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Dr. Mohammad Maroof Shah

Professor/ Chairman
Area of Interest: Plant Breeding and Molecular Genetics
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (92)992-383591-6, (92)301-8865945
 
Academics/ Degrees
 
Journal Publications
1. J.Hussain,M.Shah,S.Naqvi,R.Ahmad,Iftikhar Zeb Cyclic guanosine monophosphate improves salt tolerance in Solanum lycopersicum, Journal of Plant Research, 2023
2. Nabeela Zahid,R.Ahmad,S.A.Khan,M.Shah In vitro and in silico validation of antibacterial potential of Pinus roxburghii and Cedrus deodara leaves’ extract against human pathogenic bacteria, Journal of King Saud University-Science, 2023
3. I.Shahzadi,M.Shah,T.Ismail,Dr. Raza Ahmad,M.Siddique,A. Baig Comparative Arsenic Tolerance and Accumulation Potential Between Wild Tagetes patula and Tagetes minuta, Sains Malaysiana, 2022
4. I.Shahzadi,Dr. Nighat Fatima,M.Shah,M.Siddique,T.Ismail Antioxidant, Cytotoxic, Antibacterial and Antifungal Potential of Silver Nanoparticles Synthesized by Tradescantia pallida;, Frontiers in Bioengineering and Biotechnology, 2022
5. I.Shahzadi,M.Shah,A. Baig,M.Siddique,T.Ismail,Dr. Nighat Fatima,Syed Munawar Aziz Shah Antioxidant, Cytotoxic, and Antimicrobial Potential of Silver Nanoparticles Synthesized using Tradescantia pallida Extract, Frontiers in Bioengineering and Biotechnology, 2022
6. Sobia Zaman,Aziz Ullah Sayal,K. Shah,Bakht Zaman,S.Naqvi,R.Ahmad,M.Shah,J.Hussain,Dr. AM Abbasi,A.Hassan Determination of genetic diversity, sinigrin contents, and elicitors-induced enhancement of sinigrin in Nasturtium officinale L., Turkish Journal of Agriculture and Forestry, 2022
7. R.Ahmad,S.Naqvi,A.Hassan,M.Shah,J.Hussain,K. Shah Determination of genetic diversity, sinigrin contents, and elicitors-induced enhancement of sinigrin in Nasturtium officinale L., Turkish J Agriculture, 2022
8. Muhammad Mughees,M.Shah Rosmarinic acid as a potential bioactive compound against economically important insect pests, Fresenius Environmental Bulletin, 2021
9. Nabeela Zahid,R.Ahmad,S.A.Khan,M.Shah Identification of different genotypes of HCV in hepatitis patients of Abbottabad, Pakistan and detection of acute and chronic HCV infection through proteases inhibitors genes expression, Acta Virologica, 1 October, 2021
10. R.Ahmad,Iftikhar Zeb,J.Hussain,A. Baig,M.Shah Expression of cyanobacterial genes enhanced CO2 assimilation and biomass production in transgenic Arabidopsis thaliana, PeerJ, 2021
11. R.Ahmad,Ghazal Khurshid,Anum Zeb Abbasi,M. Farhan Khalid,Mahnoor Naseer Gondal,S.Naqvi,M.Shah,Safee Ullah Chaudhary A cyanobacterial photorespiratory bypass model to enhance photosynthesis by rerouting photorespiratory pathway in ­C3 plants, Scientific Reports, 2020
12. A. Baig,Muhammad Saad,Sofia Baig,M.Shah,I. Nawaz,Samiha Rashid Effective regeneration and transformation of potato variety Desiree with nucleotide diphosphate kinase 2 using IAA and BAP, Pakistan Journal of Botany 09-01-2020, 2020
13. J.Hussain,M.Shah,A. Baig,S.Naqvi,R.Ahmad,M.Bilal Evaluation of salt tolerance in Eruca sativa accessions based on morpho-physiological traits, PeerJ, 2020
14. A. Baig,Iftikhar Zaman,Nadia Gul,M.Shah,R.Ahmad,I.Shahzadi,Sofia Baig Conservation of an Endangered Medicinal Tree Species Taxus wallichian through Callus Induction and Shoot Regeneration, PTCB, 28th June 2020, 2020
15. M.Shah,Sadia Asfar,Habiba Zafar,Muhammad Mughees,R.Ahmad,A. Baig,Asma Khan MORPHO-PHYSIOLOGICAL RESPONSE OF HYBRID MAIZE (Zea mays L.) TO SALT STRESS IN COMBINATION WITH EXOGENOUS CALCIUM APPLICATIONS, Applied Ecology and Environmental Research 05/06/2020, 2020
16. H.Zaffar,Mughees M,R.Ahmad,A. Baig,M.Shah,Saadia Afsar morphophysiological response of hybrid maize (zea mays l.) to salt stress in combination with exogenous calcium applications, 6-5-2020, 2020
17. M.Shah,R.Ahmad,Dr. Nighat Fatima Bioactivity-guided isolation of rosmarinic acid as the principle bioactive compound from the butanol extract of Isodon rugosus against the pea aphid, Acyrthosiphon pisum., PloS ONE, 2019
18. R.Ahmad,S.Naqvi,J.Hussain,M.Shah The expression of cyanobacterial glycolate–decarboxylation pathway genes improves biomass accumulation in Arabidopsis thaliana, Plant Biotechnology Reports, 2019
19. R.Ahmad,I. Nawaz,S.Naqvi,M.Shah,J.Hussain Successful Callogenesis from Leaf and Petiole of Bergenia ciliata (Haw.) Sternb and Antibacterial Activity of Callus Extracts., Pakistan Journal of Botany, 2019
