Yanjun Chai | Ecosystem | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yanjun Chai | Ecosystem | Best Researcher Award

Deputy Director of the Department of Environmental Engineering at Zhejiang University of Science and Technology, China

Dr. Chai Yanjun is an accomplished Associate Professor and PhD supervisor at Zhejiang University of Science and Technology. As Deputy Director and Party Branch Secretary in the Department of Environmental Engineering, he plays a pivotal role in both research and academic leadership. With a strong background in agricultural environmental sciences, Dr. Chai has dedicated his career to restoring degraded farmland and advancing sustainable agricultural practices. His prolific research has led to over 50 academic publications, several patents, and numerous national and provincial projects. 🌿📘 His innovations serve not just academia, but also rural revitalization and ecological restoration. He is also actively involved in training the next generation of environmental engineers and researchers.

Professional Profile 

Scopus 

🎓 Education

Dr. Chai Yanjun received his PhD from the prestigious Institute of Agricultural Environment and Sustainable Development, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences. 📚🌱 His academic foundation is rooted in understanding the interactions between agricultural systems and environmental sustainability. During his doctoral studies, he focused on farmland pollution, biogas utilization, and nutrient cycling—laying the groundwork for his lifelong research pursuits. His academic training enabled him to bridge theoretical knowledge with field-based application, especially in the realm of sustainable land use and agricultural waste management. His education continues to influence his innovative approach to solving modern agricultural and environmental challenges. 🎓🧪

💼 Experience

With over two decades of academic and field-based experience, Dr. Chai has led more than 20 funded research projects, including major programs under the Zhejiang Province Public Welfare and Natural Science Foundations. 🌾🧠 His collaborations span governmental agencies, academic institutes, and industry, reflecting a dynamic approach to solving environmental problems. He has also played key roles in five national and provincial R&D projects. Currently, as an Associate Professor and Department Deputy Director, he not only teaches and mentors graduate students but also manages academic and strategic initiatives within the department. He has also successfully established two innovation workstations in Quzhou, aimed at rural development and scientific innovation. 🏢🌍

🏅 Awards and Honors

Dr. Chai’s research excellence has been recognized with multiple prestigious awards. 🏆 He has won the Second Prize of Scientific and Technological Progress of Hubei Province, the Second Prize from China Electric Power Engineering, and the First Prize of Achievements from the China Construction Enterprise Management Association. His contributions extend beyond academia, influencing environmental policy and regional development strategies. Furthermore, he was approved to establish two impactful platforms: the Quzhou Doctor Innovation Workstation and the Quzhou Rural Revitalization Expert Workstation, both of which contribute significantly to local innovation and sustainability efforts. 🌟🎖️

🔬 Research Focus

Dr. Chai’s research primarily targets the restoration of degraded and polluted farmland, and the resource-efficient use of agricultural waste. 🌾♻️ His work combines soil science, environmental chemistry, and ecological engineering to improve agricultural productivity while reducing environmental impact. A core part of his research involves biogas slurry treatment and the mitigation of nitrogen and phosphorus loss from farmland. He actively works on creating practical, scalable solutions that benefit both farmers and the environment. Through standard development, patented technologies, and rural innovation workstations, he translates academic research into real-world benefits. His research supports China’s sustainability goals and rural revitalization strategy. 🧪🌱

🛠️ Skills

Dr. Chai Yanjun brings a rich and diverse set of interdisciplinary skills to his academic and research endeavors. 👨‍🔬 His expertise in Agricultural and Environmental Engineering allows him to address complex challenges in farmland restoration and pollution control with scientific precision. As a seasoned project leader, he excels in project coordination and strategic planning, guiding multi-institutional collaborations to success. 📊 His deep knowledge of sustainable waste management empowers him to turn agricultural byproducts into valuable resources, supporting both environmental and economic sustainability. ♻️ With multiple patents to his name, Dr. Chai is also a strong innovator, advancing technologies that bridge theory and real-world impact. 🧬 He plays a pivotal role in formulating policies and agricultural standards, ensuring that his work benefits not just academia, but society at large. 📑 In addition to his research contributions, he is a dedicated scholar involved in academic publishing, peer review, and the mentorship of postgraduate students, nurturing the next generation of environmental leaders. ✍️🎓 His leadership in rural revitalization programs further reflects his commitment to sustainable development at the grassroots level. 🏡

