Baraza Obonyo | Agriculture | Young Scientist Award

Mr. Meshack Baraza Obonyo | Agriculture | Research Fellow at International Livestock Research Institute | Kenya

Meshack Baraza Obonyo is a passionate and emerging researcher at the International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI), where he contributes to interdisciplinary projects focused on climate resilience, dryland innovation, and agricultural economics. Known for his data-driven approach and deep community engagement, he has been instrumental in implementing projects that combine citizen science and real-time monitoring technologies to improve the lives of pastoral communities in East Africa. His research reflects a strong commitment to participatory development and applied knowledge for sustainable livelihoods.

Academic Profile:

ORCID 

Google Scholar

Education:

Meshack Baraza Obonyo’s academic foundation is rooted in agricultural and environmental research, with his educational background tailored toward addressing challenges in food systems and climate adaptation. His continued academic pursuits align with ILRI’s global research mandates, and he remains actively involved in scholarly development, including collaborative learning initiatives and technical training with global research partners. His educational trajectory supports his technical understanding of economics, data systems, and agricultural adaptation mechanisms relevant to sub-Saharan Africa.

Experience:

Currently working with ILRI, Mr. Obonyo has been involved in various regional and international projects aimed at enhancing climate resilience and local governance in arid and semi-arid regions. He plays an integral role in knowledge dissemination, monitoring, and impact evaluation. He has collaborated with diverse research teams across Kenya and Ethiopia, implementing citizen-driven data platforms and supporting community engagement models. His experience includes the facilitation of dynamic learning tools, the development of dryland information systems, and strategic knowledge sharing within CGIAR’s global framework.

Research Interests:

Mr. Obonyo’s research focuses on agricultural economics, community-driven adaptation strategies, and innovation in drylands. He is especially interested in leveraging citizen science and real-time data for policy transformation. His work explores how participatory research methods can improve resilience among pastoralist communities facing recurrent shocks such as droughts. Furthermore, he is engaged in studies related to feed and breed technologies, digital knowledge platforms, and systems that integrate indigenous knowledge with modern research tools.

Awards:

While at an early stage of his research career, Meshack has already made significant contributions to climate and agriculture-focused development projects. His ongoing work under CGIAR and ILRI programs has received internal recognition, and he has been nominated for youth and early-career research opportunities. With growing publication visibility and continued involvement in high-impact projects, he stands out as a promising candidate for the Young Scientist Award, aligning with the award’s goal of recognizing innovative research with practical development value.

Publications:

Building Resilience Through Dynamic Monitoring of Shocks and Enhanced Access to Near-Real-Time Information Using Citizen Science and Crowdsourcing Techniques – published in 2025

Scaling Strategy for Scaling Improved Feeds and Breeds in Kapsabet and Nairobi, Kenya – published in 2024

Disseminating KAZNET Crowdsourced Dryland Information: A Report of the Baseline Survey in Northern Kenya – published in 2024

Diffusion of Crowdsourced Drylands Information for Improved Decision-Making in the Pastoral Settings – published in 2024

Facilitating Knowledge Management for Adaptation Planning in Africa: Final Project Report – published in 2023

Conclusion:

Meshack Baraza Obonyo is a dedicated early-career researcher who exemplifies the future of participatory, data-driven development science. His contributions through ILRI reflect not just academic merit but also a strong sense of social responsibility, as he works to uplift vulnerable communities through accessible technology and collaborative knowledge. With proven success in translating complex research into actionable community tools and growing visibility in regional networks, he is an ideal candidate for the Young Scientist Award. His future work is poised to make even greater contributions to sustainable development, research innovation, and policy engagement in Africa and beyond.