20. R.Ahmad,S.A.Khan,M.Shah,M.Shahzad Unraveling the phytoremediation potential of Parthenium hysterophorus: Expression study of glutathione reductase and phospholipase D-α genes, Polish Journal Of Environmental Studies, April , 2019
21. Saddaf Rashid,M. Azeem,S.A.Khan,M.Shah,R.Ahmad Characterization and synergistic antibacterial potential of green synthesized silver nanoparticles using aqueous root extracts of important medicinal plants of Pakistan, Colloids and Surfaces B: Biointerfaces, April, 2019
22. Sadaf Rashid,M. Azeem,S.A.Khan,M.Shah,R.Ahmad Characterization and synergistic antibacterial potential of green synthesized silver nanoparticles using aqueous root extracts of important medicinal plants of Pakistan, Colloids and Surfaces B: Biointerfaces, 2019
23. Anum Fareed,H.Zaffar,Azhar Rashid,M.Shah,S.Naqvi Biodegradation of N-methylated carbamates by free and immobilized cells of newly isolated strain Enterobacter cloacae strain TA7., Bioremediation Journal, 2017
24. M.Shah Insecticidal activity of plant-derived extracts against differenteconomically important pest insects, Phytoparasitica, 07 March 2017, 2017
25. M.Shah,U.W.Khan,R.Ahmad COMPARISON OF AGROBACTERIUM MEDIATED WHEAT AND BARLEY TRANSFORMATION WITH NUCLEOSIDE DIPHOSPHATE KINASE 2 (NDPK2) GENE , Pak J Bot, 2016
26. M.Shah The insecticidal potential of botanical extracts for management of Peach fruit fly, Bactrocera zonata Saunders, 1842 (Diptera: Tephritidae), Türk entomol derg, 2016
27. M.Shah,R.Ahmad The insecticidal potential of botanical extracts for management of Peach fruit fly, Bactrocera zonata Saunders, 1842 (Diptera: Tephritidae), Türk. entomol. derg, 2016
28. S.Naqvi,M.Bilal,U.Irshad,M.Shah,J.Hussain Biodegradation of organophosphorus insecticides by indigenous soil bacterium isolated from agricultural contaminated soil, september 2016, 2016
29. R.Ahmad,M.Bilal,M.Shah Improvement of biomass accumulation of potato plants by transformation of cyanobacterial photorespiratory glycolate catabolism pathway genes , Plant Biotechnology Reports, 2016
30. M.Shah,I.Shahzadi,R.Ahmad GENETIC DIVERSITY ANALYSIS OF TAGETES SPECIES USING PCR BASED MOLECULAR MARKERS, Pak J Bot, 2016
31. M.Bilal,S.M.H Gardazi,N. Rashid,A.Pervez,Q.Mahmood,M.Shah Effective Adsorption of Cationic Dye from Aqueous Solution using Low-cost Corncob in Batch and Column Studies., Desalination and Water Treatment, 2016
32. A.Abbasi,M.Bilal,J.Hussain,M.Shah,A.Hassan,R.Ahmad ROBUST REGENERATION PROTOCOL FOR THE AGROBACTERIUM TUMEFACIENS MEDIATED TRANSFORMATION OF SOLANUM TUBEROSUM, Pakistan Journal of Botany, 2016
33. Sara Khan,Habiba Zaffar,S.Naqvi,R.Ahmad,Abdul Rehman Khan,M.Shah,M.Bilal,Dr. Mazhar Iqbal,U.Irshad Biodegradation of Malathion by Bacillus licheniformis strain ML-1, Archives of Biological Sciences, 2016
34. U.W.Khan,R.Ahmad,I.Shahzadi,M.Shah Some Important Factors Influencing Tissue Culture Response in Wheat, Sarhad Journal of Agriculture, 2015
35. M.W.Ullah,J.Hussain,R.Ahmad,A.Hassan,M.Shah . Molecular evaluation of wheat genotypes for vernalization response based on the Intron 1 deletion in VRN gene. Minerva Biotecnologica, Minerva Biotecnologica 2015, 2015
36. Fayyaz Ali Shah,Q.Mahmood,Naim Rashid,A.Pervez,Dr. Akhtar Iqbal,M.Shah Anaerobic Digestion of Water Hyacinth, Giant Reed, Maize and Poultry Waste for Biogas Generation, EC Agriculture 2015, 2015
37. M.Shah,I.Shahzadi AcylatedflavonolglycosidesfromTagetesminutawithantibacterialactivity, FrontiersinPharmacology,2015, 2015
38. J.Hussain,Wajeeha Saeed,S.Naqvi,M.Shah,R.Ahmad,A.Hassan,Q.Mahmood Dietary Toxicity of Lead and Hyper-Accumulation in Petroselinum crispum, July 2015, 2015
39. I.Shahzadi,M.Shah Acylated flavonol glycosides from Tagetes minuta with antibacterial activity, Frontiers in Pharmacology, 2015
40. Fiaz Ali Shah,Q.Mahmood,Naim Rashid,A.Pervez,I.Raja,M.Shah Co-digestion, pretreatment and digester design for enhanced methanogenesis, Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, 2015
41. Sara Khan,H.Zaffar,U.Irshad,R.Ahmad,Abdul Rehman Khan,M.Shah,M.Bilal,M. Iqbal,S.Naqvi Biodegradation of malathion by Bacillus licheniformis strain ML-1, Archives of Biological Sciences, 2015
42. J.Hussain,S.Naqvi,M.Shah,R.Ahmad,A.Hassan,Q.Mahmood Dietary Toxicity of Lead and Hyper-Accumulation in Petroselinum crispum, Arabian Journal for Science and Engineering, 2014
