Linlang Hou | Genetics | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Linlang Hou | Genetics | Best Researcher Award

Linlang Hou | Xinjiang Agricultural University | China

Dr. Linlang Hou is an emerging researcher at the College of Life Sciences, Xinjiang Agricultural University, with a focused interest in genetic diversity, functional gene screening, and population genetics of indigenous horse breeds in Xinjiang. Their research has made significant contributions to understanding the genetic background and ancestral relationships among regional horse populations, particularly highlighting the close genetic links between Kyrgyz and Yanqi breeds. This work not only enriches the existing genetic resource pool but also provides valuable insights into the evolutionary history and conservation potential of local livestock. Dr. Hou’s published findings in a recognized international journal reflect both the quality and relevance of their research, demonstrating an ability to address critical scientific questions with precision and rigor. While still in the early stages of their career, they exhibit strong potential for advancing genomic studies and applying genetic knowledge to sustainable breeding and biodiversity preservation. With continued commitment, collaborations, and broader engagement in academic communities, Dr. Hou is well-positioned to contribute to the global scientific discourse on genetic conservation, livestock improvement, and sustainable agriculture, making them a promising candidate for recognition as a dedicated and impactful researcher.

Profile: ORCID

Featured Publication

1. L. Hou, A. Sulayman, Y. Zeng, L. Zhou, A. Aimaier, A. Kader, and L. Shi, “Analysis of Genetic Diversity and Race Genetic Structure of Major Horse Breeds in Xinjiang, China,” Animals, journal article, Sep. 2025.

William Usaquén | Population Genetics | Best Researcher Award

Dr. William Usaquén | Population Genetics | Best Researcher Award

Associate Professor at Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Colombia

Prof. Dr. William Usaquén is a distinguished Colombian researcher specializing in genetics, population studies, and forensic science, with a strong academic foundation that includes advanced degrees in biology and statistics. His career spans decades at the Universidad Nacional de Colombia, complemented by international training in forensic genetics. He has led and contributed to numerous impactful research projects, including the genetic characterization of human populations and forensic applications, while actively advancing scientific methodologies. As an educator, he has taught at undergraduate and postgraduate levels, designed specialized courses, and supervised numerous student research projects. His interdisciplinary expertise bridges biology, statistics, anthropology, and forensic science, contributing to both academic knowledge and applied problem-solving. Recognized for excellence in teaching and scientific achievement, Prof. Dr. Usaquén combines rigorous scholarship with a commitment to developing future scientists, making him a respected figure in Colombian and Latin American scientific communities and a strong candidate for prestigious research awards.

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Education

Prof. Dr. William Usaquén holds a Doctorate and Master’s degree in Biological Sciences from the Universidad Nacional de Colombia, where he specialized in genetic population studies. His doctoral and master’s research involved advanced genetic characterization of Colombian populations using microsatellite markers. He also earned a specialization in statistics from the same university, enabling him to apply quantitative methods to genetic and forensic studies. His undergraduate degree in biology laid the foundation for his multidisciplinary approach, integrating molecular biology, genetics, anthropology, and statistics. Over the course of his academic training, he developed expertise in genetic analysis, biostatistics, and population genetics, which has informed his later research in both human and animal populations. Complementing his national education, he undertook international training in forensic genetics at the Institute for Legal Medicine, Innsbruck Medical University, broadening his technical proficiency and exposure to advanced forensic methodologies, further solidifying his expertise in interdisciplinary scientific research.

Experience

Prof. Dr. William Usaquén has built an extensive academic and professional career primarily at the Universidad Nacional de Colombia, where he has served as a professor, researcher, and administrator for over two decades. His roles have included teaching undergraduate and postgraduate courses in genetics, experimental design, forensic medicine, and statistical applications in genetics. He has also coordinated specialized courses and training programs, contributing to capacity building in forensic and population genetics. Beyond academia, he has held leadership roles in national forensic science institutions, including coordinating laboratories and developing scientific information systems. His international experience includes training in forensic genetics in Austria, enhancing his global scientific perspective. Throughout his career, he has maintained an active presence in both research and applied science, bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world forensic and genetic investigations. His career reflects a sustained commitment to research excellence, education, and the advancement of forensic and population genetics.

