Yuyun Lu | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Editorial Board Member

Published on by Best Paper Awards

Dr. Yuyun Lu | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Editorial Board Member

Research Fellow | National University of Singapore | Singapore 

Yuyun Lu is a Research Fellow at the Department of Food Science and Technology, National University of Singapore, where she has been contributing to advanced research in food science since 2017. Her work focuses on functional foods, food bioprocessing, fermentation technology, food chemistry, and the development of value-added products from agricultural and food industry by-products. With more than 80 scholarly publications, she has built a strong international research profile in areas such as probiotic and functional beverage development, metabolomics-guided food analysis, enzymatic modification of bioactive compounds, plant and marine-based food materials, and sustainable food innovation. Her recent studies span diverse topics including probiotic fermentation of kombu, noni fruit, okara, and spent coffee grounds, rheological and microstructural properties of fortified noodles, 3D food printing using plant and seafood proteins, bioactive organosulfur compounds, bile acid metabolism, antimicrobial food packaging, and quality preservation of seafood and fresh produce during cold storage. She is also recognized for her contributions to understanding flavor chemistry, antioxidant stability, lipid oxidation, and the bioactivity of phytochemicals such as lutein, rutin, and moringa-derived compounds. In addition to research, she is an active peer reviewer for leading journals including Food Chemistry, Food Bioscience, Trends in Food Science and Technology, Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, and Food Research International, reflecting her strong standing in the global food science community. Through interdisciplinary approaches combining fermentation science, analytical chemistry, metabolomics, and food engineering, Yuyun Lu’s research supports the development of healthier, safer, and more sustainable food systems, bridging fundamental food chemistry with practical industrial applications and functional nutrition.

Profiles: ORCID | Scopus 

Featured Publications

Lu, Y., Zhang, M., & Huang, D. (2022). Dietary organosulfur-containing compounds and their health-promotion mechanisms. Annual Review of Food Science and Technology, 13, 325–346. https://doi.org/10.1146/annurev-food-052720-010127

Tay, J. U., Zhou, C., Lee, H. W., Lu, Y., & Huang, D. (2023). 3D printing of salmon fillet mimic: Imparting printability via high-pressure homogenization and post-printing texturization via transglutaminase. Food Hydrocolloids, 139, 108564. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.foodhyd.2023.108564

Liu, Y., Yuan, W., Lu, Y., & Liu, S. Q. (2021). Biotransformation of spent coffee grounds by fermentation with monocultures of Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Lachancea thermotolerans aided by yeast extracts. LWT, 136, 110751. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.lwt.2020.110751

Tan, X., Li, H., Huang, W., Ma, W., Lu, Y., & Yan, R. (2023). Enzymatic acylation improves the stability and bioactivity of lutein: Protective effects of acylated lutein derivatives on L-O2 cells upon H2O2-induced oxidative stress. Food Chemistry, 403, 135393. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.foodchem.2023.135393

Lu, Y., Teo, J. N., & Liu, S. Q. (2022). Fermented shellfish condiments: A comprehensive review. Comprehensive Reviews in Food Science and Food Safety, 21(3), 2096–2122. https://doi.org/10.1111/1541-4337.13024

Yuyun Lu’s research advances global food science through innovative fermentation, functional foods, and sustainable bioprocessing that transform agri-food by-products into high-value nutrition. Her work bridges fundamental food chemistry with real-world industrial applications, supporting healthier diets, food safety, and circular bioeconomy solutions worldwide.

