Yingying Wu | Genetic Research | Research Excellence Award

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yingying Wu | Genetic Research | Research Excellence Award

Research Director‌ | Institute of Edible Fungi, Shanghai Academy of Agricultural Sciences | China

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yingying Wu is a dedicated researcher whose work focuses on the genetic breeding of industrialized edible mushrooms and the synthetic biology of active natural products from macrofungi, contributing significantly to biotechnology, functional food development, and mushroom-based pharmaceutical innovation. Her research explores the improvement of mushroom strains to enhance production efficiency, nutritional composition, and bioactive properties valuable for human health. She has contributed to metabolic profiling studies of Cordyceps militaris, identifying optimal consumption periods to maximize functional health effects and sensory qu`ality, providing scientific foundations for promoting mushroom products as high-value nutraceuticals. Her work on the cloning, characterization, and functional analysis of novel fungal immunomodulatory protein genes, such as those found in Ganoderma leucocontextum, demonstrates the therapeutic potential of macrofungi-derived biomolecules in immune regulation and cancer-related cellular functions. Additionally, she has advanced understanding of reproductive biology and nuclear behavior in edible mushroom strains through studies on protoplast monokaryotization and asexual spore isolation in Flammulina filiformis, supporting efficient breeding technologies for industrial cultivation. By integrating molecular biology, metabolic analysis, and applied breeding strategies, she contributes to creating sustainable and innovative mushroom-derived products, strengthening the link between food technology and biomedical research. Her scientific outputs reflect meaningful contributions to both fundamental mycological research and practical industrial applications, positioning her as a promising leader in the field of macrofungi biotechnology, functional active compound discovery, and future health-focused bioindustries.

Profile:  Scopus  |  ORCID

Featured Publications

Wang, Y., Zhang, R., Li, Y., Wu, Y., Gong, M., Shao, Y., Wang, L., Li, W., & Zou, G. (2026). Metabolic profiles reveal the preferable consumption time of Cordyceps militaris dried products with the optimal health effects and flavors. Journal of Future Foods, 6(4), 642–655.

Yang, J., Jin, M., Zhang, L., Wu, Y., & Zhou, X. (2025). Characterization and functional analysis of a novel fungal immunomodulatory protein gene from Ganoderma leucocontextum in B16-F10 mouse melanoma cells. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 26(11), 5063.

Wu, Y., et al. (2025). Nuclear partial segregation occurred in protoplast monokaryotization and asexual spore monosporous isolation of wild strains of Flammulina filiformis. Mycosystema.

 

Maria Urbaniec | Innovation | Editorial Board Member

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Prof. Maria Urbaniec | Innovation | Editorial Board Member

Prof. Maria Urbaniec | Krakow University of Economics | Poland

Prof. Maria Urbaniec is a leading researcher in entrepreneurship, innovation, eco-innovation, sustainability, and the digital economy, with an extensive body of work that significantly contributes to understanding how modern enterprises adapt and transform in response to technological and environmental shifts. Her research provides valuable insights into sustainable entrepreneurship, examining innovation-related activities within European enterprises and identifying critical drivers that support sustainability-oriented business models. She has extensively explored eco-innovation practices, particularly in the context of economic and environmental policy interactions, shedding light on barriers and opportunities that influence the adoption of eco-innovative strategies. Prof. Urbaniec’s contributions to digital transformation are widely recognized, especially her comparative analyses of how European countries navigate digitalization and the structural changes it brings to economic systems. Her work on corporate entrepreneurship highlights business model innovation within corporate accelerators, offering empirical perspectives on how organizations foster internal innovation capabilities. Additionally, her research on technological developments and remote work provides timely insights into managerial responses to digital tools and evolving work environments, particularly within dynamic European markets. Across her publications, she integrates the themes of innovation, sustainability, and digital advancement to demonstrate how enterprises can achieve long-term competitiveness while meeting environmental and societal expectations. Her findings not only advance academic knowledge but also inform policymakers and practitioners seeking to design effective strategies for sustainable growth, digital transition, and entrepreneurship-driven development. Prof. Urbaniec’s scholarly contributions continue to shape the discourse on innovation management and sustainability transitions at both national and international levels.