43. IftikharAhmadRaja,FayyazAliShah,Q.Mahmood,A.Pervez,NaimRashid,M.Shah Co-digestion,pretreatmentanddigesterdesignfor enhanced methanogenesis, RenewableandSustainableEnergyReview 2015, 2014
44. R.Ahmad,J.Hussain,Muhammad Jamil,MyoungDuck Kim,Sang-Soo Kwak,M.Shah,Shafiq-ur-Rehman GLYCINEBETAINE SYNTHESIZING TRANSGENIC POTATO PLANTS EXHIBIT ENHANCED TOLERANCE TO SALT AND COLD STRESSES, Pakistan Journal of Botany, 2014
45. N.Mirza,A.Pervez,Q.Mahmood,M.Shah,U.Farooq EFFECT OF EDTA ON ARSENIC PHYTOEXTRACTION BY ARUNDO DONAX L., Science vision, 2014
46. M.Shah,A.Nazir Ethnobotanical and antimicrobial study of some selected medicinal plants used in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK) as a potential source to cure infectious diseases., 2014, 2014
47. Fayyaz Ali Shah,Q.Mahmood,A.Pervez,M.Shah,S.Asad Microbial Ecology of Anaerobic Digesters: The Key Players of Anaerobiosis, The scientific world journal, 2014
48. N.Mirza,A.Pervez,Q.Mahmood,M.Shah,Sikander sultan Plants as Useful Vectors to Reduce , The Scientific World Journal, 2014, 2014
49. Muhammad Wajid Ullah,J.Hussain,R.Ahmad,A.Hassan,M.Shah Molecular evaluation of wheat genotypes for vernalization response based on the Intron 1 deletion in vernalization gene, Minerva Biotecnologica, 2014, 2014
50. Q.Mahmood,N.Mirza,A.Pervez,M.Shah,Sikander Sultan Plants as Useful Vectors to Reduce environmental toxic arsenic content , The scientific world journal 2014, 2014
51. J.Hussain,R.Ahmad,T.Ahmad,M.Shah BIOTECHNILOGIES USED IN GENETIC TRANSFORMATION OF TRITICUM AESTIVUM: A mini overview , FUUAST J of Biology, 2013
52. Dr. AM Abbasi,M.Shah,A.Pervez Ethnobotanical appraisal and cultural values of medicinally important wild edible vegetables of Lesser Himalayas-Pakistan., Journal of Ethnobiology and Ethnomedicines, 2013
53. Nasr Ullah Khan,J.Hussain,A.Hassan,M.Shah PCR-based Identification of Rye Translocations in Pakistani Wheat Germplasm, Minerva Biotecnologica, 2013
54. M.Shah,A.Hassan,Noriyuki Hatsugai Solanapyrone-A downregulates his-tagged potato calcium-dependent protein kinase , Genetics and Molecular Research 2013, 2013
55. M.Shah A phytotoxin Solanapyrone-A downregulates calcium-dependent protein kinase activity in potato, Genetics and Molecular Research 13 May, 2013, 2013
56. A.Hassan,M.Shah A phytotoxin Solanapyrone-A downregulates calcium-dependent protein kinase activity in potato, Genetics and Molecular Research, 2013
57. Sidra tul Muntha,Sehrish Manan,J.Hussain,M.Shah Development of a Tissue Culture-Independent Agrobacterium-Mediated Transformation Method for Wheat, Minerva Biotecnologica, 2012
58. A.Hassan,T. Okuta ,M. Kato ,N. Hatsugai ,Y. Sano , T. Ishimori , K. Okazaki ,M.A. Doullah ,M.Shah Alternaric acid stimulates phosphorylation of His-tagged RiCDPK2, a calcium-dependent protein kinase in potato plants, Genet. Mol. Res, 2012
59. M.Shah Carnivore diet analysis based on next-generation sequencing: application to the leopard cat (Prionailurus bengalensis) in Pakistan, Molecular Ecology, 2012
60. Khan, Muhammad Saqib,M.Shah,Q.Mahmood,A.Hassan,Kahkashan Akbar Assessment of Pesticide Residues on Selected Vegetables of Pakistan, J. Chem. Soc. Pak, 2011
61. Terry Berke Eskridge,M.L. Ali, Neway Mengistu,Abid Mahmood,M.Shah Understanding Grain Yield: It is a Journey, Not a Destination, . Czech J. Genet. Plant Breed. , 2011
62. I.Shahzadi,A.Hassan,M.Shah Evaluating biological activities of the seed extracts from Tagetes minuta L. found in Northern Pakistan, Journal of Medicinal Plants Research, 2010
63. M.Shah,I.Shahzadi Comparisons of DNA marker-based genetic diversity with phenotypic estimates in maize grown in Pakistan, GMR, 2010
64. M.Shah,I.Shahzadi Comparisons of DNA marker-based genetic diversity with phenotypic estimates in maize grown in Pakistan, Journal, 2010
65. I.Shahzadi,R.Ahmad,A.Hassan,M.Shah Optimization of DNA extraction from seeds and fresh leaf tissues of wild marigold (Tagetes minuta) for polymerase chain reaction analysis, GMR, 2010
66. M Awais,A.Pervez,Asim Yaqub,M.Shah Production of Antimicrobial Metabolites by Bacillus subtilis Immobilized in Polyacrylamide Gel, Pakistan J. Zoology, 2010
67. M.Shah 13) RAPD and SSR analysis of wild oats (Avena species) from North West frontier Province of Pakistan, African Journal of Plant Science, 2008
68. U.Farooq,Afsar Khan,Viqar Uddin Ahmad,Azhar-Ul-Haq,Saleha suleman Khan,A.Pervez,M.Shah,Robina Farooq Complete 1H and 13C NMR assignments of Two New Trans-Clerodane Diterpenoids from Otostegia limbata,, Magn. Reson. Chem, 2007
 