Qudrat Ullah | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Young Scientist Award

Published on by Best Paper Awards

Mr. Qudrat Ullah | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Young Scientist Award

PhD | Walailak Unviersity | Thailand

Dr. Qudrat Ullah is an emerging researcher whose multidisciplinary expertise and remarkable publication record make him a highly suitable candidate for the Young Scientist Award. Born in 2001, he has demonstrated outstanding research productivity and scientific maturity at an early stage of his career. With a strong academic foundation in Environmental Science and Agriculture, holding a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree from Government College University Faisalabad and currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Agriculture and Food Science at Walailak University, Thailand, his academic journey reflects consistent excellence. His research contributions encompass environmental remediation, sustainable agriculture, plant-microbe interactions, and nanotechnology applications in pollution control. Having authored and co-authored over 150 scientific publications, including peer-reviewed journal papers, book chapters with reputed publishers like Elsevier, and authored books on Amazon, he has made a significant impact in advancing knowledge across multiple disciplines. His work on phytoremediation, bioremediation, and plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria demonstrates innovation and a commitment to addressing global environmental challenges through scientific solutions. Professionally, he has served as a University Research Assistant and Research Engineer at prominent Pakistani institutions, gaining extensive experience in experimental design, bioinformatics, and analytical techniques. Beyond research, his active involvement as a reviewer, editor, and author underscores his leadership within the scientific community. Participation in international conferences and symposia, along with his English language proficiency and global collaboration experience, further reflect his professional competence and communication skills. His scientific vision, combined with a strong record of interdisciplinary collaboration, publication excellence, and environmental stewardship, highlights his potential to make substantial contributions to science and society. Thus, Dr. Qudrat Ullah exemplifies the qualities of innovation, dedication, and leadership that the Young Scientist Award seeks to honor.

Profiles: Google Scholar | ORCID

Featured Publications

  1. Ullah, Q. (2024). Harnessing plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPRs) for sustainable management of rice blast disease caused by Magnaporthe oryzae: Strategies and remediation techniques in Indonesia. Indonesian Journal of Agriculture and Environmental.

  2. Ullah, Q., & Co-authors. (2024). Nanoparticle innovations in wastewater treatment: A comparative study of titanium dioxide, gold, and nano zero-valent iron nanoparticles for lead, chromium, and mercury removal. Global Scientific and Academic Research Journal of Multidisciplinary Studies.

  3. Ullah, Q., & Co-authors. (2024). Mechanistic insight into iron oxide nanoparticles (FeO-NPs) assisted alleviation of chromium stress in maize (Zea mays L.) grown under tannery wastewater. Plant Physiology and Biochemistry.

  4. Ullah, Q., & Co-authors. (2024). Genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in agriculture: A comprehensive review of environmental impacts, benefits, and concerns. Journal of Xi’an Shiyou University.

  5. Ullah, Q., & Co-authors. (2024). Exploring the influence of nanoparticles and PGPRs on the physico-chemical characteristics of wheat plants: A review. EPH – International Journal of Agriculture and Environmental Research.

Dr. Qudrat Ullah’s research advances sustainable agriculture and environmental restoration through innovative applications of plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria, nanotechnology, and bioremediation. His work contributes to global food security, environmental health, and scientific innovation by developing eco-friendly solutions for soil and water pollution management.

Lemessa Kumsa | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Best Paper Awards

Assist. Prof. Dr. Lemessa Kumsa | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Senior Researcher at Adama Science and Technology University, Ethiopia

Dr. Lemessa Kumsa is an accomplished researcher and academic specializing in Plant Biology and Biodiversity Management, with expertise in plant ecology, biodiversity conservation, and plant biotechnology. He holds a Ph.D. from Addis Ababa University and serves as a lecturer and mentor at Adama Science and Technology University, where he contributes to teaching, research, and community service. His research spans indigenous knowledge systems, ethnobotany, biodiversity dynamics, and sustainable conservation, resulting in publications in reputed international journals such as Scopus and Frontiers. He has actively engaged in collaborative research projects, including national initiatives and international partnerships, reflecting his commitment to advancing scientific knowledge and addressing real-world challenges. Recognized as a model teacher, he demonstrates both academic excellence and leadership, positioning him as a highly impactful researcher with strong future potential.

