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.

Dr. Nazar Gul | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Nazar Gul | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Deputy Director at Drainage and Reclamation Institute of Pakistan (DRIP), Tando Jam; Pakistan Council of Research in Water Resources (PCRWR), Islamabad, Pakistan.

Dr. Nazar Gul is a dedicated agricultural engineer with a Ph.D. in Land and Water Management and over ten years of research experience focused on sustainable water resource management in arid and semi-arid regions. He has published 13 peer-reviewed articles in national and international journals, with a total impact factor of 14.17, alongside several technical research reports and conference presentations. His work spans innovative irrigation techniques, groundwater assessment, salinity management, and climate change adaptation. Dr. Gul has actively contributed to national and international research projects and has trained over 1,000 students and professionals through workshops, internships, and field training. He has also co-supervised graduate students and engaged in community outreach by publishing articles in local languages to disseminate knowledge. Currently serving as Deputy Director at DRIP-PCRWR, his leadership, academic rigor, and practical contributions to agricultural water management make him a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

Professional Profile 

ORCID Profile 

Education

Dr. Nazar Gul holds a strong academic background in agricultural engineering with a focused specialization in water resources. He earned his Ph.D. in Land and Water Management from Sindh Agriculture University, Tandojam in 2024, preceded by an M.E. in the same field in 2016 and a B.E. in Agriculture in 2014, all with first-division honors. His academic journey reflects consistent excellence and a commitment to addressing critical water-related challenges in Pakistan’s agriculture sector. Prior to his university studies, he achieved a “B” grade in Intermediate (Pre-Engineering) and an “A-1” grade in Matriculation (Science) from the Board of Intermediate and Secondary Education, Hyderabad. Dr. Gul’s academic foundation has equipped him with strong analytical, technical, and research capabilities. His specialization in irrigation technologies, groundwater management, and climate impact studies forms the basis of his applied and academic research contributions aimed at improving agricultural productivity in arid and semi-arid regions.

Professional Experience

Dr. Nazar Gul has accumulated over a decade of professional experience in the field of agricultural water management. He currently serves as Deputy Director at the Drainage and Reclamation Institute of Pakistan (DRIP), a regional office of the Pakistan Council of Research in Water Resources (PCRWR), under the Ministry of Water Resources. His role involves leading research projects, supervising field stations, writing scientific reports, and executing donor-funded initiatives. From 2014 to 2021, he served as a Research Associate at DRIP, gaining hands-on experience in lysimetric studies, irrigation efficiency trials, and groundwater monitoring. Throughout his career, Dr. Gul has been involved in both development and non-development research projects across Sindh and Tharparkar. He has supervised postgraduate students, mentored over 1,000 interns, and organized professional and farmer training sessions. His professional trajectory reflects a blend of academic research, field implementation, project management, and technical training in water conservation and sustainable agriculture.

Research Interest

Dr. Nazar Gul’s research interests lie at the intersection of sustainable agriculture, water resource management, and climate resilience. He focuses on optimizing irrigation practices in arid and semi-arid regions, particularly through high-efficiency irrigation systems like drip, sprinkler, and bubbler technologies. His work includes evaluating crop water requirements, soil salinity mitigation, groundwater dynamics, and evapotranspiration modeling. He has a strong interest in integrating technology into farming practices, such as using chameleon sensors, tensiometers, and lysimeters to assess field-level water productivity. Dr. Gul is also passionate about climate change impacts on crop water demand and groundwater resources. His field-based studies are designed not only for academic publication but also for practical application by local farmers and policymakers. His applied research philosophy is evident in his extensive community outreach, including training programs and newspaper articles in local languages. His work is critical for ensuring water security and sustainable agricultural development in vulnerable regions of Pakistan.

