Pushpender Sharma | Environmental Microbiology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Pushpender Sharma | Environmental Microbiology | Best Researcher Award

Associate Professor at Amity Institute of Biotechnology, J, India

Dr. Pushpender Kumar Sharma, Associate Professor at Amity University Jaipur, is a highly accomplished researcher with over 15 years of academic and research experience in biotechnology. He holds a Ph.D. from Panjab University and completed a prestigious DBT-funded postdoctoral fellowship at IISER Mohali. His work spans cutting-edge areas such as metagenomics, protein engineering, and antimicrobial peptides. With an H-index of 18 and i10-index of 28, he has made significant contributions to scientific literature and has guided numerous postgraduate and doctoral students. He holds an Indian patent on engineered lipase with industrial relevance and has received notable awards, including the Young Scientist Award and an editorial distinction from Scientific Reports (Nature Publishing Group). His leadership in research coordination and editorial roles across reputed journals further reflects his standing in the academic community. While greater industry collaboration and higher-impact publications could enhance his profile, he remains a deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

Education🎓

Dr. Pushpender Kumar Sharma has a strong and progressive academic background in the field of biotechnology. He earned his Ph.D. in Biotechnology from Panjab University, Chandigarh, where he conducted research under the supervision of Prof. Jagdeep Kaur from February 2005 to July 2010. Following his doctoral studies, he was awarded a prestigious Postdoctoral Fellowship by the Department of Biotechnology, Government of India, and completed his postdoctoral research at the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER), Mohali, under Prof. Samrat Mukhopadhyay from July 2010 to July 2012. Prior to his doctoral work, he obtained a Master’s degree (M.Sc.) in Biotechnology from Guru Jambheshwar University, Hisar, in 2001, and a Bachelor’s degree (B.Sc.) in

from Himachal Pradesh University, Shimla, in 1999. His solid educational foundation has equipped him with extensive knowledge and expertise in molecular biology, genetic engineering, and related biosciences, laying the groundwork for his research and academic success.

Professional Experience📝

Dr. Pushpender Kumar Sharma brings over 15 years of rich professional experience in research, teaching, and academic leadership. He is currently serving as an Associate Professor at the Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University Rajasthan, Jaipur, a position he has held since November 2021. Prior to this, he worked for more than nine years as an Assistant Professor at Sri Guru Granth Sahib World University, Fatehgarh Sahib, Punjab. His research journey began with a prestigious DBT-funded Postdoctoral Fellowship at IISER Mohali from 2010 to 2012. Dr. Sharma has actively contributed to major institutional research initiatives, including the DST PURSE program worth ₹8.5 crores. He also serves as Coordinator of the Amity Center for Nanobiotechnology and Nanomedicine and the B.Sc. Biotechnology program. In addition to teaching and mentoring, he is a core member of the Amity Science Technology and Innovation Foundation, reflecting his commitment to advancing science and education through interdisciplinary collaboration.

Research Interest🔎

Dr. Pushpender Kumar Sharma’s research interests lie at the intersection of molecular biology, biotechnology, and applied microbiology, with a strong focus on solving real-world problems through innovative scientific approaches. His primary areas of expertise include molecular biology and genetic engineering, metagenomics, metatranscriptomics, and protein engineering. He has a keen interest in exploring and characterizing biocatalysts, antimicrobial peptides from metagenomic sources, and investigating protein folding and misfolding mechanisms. His work also delves into the biological degradation of pesticides and oral microbiome analysis, reflecting a multidisciplinary approach that integrates environmental, industrial, and health-related applications. Dr. Sharma is particularly skilled in protein expression and purification, enzyme assays, mutagenesis techniques, and advanced biophysical characterization methods. His research aims to discover and engineer novel biomolecules with high efficiency and stability for use in pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and environmental remediation. His passion for translational research continues to drive his contributions to both fundamental science and industrial innovation.