Research Focus

Prof. Dr. William Usaquén’s research centers on genetics, with a strong emphasis on population genetics, forensic genetics, and molecular anthropology. His work involves genetic characterization of human populations, particularly in Colombia, using microsatellite markers and other molecular tools. He has investigated genetic diversity, ancestral lineages, and population structures, contributing to understanding human migration, ancestry, and identity. In forensic contexts, his research applies genetic markers to individual identification, paternity testing, and criminal investigations, enhancing accuracy and reliability in legal medicine. Additionally, he has studied genetic traits in animal populations, such as cattle breeds, linking population genetics to agricultural and biodiversity conservation applications. His expertise in statistical genetics allows him to develop and refine methodologies for data analysis in complex genetic studies. By integrating molecular biology, statistics, anthropology, and forensics, his research contributes to both academic knowledge and practical solutions in fields ranging from evolutionary biology to judicial processes.

Award and Honor

Prof. Dr. William Usaquén has received multiple recognitions for his contributions to research, teaching, and forensic science. His awards include the title of Best Teacher in the Specialization in Forensic Medicine program at the Universidad Nacional de Colombia, acknowledging his excellence in education. He has been honored for scientific contributions in population genetics and forensic entomology by the Instituto Nacional de Medicina Legal y Ciencias Forenses. His research has also earned top placements at national scientific congresses, reflecting the quality and impact of his work. Academic excellence awards further highlight his dedication to rigorous scholarship. These distinctions not only recognize his technical expertise but also his ability to mentor and inspire students and colleagues. His awards demonstrate a career marked by both scientific achievement and a commitment to advancing the quality of education and research in Colombia, reinforcing his reputation as a leading figure in genetics and forensic science.

Publications Top Notes

  • Title: Succession pattern of cadaverous entomofauna in a semi-rural area of Bogotá, Colombia
    Authors: NA Segura, W Usaquen, MC Sanchez, L Chuaire, F Bello
    Year: 2009
    Citations: 125

  • Title: Entomofauna resource distribution associated with pig cadavers in Bogotá DC
    Authors: NA Segura, MA Bonilla, W Usaquén, F Bello
    Year: 2011
    Citations: 45

  • Title: Allele frecuencies for thirteen SRT’S from to Colombian population: Bogotá and Boyacá
    Authors: BI William Usaquen Martinez, Giraldo A, Mauricio Rey M, Gutierrez A
    Year: 2003
    Citations: 23

  • Title: Paternal portrait of populations of the middle Magdalena River region (Tolima and Huila, Colombia): New insights on the peopling of Central America and northernmost South America
    Authors: LA Alonso Morales, A Casas-Vargas, M Rojas Castro, R Resque, W Usaquén
    Year: 2018
    Citations: 22

  • Title: Rutas migratorias hacia Suramérica y el poblamiento de las cuencas de los ríos Amazonas y Orinoco deducidas a partir de estudios genéticos moleculares
    Authors: G Keyeux, W Usaquén
    Year: 2006
    Citations: 19

  • Title: Y-chromosome and surname analysis of the native islanders of San Andrés and Providencia (Colombia)
    Authors: LA Alonso, W Usaquén
    Year: 2013
    Citations: 17

  • Title: Structure analysis of the La Guajira-Colombia population: a genetic, demographic and genealogical overview
    Authors: MY Rojas, LA Alonso, VA Sarmiento, LY Eljach, W Usaquén
    Year: 2013
    Citations: 16

  • Title: Contrasting the ancestry patterns of three distinct population groups from the northernmost region of South America
    Authors: F Mogollon Olivares, J Moncada Madero, A Casas‐Vargas, W Usaquén
    Year: 2020
    Citations: 15

  • Title: Diversidad del ADN mitocondrial en restos óseos prehispánicos
    Authors: A Casas-Vargas, LM Romero, W Usaquén, S Zea, M Silva, I Briceño
    Year: 2017
    Citations: 15

  • Title: Population genetic analysis of the Brahman cattle (Bos indicus) in Colombia with microsatellite markers
    Authors: MA Novoa, W Usaquén
    Year: 2010
    Citations: 14

