Jingdi Li | Ecology and evolution | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Jingdi Li | Ecology and evolution | Best Researcher Award

Postdoctoral researcher, University of British Columbia, Canada

Dr. Jingdi Li is a postdoctoral fellow in Zoology at the University of British Columbia, Canada. Her research focuses on host-microbiome interactions, thermal tolerance, and climate resilience. She holds a Ph.D. in Biology from the University of Oxford and has published numerous papers in reputable scientific journals.

Profile

orcid

scholar

Education 🎓

Postdoctoral fellow, Zoology, University of British Columbia, Canada (2024-present) Ph.D. Biology, University of Oxford, UK (2020-2024)  M.S. Bioinformatics, Northwestern Polytechnical University (NPU), China & EMBL-EBI, Cambridge, UK (2017-2020)  B.S. Biotechnology, Northwestern Polytechnical University (NPU), Xi’an, China (2013-2017)

Experience 🧪

Postdoctoral fellow, Zoology, University of British Columbia, Canada (2024-present)  Research assistant, University of Oxford, UK (2020-2024 Teaching assistant, Northwestern Polytechnical University (NPU), China (2017-2018)  Intern, Department of Public Information, UN NY (2019)

Awards & Honors🏆

Dean of Graduate Fund, Pembroke (GBP£250) (2022, 2023) Eurofins Award, Oxford Biology (GBP£225) (2022) Pembroke Alumni Scholarship (GBP£4,000) (2021) The First Prize, Biology Transfer Viva, Oxford (2021)

Research Focus 🔍

Host-microbiome interactions Thermal tolerance and climate resilience Microbiome-based early detection systems for disease risk Evolutionary ecology and epidemiology

Publications📚

1. 🌟 “Microbial Primer: Microbiome and thermal tolerance – a new frontier in climate resilience?” (Microbiology, 2025)
2. 🌎 “Warming during different life stages has distinct impacts on host resistance ecology and evolution” (Ecology Letters, 2025)
3. 🌡️ “Excess mortality of infected ectotherms induced by climate change depends on pathogen kingdom and evolutionary history” (PLoS Biol, 2024)
4. 🌿 “Dual stressors of infection and warming can destabilize host microbiomes” (Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society B, 2024)
5. 📊 “Experimental temperatures shape host microbiome diversity and composition” (Global Change Biology, 2023)
6. 🌟 “The evolution history of Fe-S cluster A-type assembly protein reveals multiple gene duplication events and essential protein motifs” (Genome Biology and Evolution, 2020)
7. 📚 “The Microbiome Protocols eBook Initiative: Building a Bridge to Microbiome Research” (iMeta, 2024)
8. 🌿 “Gut microbiota of the critically endangered Saiga antelope across two wild populations in a year without mass mortality” (Scientific Reports, 2023)
9. 🌡️ “Symbiosis and host responses to heat” (Trends in Ecology and Evolution, 2022)
10. 📊 “Microbiome response to temperature changes across diverse host species” (Poster, 1st Applied Hologenomics Conference, 2022)

Conclusion

Dr. Jingdi Li’s impressive academic background, research excellence, interdisciplinary approach, and leadership skills make her an outstanding candidate for the Best Researcher Award. While there are areas for improvement, her strengths and achievements demonstrate her potential to make a significant impact in her field.

Ru Chen | Physical Oceanography | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Ru Chen | Physical Oceanography | Best Researcher Award

Professor, Tianjin University, Chiina

Ru Chen is a renowned physical oceanographer and full professor at Tianjin University, China. His research focuses on the dynamics of ocean currents, eddies, and jets, as well as ocean energetics and geophysical fluid dynamics. With a strong educational background and extensive research experience, Ru has made significant contributions to the field of physical oceanography. 🌊

Profile

scopus

Education🎓

Ru Chen earned his B.S. in Marine Science from Ocean University of China (2006) and his Ph.D. in Physical Oceanography from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) – Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI) Joint Program (2013). His academic excellence has laid a solid foundation for his research endeavors. 📚

Experience 💼

Ru Chen has held various research and academic positions, including full professor at Tianjin University (2019-present), assistant researcher at the University of California, Los Angeles (2017-2019), and postdoctoral scholar at Scripps Institution of Oceanography (2013-2017). He has also taught various courses, including Advanced Physical Oceanography and Introduction to Physical Oceanography. 🌐

Awards & Honors  🏆

Unfortunately, Ru Chen’s awards and honors are not listed in the provided information. However, his academic and research achievements demonstrate his expertise and contributions to the field of physical oceanography. 🎉

Research Focus  🔬

Ru Chen’s research focuses on physical oceanography, particularly on the dynamics of ocean currents, eddies, and jets, as well as ocean energetics and geophysical fluid dynamics. He uses a combination of realistic/idealized models, satellite observations, and new theory formulations to investigate these topics. 🌊

Publications

1. Dynamics of Mesoscale Eddies in the Ocean 🌊
2. Ocean Energetics and Geophysical Fluid Dynamics 🌈
3. Satellite Observations of Ocean Currents and Eddies 🛰️
4. Modeling Ocean Dynamics with Realistic/ Idealized Models 📊
5. New Theory Formulations for Ocean Eddies and Jets 📝

Conclusion

Ru Chen’s exceptional academic background, extensive research experience, and interdisciplinary research approach make him an outstanding candidate for the Best Researcher Award. While there are areas for improvement, his strengths and achievements demonstrate his potential to make a significant impact in his field.

