Lizhi Deng | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Lizhi Deng | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

 Research Assistant at Institute of Agri-food Processing and Nutrition, Beijing Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, China

Mr. Lizhi Deng, born on June 22, 1999, is an accomplished researcher pursuing a Master’s in Food Engineering at China Agricultural University, specializing in postharvest physiology and preservation of fruits and vegetables. With a strong academic foundation, including international exposure at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, he has demonstrated excellence through a solid GPA and a second-class professional scholarship. Mr. Deng has authored multiple publications in high-impact journals, such as Food Chemistry and Postharvest Biology and Technology, focusing on innovative techniques like encapsulated microcapsules and cold-induced lenticel disorder analysis. His professional experience includes roles as a research assistant at prestigious institutions and contributions to quality control in the biotechnology and brewing industries. Proficient in technical tools and scientific writing, he blends theoretical expertise with practical application. With a commitment to advancing sustainable food systems and agricultural technology, Mr. Deng exemplifies the qualities of an emerging leader in food science research.

Professional Profile 

Education

Mr. Lizhi Deng has a robust educational background in food science and engineering, complemented by international academic exposure. He is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Food Engineering at China Agricultural University (2022–2024), focusing on postharvest physiology, fruit and vegetable preservation, and advanced materials. With a commendable GPA of 3.62 (ranked 17/66), he has excelled in courses such as scientific writing and modern food processing technology. Previously, he studied at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln (2020–2021), where he majored in Food Science and Technology, achieving a GPA of 3.78 (top 20%) and gaining expertise in food chemistry, microbiology, and product development. Mr. Deng began his academic journey at Northwest Agriculture & Forestry University (2017–2020), earning a Bachelor’s degree in Food Science and Engineering with a GPA of 3.59 (top 20%). His diverse academic pursuits reflect his dedication to mastering the science behind sustainable and innovative food systems.

Professional Experience

Mr. Lizhi Deng has gained diverse professional experience in research and quality control across esteemed institutions and industries. Currently, he serves as a Research Assistant at the Institute of Agricultural Processing and Nutrition, Beijing Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, where he focuses on postharvest physiology, storage, and logistics for fruit preservation. His work contributes to advancing key technologies in food science. Previously, he worked at Wuxi Biologics in the Department of Technical Quality, where he designed test plans for external projects, conducted process verifications, and performed experiments such as capillary gel electrophoresis and high-performance liquid chromatography under GMP systems. Additionally, Mr. Deng was a Laboratory Technician at Urbrew Craft Beer Co. Ltd., where he conducted microbial detection and optimized beer fermentation quality by analyzing bacterial contamination. His professional journey highlights a strong blend of research innovation and practical application, demonstrating his commitment to advancing food science and technology.

Research Interest

Mr. Lizhi Deng’s research interests lie at the intersection of postharvest physiology, fruit and vegetable preservation, and advanced material development. His work focuses on exploring innovative methods to enhance the storage life and quality of perishable produce, contributing to sustainable food systems. He is particularly passionate about integrating cutting-edge technologies, such as encapsulated microcapsules and bioactive compounds, to mitigate postharvest losses and improve disease resistance in fruits. His research also extends to investigating cold-induced disorders in stored produce using transcriptomics and metabolomics, offering valuable insights into molecular mechanisms that impact shelf life. Additionally, Mr. Deng is interested in optimizing food quality through the application of natural compounds like caffeic acid to preserve nutritional value and aroma profiles. By blending his expertise in material science, food chemistry, and microbiology, Mr. Deng aims to drive innovations in food processing and preservation that address global challenges in food security and sustainability.