Professional Profile

Scopus Profile | Orcid Profile

Education

Dr. Lemessa Kumsa has pursued a strong academic journey in the field of biological sciences, beginning with a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Haramaya University, followed by a Master of Science in Botanical Science from Addis Ababa University. He further advanced his expertise by completing a Doctor of Philosophy in Plant Biology and Biodiversity Management at Addis Ababa University, where he focused on plant ecology, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable use of natural resources. His academic training has provided him with a broad and in-depth understanding of plant biodiversity, ecological dynamics, and conservation practices. This solid educational background has prepared him for impactful research, teaching, and collaboration, enabling him to address critical challenges in biodiversity management, ecological sustainability, and the integration of traditional knowledge into modern scientific frameworks.

Professional Experience

Dr. Lemessa Kumsa serves as a lecturer and researcher at Adama Science and Technology University, where he has made remarkable contributions to academic teaching, mentoring, and knowledge development. His professional experience includes delivering lectures in plant biology, biodiversity management, and ecology, while also supervising senior projects and guiding student research. Beyond teaching, he has been actively engaged in laboratory instruction, curriculum development, and the preparation of research-oriented manuals to enhance learning outcomes. As both a principal investigator and co-researcher, he has contributed to several impactful projects focusing on biodiversity conservation and sustainable resource utilization. Additionally, he has demonstrated commitment to community service through research and extension activities, ensuring that his scientific knowledge contributes to addressing societal needs. His professional journey reflects dedication to academic growth, research excellence, and institutional development.

Research Interest

Dr. Lemessa Kumsa’s research interests lie at the intersection of plant biology, ecology, and biodiversity conservation, with a strong emphasis on sustainable natural resource management. His work explores the dynamics of plant species within agricultural landscapes, the role of indigenous knowledge in biodiversity protection, and the application of plant biotechnology for sustainable solutions. He has conducted studies on woody plant diversity, ethnobotany, and the impact of land use on ecological systems, contributing valuable insights to both scientific and local communities. His interest extends to exploring traditional ecological knowledge as a tool for sustainable conservation, bridging the gap between scientific innovation and cultural practices. By integrating ecological science with community-based knowledge, he aims to promote strategies that protect biodiversity while ensuring livelihoods and food security in rapidly changing environments.

Award and Honor

Dr. Lemessa Kumsa has been recognized for his academic and teaching excellence, including receiving a certificate of honor for being a model teacher within the Department of Biology at Adama Science and Technology University. This recognition highlights his dedication to quality education, mentorship, and commitment to fostering student growth. His involvement in high-impact research projects has further enhanced his academic reputation, with contributions acknowledged by peers and collaborators both nationally and internationally. His leadership in advancing studies on Ethiopian medicinal and aromatic plants, as well as his participation in globally funded biodiversity projects, reflects the respect he has earned within the scientific community. These honors not only signify his achievements but also underline his role as a dedicated educator, researcher, and community contributor, committed to advancing both science and society.

Research Skill

Dr. Lemessa Kumsa possesses strong research skills, combining scientific rigor with innovative methodologies in biodiversity management, plant ecology, and ethnobotany. He has expertise in designing and conducting field-based ecological assessments, laboratory analysis, and integrating quantitative and qualitative methods to generate impactful findings. His ability to collaborate in multidisciplinary and international projects showcases his adaptability and commitment to advancing global scientific knowledge. He is skilled in publishing research in high-quality journals, disseminating knowledge through conferences, and translating scientific outcomes into practical recommendations for conservation and sustainable use of resources. His proficiency also extends to guiding student research, preparing training manuals, and implementing community-centered projects. These skills reflect his capability to bridge academic research with practical applications, positioning him as a versatile researcher with lasting contributions to science and development.