Conclusion

Dr. Chai Yanjun is highly suitable for the Best Researcher Award. His work is deeply rooted in addressing real-world environmental and agricultural challenges through science and innovation. With a well-rounded portfolio of publications, patents, projects, and recognition, he embodies the qualities of a top-tier researcher making both academic and societal impact. Minor improvements in international engagement and broader interdisciplinary focus could further elevate his research profile. Nonetheless, his achievements to date already represent excellence deserving of this honor.

Publications Top Notes

“Investigation of high-risk antibiotic resistance bacteria and their associated antibiotic resistance genes in different agricultural soils with biogas slurry from China”

Journal: Journal of Hazardous Materials

Year: 2024

Citations: 4

DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.134775

“Effects of different types of biochar application on dryland yellow-red soil fertility”

Journal: Nongye Gongcheng Xuebao / Transactions of the Chinese Society of Agricultural Engineering

Year: 2025

Citations: 0 (as of now)

Peng Wu | Biodiversity and Conservation | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Peng Wu | Biodiversity and Conservation | Best Researcher Award 

Researcher at South China Sea Fisheries Research Institute, China

Dr. Peng Wu, a distinguished researcher at the South China Sea Fisheries Research Institute, has made significant contributions to the field of marine microbial ecology. With a Ph.D. from the South China Sea Institute of Oceanology, his research focuses on the distribution, diversity, and functional roles of microorganisms in marine environments, particularly in the South China Sea. He has published 52 research articles, including 21 SCI-indexed papers, with 23 as first or corresponding author, reflecting his strong research leadership. His work includes isolating functional bacteria for pollutant degradation and studying the interaction between intestinal microbiota and environmental adaptability in marine species. Dr. Wu also serves as an Academic Editor for PLOS Water and BMC Microbiology, highlighting his recognition in the scientific community. His research provides valuable insights for environmental protection, sustainable fisheries, and marine ecosystem health, positioning him as a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

Professional Profile 

Scopus Profile
ORCID Profile

Education

Dr. Peng Wu holds a strong academic background in marine and environmental sciences. He completed his Master of Philosophy degree from Jinan University, Guangzhou, China, in 2010, specializing in environmental microbiology. Subsequently, he pursued his Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) from the South China Sea Institute of Oceanology, Guangzhou, China, in 2013. His academic journey has been deeply rooted in marine microbial ecology, where he developed expertise in the study of microbial communities and their functional roles in marine ecosystems. His advanced education laid a solid foundation for his scientific research, equipping him with essential skills in environmental microbiology, molecular techniques, and microbial ecology. Dr. Wu’s academic training has provided him with an in-depth understanding of microbial interactions in various marine environments, such as estuaries, coral reefs, and oil-contaminated sediments, which has become the core focus of his subsequent research career.

Professional Experience

Dr. Peng Wu is currently affiliated with the South China Sea Fisheries Research Institute, where he has been actively engaged in marine microbial ecology research. Over the years, he has gained extensive experience working on multiple national and regional research projects related to environmental microbiology and marine ecosystem health. His professional expertise includes investigating the distribution, diversity, and ecological roles of microbial communities in various marine habitats such as the Pearl River Estuary, Daya Bay, and Xisha coral reefs. Additionally, he has isolated functional bacteria capable of degrading environmental pollutants like polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and studied gut microbiota in marine species. Beyond research, Dr. Wu contributes to the academic community as an Academic Editor for PLOS Water and BMC Microbiology. His professional career demonstrates a commitment to advancing marine ecological research, with practical implications for pollution control, fisheries management, and marine environmental protection.

