Khurshid Ahmad | Biotechnology | Best Researcher Award

Mr Khurshid Ahmad, Ocean University of China, China

Mr. Khurshid Ahmad is an emerging scholar in the field of Food Science and Biotechnology, currently completing his PhD (2020–2025) at Ocean University of China. With a solid academic foundation in Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering, his research spans nanotechnology applications, marine biomaterials, enzyme utilization in industry, and food safety. He has authored over 25 peer-reviewed research articles and co-authored notable book chapters. Mr. Ahmad brings both academic excellence and practical industry experience, having served as a Visiting Lecturer, Research Assistant, and Quality Manager in various reputable institutions. A regular speaker at international conferences and seminars, he has also contributed significantly to academic exchange programs. His interdisciplinary approach and dedication to research innovation underscore his eligibility for the Best Researcher Award. With impactful collaborations and a growing citation footprint, he stands out as a young scientist poised to contribute significantly to global food and biotechnology challenges.

Publication Profile

Google Scholar

Education

Mr. Khurshid Ahmad has a well-rounded and progressive academic background. He is currently pursuing his Ph.D. (2020–2025) in Food Science and Engineering from the Ocean University of China (OUC), where he focuses on novel bio-composite materials and nanotechnology in food applications. He completed his M.Phil. (2017–2019) in Biotechnology from International Islamic University, Islamabad (IIUI), Pakistan, and his Bachelor’s (BS Hons, 2012–2016) in Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering from Kohat University of Science & Technology (KUST), Pakistan. His foundational education includes Pre-Medical studies (HSSC, 2010–2012) under the Board of Intermediate and Secondary Education, Kohat. Throughout his academic career, Mr. Ahmad has consistently demonstrated research aptitude and excellence, laying a strong educational platform for his multidisciplinary research in the food and life sciences sectors.

Experience

Mr. Ahmad has over 8 years of progressive research and teaching experience. As a Visiting Lecturer at IIUI (2020–2022), he taught Biological Sciences while mentoring students in applied research. His role as Quality Manager at Margallah Food and Beverages Industry (2019–2020) provided critical insight into food safety and quality control protocols. During his Graduate Research Assistantship (2017–2018) at IIUI, he worked on nanowires’ impact on α-amylase production. He also served as Research Assistant at KUST, studying the remediation of heavy metal-contaminated areas, and conducted undergraduate research on probiotic Lactobacilli from poultry intestines. These varied roles have refined his skills in microbiology, enzymology, food safety, and nanobiotechnology. His blend of industry and academic experience uniquely equips him to contribute to both applied and theoretical aspects of biosciences.

Awards and Honors

Mr. Ahmad has been actively recognized for his academic and research contributions. He was a speaker at the 2024 “Embracing Blue Doctor Academic Seminar” at OUC, China. His academic excellence has been acknowledged through degree equivalence and instruction certifications by KUST in 2016. He has participated in multiple national workshops and seminars, such as “Molecular Cloning to Drug Development” (IIUI, 2018), and “Food Safety & Security” (IIUI, 2017). He served as an organizer of the KUST Annual Gathering and participated in awareness seminars on malaria and honeybee products. His early exposure to research at the undergraduate level and continued participation in capacity-building seminars showcases his long-term dedication to academic development and public health. These engagements underline his commitment to bridging research with societal impact, strengthening his candidacy for the Best Researcher Award.

Research Focus

Mr. Ahmad’s research focuses on Food Science, Nanobiotechnology, Enzymatic Processing, and Marine Biomaterials. His current PhD work involves the development and characterization of marine collagen-based bio-composites and their functional applications in food safety and drug delivery. He is particularly interested in nano-enabled materials in food packaging and preservation. His past research has explored mycotoxin detection, α-amylase optimization using nanowires, and bioremediation of heavy metals. He also investigates the role of retinoic acid in regeneration, merging biotechnology with regenerative medicine. His interdisciplinary approach links sustainability, health, and innovation, as reflected in his book chapters on enzymes in textile and sustainable industry practices. By addressing food safety and bioactive compounds, his research contributes to both global food security and environmental safety, aligning with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Publication Top Notes

Quality deterioration of postharvest fruits and vegetables in developing country Pakistan: A mini overview

