Shanshan Zhao | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Shanshan Zhao | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Assistant professor at China Jiliang University, China

Zhao Shanshan is an Assistant Professor at China Jiliang University, specializing in animal ecology and biodiversity conservation. Her research focuses on mitigating human-wildlife conflicts, particularly concerning waterbirds and the impact of renewable energy development on biodiversity. With a strong academic background and numerous publications in high-impact journals, she has contributed significantly to understanding ecological balance and wildlife movement patterns. Zhao has been actively involved in research projects addressing conservation challenges in China’s wetlands and coastal regions. Her work integrates ecological research with technological tools such as GIS and remote sensing, making her a key contributor to the field.

Professional Profile

Education

Zhao Shanshan holds a Ph.D. in Animal Ecology from East China Normal University, where she focused on the trade-off between waterbird conservation and human activities along the Yellow Sea coast. She earned her M.A. in Wetland Ecology from Henan Normal University, where she researched bird diet and habitat selection in the Yellow River wetland. Her undergraduate degree in Biotechnology, also from Henan Normal University, laid the foundation for her expertise in ecology and conservation. Throughout her academic journey, Zhao demonstrated exceptional performance, receiving multiple awards for academic excellence. Her multidisciplinary background in ecology and biotechnology provides her with a comprehensive understanding of wildlife conservation and environmental sustainability, which she integrates into her research.

Professional Experience

Since 2022, Zhao Shanshan has been an Assistant Professor at China Jiliang University, conducting research on wildlife movement, habitat ecology, and biodiversity maintenance. Her professional experience includes extensive fieldwork across China, particularly in the Yangtze River coast, Hangzhou Bay, and Tianmu Mountain, where she has conducted bird and mammal surveys. She has also contributed as a core participant in multiple research projects funded by national and municipal agencies, focusing on the coexistence of renewable energy infrastructure and wildlife conservation. Her expertise in GIS, satellite tracking, and statistical analysis has played a crucial role in assessing the environmental impact of wind farms on avian species. In addition to her research activities, she mentors students and collaborates with conservation organizations to promote sustainable ecological practices.

Research Interests

Zhao’s primary research interests lie in wildlife movement patterns, habitat selection, and biodiversity conservation. She is particularly interested in understanding how human activities, such as renewable energy development and land-use changes, influence the stability and diversity of bird and mammal populations. Her work integrates advanced ecological modeling techniques, such as landscape classification using GIS and movement pattern analysis through satellite and radio tracking. She is also involved in studying the mechanisms that maintain biodiversity in rapidly changing environments. Through her research, Zhao aims to develop strategies that balance ecological conservation with sustainable development, ensuring that critical habitats are preserved while accommodating human progress. Her findings contribute to policy recommendations for wildlife conservation in China and beyond.

Awards and Honors

Zhao Shanshan has received multiple prestigious awards for her academic and research excellence. She was awarded the First Prize at East China Normal University in 2020 for outstanding Ph.D. research performance. Additionally, she received scholarships and academic excellence awards from Henan Normal University during her master’s and undergraduate studies. Her research contributions have been recognized through competitive grants, including the National Natural Science Foundation of China, where she serves as a project director. These accolades reflect her dedication to advancing ecological research and conservation science. Her consistent recognition underscores her impact in the field, positioning her as a leading researcher in biodiversity and wildlife conservation.

Conclusion

Zhao Shanshan is a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award, with a solid research background, a commendable publication record, and an impressive portfolio of funded projects. However, strengthening international collaborations and leading more independent projects could further enhance the profile. If the award criteria emphasize applied ecological research and conservation, Zhao’s contributions are highly relevant and deserving of recognition.