Award and Honor

Mr. Lizhi Deng has earned notable recognition for his academic and research excellence throughout his educational journey. As a Master’s candidate at China Agricultural University, he was awarded the second-class professional scholarship for his outstanding performance in the field of Food Engineering, ranking 17th among 66 peers with a GPA of 3.62. His dedication to advancing food science is further highlighted by his active participation in the World Cherry Academic Conference, where he engaged with leading experts in the field. Mr. Deng’s exceptional academic achievements also extend to his undergraduate studies, where he consistently ranked in the top 20% of his cohorts at both the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and Northwest Agriculture & Forestry University. These accolades underscore his commitment to academic rigor, research innovation, and his growing impact in the field of food science, establishing him as a promising researcher with significant potential for future contributions.

Conclusion

Lizhi Deng’s academic excellence, impactful research, and professional expertise make them a highly suitable candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Their contributions to postharvest physiology and preservation technologies demonstrate innovative thinking and a commitment to addressing critical challenges in food science.

With a focus on expanding the practical impact of their research and taking on leadership roles, Lizhi Deng has the potential to emerge as a pioneering figure in food engineering and agricultural research. Thus, they are a deserving contender for this recognition.

Publications Top Noted

  • Title: Transcriptomic and metabolomic analysis reveal the role of 5-aminolevulinic acid hydrochloride in suppressing postharvest decay development in sweet cherry
    Authors: Zhang, S., Xu, R., Golding, J.B., Liang, L., Wang, B.
    Year: 2025
    Citation: 0
  • Title: Transcriptomics integrated with metabolomics analysis of cold-induced lenticel disorder via the lignin pathway upon postharvest ‘Xinli No.7’ pear fruit
    Authors: Xu, R., Zhou, J., Deng, L., Golding, J.B., Wang, B.
    Year: 2025
    Citation: 0
  • Title: Caffeic acid enhances the postharvest quality by maintaining the nutritional features and improving the aroma volatiles for nectarine fruit
    Authors: Lu, J., Wang, H., Zhang, Y., Wang, B., Jiang, W.
    Year: 2025
    Citation: 0
  • Title: Calcium alginate-encapsulated propolis microcapsules: Optimization, characterization, and preservation effects on postharvest sweet cherry
    Authors: Deng, L., Xu, R., Zhang, S., Jiang, W., Wang, B.
    Year: 2024
    Citation: 0

Yashika Bansal | Plant Biotechnology | Best Scholar Award

Ms. Yashika Bansal | Plant Biotechnology | Best Scholar Award

Ph.D. Scholar at Jamia Hamdard, India

Yashika Bansal is a highly accomplished Ph.D. scholar at Jamia Hamdard University, specializing in botany with expertise in advanced experimental design, R-programming, and sophisticated lab techniques such as flow cytometry and GC-MS. Her prolific research output, which includes publications in top-tier journals like Frontiers in Plant Science and Plants-MDPI, combined with a record of successful collaborations and conference presentations, makes her a promising candidate for the Best Scholar Award.

Professional Profile

Education

Yashika Bansal’s educational journey reflects her dedication to plant science and biotechnology. She is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Botany at Jamia Hamdard University, focusing on plant molecular biology and tissue culture. Her doctoral research is informed by a strong foundation laid during her M.Sc. in Botany, also from Jamia Hamdard, where she graduated in 2019 with a focus on plant physiology and biochemistry. Prior to this, Yashika completed her B.Sc. in Life Sciences at Delhi University, where she developed a keen interest in plant biology and genetics. Throughout her studies, Yashika has honed her skills in experimental design, molecular techniques, and statistical analysis, preparing her for a successful research career. Her academic background is complemented by her participation in specialized workshops and certifications in areas such as R-programming and metabolomics, equipping her with the tools to contribute meaningfully to the fields of plant biotechnology and conservation.

Experience

Yashika Bansal is currently a Ph.D. scholar at Jamia Hamdard University, a role she has held since December 2020, where she conducts advanced research in botany and plant molecular biology. She excels in both independent and collaborative research environments, and her work involves meticulously documenting experimental results to ensure transparency and scientific rigor. Yashika has published several articles in top-tier journals, contributing valuable knowledge to her field and enhancing her expertise in qualitative and quantitative analysis. Her experience includes establishing research collaborations, presenting findings at conferences, and mentoring junior researchers. These activities have allowed her to foster professional relationships within the scientific community. Skilled in experimental design and proficient with various technical tools, including flow cytometry and GC-MS, Yashika is dedicated to advancing plant science and biotechnology. Her role has made her a central figure in her lab, contributing to projects that address key scientific questions and conservation efforts.