Research Interest

Dr. Peng Wu’s primary research interests lie in the field of marine microbial ecology, with a focus on understanding the structure, distribution, and function of microbial communities in diverse marine environments. His research investigates the role of microorganisms in environmental processes, including pollutant degradation, nutrient cycling, and ecological adaptation of marine species. A significant aspect of his work involves isolating functional bacteria such as humic-reducing and hydrocarbon-degrading strains from sediments and water bodies in the South China Sea. He is particularly interested in exploring the relationship between intestinal microbiota and the environmental adaptability of fish species in estuarine and coral reef ecosystems. Dr. Wu’s research contributes valuable knowledge to marine environmental protection, aquaculture sustainability, and bioremediation technologies. He is also engaged in studying the impact of human activities and environmental changes on microbial community dynamics, offering insights essential for conserving marine biodiversity and maintaining ecosystem stability.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Peng Wu has earned recognition in the scientific community through his dedicated research contributions, although specific awards and honors were not detailed in his profile. However, his role as an Academic Editor for renowned journals such as PLOS Water and BMC Microbiology signifies professional acknowledgment of his expertise and research excellence. Being entrusted with editorial responsibilities reflects his standing as a respected scientist within the field of environmental microbiology and marine science. Moreover, his impressive publication record, including 52 articles with 21 SCI-indexed papers and numerous first-author contributions, showcases his leadership in research. His research outputs, focusing on microbial ecology, pollutant degradation, and marine environmental health, underline his significant impact on the scientific community. While formal awards or patents were not explicitly mentioned, Dr. Wu’s editorial roles, consistent research productivity, and contributions to marine environmental science can be considered substantial honors that enhance his profile for prestigious research recognitions.

Conclusion

Dr. Peng Wu is an accomplished researcher with a strong academic background, extensive professional experience, and a clear research focus on marine microbial ecology. His work significantly contributes to understanding the role of microorganisms in marine ecosystems, particularly in environmental sustainability, pollutant degradation, and fish gut microbiome studies. His active participation in editorial roles for respected international journals reflects his recognition within the scientific community. Although formal awards or patents were not mentioned, his consistent research output, leadership in publications, and valuable findings in marine environmental research position him as a deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His research not only advances scientific knowledge but also provides practical implications for environmental conservation, sustainable fisheries, and pollution management. Dr. Wu’s dedication, innovative research approach, and professional contributions make him a commendable researcher whose work continues to benefit marine science and environmental sustainability.

Publications Top Notes

  • Niche and interspecific association of dominant zooplankton species near the Taishan coastal area in the South China Sea
    Authors: Rui He, Bingqing Xiao, Ren Hu, Hongliang Tang, Jingxin Wei, Peng Wu
    Year: 2025
    Citation: Marine Environmental Research, 2025, DOI: 10.1016/j.marenvres.2024.106929

  • Influence of different substrates on bacterial communities in coral reefs and surrounding environments of a coastal bay
    Authors: Peng Wu, Xiaojun Shi, Yang Gao, Xiaofei Xiong, Jinghuai Zhang
    Year: 2024
    Citation: Regional Studies in Marine Science, 2024, DOI: 10.1016/j.rsma.2024.103688

  • Distribution, community structure and assembly patterns of phytoplankton in the northern South China Sea
    Authors: Jian Zou, Yayuan Xiao, Peng Wu, Teng Wang, Lin Lin, Yu Liu, Yong Liu, Chunhou Li
    Year: 2024
    Citation: Frontiers in Microbiology, 2024, DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2024.1450706

  • Distribution and co-occurrence networks of the bacterial community in sediment cores from the subtropical Daya Bay, China
    Authors: Peng Wu, Yong Liu, Chunhou Li, Qiushi Zheng, Yiguo Hong, Jiapeng Wu, Shannan Xu, Lin Lin, Yayuan Xiao, Teng Wang et al.
    Year: 2023
    Citation: Marine Pollution Bulletin, 2023, DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.115580

  • Long-Term Variations of Biogenic Elements and Nutritional Status in Daya Bay, Northern South China Sea
    Authors: Zhicheng Guo, Yayuan Xiao, Yong Liu, Peng Wu, Chunhou Li
    Year: 2023
    Citation: Journal of Marine Science and Engineering, 2023, DOI: 10.3390/jmse11050904