Publication Top Notes

Title: A Review on Oromo Traditional Ecological Knowledge: A Beacon for Sustainable Conservation
Authors: Telila H., Kumsa L., Lami M., Totoba B.A.
Year: 2025
Citation: Journal of Equity in Science & Sustainable Development, 8(2): 162–185. https://doi.org/10.20372/mwu.jessd.2025.1582

Title: Exploring indigenous knowledge and practices of the Gurage community on the biosystematics and utilization of Enset landraces for bone fracture and regeneration: the case of Gurage Zone, central Ethiopia region
Authors: Negassa T., Meressa A., Abdissa N., Degu S., Addis G., Debebe E., W/kidan S., Belitibo D.K., Ashenef S., Shanko W., Zuber Z., Kumsa L., Kassahun M., Assamo F.T., Endale M.
Year: 2025
Citation: Frontiers in Pharmacology, 16: 2025. https://doi.org/10.3389/fphar.2025.1563898

Title: Assessment of the pattern of fuelwood consumption and impacts on woody plant species in the Bale Mountains National Park, southeastern Ethiopia
Authors: Oslo T., Telila H., Kumsa L.
Year: 2025
Citation: Journal for Nature Conservation, 84: 2025. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jnc.2025.126829

Title: Assessment of the impact of woody species encroachment on plant species diversity and the livelihood of pastoralists in southeastern Ethiopia
Authors: Mahmud A., Telila H., Kumsa L.
Year: 2024
Citation: African Journal of Range & Forage Science, 1–14. https://doi.org/10.2989/10220119.2024.2324866

Title: Ethnobotany of traditional cosmetics among the Oromo women in Madda Walabu District, Bale Zone, Southeastern Ethiopia
Authors: Sultan S., Telila H., Kumsa L.
Year: 2024
Citation: Journal of Ethnobiology and Ethnomedicine, 20:39.

Title: Analysis of rice (Oryza sativa L. ssp. Japonica) wall-associated receptor-like protein kinase gene’s promoter region and regulatory elements
Authors: Huluka W., Kumsa L.
Year: 2022
Citation: Current Plant Biology, 31: 100254.

Title: Patch area and current coffee management determine woody plant diversity in patches of semi-forest coffee embedded in an agricultural matrix
Authors: Kumsa L., Hylander K., Gurmessa D., Nemomissa S.
Year: 2016
Citation: Global Ecology and Conservation, 8: 230–240.

Conclusion

In summary, Dr. Lemessa Kumsa stands out as a dedicated researcher, educator, and academic leader whose contributions span education, biodiversity research, and community engagement. His strong academic foundation, impactful professional experience, and focused research interests demonstrate both scientific depth and societal relevance. Through publications in reputed journals, leadership in collaborative projects, and recognition for his teaching excellence, he has established himself as a respected figure in the scientific community. His research on biodiversity, indigenous knowledge, and sustainable management has contributed significantly to advancing ecological science while supporting local communities. With his strong skills, dedication, and commitment to both research and education, Dr. Kumsa represents a scholar of high potential whose future contributions will further strengthen conservation, innovation, and academic excellence.

Rajesh Malla | Agricultural and Biological Sciences Award | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Best Paper Awards

Dr. Rajesh Malla | Agricultural and Biological Sciences Award | Best Researcher Award

Deputy Director General at Forest Research and Training Centre, Nepal

Dr. Rajesh Malla, Ph.D. in Biology from the University of Hamburg, Germany, is a distinguished forestry and climate change researcher specializing in forest resource assessment, forest modeling, biodiversity conservation, and climate change impacts on ecosystems. With an M.Sc. and B.Sc. in Forestry from Tribhuvan University, Nepal, he has over two decades of experience in research, leadership, and conservation. He has published extensively in reputed, indexed journals such as Land, Forests, PeerJ, and Frontiers in Forests and Global Change, and has presented at international conferences. Serving as Deputy Director General and previously Director at Nepal’s Forest Research and Training Centre, he has led impactful national and international projects. His work bridges scientific innovation and policy application, significantly contributing to sustainable forest management and environmental conservation in Nepal and beyond. The Agricultural and Biological Sciences Award recognises outstanding contributions in the fields of Agricultural and biological research, particularly within Agriculture and Agriculture.