Profile:  Scopus  |  ORCID  |  Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Małkowska, A., Urbaniec, M., & Kosała, M. (2021). The impact of digital transformation on European countries: Insights from a comparative analysis. Equilibrium. Quarterly Journal of Economics and Economic Policy, 16(2), 325–355.

Urbaniec, M., & Żur, A. (2021). Business model innovation in corporate entrepreneurship: Exploratory insights from corporate accelerators. International Entrepreneurship and Management Journal, 17(2), 865–888.

Urbaniec, M. (2018). Sustainable entrepreneurship: Innovation-related activities in European enterprises. Polish Journal of Environmental Studies, 27(4), 1773–1779.

Urbaniec, M. (2015). Towards sustainable development through eco-innovations: Drivers and barriers in Poland. Economics and Sociology, 8(4), 179–190.

Urbaniec, M., Małkowska, A., & Włodarkiewicz-Klimek, H. (2022). The impact of technological developments on remote working: Insights from the Polish managers’ perspective. Sustainability, 14(1), 552.

Miao Wu | Invasion Ecology | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Miao Wu | Invasion Ecology | Best Researcher Award

Postdoctoral Research Fellow | Henan University of Urban Construction | China

Dr. Miao Wu is a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at Henan University of Urban Construction, China, specializing in plant invasion ecology, allelopathy, and aquatic ecosystem restoration. Her research primarily explores the allelopathic mechanisms of invasive plant species and their ecological impacts, focusing on how bioactive compounds released by these plants influence native biodiversity and aquatic systems. Dr. Wu’s pioneering work investigates the allelopathic potential of invasive species such as Solidago canadensis, revealing key metabolites that suppress harmful cyanobacteria like Microcystis aeruginosa. Her study, published in the Journal of Hazardous Materials, introduces an innovative and eco-friendly approach for controlling algal blooms, offering a sustainable alternative to conventional chemical treatments. She has successfully completed and participated in research projects related to plant invasion ecology, ecological risk assessment, and the development of biocontrol strategies for aquatic environments. Dr. Wu’s interdisciplinary collaborations include partnerships with the Department of Environmental Engineering at Henan University and local ecological management authorities, enhancing the practical applications of her research in ecosystem restoration. As a member of the Ecological Society of China and its Wetland Ecology and Biological Invasion Professional Committees, she actively contributes to advancing ecological science and sustainable management practices. Her research, cited in 8 documents with an h-index of 2, reflects a growing international recognition for its scientific rigor and applied environmental significance. Through her dedication to bridging fundamental plant ecology with real-world environmental solutions, Dr. Miao Wu continues to advance innovative strategies for ecological restoration and biodiversity conservation.

Profile:  Scopus  |  ORCID

Featured Publications

Wu, M.,. (2025). Genome-wide identification of R2R3-MYB transcription factor family in Styphnolobium japonicum and their functional roles in flavonoid biosynthesis during flower development. Industrial Crops and Products.

Gessesse Kebede Bekele | Bioremediation | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. Gessesse Kebede Bekele | Bioremediation | Best Researcher Award

Lecturer and Researcher | Addis Ababa Science and Technology University | Ethiopia

Mr. Gessesse Kebede Bekele is a lecturer and researcher in the Department of Biotechnology at Addis Ababa Science and Technology University, Ethiopia. He holds a Master of Science in Microbial Cellular and Molecular Biology from Addis Ababa University and is pursuing a doctoral degree in Industrial Biotechnology at AASTU. His research focuses on industrial, environmental, and food biotechnology, with emphasis on microbial diversity, biodegradation, and biotechnological applications in extreme environments. He has authored numerous scientific publications and led several funded projects, contributing to advancements in microbial ecology, fermentation, environmental bioremediation, and applied biotechnology in Ethiopia.