  • Comparative Mitogenome Analyses Uncover Mitogenome Features and Phylogenetic Implications of the Parrotfishes (Perciformes: Scaridae)
    Authors: Jiaxin Gao, Chunhou Li, Dan Yu, Teng Wang, Lin Lin, Yayuan Xiao, Peng Wu, Yong Liu
    Year: 2023
    Citation: Biology, 2023, DOI: 10.3390/biology12030410

  • Acanthopagrus latus migration patterns and habitat use in Wanshan Islands, Pearl River Estuary, determined using otolith microchemical analysis
    Authors: Guanglong Tang, Zehua He, Yong Liu, Yayuan Xiao, Sheng Bi, Ye Sun, Jiman Liang, Peng Wu, Teng Wang, Jinyu Ye et al.
    Year: 2023
    Citation: Frontiers in Marine Science, 2023, DOI: 10.3389/fmars.2023.1104528

  • Insights into the Relationship between Intestinal Microbiota of the Aquaculture Worm Sipunculus nudus and Surrounding Sediments
    Authors: Junwei Li, Suwen Chen, Peng Wu, Changbo Zhu, Ruiping Hu, Ting Li, Yongjian Guo
    Year: 2023
    Citation: Fishes, 2023, DOI: 10.3390/fishes8010032

  • The complete mitochondrial genome of Cheilinus trilobatus (Perciformes: Labridae)
    Authors: Teng Wang, Yupei Li, Qin Ma, Yong Liu, Yayuan Xiao, Peng Wu, Lin Lin, Chunhou Li
    Year: 2023
    Citation: Mitochondrial DNA Part B, 2023, DOI: 10.1080/23802359.2022.2161835

  • Distribution Pattern of Mangrove Fish Communities in China
    Authors: Jinfa Zhao, Chunhou Li, Teng Wang, Chunran Li, Jianzhong Shen, Yong Liu, Peng Wu
    Year: 2022
    Citation: Biology, 2022, DOI: 10.3390/biology11121696

  • Differences of Macroalgal Consumption by Eight Herbivorous Coral Reef Fishes From the Xisha Islands, China
    Authors: Peng Wu, Teng Wang, Yong Liu, Chunhou Li, Yayuan Xiao, Shannan Xu, Tingting Han, Lin Lin, Qiumei Quan
    Year: 2022
    Citation: Frontiers in Marine Science, 2022, DOI: 10.3389/fmars.2022.882196

  • Effect of mangrove restoration on sediment properties and bacterial community
    Authors: Xiao-Xia Ma, Zhao-Yu Jiang, Peng Wu, Yong-Fei Wang, Hao Cheng, You-Shao Wang, Ji-Dong Gu
    Year: 2021
    Citation: Ecotoxicology, 2021, DOI: 10.1007/s10646-021-02370-0

  • Life History Traits, Elasticity Analyses, and Phenotypic Plasticity of Squaliobarbus curriculus in the Pearl River Estuary, China
    Authors: Teng Wang, Lin Lin, Yong Liu, Ivan Jakovlić, Chun-hou Li, Ya-yuan Xiao, Peng Wu
    Year: 2021
    Citation: Frontiers in Environmental Science, 2021, DOI: 10.3389/fenvs.2021.707130

  • Fluorene degradation by Rhodococcus sp. A2-3 isolated from hydrocarbon contaminated sediment of the Pearl River estuary, China
    Authors: Peng Wu, You-Shao Wang
    Year: 2021
    Citation: Ecotoxicology, 2021, DOI: 10.1007/s10646-021-02379-5

  • The Composition of Intestinal Microbiota From Collichthys lucidus and Its Interaction With Microbiota From Waters Along the Pearl River Estuary in China
    Authors: Peng Wu, Yong Liu, Chunhou Li, Yayuan Xiao, Teng Wang, Lin Lin, Yufang Xie
    Year: 2021
    Citation: Frontiers in Environmental Science, 2021, DOI: 10.3389/fenvs.2021.675856

