Smart Crop Development

Dr. Vijay Gahlaut, working as an associate professor at University Centre for Research & Development, Chandigarh University in Mohali, focuses his research on identifying novel genomic regions and genes governing abiotic stress regulation in crop plants. His expertise spans crop biotechnology, quantitative genetics, QTL/GWAS, and epigenetics. Employing diverse bioinformatic and genomic methods, Dr. Gahlaut has successfully pinpointed crucial genomic regions, epialleles, and candidate genes in various crop species. This research significantly contributes to bolstering crop resilience against challenging environmental conditions, particularly water scarcity and heat stress. With over 80 published research papers in prestigious international journals and notable contributions as an associate editor and independent peer-reviewer, Dr. Gahlaut's impactful achievements led to his induction as a Member of the National Academy of Sciences in India, acknowledging his profound influence in crop genetics and abiotic stress tolerance research.

Dr. Sachin Rustgi is an associate professor of molecular breeding at the Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences at Clemson University. He also serves as a faculty scholar at the Clemson University School of Health Research and the Center for Human Genetics. Additionally, Dr. Rustgi holds the position of adjunct associate professor at the Department of Crop and Soil Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, and the Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, Ch. Charan Singh University, Meerut. Dr. Rustgi's research is centered on critical areas such as developing dietary therapies for individuals with celiac disease or allergies to wheat and peanuts. His work also involves creating biomarkers for heat tolerance in crops like wheat, soybean, and peanut, as well as devising innovative strategies to combat major insect pests and fungal pathogens affecting primary crops in South Carolina. His impactful research has resulted in more than a hundred publications in esteemed international journals. In addition to his research contributions, Dr. Rustgi has authored or edited three books.

Dr. Vandana Jaiswal, a senior scientist at Biotechnology Division, CSIR-IHBT in Palampur, India, is dedicated to unraveling the genetics of economically vital traits and enhancing Himalayan crops through molecular methods. Focusing on saffron, a pivotal Himalayan crop with inherent challenges like triploidy and seed sterility, she pioneers genetic improvements utilizing molecular techniques. Dr. Jaiswal's groundbreaking work extends to more than 40 research papers and book chapters, demonstrating her profound contribution to the field. In addition, she serves as an Associate Editor and independent peer reviewer for several journals. Her innovative research underscores her commitment to advancing agricultural genetics and crop improvement in the Himalayan region.