Dr. Justice Rono | Environmental biology | Best Researcher Award

Justice Rono at Nanjing Agricultural University, China.

Dr. Justice Rono is a biochemistry and molecular biology specialist whose interdisciplinary research bridges enzyme biochemistry, plant stress physiology, and antimicrobial resistance. With a strong background in molecular techniques and bioinformatics, he has published prolifically in peer-reviewed journals and earned accolades such as the Individual Achievement Award from Nanjing Agricultural University and a Certificate of Excellence in Reviewing. A dedicated researcher and educator, Dr. Rono is passionate about mentoring future scientists and contributing solutions to pressing agricultural and environmental challenges.

Professional Profile

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🎓 Education 

• Ph.D. in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (2018–2025), Nanjing Agricultural University, China

• M.Sc. in Biochemistry (2013–2016), Egerton University, Kenya

• B.Sc. in Biochemistry (2009–2013), Egerton University, Kenya

💼 Experience 

Dr. Justice Rono is currently completing his Ph.D. at Nanjing Agricultural University, where he focuses on enzyme characterization, antimicrobial resistance, and plant stress physiology. He also serves as an Assistant Lecturer at Laikipia University in Kenya, where he teaches undergraduate biochemistry and molecular biology. Dr. Rono has collaborated extensively with researchers across Asia and Africa and has contributed significantly to high-impact international journals. His early academic career was rooted in agricultural biochemistry, particularly the study of sweet sorghum for ethanol production.

📊 Author Metrics

• Total Publications: 20+

• First/Co-first Author Papers: Multiple, including in journals such as Chemosphere (IF 8.6), Journal of Cleaner Production (IF 9.9), Environmental Pollution (IF 7.2), and Gene (IF 2.4)

• Cumulative Impact Factor (IF): Approx. 100+

• Notable Publishers: Elsevier, Springer, MDPI, BMC

🔬 Research Interests

• Functional characterization of enzymes from metagenomic libraries

• Molecular mechanisms of plant adaptation to abiotic stress

• Genetic regulation of metallochaperones and transport proteins

• Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in food and water systems

• Heavy metal detoxification and phytoremediation in rice

• Application of bioinformatics and molecular tools in gene discovery

Top Noted Publications:

 1. A Green Approach Used for Heavy Metals ‘Phytoremediation’ Via Invasive Plant Species to Mitigate Environmental Pollution: A Review

• Journal: Plants

• Published: February 2023

• DOI: 10.3390/plants12040725

• Authors: Irfan Ullah Khan, Shan-Shan Qi, Farrukh Gul, Sehrish Manan, Justice Rono, Misbah Naz, Xin-Ning Shi, Haiyan Zhang, Zhi-Cong Dai, Dao-Lin Du

• Publisher: MDPI

Summary:
This review paper explores the use of invasive plant species in phytoremediation, a sustainable and green method for removing heavy metals from contaminated soils and environments. The authors highlight how these plants, due to their rapid growth and tolerance to toxic conditions, can be leveraged to mitigate pollution effectively. It discusses various invasive species used for remediation, mechanisms of metal uptake, accumulation, and detoxification, and the environmental and ecological implications. The paper also emphasizes the importance of integrating such approaches with ecological management strategies.

2. A Metal Chaperone Gene Regulates Rice Growth and Seed Development by Manganese Acquisition and Homeostasis

• Journal: Agronomy

• Published: July 2022

• DOI: 10.3390/agronomy12071676

• Authors: Chao Li, He Li, Justice Rono, Mong Qi Wang, Zhi Min Yang

• Publisher: MDPI

Summary:
This study identifies and characterizes a metal chaperone gene in rice that plays a critical role in manganese (Mn) uptake and homeostasis. The gene is shown to regulate plant growth and seed development under varying Mn conditions. The findings reveal that proper functioning of this gene ensures balanced Mn distribution, which is essential for physiological processes, including photosynthesis and enzyme activation. This work contributes to a deeper understanding of micronutrient regulation in crops, with implications for biofortification and stress tolerance.

3. A Metallochaperone HIPP33 Is Required for Rice Zinc and Iron Homeostasis and Productivity

• Journal: Agronomy

• Published: February 2022

• DOI: 10.3390/agronomy12020488

• Authors: Hong Wei Cao, Cao Li, Bai Qing Zhang, Justice Rono, Zhi Min Yang

• Publisher: MDPI

Summary:
This research highlights the function of HIPP33, a metallochaperone protein, in maintaining zinc (Zn) and iron (Fe) balance in rice plants. HIPP33 is shown to facilitate metal homeostasis by aiding in the proper localization and detoxification of excess metal ions. Knockout or silencing of HIPP33 led to impaired growth, metal accumulation imbalances, and reduced productivity. The paper underscores the gene’s essential role in optimizing nutrient use and promoting sustainable rice agriculture.

Conclusion:

Dr. Justice Rono exemplifies the qualities of a Best Researcher Award recipient in Environmental Biology:

• Rigorous scientific contributions,

• Global collaboration,

• Societal relevance,

• Dedication to mentorship and teaching.

With a trajectory that already reflects a promising and impactful scientific career, he is a highly deserving nominee for the Best Researcher Award. His work not only advances academic frontiers but also provides tangible solutions to environmental degradation, food security, and public health challenges.