 
Profile/Bio
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE:
  • Professor, Department of Environmental Sciences, COMSATS Institute of Information Technology, Abbottabad, Pakistan, since Feb. 2011
  • Associate Professor (FP):COMSATS Institute of Information Technology, Abbottabad, Pakistan, Sep. 2005 to Jan. 2011
  • Assistant Professor, Institute of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering (IBGE), NWFP Agricultural University Peshawar, Jan. 2004 to Sept. 2005
  • Research Manager, Brabant Research Inc; Technology Park, University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL), Nebraska, USA, 2001 to 2004
  • Research Associate, Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Department of Agronomy and Horticulture, University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL), USA, 1999-2001
  • Post-doctoral Fellow, Forage genetics and polyploid genomics, Department of Agronomy, Iowa State University of Science and Technology, Ames, Iowa, USA, 1998 to 1999
TEACHING EXPERIENCE: 
  • Courses developed and taught at different higher education institutions since joining as faculty in 2004
  • Research supervision (Training of MS/PhD students)
ADMINISTRATIVE EXPERIENCE:
  • Chairman, Department of Environmental Sciences, CIIT, Abbottabad, since Oct. 2011
  • Head Biotechnology Program, Department of Environmental Sciences, CIIT, Abbottabad, since Jan. 2009
  • In-charge of all the funded research projects at CIIT and at IBGE, since 2004
  • Program Head, Molecular Genetics, Institute of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering (IBGE), Peshawar, 2004-2005
  • Committee of other special assignments
 