  • The bacterial composition associated with Atriolum robustum, a common ascidian from Xisha coral reef, China
    Authors: Yong Liu, Peng Wu, Chunhou Li, Yayuan Xiao, Teng Wang, Lin Lin
    Year: 2021
    Citation: Symbiosis, 2021, DOI: 10.1007/s13199-020-00742-

 

Jamal Ayour | Biodiversity and Conservation | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Jamal Ayour | Biodiversity and conservation | Best Researcher Award

Prof at Agadir Superior School of Technology, Morocco

M. Jamal Ayour is an expert in food science and technology with a focus on nutrition, biotechnology, and agricultural sciences. He holds dual PhDs from INRAE and the University of Marrakech, Morocco, and has extensive professional experience in both academia and research. He currently serves as a Research Professor at the Superior School of Technology, Ibn Zohr University, Agadir, Morocco. Ayour has been involved in numerous international research projects, particularly in the fields of food technology and genetic selection of agricultural products. He has authored multiple influential publications and has a significant impact on the global food science community. His expertise includes formulating food products, supplements, and antioxidants, as well as applying biotechnology to improve food quality and nutritional value.

Professional Profiles📖

Scopus

Education 🎓

M. Jamal Ayour earned his PhD in Agricultural Sciences from INRAE – Avignon University, France (2019), and his PhD in Biotechnology and Food Science from the University of Marrakech, Morocco (2018). He also holds a Master’s degree in Food Technology (2012) and a Bachelor’s degree in Quality Control of Agri-food Products (2010), both from the University of Marrakech. His academic training in these disciplines provided a robust foundation in the scientific study of food quality, biotechnology, and agricultural sciences, which has greatly contributed to his successful career as a researcher and educator.

Work Experience💼

M. Jamal Ayour has gained diverse experience in both industry and academia. He worked as an Engineer in Biochemistry & Biotechnology at the Reformation Center of Agricultural and Agrifood, Paris, France. Additionally, Ayour was a Professor of Dietetics and Nutrition at College de Paris – Keyce Academy. His role as an International Research Project Manager at INRAE involved leading cutting-edge research on genetic selection and industrial processing of fleshy fruits. Ayour’s academic journey includes his current position as a Research Professor at the Superior School of Technology, Ibn Zohr University, Agadir, Morocco, where he focuses on food science, biotechnology, and agricultural research.

Awards and Honors 🏆

M. Jamal Ayour has received several accolades throughout his career in recognition of his research excellence and contributions to food science and technology. His expertise in formulating food products and researching nutritional and biochemical criteria of agricultural products has garnered him recognition within both the academic and professional spheres. Ayour’s work on apricot genetic selection and his involvement in international research projects have been influential in advancing food biotechnology. His ongoing contributions to the field are acknowledged through various honors and research collaborations across Europe and Africa.

Skills 💡

M. Jamal Ayour is proficient in various research and analytical techniques. He has expertise in formulating food products, supplements, antioxidants, and cosmetic products. He is well-versed in statistical software such as R, XLSTAT, SPSS, and MATLAB, which he uses for data analysis in food technology research. Ayour is also skilled in bioinformatics, including using software like Libmol, GenALEx, and MEGA6 for genomic studies. Additionally, he is proficient in teaching and using digital tools, including Moodle and Genially, to enhance learning experiences. His technical expertise is complemented by certifications in food quality control, metrology, and project management.

Research Focus 🔬

M. Jamal Ayour’s research primarily focuses on food science, biotechnology, and agricultural technology. His work includes studying the nutritional, technological, and biochemical properties of fruits, particularly apricots, and their potential for industrial processing. He is involved in genetic selection to improve fruit quality and in the development of innovative food formulations, including supplements and antioxidants. Ayour’s research also explores the enzymatic activity control in fruit ripening, contributing significantly to the food industry’s understanding of processing and storage techniques. His projects aim to bridge the gap between food science research and practical applications.

Conclusion✅

M. Jamal Ayour is an outstanding candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His expertise in food science, agricultural biotechnology, and nutrition research, combined with his academic contributions and international collaboration, makes him an exemplary figure in his field. His innovative work in food technology and genetic research has not only advanced scientific knowledge but also has practical applications in the food industry. By enhancing public engagement and broadening the scope of his research to include sustainability and digital innovation, he could further solidify his position as a leading researcher globally.