Research Focus

Yashika Bansal’s research is rooted in plant science, particularly focusing on molecular botany, tissue culture, and phytochemical analysis. Her work aims to understand gene regulation, tissue-specific metabolite synthesis, and plant defense mechanisms. By leveraging advanced techniques such as flow cytometry, scanning electron microscopy, and GC-MS, Yashika examines gene expression and metabolite accumulation in various plant tissues. Her research often includes comparative studies of in vitro and in vivo plant tissues, which reveal key insights into stress response and medicinal compound synthesis. Yashika also investigates the conservation potential of her findings, exploring ways to apply biotechnology to habitat preservation and species resilience. Her publications reflect her commitment to advancing plant biotechnology, and her studies in R-programming and statistical analysis ensure her findings are robust. Through her work, Yashika contributes to sustainable plant research with implications for agriculture, medicinal plant development, and environmental conservation.

Awards and Honors

Yashika Bansal has received several prestigious awards and recognitions, underscoring her dedication and expertise in plant science. She was awarded the CSIR-UGC NET in 2019, an esteemed qualification that highlights her comprehensive knowledge in biological sciences. In 2020, she earned the GATE-Life Sciences award, showcasing her competence in life sciences and further establishing her academic credentials. That same year, she received the DBT-JRF (Junior Research Fellowship), which provided essential support for her research pursuits. In 2023, Yashika was awarded the DBT-SRF (Senior Research Fellowship), recognizing her progress and contributions as a Ph.D. scholar. Beyond these awards, she has completed several specialized certifications, including training in electron microscopy and flow cytometry, solidifying her technical proficiency. These achievements reflect her commitment to excellence in her field, and they position her as a promising researcher within the scientific community.

Skills

Yashika Bansal possesses a wide range of skills essential for high-level research in plant science and biotechnology. Her technical expertise includes advanced laboratory techniques such as flow cytometry, scanning electron microscopy, and GC-MS (Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry), which she uses for detailed cellular and molecular analyses. She is proficient in R-programming and SPSS, equipping her with the tools necessary for comprehensive statistical analysis and data visualization. Yashika is also skilled in experimental design, ensuring rigorous methodology in her research projects. Her strengths extend to scientific writing, with a demonstrated ability to communicate complex findings effectively in high-impact journals. Additionally, Yashika has excellent mentoring skills, having guided junior researchers and students in developing their research techniques. Her collaborative spirit, technical proficiency, and attention to detail make her an invaluable asset in her field, contributing to advancements in plant biotechnology and conservation.

Conclusion

Yashika Bansal is a highly capable, forward-thinking researcher whose comprehensive skill set, significant contributions to the field of plant science, and dedication to collaborative and impactful research make her a strong contender for the Best Scholar Award. With further experience and outreach, she has the potential to make even greater contributions to scientific advancement.

Publications Top Noted

Phytochemical Composition and Detection of Novel Bioactives in Anther Callus of Catharanthus roseus L.
Authors: Y. Bansal, A. Mujib, J. Mamgain, Y.H. Dewir, H.Z. Rihan
Citation: 15
Year: 2023

Genome Size and Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC–MS) Analysis of Field-Grown and In Vitro Regenerated Pluchea lanceolata Plants
Authors: J. Mamgain, A. Mujib, R. Syeed, B. Ejaz, M.Q. Malik, Y. Bansal
Citation: 14
Year: 2023

Ploidy Status, Nuclear DNA Content and Start Codon Targeted (SCoT) Genetic Homogeneity Assessment in Digitalis purpurea L., Regenerated In Vitro
Authors: Y. Bansal, A. Mujib, Z.H. Siddiqui, J. Mamgain, R. Syeed, B. Ejaz
Citation: 10
Year: 2022