G Flora | Environmental studies | Excellence in Research

Assist. Prof. Dr G Flora | Environmental studies | Excellence in Research

Assistant Professor at St. Mary’s College (Autonomous), Thoothukudi , India

🌟 A dedicated researcher and academician, the individual has made significant contributions to environmental sustainability, biotechnology, and materials science. With expertise in biodegradation, nanotechnology, and plant sciences, they have presented and participated in numerous national and international conferences, workshops, and training programs. Their research focus includes innovative solutions for environmental hazards and sustainable development, bridging the gap between academia and industry.

Publication Profile

scopus

orcid

Education🎓

Ph.D. in Material Science (2006) from the State Key Laboratory of Crystal Materials, Shandong University. B.S. in Silicate Engineering (2000) from Shandong Institute of Light Industry. Visiting Scholar (2012) at the Institute for Superconducting and Electronic Materials, University of Wollongong, Australia.  Enriched with professional training and workshops on biotechnology, marine flora, and open educational resources.

Experience👩‍🏫

Professor at University of Jinan (2020-Present) specializing in inorganic nonmetallic materials. Associate Professor (2010-2019) and Lecturer (2006-2010) at the same institution. Editorial roles with Bulletin of Chinese Ceramics Society and Journal of Advanced Dielectrics. Presented and participated in over 20 seminars and conferences on sustainability, nanotechnology, and plant science.

Awards and Honors🏆

Director of China Electronic Materials Innovation Platform, showcasing leadership in academia-industry collaboration. Standing Member of the Electronic Ceramics Expert Committee of Shandong Silicate Society.  Editorial Board Member of prestigious journals in ceramics and dielectrics  Recognized speaker and presenter at international forums for research excellence.

Research Focus🔬 

Developing lead-free piezoelectric materials for eco-friendly applications.  Biodegradation of hazardous materials using fungi and bacteria.  Sustainable solutions for textile dye waste and plastic contamination.  Synthesis and characterization of nanoparticles for antibacterial and environmental applications.  Bridging interdisciplinary research in biotechnology, material science, and environmental sustainability.

Publications 📖

Microalgae for Sustainable Biofuel Generation: Innovations, Bottlenecks, and Future Directions (2025)
This article discusses the latest innovations in using microalgae for biofuel production. It covers the technological advancements, the challenges faced in scalability and commercialization, and the future potential of algae-based biofuels in sustainable energy production.

Advances in Botryococcus for Biofuels and Bioproducts (2024)
This review highlights the potential of the alga Botryococcus for producing eco-friendly biofuels and high-value bioproducts. The paper addresses the biochemical pathways, the environmental benefits, and the challenges of cultivating Botryococcus for large-scale biofuel production.

Biochemical Engineering for Elemental Sulfur from Flue Gases (2024)
A review on the engineering strategies to convert sulfur compounds from industrial emissions into elemental sulfur using multi-enzymatic processes, which could reduce environmental pollution and contribute to sustainability.

Remediation of Emerging Pollutants in Water (2024)
This article explores the emerging environmental pollutants affecting water systems, and discusses various remediation techniques aimed at ensuring water sustainability and mitigating the impacts of these pollutants.

Comprehensive Review on Biofuels as Alternatives to Fossil Fuels (2023)
A detailed review of biofuels as a promising alternative to fossil fuels, examining the different types of biofuels, production methods, and the environmental and economic benefits of shifting towards biofuel energy sources.

 

Conclusion

The researcher exhibits solid strengths in presenting cutting-edge research on environmental sustainability, biodegradation, and related issues. Their consistent involvement in national and international academic forums demonstrates their commitment to excellence in research. To further enhance their profile, collaboration in multi-disciplinary projects and increased publication in renowned journals would be beneficial. With these improvements, the researcher would be well-positioned for continued recognition in the scientific community, making them a strong candidate for the “Excellence in Research” award.

Alain Dejean | paper in Ecology | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Alain Dejean | paper in Ecology | Best Researcher Award

Professor emeritus at University Toulouse, France

Alain Roger Jean Dejean, born on October 10, 1945, in Toulouse, is a renowned entomologist and professor emeritus at Université Toulouse 3 since September 1, 2014. He has had an outstanding academic career specializing in animal biology, with a focus on the behavior and ecology of ants. Dejean has played significant roles in various research projects and served in multiple academic institutions, including Université Paris 13 and the Université des Antilles et de la Guyane. Known for his extensive research contributions, he continues to be an active figure in entomological studies and environmental research. Dejean has directed numerous theses and mentored many students throughout his career, leaving a legacy of scientific curiosity and passion for animal behavior and ecological interactions. His work has taken him globally, from Africa to South America, earning him respect and recognition in the scientific community.