Professional Profile

Google Scholar | Orcid Profile

Education

Dr. Rajesh Malla holds a Ph.D. in Biology  from the University of Hamburg, Germany, with a thesis focusing on climate change impacts on soil organic carbon, above-ground biomass, and vegetation shifts in Nepal’s forests. He earned his M.Sc. in Forestry from the Institute of Forestry, Pokhara, Nepal, specializing in habitat mapping and conservation threats to the Gangetic Dolphin, graduating with first division. His B.Sc. in Forestry from Tribhuvan University included a specialization in GIS applications for natural resource management, with a thesis on park–people conflict in Nepal’s protected areas, also completed with first division. This strong academic foundation has equipped him with advanced scientific, analytical, and technical expertise to address complex environmental and climate-related challenges while integrating conservation science with practical forest management solutions.

Experience

With over two decades of service in forestry and climate change research, Dr. Malla currently serves as Deputy Director General of the Forest Research and Training Centre, Kathmandu, Nepal. His leadership spans major projects including allometry equation development, forest resource assessments, bamboo resource surveys, and terrestrial lidar scanning for forest inventory. Previously, he was Director at the Centre’s Gandaki Province office, Research Officer at the Department of Forest Research and Survey, and Assistant Research Officer. He has also served as Project Leader for the Dolphin Conservation Awareness Project, funded by the Rufford Maurice Laing Foundation (UK), and held NGO program management roles. His career reflects a strong blend of research expertise, strategic leadership, and implementation of conservation initiatives at both national and international levels.

Research Interest

Dr. Malla’s research interests span forest resource assessment, forest modeling, biodiversity conservation, and climate change impacts on terrestrial ecosystems. His work integrates advanced modeling techniques with ecological data to evaluate carbon dynamics, biomass distribution, and species habitat suitability. He is deeply engaged in assessing vegetation shifts under climate scenarios, identifying invasive species patterns, and linking forest diversity to carbon storage potential. Additionally, his studies often incorporate geospatial tools, remote sensing, and GIS applications to support data-driven forest management strategies. Beyond ecological science, he focuses on the socio-environmental dimensions of forestry, including park–people relationships, community forestry systems, and conservation policy impacts. His interdisciplinary approach ensures his research remains relevant for both academic advancement and practical application in sustainable natural resource management.

Award and Honor

Dr. Rajesh Malla’s career has been marked by recognition for his impactful research and leadership in forestry and climate science. While his work has not only garnered academic attention through publications in prestigious, indexed journals (Land, Forests, PeerJ, Frontiers in Forests and Global Change), it has also influenced policy and conservation practices in Nepal. His leadership roles in government forestry institutions reflect the trust and respect earned from the scientific and policy-making community. Invitations to present at national and international platforms—such as the APFISN Workshop in the Philippines and the International Conference on Forest, People, and Climate—demonstrate his standing as a subject-matter expert. His project leadership, notably the Dolphin Conservation Awareness Project funded internationally, showcases his ability to secure and manage global research support.

Research Skill

Dr. Malla possesses advanced expertise in forest inventory techniques, biomass and carbon modeling, ecological data analysis, and climate change impact assessments. His skills include the application of GIS, remote sensing, and terrestrial lidar scanning for precise environmental mapping and monitoring. He is adept at integrating field-based data with advanced statistical and geospatial modeling to generate actionable conservation insights. His research involves multi-scale approaches—from local biodiversity assessments to national forest resource evaluations—often within multidisciplinary teams. He has strong competencies in scientific writing, peer-reviewed publishing, and conference presentations, enabling him to effectively communicate research findings to academic, policy, and public audiences. His experience in managing complex research projects, securing funding, and building collaborative networks further strengthens his capacity to lead impactful scientific initiatives.

