Qamer Ridwan | Ecology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Qamer Ridwan | Ecology | Best Researcher Award

Baba Ghulam Shah Badshah University | India

Dr. Qamer Ridwan is a dedicated researcher in the fields of environmental science, biodiversity conservation, and remote sensing. With a strong academic and research portfolio, he has contributed significantly to understanding ecological patterns, glacier dynamics, and plant endemism, particularly in the Himalayan region. His publications reflect a deep engagement with sustainability, climate change, and conservation strategies. He is known for his interdisciplinary approach and bibliometric analyses, offering insightful perspectives into environmental research trends. As an active reviewer for reputed journals, he supports the scientific community by contributing to peer-review processes and promoting quality research output in his field of expertise.

Professional Profile

Google Scholar

Education

Dr. Qamer Ridwan pursued his higher education with a focus on environmental science, ecology, and geospatial studies. His academic journey provided a comprehensive understanding of earth systems, biodiversity, and climate-related challenges. With advanced studies in ecological modelling, geoinformatics, and conservation biology, he developed a strong foundation in both theoretical and applied aspects of environmental research. His education emphasized scientific methods, research design, and data interpretation. During his academic training, he engaged in multidisciplinary learning and honed his skills in remote sensing, environmental assessment, and sustainability sciences, equipping him to contribute effectively to global environmental research.

Professional Experience

Dr. Qamer Ridwan has engaged in a broad spectrum of academic and research roles, contributing to scholarly publications and international peer-reviewed journals. He has authored multiple research papers in areas such as climate change, biodiversity, and glaciology. His work focuses on modeling ecological niches, analyzing glacial dynamics, and evaluating conservation practices. Additionally, he has served as a manuscript reviewer for various scientific journals, reflecting his commitment to maintaining academic integrity. His professional experience includes collaboration with interdisciplinary teams, applying geospatial tools, and contributing to the understanding of environmental systems, with a focus on Himalayan and regional ecological issues.

Awards and Recognition

Dr. Qamer Ridwan has gained recognition for his impactful research contributions in the fields of sustainability and environmental sciences. His work has been cited internationally, highlighting its relevance to global ecological challenges. As a peer reviewer for reputable journals, his efforts have been acknowledged through multiple invitations to review manuscripts on biodiversity, remote sensing, and ecological modeling. His selection as a reviewer for journals such as Forests, Remote Sensing, and Atmosphere reflects his standing in the academic community. He has received commendations for advancing knowledge on Himalayan biodiversity and climate-induced habitat changes through scientific publications.

Research Skills

Dr. Qamer Ridwan’s research skills span ecological niche modeling, bibliometric analysis, geospatial data interpretation, and environmental impact assessment. He is adept at using remote sensing tools and GIS software for analyzing land cover changes and glacial movements. His bibliometric approach to studying trends in plant endemism and conservation reflects his analytical capabilities. He effectively synthesizes large datasets, integrates ecological theory with geospatial methods, and applies ensemble modeling techniques to predict habitat shifts. His research is characterized by methodological rigor and interdisciplinary insights, contributing to sustainable environmental planning and biodiversity preservation in fragile ecosystems.

Notable Publications

Changing climatic scenarios anticipate dwindling of suitable habitats for endemic species of Himalaya—predictions of ensemble modelling using Aconitum heterophyllum as a model
Author: ZA Wani, Q Ridwan, S Khan, S Pant, S Siddiqui, M Moustafa, AE Ahmad, …
Journal: Sustainability 14 (14), 8491
Year: 2022
Citations: 24

Human-wildlife conflict: a bibliometric analysis during 1991–2023
Author: Q Ridwan, ZA Wani, N Anjum, JA Bhat, M Hanief, S Pant
Journal: Regional Sustainability 4 (3), 309-321
Year: 2023
Citations: 21

Phytochemistry and therapeutic potential of Berberis lycium Royle; an endangered species of Himalayan region
Author: N Anjum, Q Ridwan, F Akhter, M Hanief
Journal: Acta Ecologica Sinica 43 (4), 577-584
Year: 2023
Citations: 13

Indigenous knowledge and perception of local people towards biodiversity conservation in Rajouri district of Jammu and Kashmir, India
Author: Q Ridwan, ZA Wani, M Hanief, S Pant, AA Shah, S Siddiqui, S Alamri
Journal: Sustainability 15 (4), 3198
Year: 2023
Citations: 13

Predicting current and future distribution pattern of Berberis lycium Royle concerning climate change using an ensemble modelling approach
Author: N Anjum, Q Ridwan, F Akhter, M Hanief
Journal: Geology, Ecology, and Landscapes 9 (2), 732-741
Year: 2025
Citations: 6

Conclusion

Dr. Qamer Ridwan’s academic and research journey reflects a deep commitment to environmental sustainability and scientific inquiry. Through his publications, peer-review roles, and interdisciplinary expertise, he has made meaningful contributions to climate science, ecology, and biodiversity conservation. His work, particularly in the context of Himalayan ecosystems, has shed light on pressing ecological concerns and future conservation strategies. With a blend of technical proficiency and research acumen, he continues to influence academic discourse and environmental policies. His ongoing contributions to scientific literature and commitment to excellence position him as a valuable member of the global research community.