Award and Honor

While specific individual awards are not listed in the provided CV, Dr. Nazar Gul has earned professional recognition through his leadership roles and contributions to high-impact national and international research projects. His promotion to Deputy Director at DRIP-PCRWR itself reflects institutional recognition of his technical expertise, research productivity, and administrative capability. He has co-authored and contributed to several government-published research reports and has presented his work at international conferences such as the International Conference on Climate Change and the International Water Conference. Dr. Gul has been entrusted with training professionals and farmers under internationally sponsored projects by USDA, ICARDA, and ACIAR, a recognition of his credibility and communication skills. His consistent academic performance—graduating with first-division honors at all levels—and his position as a resource person for over two dozen training sessions further underscore his standing as a respected and impactful researcher in Pakistan’s agricultural water management landscape.

Conclusion

Dr. Nazar Gul is a highly competent and impactful agricultural engineer whose contributions to water resource management make him a strong candidate for prestigious recognition. His educational achievements, coupled with over a decade of hands-on research and leadership experience at PCRWR, reflect both academic and professional excellence. His work has addressed critical issues like water use efficiency, irrigation technologies, groundwater assessment, and salinity management, with real-world benefits for farmers in arid and semi-arid zones of Pakistan. Through 13 research publications with an impressive impact factor, national technical reports, extensive training activities, and community engagement, Dr. Gul has advanced both scientific understanding and practical application of sustainable agriculture practices. His commitment to mentoring students and empowering local communities positions him as not just a researcher, but a leader and educator. Dr. Gul exemplifies the qualities sought in a Best Researcher Award recipient—rigorous, relevant, and resolutely dedicated to solving real-world problems.

Publications Top Notes

  • Title: Effect of alternating canal and marginal groundwater irrigation on banana yield, water use efficiency, and soil salinity under furrow plantation
    Authors: Nazar Gul
    Year: 2025
    Citation: Agricultural Water Management (DOI: 10.1016/j.agwat.2025.109603)

  • Title: Quantifying the impacts of varying groundwater table depths on cotton evapotranspiration, yield, water use efficiency, and root zone salinity using lysimeters
    Authors: Nazar Gul
    Year: 2024
    Citation: Agricultural Water Management (DOI: 10.1016/j.agwat.2024.108933)

  • Title: Water requirements of banana and papaya under different water table depths and soil types in the Lower Indus Basin of Pakistan
    Authors: Nazar Gul
    Year: 2024
    Citation: Irrigation and Drainage (DOI: 10.1002/ird.2892)

  • Title: Exploring Groundwater Dynamics: A Comprehensive Investigation and Spatial Mapping in Canal Command Areas of Sindh
    Authors: Nazar Gul
    Year: 2023
    Citation: PCRWR Report (2023-12-31)

  • Title: Beneath the Sands: A Comprehensive Study of Groundwater in Tharparkar Region
    Authors: Nazar Gul
    Year: 2023
    Citation: PCRWR Report (2023-09-04)

  • Title: Response of Different Fish Species to Highly Saline Water under Desert Climate Condition – Finding Options for Local Food Security
    Authors: Nazar Gul
    Year: 2023
    Citation: (Journal article, 2023-08-12)

  • Title: Potential Impacts of Climate Change Using Long-Term Historical Climate Data on Evapotranspiration (ET) and Groundwater Contribution to Wheat and Cotton Crop
    Authors: Nazar Gul
    Year: 2023
    Citation: International Journal of Environment and Climate Change (2023-04-29)

  • Title: Effect of Sprinkler and Basin Irrigation Systems on Yield and Water Use Efficiency of Canola Crop
    Authors: Nazar Gul
    Year: 2021
    Citation: Mehran University Research Journal of Engineering and Technology (2021-04-03)

  • Title: Scheduling of Irrigation and Nitrogen Fertilizer Application for Growing Cabbage on Raised-Beds
    Authors: Nazar Gul
    Year: 2020
    Citation: Pakistan Journal of Agriculture Agricultural Engineering and Veterinary Sciences (2020-01-28)

