Gurleen Sidhu | Plant Breeding and Genetics | Women Researcher Award

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Dr. Gurleen Sidhu | Plant Breeding and Genetics | Women Researcher Award

Post doctoral fellow at University of Manitoba, Canada

Gurleen Sidhu is a dedicated plant scientist with extensive expertise in plant breeding, genetics, and molecular biology. With a strong academic foundation and over a decade of research experience, she has contributed significantly to crop improvement efforts in both India and Canada. Her work focuses on genetic diversity, genome-wide association studies, and the development of molecular tools for breeding programs, particularly in asparagus and wheat. Gurleen has presented her research at numerous international conferences and has published widely in peer-reviewed journals. She has also received multiple academic awards and scholarships in recognition of her scientific excellence. As a postdoctoral fellow, she leads research projects, mentors students, and collaborates with industry and academic stakeholders. Her technical proficiency, leadership skills, and commitment to advancing sustainable agriculture position her as a promising researcher with the potential to make a lasting impact in the field of agricultural science and biotechnology.

Professional Profile 

Google Scholar

Education

Gurleen Sidhu holds a strong academic background in agricultural sciences, beginning with a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture (Honors) from Punjab Agricultural University, where she developed a foundational understanding of agronomy and crop science. She went on to complete her Master of Science in Plant Breeding, Genetics, and Biotechnology at the same university, focusing on genetic diversity studies in bitter gourd using morphological and molecular markers. She later pursued a PhD in Plant Breeding and Genetics at the University of Guelph, Canada, where her doctoral research concentrated on the genetic architecture of traits critical to asparagus breeding. Her educational journey reflects a consistent commitment to the field of plant genetics, complemented by a postgraduate diploma in computer applications, which supports her data analysis skills. This blend of hands-on research, advanced study, and technical training provides a solid foundation for her career as a plant scientist with international research experience and impact.

Experience

Gurleen Sidhu has accumulated diverse and valuable research experience in both academic and applied agricultural settings. She began her research journey at Punjab Agricultural University, where she worked on genetic diversity analysis in bitter gourd. At the University of Guelph, she conducted advanced molecular breeding studies during her PhD, focusing on asparagus genetics, including trait mapping and linkage analysis. Currently a postdoctoral fellow at the University of Manitoba, her work involves genome-wide association studies, molecular breeding, and supervision of graduate students. She has successfully led multiple research projects and contributed to industry-relevant genetic improvement programs, particularly in Western Canadian agriculture. Her ability to manage and deliver complex research, alongside her experience in program development, funding management, and stakeholder collaboration, showcases her leadership in agricultural research. Her hands-on involvement in both fieldwork and laboratory work highlights her comprehensive skill set across the entire research lifecycle—from experimentation and data analysis to mentoring and dissemination.

Research Focus

Gurleen Sidhu’s research is centered on plant breeding, molecular genetics, and crop improvement, with an emphasis on developing sustainable solutions for modern agriculture. Her work focuses on understanding the genetic basis of key agronomic traits in crops such as asparagus, wheat, and bitter gourd. She has employed tools like genome-wide association studies (GWAS), SNP-based linkage mapping, and genotyping-by-sequencing to identify genes and markers linked to traits such as spear quality, andromonoecy, lodging resistance, and tissue culture responsiveness. Her research aims to enhance crop yield, quality, and adaptability through the integration of molecular tools into breeding programs. She also explores genetic diversity to inform breeding strategies and germplasm enhancement. Through interdisciplinary collaborations and field-based experimentation, Gurleen connects molecular insights to real-world crop production challenges. Her work supports the long-term goals of food security, genetic resource utilization, and climate-resilient agriculture, especially in the context of Canadian and global agronomic systems.