Publications Top Noted

  1. Li, B., Yuan, X., Chen, M., Bo, S., Xia, L., Guo, Y., Zhao, S., Ma, Z., Wang, T. (2020) – 27 citations

    • How to strive for balance of coastal wind energy development with waterbird conservation in the important coastal wetlands, a case study in the Chongming Islands of East China

    • Journal of Cleaner Production 263, 121547

  2. Zhao, S., Xu, H., Song, N., Wang, Z., Li, B., Wang, T. (2020) – 15 citations

    • Effect of wind farms on wintering ducks at an important wintering ground in China along the East Asian–Australasian Flyway

    • Ecology and Evolution 10 (17), 9567-9580

  3. Xu, H., Zhao, S., Song, N., Liu, N., Zhong, S., Li, B., Wang, T. (2021) – 14 citations

    • Abundance and behavior of little egrets (Egretta garzetta) near an onshore wind farm in Chongming Dongtan, China

    • Journal of Cleaner Production 312, 127662

  4. Song, N., Xu, H., Zhao, S., Liu, N., Zhong, S., Li, B., Wang, T. (2021) – 10 citations

    • Effects of wind farms on the nest distribution of magpie (Pica pica) in agroforestry systems of Chongming Island, China

    • Global Ecology and Conservation 27, e01536

  5. Zhao, S., Xu, H., Zhong, S., Song, N., Liu, N., Wang, Z., Li, B., Wang, T. (2022) – 5 citations

    • Risk evaluation of onshore wind farms in relation to wild duck (Anatidae) movements in the Yangtze River Mouth, China

    • IET Renewable Power Generation 16 (3), 470-477

  6. Zhao, S., Wang, T., Li, X., Xu, H., Liu, N., Xu, A., Fuller, R.A., Li, B. (2023) – 4 citations

    • Comparing different management strategies of river mouths for waterbird conservation: a case study along the Yellow Sea coast

    • Global Ecology and Conservation 47, e02659

  7. Zhao, S., Xu, H., Wang, T., Li, H., Li, X., Liu, N., Song, X., Guan, F., Chen, X., Xu, A., Li, B. (2024) – 3 citations

    • Prioritizing landscapes for mitigating the impacts of onshore wind farms on multidimensional waterbird diversity in the Yellow Sea

    • Current Zoology 70 (6), 752-764

  8. Liu, N., Zhong, S., Wang, T., Li, X., Wei, L., Zou, C., Zhao, S., Li, B. (2022) – 3 citations

    • Advertisement Call Variation of Two Frog Species along an Urban–Rural Gradient in Shanghai, China

    • Diversity 14 (7), 550

  9. Zhao, S., Chu, Y., Jiang, X., Yu, F., Jin, T., Ma, J. (2018) – 2 citations

    • Nest Characteristics and Nest-Site Selection of Grey Herons in the National Nature Reserve of the Yellow River Wetlands, Xinxiang, China

    • Sichuan Journal of Zoology 37 (3), 317-323

  10. Li, Y., Chen, X., Zhao, S., Song, X., Guo, R., Xu, A. (2023) – 1 citation

  • Activity rhythm and home range of released sika deer (Cervus nippon kopschi)

  • Acta Theriologica Sinica 43 (5), 501

  1. Li, Y., Chen, X., Zhao, S., Song, X., Guo, R., Xu, A. (2023) – 1 citation

  • Activity Rhythm and Home Range Characteristics of Released South China Sika Deer

  • Journal of Mammalogy 43 (5), 501

  1. Zhao, S., Chu, Y., Li, G., Jiang, X., Chen, Y., Hou, C., Ma, J. (2018) – 1 citation

  • Diet Study of Wintering Whooper Swans in the Yellow River Wetlands, Xinxiang, China

  • Wetland Science 16 (2), 245

  1. Zhao, S. (2018) – 1 citation

  • Food Resources and Habitat Selection of Typical Birds in the Yellow River Wetlands, Xinxiang, China

  • Henan Normal University Master’s Thesis

 

Javier Rodríguez | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Javier Rodríguez | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Teaching and research personnel at University of Jaén, Spain 

Javier Rodríguez López is a dedicated researcher in food microbiology, with a strong focus on antimicrobial resistance and food safety. He has contributed extensively to understanding microbial contamination in minimally processed plant-based foods and the application of non-thermal preservation techniques such as high hydrostatic pressure (HHP) and bacteriocins. His research has led to significant advancements in improving the microbiological quality of food products, reducing antimicrobial-resistant bacteria, and enhancing food preservation methods. With a strong international background, he has collaborated with leading researchers in Spain, the Netherlands, and Italy, expanding his expertise in bioinformatics and RNA sequencing. In addition to his research, he has been actively involved in academic teaching, mentoring students, and contributing to innovative educational projects. His work has been recognized through several scientific publications, conference presentations, and research collaborations, making him a promising scientist in the field of food microbiology and antimicrobial resistance.