Award and Honor🏆

Dr. Pushpender Kumar Sharma has received several prestigious awards and honors that recognize his significant contributions to biotechnology research. He was recently honored with the Editor of Distinction Award (2025) by Scientific Reports, a journal from the Nature Publishing Group. He was awarded a Fast-Track Research Grant under the Young Scientist Scheme by the Science and Engineering Research Board (SERB), Government of India, from 2013 to 2016. Dr. Sharma also received a Postdoctoral Fellowship from the Department of Biotechnology (DBT), India, for his research at IISER Mohali, and was a recipient of the Senior Research Fellowship (SRF) from the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) from 2008 to 2010. He holds a patent titled Engineering of the Metagenome Derived Lipase, demonstrating applied innovation in enzyme engineering. These accolades highlight his research excellence, innovation, and dedication to advancing science in both academic and industrial contexts.

Research Skill🔬

Dr. Pushpender Kumar Sharma possesses a diverse and advanced set of research skills in the fields of biotechnology and molecular biology. He is highly proficient in gene cloning, protein expression and purification, enzyme assays, and genomic library construction. His expertise extends to site-directed and error-prone mutagenesis, protein engineering, and the use of biophysical techniques for protein characterization. Dr. Sharma has hands-on experience with metagenomics and metatranscriptomics, including sequence analysis and genome assembly. He is also skilled in isolating and characterizing antimicrobial peptides and studying protein folding and misfolding. In addition to laboratory techniques, he has strong capabilities in scientific writing, critical reviewing, and grant proposal development. Having reviewed over 100 articles for national and international peer-reviewed journals, he demonstrates a sharp analytical approach to evaluating scientific content. His comprehensive technical knowledge and research management abilities position him as a resourceful and innovative scientist in the life sciences research community.

Conclusion💡

Yes, Dr. Pushpender Kumar Sharma is a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award, particularly at the institutional or regional level, due to his:

  • Deep academic and research experience,

  • Recognized research contributions (patent, awards),

  • Active leadership and mentorship roles, and

  • Editorial service in top journals.

However, for national-level or highly competitive international Best Researcher Awards, he would benefit from:

  • Publishing in more high-impact journals,

  • Leading more independent, high-value funded projects, and

  • Building industry-academia linkages or commercializing innovations.

Publications Top Noted✍

  • Title: Mini review on Antimicrobial Peptides, Sources, Mechanism and Recent Applications
    Authors: JKBPK Sharma
    Year: 2019
    Citations: 386

  • Title: Clinical, Prognostic and Therapeutic Significance of Heat Shock Proteins in Cancer
    Authors: PKS, Jasleen Saini
    Year: 2017
    Citations: 170

  • Title: An improved method for single step purification of metagenomic DNA
    Authors: PK Sharma, N Capalash, J Kaur
    Year: 2007
    Citations: 86

  • Title: ZnO and cobalt decorated ZnO NPs: Synthesis, photocatalysis and antimicrobial applications
    Authors: JS, Karanpal Singh, Nancy, Harpreet Kaur, Pushpender Kumar Sharma, Gurjinder …
    Year: 2022
    Citations: 74

  • Title: Antibiotic adjuvants: Synergistic tool to combat multi-drug resistant pathogens
    Authors: PKS, Vikarm Kumar, Nusrath Yasmeen, Aishwarya Pandey, Anis Chaudhary, Abdullah …
    Year: 2023
    Citations: 58

  • Title: Cloning, expression, purification and characterization of lipase from Bacillus licheniformis, isolated from hot spring of Himachal Pradesh, India
    Authors: G Kaur, A Singh, R Sharma, V Sharma, S Verma, PK Sharma
    Year: 2016
    Citations: 55

  • Title: Engineering of a metagenome derived lipase toward thermal tolerance: Effect of asparagine to lysine mutation on the protein surface
    Authors: PK Sharma, R Kumar, R Kumar, O Mohammad, R Singh, J Kaur
    Year: 2012
    Citations: 52

  • Title: Characterization of a thermostable lipase showing loss of secondary structure at ambient temperature
    Authors: PK Sharma, K Singh, R Singh, N Capalash, A Ali, O Mohammad, J Kaur
    Year: 2012
    Citations: 48

