Plant pathology at Horticultural Sciences Research Institute (HSRI), Iran
Seyedeh Najmeh Banihashemian is a dedicated researcher in the field of Plant Pathology, currently working at the Horticultural Science Research Institute’s Citrus and Subtropical Fruits Research Center under the Agricultural Research Education and Extension Organization (AREEO) in Ramsar, Iran. Her research focuses on the molecular interactions between plants, nematodes, and microbes, as well as innovative strategies for managing plant diseases, particularly those caused by nematodes. Her work is pivotal in enhancing sustainable agricultural practices, with a special emphasis on organic agriculture, biofertilizers, and biotechnology. She has made substantial contributions to the study of plant virology, molecular plant pathology, and nematode management.
Profile:
Orcid
Education:
Dr. Banihashemian holds a PhD in Plant Pathology from Guilan University, Iran, where she developed a robust foundation in plant-microbe interactions and the control of plant diseases. Her academic journey has been marked by her in-depth research into the molecular and biochemical mechanisms of plant defense, particularly concerning nematode-inflicted damage in various crops, such as citrus and kiwifruit. Throughout her education, she honed her expertise in molecular techniques, including PCR, Real-Time PCR, sPAGE, Northern-blot, and Dot-blot hybridization, which have become central tools in her ongoing research.
Experience:
Dr. Banihashemian’s professional career spans several years in the field of plant pathology. She is currently a researcher at the Horticultural Science Research Institute, where she specializes in nematode management and the development of biocontrol agents. Her role involves designing and conducting experiments, supervising graduate students, and contributing to various research projects aimed at improving crop health and agricultural productivity. Dr. Banihashemian has also been actively involved in international conferences, presenting her findings on plant-microbe interactions and nematode control, particularly through the use of bio-control agents and organic methods.
Research Interests:
Dr. Banihashemian’s primary research interests lie in plant nematology, with a particular focus on the interactions between plant-pathogenic nematodes and plants. She is deeply engaged in studying the molecular mechanisms of plant resistance and the development of biocontrol strategies to manage nematode infestations and related diseases. Her work extends into the fields of plant virology, biotechnology, and organic agriculture, where she investigates the potential of biofertilizers and natural plant protection strategies. Additionally, her research explores the use of molecular techniques to improve diagnostic accuracy and resistance in commercial crops like citrus and kiwifruit.
Awards:
Dr. Banihashemian has received several prestigious awards recognizing her scientific contributions. These include the Best Thesis Award in 2023 for her outstanding doctoral research, as well as distinguished awards for her poster presentations at national conferences, such as the 25th Iranian Plant Protection Congress in 2024. Her exceptional contributions to plant pathology research have earned her the title of Distinguished Researcher at the Horticultural Science Research Institute in December 2024, highlighting her dedication to advancing scientific knowledge in the field.
Publications:
Dr. Banihashemian’s research is widely published in respected journals, reflecting her extensive contributions to the fields of plant pathology and nematology. Her recent publications include:
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Banihashemian, S.N. and Mirmajlessi, S.M. (2025). Epigenetic Modifications, Immune Control Processes, and Plant Responses to Nematodes. Agriculture, 15, 742. IF: 3.3.
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Taheri, H., Fatahi Moghadam, J., Fifaei, R., and Banihashemian, S.N. (2025). Evaluating the Efficiency of Mineral Fungicides in Reducing Fruit Rots and Maintaining the Quality of Navel Oranges. Journal of Research in Horticulture Science.
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Banihashemian, S.N., Jamali, S., Golmohammadi, M., and Ghasemnezhad, M. (2023). Management of Root-Knot Nematode in Kiwifruit Using Bacillus altitudinis. Tropical Plant Pathology, 48(4), 443-451. DOI: 10.1007/s40858-023-00573-w.
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Banihashemian, S.N., Jamali, S., Golmohammadi, M., and Ghasemnezhad, M. (2023). Biocontrol of Meloidogyne incognita in Kiwifruit by Endophytic Bacteria. Journal of Nematology, 55, 3923. DOI: 10.2478/jofnem-2023-0020.
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Banihashemian, S.N., Jamali, S., Golmohammadi, M., and Ghasemnezhad, M. (2023). Identification of Root-Knot Nematode Meloidogyne incognita in Kiwifruit Orchards. Journal of Applied Research in Plant Protection, 11(4), 63-72. DOI: 10.22034/arpp.2022.15747.
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Banihashemian, S.N., Jamali, S., Golmohammadi, M., and Ghasemnezhad, M. (2022). Endophytic Bacteria as Biocontrol Agents Against Kiwifruit Nematodes. Egyptian Journal of Biological Pest Control, 32, 111. DOI: 10.1186/s41938-022-00601-y.
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Golmohammadi, M., Noorizadeh, S., and Banihashemian, S.N. (2022). Biological Control of Citrus Root Nematode in Acid Lime and Kiwifruit. Journal of Applied Research in Plant Protection, 11(2), 91-100. DOI: 10.22034/arpp.2022.14926.
Her work is widely cited in the literature, demonstrating its significant impact on advancing plant pathology, nematode management, and biocontrol research.
Conclusion:
Dr. Seyedeh Najmeh Banihashemian’s contributions to plant pathology, particularly in the areas of nematode management and plant-microbe interactions, position her as a key researcher in the field. Through her dedication to molecular plant pathology, she has developed innovative approaches to improving plant health and disease management in agricultural systems. Her work not only advances scientific knowledge but also supports the development of more sustainable agricultural practices. With a growing list of publications and significant research projects, Dr. Banihashemian continues to make a lasting impact on plant pathology and biotechnology.