Professional Profile

Education

Javier Rodríguez López holds a PhD in Food Microbiology from the University of Jaén, which he completed in 2022 with an outstanding cum laude distinction and an international mention. His doctoral research focused on the impact of food processing methods on antimicrobial resistance in vegetables, leading to multiple scientific publications. Prior to his PhD, he obtained a Master’s degree in Olive Groves and Olive Oil from the University of Jaén in 2017, where he gained specialized knowledge in food processing and quality control. His academic journey began with a Bachelor’s degree in Biology from the University of Jaén in 2016, laying the foundation for his expertise in microbiology and molecular biology. Throughout his education, he has undertaken specialized courses in bioinformatics, genome sequencing, and statistical analysis, further strengthening his ability to conduct advanced research in microbial food safety and antimicrobial resistance.

Professional Experience

Javier Rodríguez López has accumulated extensive research and teaching experience in microbiology. He began his career as a research technical support staff member at the University of Granada in 2017 before embarking on his PhD at the University of Jaén. During his doctoral studies, he collaborated on multiple research projects, leading to his first major publications. Following his PhD, he secured a postdoctoral contract at the University of Jaén, focusing on microbial diversity and food safety. In 2023, he was awarded a prestigious Margarita Salas postdoctoral contract, allowing him to conduct research at the University of Groningen in the Netherlands, where he specialized in RNA sequencing and bioinformatics. He later returned to the University of Jaén, continuing his research and taking on a teaching role as a temporary substitute lecturer. His professional journey highlights his commitment to scientific discovery, international collaboration, and academic mentorship.

Research Interests

Javier Rodríguez López’s research interests lie at the intersection of food microbiology, antimicrobial resistance, and bioinformatics. He is particularly focused on studying microbial contamination in food products, investigating the effects of food processing technologies on bacterial diversity, and exploring non-thermal preservation techniques such as high hydrostatic pressure and bacteriocins. His work aims to enhance food safety while preserving the nutritional and sensory properties of food. Additionally, he has a keen interest in genomic and metagenomic studies, using high-throughput sequencing and bioinformatics tools to analyze bacterial communities and their resistance mechanisms. His research also extends to studying the impact of packaging materials on microbial contamination and antibiotic resistance. By integrating microbiology, bioinformatics, and food technology, his goal is to develop innovative solutions for reducing foodborne pathogens and antibiotic-resistant bacteria, ultimately improving food safety and public health.

Awards and Honors

Javier Rodríguez López has received recognition for his outstanding contributions to microbiological research. His PhD thesis was awarded an outstanding cum laude distinction, along with an international mention for his research stay at the University of Naples Federico II. He secured a competitive Margarita Salas postdoctoral fellowship, enabling him to conduct research at the University of Groningen, a leading institution in molecular genetics. His work has been published in high-impact scientific journals, including Q1-ranked publications, demonstrating the significance of his research in the field of food microbiology. Additionally, he has presented his findings at numerous national and international conferences, earning recognition for his contributions to antimicrobial resistance research. His role in multiple research projects and collaborations has further established him as a promising scientist in food microbiology. Through his dedication and achievements, he continues to make a meaningful impact on food safety and microbial research.

Conclusion

Javier Rodríguez López is a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award, particularly in the early-career category. His research in food microbiology, antimicrobial resistance, and high-pressure food preservation is impactful. However, to further solidify his position, he could focus on leading independent projects, increasing his citation impact, and engaging in more translational research with industry applications.

Publications Top Noted

  • Author(s): Rodríguez-López, J., Grande Burgos, M. J., De Filippis, F., Gálvez, A. M., & Lucas, R.

  • Year: 2023

  • Title: Determination of the effect of the bacteriocin enterocin AS-48 on the microbial loads and bacterial diversity of blueberries

  • Journal: Heliyon

  • Volume & Issue: 9(5)

  • Article ID: e15921

  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e15921

  • Publication Type: Open-access, Peer-reviewed Journal Article