  • Title: Gelatin based Highly Stretchable, Self-healing, Conducting, Multi-adhesive and Antimicrobial Ionogels Embedded with Ag2O Nanoparticles
    Authors: TSK, Gagandeep Singh, Gurbir Singh, Krishnaiah Damarla, Pushpender K Sharma …
    Year: 2017
    Citations: 44

  • Title: Comparative metatranscriptome analysis revealed broad response of microbial communities in two soil types, agriculture versus organic soil
    Authors: PK Sharma, V Sharma, S Sharma, G Bhatia, K Singh, R Sharma
    Year: 2019
    Citations: 36

  • Title: Implications of CRISPR-Cas9 in developing Next Generation Biofuel: A Minireview
    Authors: SKPKS, Sudarshan Singh Lakhawat, Naveen Malik, Vikram Kumar
    Year: 2022
    Citations: 30

  • Title: Metatranscriptome sequencing and analysis of agriculture soil provided significant insights about the microbial community structure and function
    Authors: R Sharma, PK Sharma
    Year: Not Specified
    Citations: Not Listed

Rongliang Jia – Biological soil crusts – Best Researcher Award

Rongliang Jia - Biological soil crusts - Best Researcher Award

Northwest Institute of Eco-Environment and Resources - China

AUTHOR PROFILE

SCOPUS

🌵 CURRENT POSITION

Rongliang Jia, born in 1980, is the Associate Station Director, Professor, and Doctoral Supervisor at the Ningxia Shapotou Desert Ecosystem National Field Scientific Observation and Research Station. He is also part of the Northwest Institute of Eco-Environment and Resources, Chinese Academy of Sciences. His work is central to the study and protection of desert ecosystems, where he leads critical research initiatives.

🔬 RESEARCH FOCUS

Dr. Jia’s research is deeply rooted in the natural ecological systems of deserts and sandy areas. He specializes in the physiological and ecological theories and application technologies related to plant resistance in archaeological sites and mining areas. His recent work has concentrated on the composition, structure, and functional evolution of biological soil crusts, seeking to unravel their driving mechanisms and address key challenges in ecological protection and sustainable development.

🌱 ECOLOGICAL INNOVATION

A key member of the "Ecological Restoration and Reconstruction in Desert Areas" innovation team, Dr. Jia plays a vital role in advancing desert ecology. His innovative approaches to using biological soil crusts for environmental protection have positioned him as a leader in this field, contributing significantly to both theoretical advancements and practical applications.

📚 RESEARCH ACHIEVEMENTS

Dr. Jia has an impressive portfolio of research accomplishments. He has led 17 major projects, including those funded by the National Natural Science Foundation and the National Key Basic Research Program. With over 80 published papers, including 50 in SCI journals, his contributions have been widely recognized. He has also been granted 7 national invention patents, underlining his impact on the field of desert ecology.

🌍 ACADEMIC COLLABORATIONS

Dr. Jia’s expertise has led to numerous invitations for academic exchanges and collaborations at prestigious institutions around the world, including the University of Haifa, Tel Aviv University, and the University of Manchester. His international collaborations have enriched his research and expanded the global understanding of desert ecosystems.

🏆 HONORS AND AWARDS

Throughout his career, Dr. Jia has received numerous accolades, including the Chinese Academy of Sciences "ZhuYuehua Outstanding Doctoral Student Award" and the "Western Youth Scholar - A Class" support. His work has also been recognized with several regional awards, such as the first prize for scientific and technological progress by the Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region in 2018 and the "Longyuan Talent" recognition in Gansu Province in 2020.

🎓 MENTORSHIP AND LEADERSHIP

In addition to his research, Dr. Jia is a dedicated mentor and leader. He has been recognized as an "Excellent Graduate Student Supervisor" and an "Excellent Communist Party Member" by the Northwest Institute of Eco-Environment and Resources. His commitment to guiding the next generation of scientists ensures the continued growth and development of the field of desert ecology.