Publication Profile

Scopus

Orcid

Google Scholar

Academic Background

Mr. Gessesse Kebede Bekele is a lecturer and researcher in the Department of Biotechnology at Addis Ababa Science and Technology University in Ethiopia. He earned a Master of Science in Microbial Cellular and Molecular Biology with specialization in Applied Microbiology from Addis Ababa University and is currently pursuing a doctoral degree in Industrial Biotechnology at AASTU. His academic journey reflects a strong foundation in biotechnology and microbiology, which has guided his research interests in microbial diversity, biodegradation, fermentation, and applied biotechnology. His educational background provides a solid base for his contributions to industrial, environmental, and food biotechnology.

Professional Experience

Mr. Gessesse Kebede Bekele serves as a lecturer and researcher in the Department of Biotechnology at Addis Ababa Science and Technology University in Ethiopia. His professional work is centered on industrial, environmental, and food biotechnology, with a strong focus on microbial diversity, hydrocarbon biodegradation, and functional microbial applications in extreme environments. He has contributed to numerous scientific publications and successfully led funded research projects at both national and institutional levels. Through his professional experience, he has advanced microbial ecology, fermentation, secondary metabolites, and environmental bioremediation, making valuable contributions to the scientific and technological development of biotechnology in Ethiopia.

Awards and Honors

Mr. Gessesse Kebede Bekele has earned recognition for his dedicated contributions to the field of biotechnology and applied microbiology. His research excellence has been acknowledged through institutional support and competitive national research grants, which highlight the trust placed in his expertise and leadership. His publications in reputable journals and his role in advancing microbial applications have positioned him as a respected figure in the scientific community. Through his commitment to innovation and problem-solving in industrial, environmental, and food biotechnology, he continues to gain honors that reflect his impact on both academic and applied scientific advancement.

Research Focus

Mr. Gessesse Kebede Bekele concentrates his research on industrial, environmental, and food biotechnology with a special emphasis on microbial applications. His work explores microbial diversity in extreme environments, biodegradation of hydrocarbons, and the functional characterization of microbial communities in ecosystems such as soda lakes. He also investigates fermentation processes, secondary metabolites, and bioethanol production using microbial resources. His studies aim to address environmental challenges through bioremediation and promote sustainable industrial practices. By integrating applied microbiology with biotechnology, his research contributes to innovative solutions for ecological preservation, resource utilization, and advancements in microbial science and technology.

Publication Top Notes

Factors influencing the bacterial bioremediation of hydrocarbon contaminants in the soil: mechanisms and impacts
Year: 2021 | Cited by: 217

Isolation and characterization of urease‐producing soil bacteria
Year: 2021 | Cited by: 67

Isolation and Characterization of Diesel‐Degrading Bacteria From Hydrocarbon‐Contaminated Sites, Flower Farms, and Soda Lakes
Year: 2022 | Cited by: 55

Optimization of bioethanol production from sugarcane molasses by the response surface methodology using Meyerozyma caribbica isolate MJTm3
Year: 2023 | Cited by: 32

Isolation and characterization of bioethanol producing wild yeasts from bio-wastes and co-products of sugar factories
Year: 2022 | Cited by: 23

Conclusion

Mr. Gessesse Kebede Bekele is a lecturer and researcher in the Department of Biotechnology at Addis Ababa Science and Technology University in Ethiopia. His academic journey includes a master’s degree in microbial cellular and molecular biology and ongoing doctoral studies in industrial biotechnology. His research focuses on microbial diversity, hydrocarbon biodegradation, and food biotechnology. With impactful publications, funded projects, and recognition for advancing microbial applications, he has established himself as a promising scientist contributing to environmental and industrial sustainability.