Professor Investigador at Cinvestav-Unidad Irapuato, Mexico
Dr. Neftalí Ochoa Alejo is a distinguished plant biotechnologist whose research over the past four decades has significantly advanced the field of plant physiology, tissue culture, and molecular biology. As a Senior Researcher at Cinvestav-Irapuato in Mexico, he has become internationally recognized for his pioneering work on the genetic and biochemical mechanisms underpinning capsaicinoid biosynthesis in chili peppers (Capsicum spp.), among other species. His prolific academic output includes over 70 peer-reviewed journal articles, numerous book chapters, and several edited volumes. Through leadership, editorial roles, and mentorship, Dr. Ochoa Alejo has shaped generations of researchers and contributed deeply to scientific and agricultural communities both nationally and internationally.
Profile
ORCID
Education
Dr. Ochoa Alejo earned his Ph.D. in Biochemistry from the Institute of Chemistry at the University of São Paulo, Brazil, in 1983. He holds a Master’s degree in Soil and Plant Nutrition from the same university’s Escola Superior de Agricultura “Luiz de Queiroz” (1981), and a Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Bacteriology and Parasitology from the National School of Biological Sciences, IPN, Mexico City (1977). This strong foundation in chemistry and plant science has underpinned his interdisciplinary approach to plant biotechnology and molecular biology.
Experience
His career spans both research and academic leadership, with roles including full-time researcher, department head, and academic coordinator. Dr. Ochoa Alejo has worked with prestigious institutions such as UNAM and the Autonomous University of Baja California Sur. Since 1984, he has served at Cinvestav-Irapuato, rising from Adjunct Professor to full Cinvestav Researcher Level 3D. In addition, he has held key administrative positions, including Department Head of Biotechnology and Biochemistry (2010–2018) and Academic Coordinator (1992–1997). His extensive contributions to institutional growth and research infrastructure have had a lasting impact on Mexican plant science.
Research Interest
Dr. Ochoa Alejo’s research is primarily focused on the biochemical and genetic regulation of specialized metabolism in plants, particularly the biosynthesis of capsaicinoids, anthocyanins, and carotenoids in Capsicum spp. He is an expert in plant tissue culture, in vitro regeneration, gene silencing (VIGS), and transcriptomic analysis. His studies also extend into abiotic stress physiology and metabolic engineering. His recent work explores the regulatory roles of MYB transcription factors and the application of CRISPR-Cas in gene function studies, highlighting his continued innovation in molecular plant biology.
Awards
Dr. Ochoa Alejo is a Level III member of Mexico’s National System of Researchers (SNI), reflecting his top-tier contributions to science. He has served on multiple national scientific evaluation committees and editorial boards, including In Vitro Cellular and Developmental Biology – Plant and Revista Fitotecnia Mexicana. He is a member of the Mexican Academy of Sciences, the Mexican Society of Biochemistry, and international societies such as The American Society of Plant Biologists. His leadership in national science councils like CONCYTEG and the Latin American Botanical Network further demonstrates his wide-reaching influence and commitment to science policy and research excellence.
Publications
Among his numerous scientific contributions, seven of his most cited works include:
Arce-Rodríguez ML, Ochoa-Alejo N. (2017). An R2R3-MYB transcription factor regulates capsaicinoid biosynthesis. Plant Physiology, 174:1359–1370. [Cited by ~400+ articles]
Gómez-García MR, Ochoa-Alejo N. (2013). Biochemistry and molecular biology of carotenoid biosynthesis in chili peppers. Int. J. Mol. Sci. 14:19025–19053. [Cited by ~500+]
Aza-González C, Núñez-Palenius HG, Ochoa-Alejo N. (2011). Molecular biology of capsaicinoid biosynthesis in chili pepper. Plant Cell Reports, 30:695–706. [Cited by ~300+]
Kothari SL, Joshi A, Kachhawa S, Ochoa-Alejo N. (2010). Chili peppers: a review on tissue culture and transgenesis. Biotechnol. Adv. 28:35–48. [Cited by ~350+]
Martínez-López LA, Ochoa-Alejo N, Martínez O. (2014). Dynamics of the chili pepper transcriptome during fruit development. BMC Genomics, 15:143. [Cited by ~200+]
Arce-Rodríguez ML, Martínez O, Ochoa-Alejo N. (2021). Genome-wide identification of MYB transcription factors in chili pepper. Int. J. Mol. Sci. 22:2229. [Cited by ~150+]
Villa-Rivera MG, Ochoa-Alejo N. (2020). Chili pepper carotenoids: Nutraceutical properties and mechanisms of action. Molecules 25:5573. [Cited by ~100+]
Conclusion
Given his unparalleled scientific achievements, leadership in national and international academic circles, decades of dedication to mentorship, and profound influence on plant biotechnology, Dr. Neftalí Ochoa Alejo is not only suitable but is an ideal candidate for the Research for Outstanding Scientist Award. His career reflects excellence, integrity, and impact—qualities that define this prestigious recognition.