  • Title: Ciclo de vida de Lucilia sericata (Diptera: Calliphoridae) como primera especie colonizadora presente en hígado humano realizado en el Instituto Nacional de Medicina Legal y …
    Authors: W Usaquen, G Camacho
    Year: 2004
    Citations: 13

  • Title: Curvas de crecimiento y desarrollo de los primeros insectos colonizadores (Diptera: Calliphoridae) sobre cadáveres de cerdo (Sus scrofa) en Bogotá, Colombia
    Authors: N Segura, W Usaquén, M Sánchez, R Narváez, L Chuaire, G Camacho
    Year: 2005
    Citations: 12

  • Title: Next-generation sequencing of host genetics risk factors associated with COVID-19 severity and long-COVID in Colombian population
    Authors: M Angulo-Aguado, JC Carrillo-Martinez, NC Contreras-Bravo, A Morel, W Usaquén
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 11

  • Title: Evaluación de la variabilidad genética con marcadores microsatélites del bocachico
    Authors: D Santacruz, W Usaquen, C Burbano
    Year: 2003
    Citations: 11

  • Title: Ciclo de vida de Lucilia sericata (Diptera: Calliphoridae) como primera especie colonizadora presente en hígado humano realizado en el Instituto Nacional de Medicina Legal y …
    Authors: GP Camacho, W Usaquén
    Year: 2004
    Citations: 9

Conclusion

The publication record of Prof. Dr. William Usaquén demonstrates a sustained and diverse research output spanning forensic entomology, population genetics, molecular anthropology, and applied forensic science. His work includes both foundational studies in Colombian population genetics and innovative applications of genetic tools in criminal investigations and biodiversity analysis. Many of his publications have appeared in reputable international journals and have attracted significant citations, with several studies serving as reference points in their respective fields. The breadth of topics—from cadaverous entomofauna succession patterns to next-generation sequencing in COVID-19 research—shows adaptability and a capacity to address both classical and emerging scientific questions. This body of work reflects a researcher with strong interdisciplinary integration, impactful scientific contributions, and a capacity to produce knowledge that informs both academia and applied sectors. Collectively, his publications provide strong evidence of research excellence and international relevance, reinforcing his candidacy for prestigious research recognitions.

Gurleen Sidhu | Plant Breeding and Genetics | Women Researcher Award

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.

Prof Dr. Rosa María Martínez-Espinosa | Genetics Award | Best Researcher Award

Prof Dr. Rosa María Martínez-Espinosa | Genetics Award | Best Researcher Award

Prof Dr. Rosa María Martínez-Espinosa, University of Alicante, Spain

Rosa María Martínez-Espinosa, in Alicante, Spain, is a distinguished researcher and academic in the field of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. She earned her PhD from the University of Alicante, where she was awarded the Extraordinary Doctorate Award. Her postdoctoral research at the University of East Anglia (2004-2008) was funded by various prestigious organizations, including the European Commission. In 2011, she joined the University of Alicante as a Lecturer and later established the “Applied Biochemistry” research group in 2017. Promoted to Full Professor in 2020, her research focuses on extremophile microorganisms, enzyme characterization, genetic manipulation, carotenoid production, and bioremediation processes, contributing to over 100 scientific publications and numerous national and international presentations. An award-winning educator recognized for her teaching excellence, she has held various academic leadership roles, including Vice-President for International Relations and Development Cooperation. With a robust track record in project evaluation and accreditation, Rosa continues to influence the field through her research and commitment to academic excellence.

Professional Profile:

ORCID

Summary of Suitability for Best Researcher Award:

Rosa María Martínez-Espinosa is an exemplary candidate for the Best Researcher Award due to her significant contributions to the fields of biochemistry and molecular biology. With over 100 scientific publications in indexed journals, an H-index of 28, and extensive experience in both research and teaching, she has established herself as a leader in her field.

Education:

  • PhD in Biology
    1999 – 2003
    Department of Agrochemistry and Biochemistry, University of Alicante, Spain

    • Received the Extraordinary Doctorate Award.
  • BSc (Hons) in Biology
    1994 – 1998
    Faculty of Science, University of Alicante, Spain.