Award and Honor

Gurleen Sidhu has received numerous awards and honors that reflect her academic excellence, research potential, and scientific contributions. During her academic journey, she was the recipient of multiple Dean’s Scholarships throughout her PhD at the University of Guelph. She earned the prestigious Seed of the Year Scholarship, as well as the Major General LaFleche Memorial and Mrs. Fred Ball Scholarships for outstanding performance. Internationally, she was recognized with a Best Poster Presentation Award at the International Society of Horticultural Science Conference in Germany and secured a competitive travel grant for the Plant Science Symposium at the University of Minnesota. In India, she was awarded the B.R. Sharma Gold Medal for achieving the highest academic standing during her master’s program and received university merit scholarships and certificates throughout her undergraduate and postgraduate studies. These accolades collectively underscore her dedication to scientific innovation, leadership in research, and consistent academic distinction across institutions and countries.

Publications Top Notes

  • Title: Genetic diversity analysis in bitter gourd (Momordica charantia L.) using morphological traits
    Authors: GK Sidhu, M Pathak
    Year: 2016
    Citations: 14

  • Title: Character association and path co-efficient analysis in bitter gourd (Momordica charantia L.)
    Authors: GK Sidhu, M Pathak
    Year: 2016
    Citations: 2

  • Title: Genetic Diversity Analysis of Bitter Gourd (Momordica Charantia L.) Germplasm Based on RAPD and SSR Markers
    Authors: GK Sidhu, M Pathak
    Year: 2020
    Citations: 1

  • Title: Evaluation of bitter gourd (Momordica charantia L.) genotypes for quality traits
    Authors: GK Sidhu, M Pathak, N Chawla
    Year: 2017
    Citations: 1

  • Title: EVALUATION AND ASSESSMENT OF GENETIC DIVERSITY AMONG BITTER GOURD [Momordica charantia L. Moench] GERMPLASM
    Authors: GK Sidhu
    Year: 2013
    Citations: 1

  • Title: Genetic diversity and population structure analysis in Asparagus officinalis
    Authors: G Sidhu, T Banks, D Wolyn
    Year: 2025

  • Title: Genetic variability for growth, yield and quality traits in bitter gourd
    Authors: GK Sidhu, M Pathak, N Chawla
    Year: 2017

Conclusion

Gurleen Sidhu has demonstrated a strong commitment to scientific research in plant genetics, with a specific focus on crop improvement and genetic diversity. Her publications reflect consistent scholarly output in the field, particularly in bitter gourd and asparagus genetics. The citation record shows that some of her work has gained recognition within the academic community, with a few studies receiving multiple citations. While several of her publications are more recent or in emerging areas, suggesting ongoing impact, there is clear evidence of her potential to contribute meaningfully to agricultural science. With continued focus on high-impact publishing and broader scientific dissemination, her research visibility and influence are likely to grow further. Overall, she presents a promising profile of an early-career researcher with the foundations for long-term contributions to plant breeding and genetic innovation.

Harry Jarrett | Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Harry Jarrett | Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

Head of Science and Research at Heights, United Kingdom

Dr. Harry Jarrett is a passionate scientist with a focus on nutritional research, particularly in the context of chronic disease prevention. He believes that optimizing nutrition can significantly reduce the risk of prevalent health issues. With a PhD in Nutritional Sciences from Ulster University and a strong academic background, Dr. Jarrett has combined clinical and research expertise to contribute to the field of nutrition. His work spans various roles, including his current position as Head of Science and Research at Heights, where he leads human intervention trials and drives product development. Additionally, Dr. Jarrett has substantial experience in the medical field, including his work as a COVID-19 Research Laboratory Coordinator during the pandemic. His career is a testament to his commitment to advancing nutrition science and its real-world applications, striving to make significant contributions to improving public health through research and innovation.