Associations
  • The Genetic Society of America
  • The American Society of Agronomy
  • The Crop Science Society of America Gamma Sigma Delta
  • The Honor Society of Agriculture, US Sigma Xi
  • The Scientific Research Society, US
 
Research Interests
  • Genome mapping
  • Plant improvement through conventioanal and advanced biotechnology techniques
  • Isolation and genetic characterization of medicinal compounds
 
Awards
ACADEMIC HONORS AND AWARDS

  • PAS Gold Medal 2018.  Awarded on November 20, 2018 by Pakistan Academy of Sciences (PAS) Islamabad, in recognition to the outstanding contributions in the fields of Emerging Technologies including Biotechnology, Nanotechnology, Molecular Biology and Bioinformatics.
  • Best Research Paper Award 2015-16. (Co-Awardee with Dr. Irum Shahzadi-a PhD students of mine)Awarded by the Higher Education Commission of Pakistan on March 1, 2018. The paper entitled "Acylated flavonol glycosides from Tagetes minuta with antibacterial activity” published in Frontiers in Pharmacology. 6:195. doi: 10.3389/fphar.2015.00195 [Published online 2015 Sep 11. doi10.3389/fphar.2015.00195]"
  • Best teacher award 2015-16: 
  • Best University Teacher Award for 2005. Awarded by the Higher Education Commission of Pakistan, Islamabad on January 26, 2008
  • National Talent Award. 2008. Awarded by Pakistan National Talent Council, Abbottabad on August 24, 2008
  • Silver Medal. 1988. Awarded for securing 2nd highest position (GPA=3.9/4.0) in order of merit among all successful graduates in B.Sc(Hons) Agriculture degree, NWFP Agricultural University Peshawar, Pakistan
  • Governor’s Gold Medal. 1983. Awarded for securing highest position (1st) in order of merit among all successful students in the subject of Islamic Education in Higher Secondary School Certificate (HSSC) Examination, Board of Intermediate and Secondary Education (BISE), Peshawar, Pakistan.
  • Bronze Medal. 1980. Excellence in leadership and best performance in Quiz competition, Boys Scouts Camporee, Islamabad, Pakistan
PROFESSIONAL HONORS
  • Associate Editor. 2005—present. Journal of EUPHYTICA, an International Journal on Plant Breeding and Genetics, published by SPRINGER in the Netherlands, http://www.springeronline.com
  • Reviewing editor and Member Board of Editorial. 2001-2005. Journal of EUPHYTICA, http://www.springeronline.com
  • Member Board of Editorial. 2000-present. Genetics and Molecular Research (GMR), International Journal on Molecular Genetics, published from Brazil. http://www.funpecrp.com.b /gmr/editorial.html
  • Reviewing editor. 2005–present. The Australian Journal of Agricultural Research (AJAR), publishing for CSIRO and the Australian Academy of Science, PO Box 1139, Collingwood, Victoria 3066, Australia (http://www.publish.csiro.au/journals)\
  • Reviewing editor. 2000-present. Crop Science, an International Journal on crop physiology, breeding, genetics, cellular and molecular biology, published by the Crop Science Society of America (CSSA), Madison, Wisconsin, USA. http://www.asa-cssa-sssa.org/review/review_view.cgi
  • Panel reviewer and examiner. 2004-present. Textbooks and Monographs, Research grant proposals and PC-1s submitted to the Higher Education Commission (HEC), Pakistan Science Foundation (PSF), and PTCL, Islamabad, Pakistan
  • Productive Scientist. Listed as the most productive scientists of Pakistan since 2006 by Pakistan Council for Science and Technology (PCST). Directory of the productive scientists of Pakistan, by PCST.
 
Research Projects
SUMMARY
  • Total grants submitted: 16
  • Grants submitted to Higher Education Commission (HEC): 05
  • Grants submitted to Pakistan Science Foundation (PSF): 01
  • Grants submitted to Pakistan Agriculture Research Council (PARC): 01
  • Grants submitted to Ministry of Science and Technology (MoST): 01 
  • Grants submitted to COMSATS IIT (CIIT)-as CO-PI: 05 
  • Grants approved: 10 
  • Grants completed: 06 
  • Grants in progress: 03
PROJECTS DETAILS: Research grants as Principal Investigator (PI):

  • Up-gradation of Biotechnology Lab facilities at CUI Abbottabad. Funding agency. HEC and Planning Commission of Pakistan. Rs 53 M, in progress (part of the PC-1 for establishment of new campus at CUI Atd)
  • Improving Olive Tree using Conventional and Innovative Biotechnological Approaches. Funding agency: HEC-NRPU; Award amount Rs. 13.7 Millions. Submitted,  2017
  • Exploring the interface of biochemical and genetic potential of pesticidal compounds in plants.  Funding agency: HEC-NRPU; Award amount Rs. 12.05 Millions. Submitted, 2017
  • Effects of light regimes on growth parameters, biochemical markers and silymarin content during micropropagation of Silybummarianum L.  HEC; Award amount Rs. 0.5Millions.  Approved 2015 and in progress   
  • In Vitro conservation of Neolistea Cuipala, a critically endangered plant species in Pakistan. Sponsoring agency: HEC; Award amount Rs. 0.5Millions.  Completed 2018.
  • Wheat Improvement Using Targeted Genomic Approaches. 2011-2014. Sponsoring agency, Pakistan Science Foundation under Pak-US Natural Sciences Linkages Programme (NSLP) Endowment Fund.  Award amount Rs. 2.6 Millions.  Completed 2014.
  • Saturation Mapping and the Utility of Ph1 Gene Region for Wheat Improvement. 2006-2010. Sponsoring agency; Higher Education Commission (HEC), Islamabad. Award amount Rs. 1.99 Millions.  Completed 2010.
  • Optimization of DNA Isolation Protocols and Identification of Molecular Markers to Dissect Genetic Variability in Synthetic Hexaploid Wheat. 2004-2005. Sponsored/funded by HEC, Award amount Rs. 1.00Million.  Completed 2005 at IBGE Peshawar).