Organic waste-to-bioplastics: Conversion with eco-friendly technologies and approaches for sustainable environment

Chitosan interaction with stomach mucin layer to enhances gastric retention and mucoadhesive properties

Nanotechnology in food packaging with implications for sustainable outlook and safety concerns

Alkaline lipase production by novel meso-tolerant psychrophilic Exiguobacterium sp. strain (AMBL-20) isolated from glacier of northeastern Pakistan

Advancements in sustainable production of biofuel by Microalgae: Recent insights and future directions

Prof. Ahmed Idris Hassen | Biotechnology | Best Researcher Award

Research Scientist at Agricultural Research Council, South Africa

Dr. Ahmed Idris Hassen is a Researcher at the Agricultural Research Council, South Africa, and an Adjunct Professor in Applied Microbiology at the University of Venda. He holds a Ph.D. in Microbiology and Plant Pathology from the University of Pretoria and has extensive expertise in soil microbiology, rhizobium-legume symbiosis, plant-microbe interactions, and biofertilizer development. A C-3 rated scientist by the National Research Foundation (NRF), he has led multiple projects on rhizobial inoculants, drought tolerance, and soil health. With over 1,100 citations and a strong Scopus & Google Scholar presence, his research significantly contributes to sustainable agriculture. 🌱📚✨

Educational Background🎓

Dr. Ahmed Idris Hassen holds a Ph.D. in Microbiology and Plant Pathology from the University of Pretoria, South Africa (2003-2007), where his research focused on the efficacy of plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria for biocontrol and growth promotion in sorghum. He earned his M.Sc. in Applied Microbiology from Addis Ababa University, Ethiopia (1998-1999), investigating the microbiological and biochemical aspects of traditional food fermentation. His academic journey began with a B.Sc. in Biology from the University of Asmara, Eritrea (1986-1989), followed by secondary education in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia (1982-1985). His expertise spans microbial interactions, soil health, and plant pathology. 🌱🔬📚

Professional Background👨‍🏫

Dr. Ahmed Idris Hassen is an Adjunct Professor at the University of Venda, South Africa (2023–Present), contributing to research in Plant and Soil Sciences. Since 2009, he has been a Researcher in Applied and Soil Microbiology at the Agricultural Research Council, focusing on plant health and protection. Previously, he held a postdoctoral fellowship (2008-2009) at the University of Pretoria, working on plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR). He also served as a Senior Research Assistant (2007-2008) and Lecturer in Microbiology at Haramaya University (1999-2003). His early career included secondary school biology teaching (1990-1997). 🌱🔬📚

Research Focus 🔬

Dr. Ahmed Idris Hassen specializes in Soil Microbiology and Plant-Microbe Interactions, focusing on rhizosphere health and biological nitrogen fixation. His research explores Rhizobium-legume symbiosis 🌱, microbial community diversity 🦠, and biocontrol mechanisms against phytopathogens 🍄. He applies molecular techniques 🧬, including 16S rRNA sequencing, metagenomics, and whole genome analysis for microbial characterization. His work on plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) enhances sustainable agriculture 🌾 through biofertilizers and microbial inoculants. Dr. Hassen also investigates microbial indicators of soil health and antibiosis mechanisms in plant disease control, contributing to eco-friendly agroecosystems 🌍.

Conclusion

Dr. Ahmed Idris Hassen is a distinguished researcher in soil microbiology, plant-microbe interactions, and sustainable agriculture, with over 15 years of experience. As a leader in multiple nationally and internationally funded projects, he has made significant contributions to biocontrol, biofertilizers, and rhizobium-legume interactions. Holding a National Research Foundation (NRF) C-3 rating, his research impact extends globally, reflected in his extensive publication record in reputable journals like Microorganisms, Scientific African, and Pest Management Science. With a Google Scholar H-index of 14, i10-index of 19, and 1169 citations (Scopus H-index: 10), his influence in the field is well-established. Additionally, as an Adjunct Professor at the University of Venda, he actively contributes to academia through teaching and mentorship. His innovations, including the development of elite rhizobial inoculants for commercial agriculture, further underscore his impact on scientific and industrial advancements, making him a highly deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award. 🚀