Professional Profile

Education

Dr. Jarrett completed his PhD in Nutritional Sciences at the Nutrition Innovation Centre for Food and Health at Ulster University, where he focused on gene-environment interactions in blood pressure and stroke risk. His thesis investigated how riboflavin can lower systolic blood pressure, a significant finding in hypertension research. Prior to his PhD, he earned a Master’s degree in Exercise and Health Sciences from the University of Exeter, with a focus on nutrition’s impact on mental health and neurodegenerative diseases. Dr. Jarrett also completed a Bachelor’s degree in Exercise and Sport Sciences from the University of Exeter, graduating with first-class honors. His academic journey has been marked by strong achievements, including a postgraduate scholarship, distinction profile, and recognition for his contributions to research. Throughout his education, Dr. Jarrett has demonstrated a deep commitment to exploring the intersections between nutrition, health, and disease prevention.

Professional Experience

Dr. Jarrett’s professional experience spans several prestigious institutions and roles. Currently, he serves as Head of Science and Research at Heights, where he is responsible for the strategic direction and execution of research projects, including human intervention trials focused on nutrition and health. He also coordinates the translation of scientific findings into products and marketing strategies. From 2021 to 2024, Dr. Jarrett worked as a COVID-19 Research Laboratory Coordinator at Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Trust, where he managed clinical trials during the pandemic and was responsible for writing protocols, securing ethical approvals, and overseeing research quality. He also held a postdoctoral position at the NNEdPro Global Institute for Food and Nutrition Research, where he led investigations into cardiovascular disease risk factors using data from the UK Biobank. Additionally, Dr. Jarrett has contributed to academia by mentoring students and delivering lectures on nutrition and B-vitamin biochemistry.

Research Interests

Dr. Jarrett’s primary research interest lies in the relationship between nutrition and chronic disease prevention, with a particular focus on cardiovascular health and blood pressure regulation. His work has explored how micronutrients, especially B-vitamins like riboflavin, can impact blood pressure and metabolic function, offering new avenues for non-pharmacological interventions. His PhD research focused on understanding gene-environment interactions, specifically how certain genetic variations can influence an individual’s response to nutritional interventions. Dr. Jarrett is also interested in how nutrition can mitigate the effects of age-related diseases, including neurodegenerative conditions and mental health disorders. His ongoing research involves human intervention trials to assess the efficacy of nutritional supplements in improving health outcomes. Additionally, he is involved in investigating large datasets, such as those from the UK Biobank, to uncover insights into the broader epidemiological relationships between diet and health.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Harry Jarrett has received numerous accolades throughout his academic and professional career, reflecting his exceptional research contributions. Notably, he was awarded the Best Poster award at the Federation of American Societies for Experimental Biology (FASEB) conference for his work on folic acid and one-carbon metabolism. He also earned the Broadening Horizons Travel Bursary from Ulster University and a top-ranking young investigator abstract at the British and Irish Hypertension Society conference. Dr. Jarrett’s commitment to research excellence has earned him recognition from his peers and colleagues. His PhD research, published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, has been widely cited and demonstrates his capacity to contribute to significant scientific advancements. Additionally, he has received honors such as the Postgraduate Commendation from the University of Exeter, further acknowledging his academic excellence and dedication to the field of nutrition science.

Conclusion

Dr. Harry Jarrett is a well-rounded and accomplished researcher with a clear impact in the field of nutrition science. His combination of robust academic background, hands-on clinical experience, leadership in research, and commitment to advancing public health makes him a highly suitable candidate for the Best Researcher Award. By enhancing his cross-disciplinary collaborations and expanding the visibility of his research, Dr. Jarrett has the potential to make even greater contributions to the field in the future.

Publications Top Noted

  • The Role of the Gut Microbiome and Probiotics in Sports Performance: A Narrative Review Update

    • Author(s): Harry Jarrett, Sophie Medlin, James C. Morehen
    • Year: 2025
    • Citation: Jarrett H, Medlin S, Morehen JC. The Role of the Gut Microbiome and Probiotics in Sports Performance: A Narrative Review Update. Nutrients. 2025;17(4):690. doi: 10.3390/nu17040690.