Gao Yizhou – Microbial metabolism – Best Researcher Award

Gao Yizhou - Microbial metabolism - Best Researcher Award

Chinese Academy of Sciences - China

AUTHOR PROFILE

SCOPUS

🧬 EXPERT IN MICROBIAL PATHOGENESIS AND SYMBIOSIS

Dr. Gao Yizhou is a distinguished young researcher at the Shanghai Institute of Immunology and Infection, Chinese Academy of Sciences. His primary research focuses on the molecular mechanisms of microbial pathogenesis and symbiosis, particularly in human symbiotic microorganisms. His work delves into microbial metabolism, including the evolution and regulation of bacterial metabolic genes, and the development of biosensors to monitor environmental changes using genetically engineered luminescent bacteria.

🎓 ACADEMIC JOURNEY AND SCHOLARSHIPS

Dr. Gao's academic journey is marked by excellence, beginning with his Bachelor's degree in Bioengineering from Shandong Agricultural University. He then earned his Doctor of Science in Microbiology from the Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, where he transferred from a Master's program to a PhD. Throughout his studies, Dr. Gao has been recognized with prestigious scholarships, including the National Natural Science Foundation Youth Project and the Postdoctoral Science Foundation.

🔬 RESEARCH POSITIONS AND CONTRIBUTIONS

Dr. Gao has held several key research positions, including serving as an Associate Researcher at the Institut Pasteur, Shanghai, and a Postdoctoral Fellow at Shanghai Jiao Tong University. His current role at the Shanghai Institute of Immunology and Infection, under the mentorship of Academician Philippe Sansonetti, allows him to further his groundbreaking research in microbial pathogenesis. His contributions have significantly advanced our understanding of microbial interactions and their implications for human health.

📚 SIGNIFICANT PUBLICATIONS AND SCIENTIFIC IMPACT

Dr. Gao has published over twenty research articles in prestigious journals such as The Innovation, iMeta, and Environmental Microbiology. His work on topics like the retrograde behavior of stem cells in colorectal cancer, whole-cell hydrogen peroxide biosensors, and the spatial distribution of microbiota in the murine large intestine has garnered significant attention in the scientific community. These publications reflect his dedication to advancing the field of microbiology and his impact on global health research.

🧫 RESEARCH ON MICROBIAL METABOLISM AND BIOSENSORS

A key focus of Dr. Gao’s research involves exploring the metabolic pathways of aromatic compounds in bacteria and the development of biosensors for environmental monitoring. His innovative approach has led to significant advancements in understanding how microbes interact with their environment and how these interactions can be harnessed for practical applications, such as food analysis and disease detection.

🌟 MENTORSHIP AND LEADERSHIP IN SCIENCE

As a master's tutor at the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dr. Gao plays an essential role in mentoring the next generation of scientists. His leadership extends beyond the lab, as he actively participates in the Youth Promotion Association of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, where he helps foster the growth and development of young researchers in the field of microbiology.

🔗 ONLINE PRESENCE AND PROFESSIONAL NETWORK

Dr. Gao maintains an active presence in the scientific community, contributing to discussions and collaborations through various professional networks. His work continues to influence the field of microbiology, and his publications are accessible to a global audience, ensuring that his research has a lasting impact on both academic and practical applications.

NOTABLE PUBLICATION

A recently assembled degradation pathway for 2,3-dichloronitrobenzene in Diaphorobacter sp. Strain JS3051
Authors: Li, T., Gao, Y.-Z., Xu, J., Spain, J.C., Zhou, N.-Y.
Year: 2021
Journal: mBio

A Nag-like dioxygenase initiates 3,4-dichloronitrobenzene degradation via 4,5-dichlorocatechol in Diaphorobacter sp. strain JS3050
Authors: Gao, Y.-Z., Palatucci, M.L., Waidner, L.A., Spain, J.C., Zhou, N.-Y.
Year: 2021
Journal: Environmental Microbiology

Special Features of Bat Microbiota Differ From Those of Terrestrial Mammals
Authors: Sun, D.-L., Gao, Y.-Z., Ge, X.-Y., Shi, Z.-L., Zhou, N.-Y.
Year: 2020
Journal: Frontiers in Microbiology

A bph-like nitroarene dioxygenase catalyzes the conversion of 3-nitrotoluene to 3-methylcatechol by Rhodococcus sp. Strain ZWL3NT
Authors: Gao, Y.-Z., Liu, X.-Y., Liu, H., Guo, Y., Zhou, N.-Y.
Year: 2020
Journal: Applied and Environmental Microbiology