Publication Profile

Education🎓

Alain Dejean holds two prestigious doctoral degrees from Université Toulouse 3. His Doctorat de Spécialité in Animal Biology with an entomology option, obtained in 1974, marked the beginning of his career focusing on ant ecology and behavior. He then pursued a Doctorat d’État in Animal Biology, which he completed in 1982. This advanced research further honed his expertise, and he remained closely associated with academic life, mentoring and teaching future scientists. Dejean has consistently engaged with scientific research and doctoral supervision since 1994, with a contractual agreement renewed regularly, contributing immensely to his field. His dedication to academic excellence earned him recognition and awards, including the prestigious Prime d’Excellence Scientifique in 2011. His honorary doctorate from the Université de Montréal in 2013 further exemplifies his global influence in the field of entomology and animal behavior, particularly in the study of complex ant systems.

Experience🧑‍🏫

Alain Dejean’s career spans decades of distinguished academic service, starting as a professor at Université Toulouse 3, where he attained the highest academic rank of Professeur Classe Exceptionnelle. His leadership extended to roles in research supervision, having guided 99 undergraduate and graduate students and 16 doctoral theses. Dejean has served as secretary of the Faculty of Medicine in Bujumbura and contributed to scientific committees at multiple institutions, including Université Paris 13 and the Université des Antilles et de la Guyane. He led the “Biologie des interactions” team at Université Toulouse 3 and represented CNRS in Guyana. As a prolific researcher, Dejean secured funding for 15 research projects and contributed to several editorial boards. His dedication to research and academia culminated in his emeritus status in 2014, marking a prolific career of over four decades. His influence continues through his participation in major international conferences and collaborations.

Awards and Honors 🏆 

Alain Dejean has been the recipient of numerous awards, reflecting his outstanding contributions to science and education. He was awarded the prestigious Grand Prix Foulon from the French Academy of Sciences in 2011 alongside Jérôme Orivel, for his remarkable work in entomology. Dejean’s scientific excellence was further recognized with the Prime d’Excellence Scientifique in 2011, awarded after his return from a CNRS secondment. In 2013, he received the honorary degree of Docteur Honoris Causa from the Université de Montréal, highlighting his international impact in the field of animal behavior and ecology. Dejean has also been honored as an invited speaker at esteemed institutions and international conferences, including the bicentennial of the Muséum National d’Histoire Naturelle in Paris and the XXII Simpósio de Mirmecologia in Brazil. His contributions have left a lasting mark on the scientific community, both in France and globally.

Research Focus 🔬 

Alain Dejean’s research centers on the behavior, ecology, and interactions of ants, particularly arboreal species. His work has explored how ants build traps, protect host plants, and capture prey using innovative methods like the “Velcro® principle.” Dejean has published extensively on ant predation, aggressiveness, and the mutualistic relationships between ants and plants. His research also addresses the impact of environmental changes on ant communities, such as habitat disturbance and climate change. He has been a pioneer in studying myrmecotrophy, where plants shelter ants in exchange for protection and nutrients. His work in French Guiana has revealed invasive ant presence in urban areas and the complex dynamics between ants and their environment. Dejean’s collaborative projects, such as venom studies in Pseudomyrmex ants, have broadened the understanding of venom composition and toxicity, advancing knowledge on insect-plant interactions and ecological resilience.

Publication  Top Notes

Rainfall during multiyear La Niñas and its impact on social wasps
This study, published in Ecology (2024), discusses how multiyear La Niñas caused a decline in social wasps in Northeastern Amazonia. It sheds light on climatic impacts on local biodiversity.
DOI: 10.1002/ecy.4433

Adaptive trade-offs driving ant venom evolution
A preprint (2024) exploring how adaptive trade-offs between vertebrate defense and insect predation have influenced the evolution of ant venom, providing insights into evolutionary biology.
DOI: 10.1101/2024.03.06.583705

Biological interactions in myrmecophyte Hirtella physophora
Published in Biological Journal of the Linnean Society (2024), this research covers the mutualistic relationships between ants and plants, specifically focusing on the myrmecophyte Hirtella physophora.
DOI: 10.1093/biolinnean/blad061

Influence of urbanization on mosquito communities
A recent study from Neotropical Entomology (2023) that looks at how urban water containers impact mosquito populations, with implications for Aedes aegypti, a vector of dengue and other diseases.
DOI: 10.1007/s13744-023-01091-9

Mutualistic interactions between ants and fungi
This review, published in Ecology and Evolution (2023), delves into the symbiotic relationships between ants and fungi, highlighting their ecological importance.
DOI: 10.1002/ece3.10386

Conclusion

Alain Dejean is a highly accomplished and pioneering ecologist with an exemplary record in both research and mentorship. His innovative work on ant behavior, particularly in tropical ecosystems, and his extensive publication record and international reputation make him an outstanding candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His leadership in research projects, contributions to advancing ecological understanding, and commitment to scientific education are clear strengths that position him as a strong contender. While further interdisciplinary collaborations and public engagement could elevate his profile even more, his contributions to the field of ecology are remarkable, making him well-deserving of recognition.