  • Survival of Probiotic Bacterial Cells in the Upper Gastrointestinal Tract and the Effect of the Surviving Population on the Colonic Microbial Community Activity and Composition

    • Author(s): Marlies Govaert, Chloë Rotsaert, Chelsea Vannieuwenhuyse, Cindy Duysburgh, Sophie Medlin, Massimo Marzorati, Harry Jarrett
    • Year: 2024
    • Citation: Govaert M, Rotsaert C, Vannieuwenhuyse C, Duysburgh C, Medlin S, Marzorati M, Jarrett H. Survival of Probiotic Bacterial Cells in the Upper Gastrointestinal Tract and the Effect of the Surviving Population on the Colonic Microbial Community Activity and Composition. Nutrients. 2024;16(8):2791. doi: 10.3390/nu16162791.

  • Magnesium in Human Health and Disease: A Review of Our Current Understanding

    • Author(s): Harry Jarrett, Ryan McNally, Anna Hernández-Rubio, Sally Brett, Luca Faconti
    • Year: 2024
    • Citation: Jarrett H, McNally R, Hernández-Rubio A, Brett S, Faconti L. Magnesium in Human Health and Disease: A Review of Our Current Understanding. EC Nutrition. 2024;23(7):2303-2315.

  • Association of dietary flavan-3-ol intakes with plasma phenyl-γ-valerolactones: analysis from the TUDA cohort of healthy older adults

    • Author(s): Donato Angelino, Aoife Caffrey, Helene McNulty, Chris IR. Gill, Pedro Mena, Alice Rosi, Katie Moore, Leane Hoey, Michelle Clements, Eamon Laird, et al.
    • Year: 2023
    • Citation: Angelino D, Caffrey A, McNulty H, Gill CIR, Mena P, Rosi A, Moore K, Hoey L, Clements M, Laird E, et al. Association of dietary flavan-3-ol intakes with plasma phenyl-γ-valerolactones: analysis from the TUDA cohort of healthy older adults. Am J Clin Nutr. 2023;118(2):426-438. doi: 10.1016/j.ajcnut.2023.06.006.

  • Vitamin B-6 and riboflavin, their metabolic interaction, and relationship with MTHFR genotype in adults aged 18-102 years

    • Author(s): Harry Jarrett, Helene McNulty, Catherine Hughes, Kristina Pentieva, James J. Strain, Anne Molloy, Aileen McCann, et al.
    • Year: 2022
    • Citation: Jarrett H, McNulty H, Hughes CF, Pentieva K, Strain JJ, Molloy A, McCann A, et al. Vitamin B-6 and riboflavin, their metabolic interaction, and relationship with MTHFR genotype in adults aged 18-102 years. Am J Clin Nutr. 2022;116(6):1422-1431. doi: 10.1093/ajcn/nqac240.

  • Validity of plasma phenyl-γ-valerolactones as novel biomarkers of dietary (poly)phenols: Preliminary analysis from the VALID project

    • Author(s): B. Parmenter, K. Moore, D. Angelino, D. Del Rio, H. McNulty, A.M. Molloy, C. Cunningham, M. Ward, B. Pucci, H. Jarrett, et al.
    • Year: 2018
    • Citation: Parmenter B, Moore K, Angelino D, Del Rio D, McNulty H, Molloy AM, Cunningham C, Ward M, Pucci B, Jarrett H, et al. Validity of plasma phenyl-γ-valerolactones as novel biomarkers of dietary (poly)phenols: Preliminary analysis from the VALID project. Proc Nutr Soc. 2018;77(3):234-243. doi: 10.1017/s0029665118001040.

  • Blood pressure and hypertension in relation to cognitive performance in older Irish adults from the TUDA cohort: Preliminary analysis

    • Author(s): Harry Jarrett
    • Year: 2018
    • Citation: Jarrett H. Blood pressure and hypertension in relation to cognitive performance in older Irish adults from the TUDA cohort: Preliminary analysis. J Hum Hypertens. 2018;32(5):319-326. doi: 10.1038/s41371-018-0089-5.