MD. ALAMIN – Environmental microbiology – Excellence in Research

MD. ALAMIN - Environmental microbiology - Excellence in Research

Wayne state university - United States

AUTHOR PROFILE

SCOPUS

POSTDOCTORAL FELLOW AT WAYNE STATE UNIVERSITY

Md. Alamin has been a Postdoctoral Fellow at Wayne State University since September 2022, focusing on wastewater-based epidemiology of SARS-CoV-2. His leadership role in the Metro Detroit SARS-CoV-2 wastewater monitoring project is instrumental in informing public health actions, contracted by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services.

WASTEWATER EPIDEMIOLOGY EXPERT

Md. Alamin's research includes the detection of human sources of fecal contamination in watersheds and at beaches. He specializes in identifying fecal markers such as HF183, PMMoV, CrAssphage, and E. Coli, providing critical data for environmental health and safety.

DOCTORATE IN ENVIRONMENTAL DESIGN

Md. Alamin earned his Ph.D. in Environmental Design from Kanazawa University, Japan, where he focused on the removal and detection of SARS-CoV-2 in wastewater. His work involved strategic sampling methods, RNA extraction, and understanding the mechanisms of virus removal in wastewater treatment processes.

RESEARCH IN VECTOR-BORNE DISEASE DETECTION

Between October 2019 and September 2022, Md. Alamin collaborated with international research teams to develop a ddLAMP platform for the sensitive detection of vector-borne disease organisms. This innovative technology supports portable, microfluidic, lab-on-a-chip solutions for microbial source tracking and disease detection.

AWARDED UNIVERSITY PRESIDENT AWARD

In September 2022, Md. Alamin received the University President Award for Best Research Ph.D. His dedication and impactful research during his doctoral studies have been widely recognized and celebrated.

PUBLISHED AUTHOR IN HIGH-IMPACT JOURNALS

Md. Alamin has multiple first-authored publications in high-impact journals such as Science of the Total Environment and Npj Clean Water. His research on the reduction of SARS-CoV-2 in wastewater and the performance of various treatment processes has significantly contributed to the field of environmental science.

EDUCATION AND SCHOLARSHIPS

Md. Alamin completed his Master of Science and Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering at Khulna University of Engineering and Technology, Bangladesh. Throughout his academic career, he has been awarded several scholarships, including the Japanese Government (MEXT) Scholarship and the KCC FSM Scholarship from SNV Netherlands Development Organization.

NOTABLE PUBLICATION

Reduction of SARS-CoV-2 by Biological Nutrient Removal and Disinfection Processes in Full-Scale Wastewater Treatment Plants.
Authors: M. Alamin, H. Hara-Yamamura, A. Hata, T. Watanabe, R. Honda
Year: 2023
Journal: Science of the Total Environment, 895, 165097

Passive Swab Versus Grab Sampling for Detection of SARS-CoV-2 Markers in Wastewater.
Authors: N.W. West, J. Hartrick, M. Alamin, W. Shuster, J.L. Ram
Year: 2023
Journal: Science of the Total Environment, 889, 164180

Removal Performance of SARS-CoV-2 in Wastewater Treatment by Membrane Bioreactor, Anaerobic-Anoxic-Oxic, and Conventional Activated Sludge Processes.
Authors: R. Wang, M. Alamin, S. Tsuji, M. Ihara, R. Honda
Year: 2022
Journal: Science of the Total Environment, 851, 158310

Selection of Surrogate Viruses for Process Control in Detection of SARS-CoV-2 in Wastewater.
Authors: M. Alamin, S. Tsuji, A. Hata, H. Hara-Yamamura, R. Honda
Year: 2022
Journal: Science of the Total Environment, 823, 153737

Extent of Degradation in Three Stage Co-Composting of Fecal Sludge and Solid Waste.
Authors: M. Alamin, Q.H. Bari
Year: 2022
Journal: Journal of the Air and Waste Management Association, 72(8), pp. 914–924