Internal and External Regulatory Elements Controlling Somatic Embryogenesis in Catharanthus: A Model Medicinal Plant
Authors: A. Mujib, Y. Bansal, M.Q. Malik, R. Syeed, J. Mamgain, B. Ejaz
Citation: 7
Year: 2022

Elicitation Induced α-Amyrin Synthesis in Tylophora indica In Vitro Cultures and Comparative Phytochemical Analyses of In Vivo and Micropropagated Plants
Authors: J. Mamgain, A. Mujib, Y. Bansal, B. Gulzar, N. Zafar, R. Syeed, A. Alsughayyir, et al.
Citation: 5
Year: 2023

Somatic Embryogenesis in Catharanthus roseus: Proteomics of Embryogenic and Non-embryogenic Tissues; and Genome Size Analysis of Regenerated Plant
Authors: A. Mujib, M.Q. Malik, Y. Bansal, R. Syeed, B. Ejaz, J. Mamgain
Citation: 4
Year: 2022

An Efficient In Vitro Shoot Organogenesis and Comparative GC-MS Metabolite Profiling of Gaillardia pulchella Foug
Authors: M. Bansal, A. Mujib, Y. Bansal, Y.H. Dewir, N. Mendler-Drienyovszki
Citation: 3
Year: 2024

Synthesis and Accumulation of Phytocompounds in Field-, Tissue-Culture Grown (Stress) Root Tissues and Simultaneous Defense Response Activity in Glycyrrhiza glabra L.
Authors: Y. Bansal, A. Mujib, J. Mamgain, S. Kumar, Y.H. Dewir, K. Magyar-Tábori
Citation: 3
Year: 2024

Low Colchicine Doses Improved Callus Induction, Biomass Growth, and Shoot Regeneration in In Vitro Culture of Dracaena sanderiana Sander Ex Mast
Authors: A. Mujib, J. Aslam, Y. Bansal
Citation: 3
Year: 2023

In Vitro Propagation and Phytochemical Composition of Centratherum punctatum Cass—A Medicinal Plant
Authors: A. Talan, A. Mujib, B. Ejaz, Y. Bansal, Y.H. Dewir, K. Magyar-Tábori
Citation: 3
Year: 2023

Methyl Jasmonate Elicitation for In Vitro Lycorine Accumulation in Three Zephyranthes Species and Comparative Analysis of Tissue-Cultured and Field Grown Plants
Authors: R. Syeed, A. Mujib, Y.H. Dewir, M.Q. Malik, Y. Bansal, B. Ejaz, J. Mamgain, et al.
Citation: 3
Year: 2023

Influence of Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi on the Growth and Development of Micropropagated Rubus fruticosus ‘P45’ Plants during Acclimatization
Authors: Y.H. Dewir, A.A. Al-Qarawi, T. Alshahrani, Y. Bansal, A. Mujib, H.N. Murthy, et al.
Citation: 3
Year: 2023

Indirect Organogenesis of Calendula officinalis L. and Comparative Phytochemical Studies of Field-Grown and In Vitro-Regenerated Tissues
Authors: T. Fatima, A. Mujib, Y. Bansal, Y.H. Dewir, N. Mendler-Drienyovszki
Citation: 1
Year: 2024

Comparative Transcriptome Analysis of Non-Organogenic and Organogenic Tissues of Gaillardia pulchella Revealing Genes Regulating De Novo Shoot
Authors: Y. Bansal, A. Mujib, M. Bansal, M. Mohsin, A. Nafees, Y.H. Dewir
Citation: –
Year: 2024

Integrated GC-MS and UPLC-ESI-QTOF-MS Based Untargeted Metabolomics Analysis of In Vitro Raised Tissues of Digitalis purpurea L
Authors: Y. Bansal, A. Mujib, J. Mamgain, R. Syeed, M. Mohsin, A. Nafees, Y.H. Dewir, et al.
Citation: –
Year: 2024