  • Effect of B-vitamin Supplementation on Cognitive Performance and Brain Function in The BrainHOP Trial

    • Author(s): Katie Moore, Catherine Hughes, Kirsty Porter, Leanne Doherty, Pramod Gaur, Fergal Tracey, Maurice O’Kane, Harry Jarrett, Mary Ward, Leanne Hoey
    • Year: 2018
    • Citation: Moore K, Hughes C, Porter K, Doherty L, Gaur P, Tracey F, O’Kane M, Jarrett H, Ward M, Hoey L. Effect of B-vitamin Supplementation on Cognitive Performance and Brain Function in The BrainHOP Trial. Age Ageing. 2018;47(5):702-710. doi: 10.1093/ageing/afy141.35.

 

Irving Lara | Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Irving Lara | Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

Research assistant at Centro de Investigación Biomédica de Occidente, Mexico

Dr. Irving Jair Lara Navarro is a Mexican researcher specializing in genetics and molecular biology. Born on December 9, 1990, in Guadalajara, Jalisco, he has dedicated his career to advancing genetic research, particularly in gene therapy. His work integrates molecular diagnostics, biotechnology, and clinical applications, making significant contributions to biomedical sciences. With a passion for teaching and research, he has been actively involved in academia and laboratory settings, working to bridge the gap between fundamental genetics and medical applications. Dr. Lara Navarro has played a key role in developing innovative approaches for genetic modification, particularly using CRISPR/Cas9 technology. His expertise extends to epidemiological surveillance, laboratory diagnostics, and academic instruction. Throughout his career, he has collaborated with various research institutions, healthcare professionals, and academic institutions, fostering a multidisciplinary approach to genetics. His commitment to scientific excellence and education continues to drive his contributions to the field.

Professional Profile

Education

Dr. Irving Jair Lara Navarro pursued his academic journey in biological sciences, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Biology from the University of Guadalajara (CUCBA) in 2014. His undergraduate research focused on optimizing transduction conditions in keratinocytes using lentiviral vectors. Continuing his passion for genetics, he pursued a Doctorate in Human Genetics at the University of Guadalajara (CUCS), completing it in 2024. His doctoral research revolved around gene therapy using CRISPR/Cas9 technology for modifying the F9 gene in human mesenchymal cells, aiming to enhance the production of Factor IX, a crucial protein for blood clotting. This work has potential therapeutic applications, particularly in treating hemophilia. His academic training has provided him with expertise in molecular biology, genetic engineering, and biomedical research. His strong foundation in experimental design and genetic modifications has positioned him as a key researcher in the field of gene therapy and molecular medicine.

Professional Experience

Dr. Lara Navarro has gained extensive professional experience in research and academia. From 2020 to 2021, he worked as a Research Technician at the Mexican Institute of Social Security (IMSS), contributing to nucleic acid extraction and molecular diagnostics in epidemiological surveillance. He later joined Laboratorio Biodiagnóstica in 2021, where he worked as a Molecular Biology Laboratory Technician, managing laboratory operations, coordinating research teams, and implementing molecular analysis techniques. In addition to his laboratory roles, he has been actively involved in teaching. He served as an Adjunct Professor at Tecmilenio University (Zapopan) from 2021 to 2022, teaching basic sciences at the high school level. Since 2023, he has been a faculty member at Universidad Guadalajara Lamar, where he teaches genetics and biomolecular sciences to medical students. His combined experience in laboratory research and academia has strengthened his ability to contribute to both scientific discovery and education.