Research Grants as Co-Principal Investigator:

  • Augments salt tolerance of Zea mays via stacking of genes involved in Na+ transport-SOS1-NHX1-HKT1, assessing environmental risks and potential for bioethanol production. Sponsoring agency: HEC-NRPU, award amount Rs. 4.3 Millions. (PI: Dr. Ismat Nawaz; Co-PI: Dr. M. Maroof Shah).  Submitted 2017
  • Chemical genomics based dissecting of disease resistance mechanism through WRKY70 ortholog in potato against bacterial pathogen. Sponsoring agency: HEC-NRPU; award amount Rs. 5.1M. (PI: Dr. Ayesha Baig; Co-PI: Dr. M. Maroof Shah).  Submitted 2017
  • Improvement of Carotenoid Contents and Herbicide Tolerance in Transgenic Potato for Commercial Cultivation. Funded by PSF; Award amount. Rs3.3M; PI: Dr. Raza Ahmad, Co-PI: Dr. MM Shah. Approved and in progress 2018
  • Isolation and Identification of Antibacterial Compounds Producing Bacterial Strains from Soil. Funded by HEC; Award Amount Rs. 0.48M; PI: Dr. Muhammad Ali, Co-PI: Dr. MM Shah. Approved 2018
  • Isolation and characterization of novel bacterial strain and its use in seed priming for protection of tomato against nematode damage. Sponsoring agency: HEC-NRPU, award amount Rs.6.68 Millions. (PI: Dr. Muhammad Ali; Co-PI: Dr. M. Maroof Shah).  Approved 2018
  • Determination of flavonoids with their antioxidant potential for drug discovery from selected medicinal plants of Pakistan. Sponsoring agency: HEC-NRPU, award amount Rs. 2.913 Millions. (PI: Dr. Irum Shahzadi; Co-PI: Dr. M. Maroof Shah).  Approved  2017
  • Improvement of Potato Plant Photosynthesis by Engineering Novel Cyanobacterial Carbon dioxide Concentrating Mechanism Project (NRPU-4896). Sponsoring agency: HEC-Islamabad; Award amount Rs. 6. 587447Millions. (PI: Dr. Raza Ahmed: Co-PI: Dr. M. Maroof Shah). Approved 2016 and in Progress
  • Investigation of biochemical and genotoxic effects of heavy metals on medicinal plants (Tagetes species) using various biomarkers.  Sponsoring agency: HEC, award amount Rs. 0.5M (PI: Dr. Irum Shahzadi; Co-PI: Dr. M. Maroof Shah).  Completed  2017
  • Development and Release of Indigenous Maize Hybrids for Hilly Areas of North Western Regions of Pakistan. 2012. Sponsoring agency: HEC, award amount Rs. 5.997 Millions. (PI: Dr. Kiramat Khan; Co-PI: Dr. M. Maroof Shah).  Completed 2017
  • Evaluation of plant species for biopesticidal potential grown in Abbottabad region. (PI: Miss. Saira Khan, Co-PI: Dr. M. Maroof Shah). Sponsoring agency: CUI- Islamabad; Award amount Rs.0.154Millions.  Approved 2015-and on-going
  • Determining Phytic acid contents in spring and winter wheat lines. (PI: Miss. Asma Khan, Co-PI: Dr. M. Maroof Shah). Sponsoring agency: CUI- Islamabad; Award amount Rs.0.200Millions.  Completed  2015
  • Identification of Genes Involved in Phytoremediation from Different Hyperaccumulators Plants and Recombinant protein Expression, Purification, and Functional Analysis of proteinase inhibitors from medicinal Plant. Sponsoring agency: HEC, award amount Rs. 0.5M; (PI: Dr. Rafiq Ahmad; Co-PI: Dr. M. Maroof Shah).  Completed 2013-2015
  • Biochemical investigation of Arisaema Species by using Spectroscopic Analysis. (PI: Miss. Irum Shahzadi, Co-PI: Dr. M. Maroof Shah). Sponsoring agency: CUI- Islamabad; Award amount Rs.0.200Millions.  Completed 2014-15
  • Establishment of An Efficient Tissue Culture System in Pakistani Wheat (Triticumaestivum L) Germplasm. PI: Miss. Ummara Khan, Co-PI: Dr. M. Maroof Shah. Sponsoring agency: CUI- Islamabad; Award amount Rs. 0.200 Millions.  Completed 2014-16
  • Agrobacterium-mediated transformation of Triticumaestivum L with Nucleoside Diphosphate Kkinase (NDPK2) gene for multiple abiotic stresses. PI: Miss. UmmaraWaheed KhanCo-PI: Dr. M. Maroof Shah. Award amount Rs0.5 M. Sponsoring agency: DoST- KP Government.  Completed 2013-2015
