Assoc. Prof. Dr. Jian Gao | Functional Genomics | Research Excellence Award

Lishui University | China

Jian Gao is a researcher in crop genetics and breeding with expertise in radish genomics and functional genomics. His research centers on the genetic regulation of anthocyanin biosynthesis and the molecular mechanisms of plant responses to heavy metal and abiotic stresses. He applies genome-wide analysis, transcriptomics, and bioinformatics to identify key functional genes and regulatory networks. His studies on gene families such as GST and GRAS have provided important insights into stress tolerance and quality trait formation in radish. He has also contributed to microRNA and regulatory gene research related to environmental stress responses in plants. Beyond plant science, his work extends to applied genomics using high-throughput sequencing technologies. His research has been published in leading international journals in plant science and molecular biology. He has played leading and collaborative roles in multiple competitive research projects. His work has resulted in authorized patents and the development of improved radish varieties. He is actively involved in graduate training and interdisciplinary teaching in genomics and bioinformatics.

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Featured Publications

BjuFKF1_1, a Plant-Specific LOV Blue Light Receptor Gene, Positively Regulates Flowering in Brassica juncea

– Plants, 2026

Agrobacterium-mediated transformation of Brassica juncea reveals BjuLKP2 functions in plant yellowing

– Preprint, 2024

Genome-wide characterization and expression analysis of GRAS genes in carmine radish (Raphanus sativus L.)

– Scientia Horticulturae, 2023

Transcriptome analyses reveal photosynthesis-related genes involved in chloroplast development of an EMS-induced maize mutant

– Plant Biotechnology Reports, 2022

Integrated transcriptional analysis reveals macrophage heterogeneity and tumor–macrophage interactions in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma

– 2020

Ms. Victoria Akintayo | Genomics | Research Excellence Award

Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University | China

Victoria Oluwapelumi Akintayo is a plant breeding and genetics researcher with strong interdisciplinary expertise spanning crop improvement, molecular genetics, sustainability, and community-driven agricultural development. Her research focuses on understanding the genetic and molecular mechanisms underlying plant stress tolerance, nutrient efficiency, and heavy metal accumulation, with particular emphasis on economically important crops such as cassava, maize, and bast fiber crops. She has applied advanced genomic and molecular approaches, including marker development, BSA-seq, RNA-seq, and quantitative data analysis, to identify candidate genes relevant to crop resilience and productivity. Beyond laboratory and field-based research, she is deeply engaged in circular economy initiatives, youth capacity-building, and environmentally sustainable agriculture, integrating scientific innovation with social impact. Her work has been recognized through competitive international awards, peer-reviewed publications in high-impact journals, and leadership roles in global food systems and sustainability platforms.