Research Interests

Dr. Lara Navarro’s primary research interests lie in genetic engineering, molecular biology, and gene therapy. His doctoral research on CRISPR/Cas9-based gene modification for Factor IX production highlights his focus on therapeutic applications of molecular genetics. He is particularly interested in genetic therapies for hematological disorders, biotechnology applications in medicine, and the development of precision medicine approaches. His expertise in nucleic acid manipulation and viral vector systems contributes to advancements in personalized genetic treatments. Additionally, he has a keen interest in molecular diagnostics and epidemiological surveillance, particularly in developing genetic testing methodologies for disease prevention and treatment. As a researcher, he aims to explore the potential of stem cell therapy, regenerative medicine, and CRISPR-based genome editing for clinical applications. His work aims to bridge the gap between fundamental genetic research and practical medical solutions, contributing to cutting-edge advancements in biomedical sciences.

Awards and Honors

While Dr. Lara Navarro has demonstrated exceptional expertise in genetics and molecular biology, his professional journey is still evolving in terms of formal recognitions. His research in CRISPR/Cas9 gene therapy holds significant potential for future awards and funding opportunities. As an emerging scientist, he has been recognized for his contributions to molecular diagnostics and epidemiological research at IMSS, where he played a crucial role in laboratory procedures during the COVID-19 pandemic. His involvement in academia and research has earned him respect within the scientific and medical communities. While he may not yet have received high-profile research awards, his work on genetic modifications and biomedical applications positions him as a strong candidate for future honors in genetics, biotechnology, and medical research. With continued research output and publications, he is likely to receive formal recognition for his contributions to the field of genetic engineering and molecular medicine.

Conclusion

Dr. Irving Jair Lara Navarro has a strong foundation in genetics, molecular biology, and research methodologies, making him a promising candidate. However, to be a strong contender for the Best Researcher Award, he should focus on publishing in high-impact journals, securing research funding, and increasing international recognition. If these aspects are addressed, he would be a more competitive candidate for the award.

Publications Top Noted

  • CRISPR/Cas9 Edition of the F9 Gene in Human Mesenchymal Stem Cells for Hemophilia B Therapy
    • Authors: Lara-Navarro, I.J., Jave-Suárez, L.F., Marchal, J.A., Jaloma-Cruz, A.R.
    • Year: 2024
    • Journal: Life
    • Citations: 0
  • Current Therapies in Hemophilia: From Plasma-Derived Factor Modalities to CRISPR/Cas Alternatives
    • Authors: Lara-Navarro, I.J., Jaloma-Cruz, A.R.
    • Year: 2022
    • Journal: Tohoku Journal of Experimental Medicine
    • Citations: 3
  • Genetic analysis for carrier diagnosis in hemophilia A and B in the Mexican population: 25 years of experience
    • Authors: González-Ramos, I.-A., Mantilla-Capacho, J.-M., Luna-Záizar, H., Evangelista-Castro, N., Jaloma-Cruz, A.R.
    • Year: 2020
    • Journal: American Journal of Medical Genetics, Part C: Seminars in Medical Genetics
    • Citations: 5
  • Molecular thrombophilic profile in Mexican patients with idiopathic recurrent pregnancy loss
    • Authors: López-Jiménez, J.J., Porras-Dorantes, Á., Juárez-Vázquez, C.I., Lara-Navarro, I.J., Jaloma-Cruz, A.R.
    • Year: 2016
    • Journal: Genetics and Molecular Research
    • Citations: 19
  • Two girls with a de novo Xq rearrangement of paternal origin: T(X;9)(q24;q12) or rea(X)dup q
    • Authors: Vásquez-Velásquez, A.I., Rivera, H., Castro, A.G., Mendoza-Pérez, P., García-Ortiz, J.E.
    • Year: 2016
    • Journal: Taiwanese Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology
    • Citations: 0
  • A further inv dup/del 9p de novo rearrangement. Reappraisal of 25 instances
    • Authors: Lara-Navarro, I.J., Córdova-Fletes, C., García-Ruiz, A., Rivera, H.
    • Year: 2015
    • Journal: Gene Reports
    • Citations: 0