Work Experience:

  • Vice President for International Relations and Development Cooperation
    December 2020 – Present
    University of Alicante, Spain.
  • Vice-Dean of Postgraduate Programs
    December 2016 – December 2020
    University of Alicante, Spain.

    • Academic coordinator for mobility and training at companies.
  • Academic Coordinator
    December 2013 – November 2016
    Faculty of Sciences, University of Alicante, Spain.

    • Supervised mobility and training at companies.
  • Coordinator of the Degree of Biology
    June 2012 – November 2014
    Faculty of Sciences, University of Alicante, Spain.
  • Assistant Professor
    October 2004 – 2011
    Department of Agrochemistry and Biochemistry, University of Alicante, Spain.

    • Included three research visits (total of 9.5 months) to Professor David J. Richardson’s laboratory, University of East Anglia, UK.
  • Associate Professor
    October 2001 – October 2004
    Department of Agrochemistry and Biochemistry, University of Alicante, Spain.

    • Included a 3-month research visit to Professor David J. Richardson’s laboratory, University of East Anglia, UK.
  • Senior Lecturer
    August 2011 – August 2020
    Department of Agrochemistry and Biochemistry, University of Alicante, Spain.
  • Full Professor
    August 2020 – Present
    Department of Agrochemistry and Biochemistry, University of Alicante, Spain.

Publication top Notes:

The Antitumour Mechanisms of Carotenoids: A Comprehensive Review

Bacterioruberin: Biosynthesis, Antioxidant Activity, and Therapeutic Applications in Cancer and Immune Pathologies

Molecular Advances in Microbial Metabolism 2.0

Controversy over the Use of “Shade Covers” to Avoid Water Evaporation in Water Reservoirs

Halophilic Carotenoids and Breast Cancer: From Salt Marshes to Biomedicine

maria livia ognean | Genetics | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr.  maria livia ognean | Genetics | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof., Lucian Blaga University Sibiu, Romania

Dr. Maria Livia Ognean , an accomplished neonatologist from Romania, is an Associate Professor at Universitatea Lucian Blaga din Sibiu and has been affiliated with the Clinical County Emergency Hospital Sibiu since 1994. Known for her expertise in neonatal intensive care (NICU), neonatal ultrasound, nursing, and nutrition, Dr. Ognean has greatly contributed to neonatal healthcare through her research and clinical work.

Publication Profile

scopus

Education

Dr. Ognean holds an MD and PhD in medicine from the Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy in Tg. Mures 🎓. Her academic background has been pivotal in her work, supporting her specialized focus on neonatology and neonatal health.

Experience

With over two decades of experience, Dr. Ognean has been deeply involved in neonatology at the Clinical County Emergency Hospital Sibiu 🏥, where she has provided essential care to newborns in critical conditions. Since 2017, she has also served as an Associate Professor, imparting her knowledge to the next generation of medical professionals.

Research Focus

Dr. Ognean’s research primarily revolves around neonatology and neonatal care 💡. Her focus areas include NICU care, neonatal ultrasound, and neonatal nutrition, where she continuously works to improve outcomes for newborns. Her recent studies cover neonatal respiratory conditions, congenital infections, and innovative NICU practices.

Awards and Honours

Dr. Ognean has been recognized for her dedication to neonatology and healthcare advocacy 🏆. She currently serves as the Vice President of the Comisia Neonatologie a Ministerului Sanatatii and the Romanian Association of Neonatology, underscoring her leadership in the field.

Publication Top Notes

ABCA3 c.838C>T (p.Arg280Cys, R280C) and c.697C>T (p.Gln233Ter, Q233X, Q233) as Causative Variants for RDS: A Family Case Study and Literature Review*, published in Biomedicines, 2024, cited by articles on respiratory distress syndrome in neonates.

Effects of Prostaglandin E1 and Balloon Atrial Septostomy on Cerebral Blood Flow and Oxygenation in Newborns Diagnosed with Transposition of the Great Arteries, published in Biomedicines, 2024, cited for advancements in neonatal cardiac care.

Congenital Sepsis with Candida albicans—A Rare Event in the Neonatal Period: Report of Two Cases and Literature Review, published in Microorganisms, 2024, cited in studies of neonatal fungal infections.