  • Title: Water Requirements of Banana and Papaya in Sindh
    Authors: Nazar Gul
    Year: 2019
    Citation: PCRWR Report (2019-09-01)

  • Title: Assessing the Effect of Different Water Table Depths on Water Use, Yield and Water Productivity of the Okra Crop
    Authors: Nazar Gul
    Year: 2018
    Citation: Mehran University Research Journal of Engineering and Technology (2018-01-19)

  • Title: Water Requirements of Major Crops in Sindh
    Authors: Nazar Gul
    Year: 2016
    Citation: PCRWR Report (2016-12-02)

AUSTIN IKECHUKWU GBASOUZOR | AGRICULTURAL | Best Paper Award

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Assoc Prof Dr. AUSTIN IKECHUKWU GBASOUZOR | AGRICULTURAL | Best Paper Award

ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR OF MECHANICAL ENGINEERING, CHUKWUEMEKA ODUMEGWU OJUKWU UNIVERSITY,ULI ANAMBRA STATE, Nigeria

Austin I. Gbasouzor is an esteemed academic in the field of Mechanical Engineering, currently serving as an Associate Professor at Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, Nigeria. With extensive teaching experience, he has held various positions including Senior Lecturer and Lecturer II. His academic journey includes a Post-Doctoral Fellowship at Purdue University and remote lecturing at institutions such as Cyprus Science University and Catholic University Cameroon. Passionate about research, Dr. Gbasouzor focuses on drying processes and sustainable engineering solutions. 🌍📚

Publication Profile

Google Scholar

Education

Dr. Gbasouzor earned his Doctorate in Mechanical Engineering from Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Nigeria (2017-2021). He also holds a Master’s degree in Electromechanical Technology (2002-2005) and a Bachelor’s degree in Technical Education (1998-2001) from the same institution. His educational background is complemented by a National Certificate of Education in Mechanical/Metal Work Technology (1992-1995) from the Federal College of Education, Technical, Asaba. 🎓🔧

Experience

Dr. Gbasouzor has accumulated significant academic experience, serving as a Senior Technologist and several lecturer roles at Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University since 2009. His leadership roles include Acting Head of Department and Senator at the university. He is also an active member of various editorial boards and has been involved in significant academic and research collaborations globally. 🏫👨‍🏫

Research Interests

His research interests primarily revolve around drying technology, sustainable engineering solutions, and the application of mechanical systems in agricultural practices. Dr. Gbasouzor is particularly focused on the thermodynamics of food preservation and mechanical design innovations that promote sustainable development. 🔍⚙️

Awards

Dr. Gbasouzor has received multiple accolades for his contributions to engineering education and research, including the Best Paper Award at the World Congress on Engineering and Computer Science (WCECS) and several Certificates of Merit for his student papers at international conferences. He was also awarded the Tertiary Education Trust Fund Postdoctoral Fellowship in 2022. 🏆🎖️

Publications

Gbasouzor, A.I., Omenyi, S., Mallik, S. and Njoku, J. (2024). Determination of Natural Logarithm of Diffusion Coefficient and Activation Energy of Thin Layer Drying Process of Ginger Rhizome Slices. World Journal of Engineering and Technology, 12, 213-228. Link

Gbasouzor, A.I. Ileleji, K. (2023). Thermal Analysis of Sclerotium of Pleurotus tuber-regium (ọsụ) for Effective Drying. World Journal of Engineering and Technology, 11, 153-163. Link

Gbasouzor, A.I., Chukwu, L. C. (2023). Nutraceutical and Phytomedicinal Survey of Sclerotium of Pleurotus Tuber-regium (ọsụ). International Journal of Food Engineering and Technology, 7(1), 12-19. Link

Gbasouzor, A.I., Mallik, S., Njoku, J. E. E., & Depriver, J. (Year not provided). Experimental analysis of thin layer drying of ginger rhizome in convective environment. Publication details not provided.