  • Isolation and characterization of parathion degrading bacteria from Soil. PI: Muhammad Ali, Co-PI: Dr. Maroof Shah. Sponsoring agency: CUI- Islamabad; Award amount. Rs. 0.200 Millions.  Completed 2011-2013
  • Testing A new Agrobacterium-Mediated In-Planta Transformation Method for Local Wheat Varieties. Sponsoring agency: CUI-Islamabad. Award amount Rs. 0.2 Millions. PI: Dr. Jamshaid Hussain, Co-PI: Dr. M. Maroof Shah. Completed (2011-2013)
  • Molecular and Morpholgical Characterization of T1 and T2 Generations of Transgeninc Potato Plants Expressing Choline Oxidase in Chloroplasts under the Control of Stress-Inducible Promoter. PI. Dr. 0.18Million. CUI-Islamabad . PI: Raza Ahmad, Co-PI. Dr. M. Maroof Shah. Completed (2010-2012)
  • Isolation and biochemical analyses of therapeutic compounds in Tagetes species.Sponsoring agency CUI- Islamabad (PI: Miss IrumShahzadi, Co-PI: Dr. M. Maroof Shah).  Award amount Rs.0.200Millions.  Completed 2009-2010.
  • Identification of PCR-based primers for the detection of Ph1 gene region in wheat.  Sponsoring agency CUI-Islamabad (PI: Ummarah Waheed Co-PI: Dr. Maroof Shah). Award amount Rs. 0.10 millions. Completed 2009-2010
  • Study the effects of environment on prevalence and distribution of potato leaf roll virus (PLRV) disease in Hazara division. 2008-2010. Sponsoring agency CUI- Islamabad (PI: Zishan Gul, Co-PI: Dr. M. Maroof Shah.). Award amount Rs. 0.15 millions. Completed 2008-2010
  • Genotypic and Phenotypic Response of Vegetables to Pesticides. 2008-2010. Sponsoring agency CUI- Islamabad (Mr. Saqib Khan and MM Shah).  Award amount Rs.0.173Millions.  Completed 2008-2010
  • The influence of environment on the morphological and biochemical traits of Maize.  2008-2010. Sponsoring agency; CUI, Islamabad (Mr. KhurramMaqbool and Dr. MM Shah). Award amount Rs. 0.15 millions. Completed 2008-2010
  • Identification of PCR-based molecular markers for the detection of potato late blight disease in Abbottabad Region. 2008-2010. Sponsoring agency; CUI, Islamabad (Sanila Amir and Dr. MM Shah).  Award Amount Rs.0.16Millions. Completed 2008-2010
  • Projects submitted (as PI) – but not approved
  • Assessment of Current and Future Ozone and Warming Impact on Wheat Production in China and Pakistan.  A Joint Research and Development Project of PSF Pak-NSFC (China). Amount 10 M. Submitted to respective agencies by the partner Researchers.
  • DNA-based genetic characterization of maize germplasm. 2005-2008. Sponsored/funded by Pakistan Agricultural Research Council (PARC) Islamabad, under Agricultural Linkage program (ALP). Award amount Rs. 3.2 Millions.  Approved while working at IBGE. It was not transferred to CUI by PARC and was thus returned to sponsoring agency by the Agricultural University Peshawar.
  • Biodiversity Conservation through Development of Hydroponics and In-vitro Propagation Technologies; PC-1. 2006. Submitted to HEC under Foreign Faculty Hiring Program, award amount Rs. 34 Millions. Not approved
  • Improvement of Value Added Plant Species through Development of Biotechnology Facilities at CUI Abbottabad. PC-1. 2007. Submitted to Ministry of Science and Technology, Islamabad, Amount Rs. 35.50 Millions. The results are unknown
  • Establishment of a Research Nursery Farm for Locally Grown Value Added Plants. 2006.  submitted to HEC, through CUI, Islamabad; award amount Rs. 1.8 Million.  Not approved (after review), 2007
  • Multifaceted Approaches to Characterize and Improve Maize for Economically important Traits.  Submitted to HEC, for the award of Rs. 7.68millions.  Not approved (after review), 2007