Publication Top Notes

Title: Spatial distribution of soil organic carbon in the forests of Nepal
Authors: Malla, R., Neupane, P.R.
Year: 2024
Citation: Land, 13(3), 378

Title: Climate change impacts: In the perspective of soil organic carbon, above-ground biomass and vegetation shifts (A case study from Nepal) – PhD thesis
Authors: Malla, R.
Year: 2024
Citation: University of Hamburg, Germany

Title: Habitat suitability of four threatened Himalayan species: Asiatic black bear, common leopard, musk deer, and snow leopard
Authors: Malla, R., Panthi, S., Adhikari, H., Pariyar, S., Baral, R., Subedi, R., Adhikari, B.P.
Year: 2023
Citation: PeerJ, 11, e16085

Title: Modelling soil organic carbon as a function of topography and stand variables
Authors: Malla, R., Neupane, P.R., Köhl, M.
Year: 2022
Citation: Forests, 13(9), 1391

Title: Climate change impacts: Vegetation shift of broad-leaved and coniferous forests
Authors: Malla, R., Neupane, P.R., Köhl, M.
Year: 2023
Citation: Trees, Forests and People, 14, 100457

Title: Assessment of above ground biomass and soil organic carbon in the forests of Nepal under climate change scenario
Authors: Malla, R., Neupane, P.R., Köhl, M.
Year: 2023
Citation: Frontiers in Forests and Global Change, 6, 1209232

Title: Forest diversity and aboveground carbon linkage between the national park and community managed tropical forests of Nepal
Authors: Ranabhat, S., Malla, R.
Year: 2023
Citation: Banko Janakari, 33(2), 49–60

Title: Assessment of invasion of Ageratina adenophora in the plantation forest of Nepal
Authors: Malla, R., Aryal, R.R., Ranabhat, S.
Year: 2021
Citation: Banko Janakari, 31(1), 3–11

Title: Natural regeneration potential and growth of degraded Shorea robusta Gaertn.f. forest in Terai region of Nepal
Authors: Malla, R., Acharya, B.K.
Year: 2017
Citation: Banko Janakari, 28(1), 3–10

Title: The effect of forest management on stand structure and tree diversity in the Sal (Shorea robusta) forest of Nepal
Authors: Ranabhat, S., Fehrman, L., Malla, R.
Year: 2016
Citation: Indian Forester, 142(6), 582–589

Title: Trees on farms: Diversity, carbon pool and contribution to rural livelihood in Kanchanpur district of Nepal
Authors: Baral, S.K., Malla, R., Khanal, S.
Year: 2013
Citation: Banko Janakari, 23(1), 3–11

Title: Above ground carbon stock assessment in different forest types of Nepal
Authors: Baral, S.K., Malla, R., Ranabhat, S.
Year: 2009
Citation: Banko Janakari, 19(2), 10–14

Title: Potentiality of payment for environmental services in community forests of Nepal
Authors: Acharya, K.P., Baral, S.K., Malla, R., Basnyat, B.
Year: 2009
Citation: Proceedings of the Community Forestry International Workshop, 15–18 September 2009, Pokhara, Nepal, pp. 67

Title: Habitat Mapping and Conservation Threats to River Dolphin in Karnali River of Nepal
Authors: Malla, R.
Year: 2009
Citation: Banko Janakari (Special Edition), 24–29

Title: Carbon sequestration potential of Alnus nepalensis in mid-hills of Nepal: A case study from Kaski district
Authors: Ranabhat, S., Awasthi, K.D., Malla, R.
Year: 2008
Citation: Banko Janakari, 18(2), 3–9

Conclusion

Dr. Rajesh Malla stands out as a highly accomplished forestry and climate change researcher whose work bridges the gap between academic science and applied environmental policy. His career reflects a rare combination of scientific depth, leadership ability, and practical conservation impact. With a strong academic background, decades of professional experience, and a rich portfolio of peer-reviewed publications, he has significantly advanced understanding of forest ecosystems, biodiversity conservation, and climate change mitigation. His leadership in government institutions has enabled large-scale data collection, analysis, and resource management that directly benefit environmental policy-making in Nepal. Looking ahead, his expertise, collaborative approach, and commitment to sustainability position him to continue making meaningful contributions to global environmental research and conservation practice