Publications Top Notes📚

Genetic diversity assessment towards core collection construction of Moroccan apricot (Prunus armeniaca L.) germplasm using genomic SSR markers
South African Journal of Botany (2025)
DOI: 10.1016/j.sajb.2025.02.038

Valorizing Coffee Grounds: Bioactive Compounds and Innovative Technologies for Industrial By-Product Utilization
Conference Paper (2024)
DOI: 10.3390/ICC2024-18167

Cell Wall Enzymatic Activity Control: A Reliable Technique in the Fruit Ripening Process
Food Science and Nutrition (2024)
DOI: 10.5772/intechopen.113752

Date seeds (Phoenix Dactylifera L.) valorization: chemical composition of lipid fraction
Brazilian Journal of Biology (2024)
DOI: 10.1590/1519-6984.260771

Evolution of pigments and their relationship with skin color and sensory profile in date fruits (Phoenix dactylifera L.)
Brazilian Journal of Biology (2024)
DOI: 10.1590/1519-6984.252426

Inhibitive Properties of Date Seed Extracts (Phoenix Dactylifera L.) on Mild Steel Corrosion in 1M HCl Solution: Experimental and DFT Studies
Biointerface Research in Applied Chemistry (2023)
DOI: 10.33263/BRIAC135.427

Assessment of Phenotypic Diversity of Some Local Moroccan Date Palm Varieties and Clones (Phoenix Dactylifera L.) from the Zagora Region, Southern Morocco
Jordan Journal of Biological Sciences (2022)
DOI: 10.54319/jjbs/150416

Evaluation of some nutritional quality criteria of seventeen Moroccan dates varieties and clones, fruits of date palm (Phoenix dactylifera l.)
Brazilian Journal of Biology (2022)
DOI: 10.1590/1519-6984.236471

Phenolic profiling in ten apricot clones using an efficient method (Thioacidolysis-UFLC) and determination of their antioxidant potential
Food Bioscience (2022)
DOI: 10.1016/j.fbio.2022.101880

Assessment of Nutritional, Technological, and Commercial Apricot Quality Criteria of the Moroccan Cultivar “Maoui” Compared to Introduced Spanish Cultivars “Canino” and “Delpatriarca” towards Suitable Valorization
Journal of Food Quality (2021)
DOI: 10.1155/2021/6679128

Changes in cell wall neutral sugar composition related to pectinolytic enzyme activities and intra-flesh textural property during ripening of ten apricot clones
Food Chemistry (2021)
DOI: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2020.128096

Relationships between Biochemical Criteria, Volatile Compounds, and Sensory Profiles of Ten Apricot Clones at Commercial and Consumption Ripening Stages
Journal of Food Quality (2020)
DOI: 10.1155/2020/8873835

Bioactive compounds and antioxidant activity of seventeen Moroccan date varieties and clones (Phoenix dactylifera L.)
South African Journal of Botany (2019)
DOI: 10.1016/j.sajb.2018.12.004

Contribution to the study of genetic diversity and searching for physicochemical and biochemical parameters as indicators of quality during the maturation of fresh apricot fruits and after processing
Avignon University (2018)

Postharvest technologies for shelf life enhancement of temperate fruits
Postharvest Biology and Technology of Temperate Fruits (2018)
DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-75163-4_4

Evolution of some fruit quality criteria during ripening of twelve new Moroccan apricot clones (Prunus armeniaca L.)
Scientia Horticulturae (2017)
DOI: 10.1016/j.scienta.2016.12.010

Impact of cooking on apricot texture as a function of cultivar and maturity
LWT (2017)
DOI: 10.1016/j.lwt.2016.10.040

Evolution of pigments and their relationship with skin color based on ripening in fruits of different Moroccan genotypes of apricots (Prunus armeniaca L.)
Scientia Horticulturae (2016)
DOI: 10.1016/j.scienta.2016.05.027