RANJNA KAUNDAL | Forestry | Best Researcher Award

Ms. RANJNA KAUNDAL | Forestry | Best Researcher Award

Forest Research Institute Dehradun, India

AUTHOR PROFILE

ORCID

EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS

Ranjna Kaundal began her academic journey with a strong foundation in biological sciences, culminating in a Bachelor’s degree in Botany, Zoology, and Chemistry from Himachal Pradesh University. Her deep interest in plant sciences led her to pursue an M.Sc. in Botany, specializing in advanced topics in applied microbiology. These early academic explorations laid the groundwork for her transition into forestry research, where she continues to excel.

PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS

Currently a Ph.D. Scholar under CSIR-SRF at the Forest Pathology Section, Forest Research Institute (ICFRE-FRI), Dehradun, Ranjna is actively engaged in interdisciplinary research bridging microbiology and forest ecology. She has undertaken field surveys across ecologically sensitive and industrially impacted regions, contributing significantly to soil and microbial analysis for environmental rehabilitation.

Her doctoral research focuses on the bioremediation potential of plant growth-promoting microbes for solubilizing heavy metals in industrially contaminated soils. Under the guidance of Dr. Vipin Parkash, her work involves isolation and identification of AMF, rhizobacteria, and mycoflora, as well as controlled bio-inoculation experiments and soil health assessments.

CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS IN FORESTRY

Ranjna’s core expertise lies in Forest Pathology, with a research orientation centered on soil microbiology, bioremediation, and plant-microbe interactions. Her investigations contribute to sustainable forest management by promoting microbial solutions for heavy metal detoxification and restoring ecological balance in contaminated environments.

She is proficient in mass production of beneficial microbes, analyzing soil physicochemical properties, and utilizing advanced tools for microbial diversity studies. Her research further extends to AMF diversity in mangroves and hill bamboos, endophytic fungi, and wild macrofungi of the Garhwal Himalayas, showcasing her broad ecological interests.

ACCOLADES AND RECOGNITION

Ranjna has authored multiple peer-reviewed publications in reputed international journals and scientific books by Springer, CRC Press, and Elsevier, including:

  • Journal of Forest Science

  • Soil and Sediment Contamination

  • Advances in Bamboo Science

  • Environment and Natural Resources Journal

She has presented at several international conferences, including the MDPI 3rd International Electronic Conference on Microbiology and the Society for Scientific Development in Agriculture and Technology.

Accolades:

  • CSIR-SRF and JRF Fellowship awardee

  • Merit Scholarship Awardee

  • Qualified HP-SET (Assistant Professor Eligibility)

IMPACT AND INFLUENCE

Ranjna’s work significantly contributes to ecological restoration and forest health monitoring in industrial corridors and fragile ecosystems. Through her multi-layered studies on AMF and rhizobacteria, she offers innovative strategies for sustainable land reclamation, reforestation, and biodiversity conservation in areas impacted by anthropogenic stressors.

LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS

Ranjna aspires to advance microbial-based solutions for forest ecosystem restoration, enhance soil fertility, and pioneer nature-based remediation technologies. Her future work aims to integrate microbial ecology with climate-resilient forestry, contribute to national green policies, and mentor the next generation of ecological researchers.

Her evolving expertise in eco-toxicology, microbial biotechnology, and sustainable forestry practices positions her to lead impactful research addressing global environmental challenges.

NOTABLE PUBLICATION:

Title: Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Biotization Enhances Stress-Resistant Morphophysiological Traits in Forest Tree Species
Authors: Vipin Parkash, Ranjna Kaundal, Supriti Paul, Meghna Thapa
Journal/Book: Biotechnological Approaches for Sustaining Forest Trees and Their Products (Book Chapter)
Year: 2024

Title: Bambusicolous Endophytic Fungi: A Systematic Review with an Emphasis Related on India
Authors: Meghna Thapa, Vipin Parkash, A. Pandey, Ranjna Kaundal, Supriti Paul
Journal: Advances in Bamboo Science
Year: 2024

Title: Influence of Potentially Toxic Elements and Physio-Chemical Parameters of Industrially Contaminated Soil on Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungal Diversity in BBN Corridor, Himachal Pradesh, India
Authors: Ranjna Kaundal, Vipin Parkash, Supriti Paul, Meghna Thapa
Journal: Soil and Sediment Contamination: An International Journal
Year: 2024

Title: Seasonal Diversity of Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi (AMF) in the Mangrove Forests of Bakkhali, Sundarban, India
Authors: Supriti Paul, Vipin Parkash, Ranjna Kaundal, Bikram Dhara, Meghna Thapa
Journal: Environment and Natural Resources Journal
Year: 2024

Title: Quality Stock Production of Aquilaria malaccensis Lamk. Using Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Inoculation: Restoration of Agarwood Source
Authors: Vipin Parkash, Ranjna Kaundal, Supriti Paul, Meghna Thapa
Journal: Asian Journal of Research in Agriculture and Forestry
Year: 2024

CONCLUSION

Ranjna Kaundal is a promising researcher whose interdisciplinary work blends plant sciences, soil microbiology, and forest pathology to address pressing environmental issues. With a strong academic foundation, practical field experience, and a forward-thinking research vision, she is poised to make significant contributions to forestry research, ecological sustainability, and microbial biotechnology.