 
Students Supervised
SUMMARY
  • Total number of students graduated (M.Phil/MS) under direct supervision: 17
  • Number of students graduated at IBGE, Peshawar (M.Phil): 05
  • Number of students graduated at CIIT Abbottabad (MS): 12
  • Number of PhD graduate students currently under supervision: 03
  • Number of MS graduate students currently under supervision: 06
  • Number of graduate students co-supervised/supervising: 10
  • Number undergraduate students and or Internees under direct supervision: 04
  • Number of Research Associates hired and supervised under projects: 06
GRADUATE STUDENTS SUPERVISED AS A MAJOR SUPERVISOR

PhD Graduates at COMSATS University, Islamabad, Abbottabad Campus

  • Dr. Saira Khan, 2011-2018. PhD in Biotechnology.  Thesis Title: Isolation and Characterization of Plant Based Pesticides. Graduated in Spring 2018 semester (degree awarded in April 2019 Convocation).
  • Dr. Ummara Waheed Khan.  2009-2016. PhD in Biotechnology. Thesis title: Deciphering In Vitro Regeneration Capabilities of Wheat and Investigations of Genetic Transformation in Wheat and Barley. Graduated in Spring 2016 semester (degree awarded in November 2017). http://ww3.comsats.edu.pk/phd_graduates/GraduateDetails.aspx?id=106
  • Dr. Irum Shahzadi. 2006-2012. PhD in Environmental Sciences.  Thesis Title: Chemical and molecular characterization of Marigold (Tagetes species) found in Pakistan. Graduated in Fall 2012 semester (degree awarded in April 2013). https://comsats.edu.pk/Offices/PhDStudents.aspx
  • Miss. Asma Khan. 2013-continue, enrolled in PhD (Biotechnology). Area of research interest: Proteomics of Maize. Expected graduation date SP2020.
  • Mr. Muhammad Mughees (CUI/SP15-R62-003/ATD). 2015-continue, enrolled in PhD (Biotechnology). Area of research interest: Biochemical and Genetic Analysis of Rosmarinic Acid as a Candidate Botanical Pesticide. Expected graduation date FA2020.
  • Mr. Muhammad Amir (CUI/SP16-R62-004/ATD).  2016-continue, enrolled in PhD Biotechnology. Area of research interest: Micro propagation potential of Vibernum grandiflorum through cell and tissue culture techniques. Expected graduation date FA 2020.
  • Miss Iqra Mahboob (CIIT/FA17-R62-005/ATD). 2017-continue, enrolled in PhD Biotechnology.  Area of Research interests: Cloning and Molecular Characterization of Tomato Transcription Factors Involved in Stress Response. Expected Graduation: FA2021

MS Graduates at COMSATS University, Islamabad, Abbottabad Campus

1.  Miss. Ayisha Zeb CIIT/FA17-R02-002/ATD). MS (Biotechnology). Molecular Characterization of Ovotransferrin and Ansocalcin Genes in Chukar Egg Shell and Antimicrobial Potential of Egg Shell Powder against Selected Bacteria. Graduation SP19

2.       Mr. Iqrar Ali (CIIT/FA17-R02-005/ATD). MS (Biotechnology). Molecular and Physiological Response of Wheat (Triticum aestivum) to Nanoparticles and Heavy Metal Stress. Graduation SP19.

3.        Mr. Kifayatullah (CUI/SP17-R02-003/ATD). MS (Biotechnology): Thesis Title: Identification of the Physiological and Molecular Mechanisms of Petroselinum crispum in Response to Zinc and Cadmium Stress. Graduation in FA18

4.       Miss Zubaria Sajjad (CUI/FA16-R02-010/ATD. MS (Biotechnology). Thesis Title: Determination of Antimicrobial Activity and Identification of Defensin Gene in Arctium lappa. Graduation in SP18

5.       Miss Anum Imtiaz (CUI/FA16-R02-018/ATD). MS (Biotechnology). Thesis Title: Quantitative Analysis and Insecticidal Bioassay of Rosmarinic Acid in Isodon rugosus

6.       Miss Taqwa Khan (CUI/FA16-R02-011/ATD). MS (Biotechnology). Thesis Title: Effect of Gold and Silver Nanoparticles on the Growth of Wheat (Triticum aestivum). Graduation in SP18

7.       Miss. Samavia Neelofar. MS (Biotechnology). Thesis Title: Identification andAnalysis of Defensin Genes in Endemic Pheasant Species. Graduation in Fall 2017

8.       Miss.Sehrish Naz. MS (Biotechnology). Thesis Title: Isolation and Characterization of Bacillus thuringiensis strains from Abbottabad region.  Graduation in Spring 2017

9.       Mr. Sarfraz Nawaz. MS (Biotechnology). Thesis Title:  Molecular Characterization and Antibacterial Activity of Clematis Species.  Graduation in Fall 2016

10.   Miss. Marium Naz. MS (Biotechnology).  Thesis Title:  Serum Osteopontin, as a Predictive Biomarker of Magnitude of Disease Severity in Hepatitis C Virus Infected Patients in Local population. Graduation in Fall 2016

11.   Miss. Iqra Mahboob. MS (Biotechnology). Thesis Title: Development of DNA barcodes for the identification of selective medicinal plants. Graduated in Spring 16.

12.   Mr. Khuda Bakhsh. MS (Biotechnology). Thesis Title: Epigenetic Study of Maize Under Heat and Cold Stress.  Graduated in Spring 16.

13.   Miss. Sana Rashid. MS (Biotechnology). Thesis Title: Molecular Analysis of LAR Gene Involved the Synthesis of Catechin in Fruit Plants of Rosacea Family. Graduated in Fall 15

14.   Miss. Tanzila Khan. MS (Biotechnology). Investigation of Methylation Pattern of Vitamin   D Receptor (VDR) Promoter in Leukemia. Graduated in Fall 15

15.   Miss. Rehana Yasmin. MS (Biotechnology). Investigation of Aberrant Methylation of GSTP1 Promoter in Leukemia Patients. Graduated in Spring 15

16.   Mr. Rehmatullah. MS (Biotechnology). Identification of Chromosomal Translocation and Disease Resistant Genes in Wheat Germplasm. Graduated in Spring 15

17.   Miss. Javeria Sabir. MS (Biotechnology). Molecular Marker Based Genes Pyramiding in Spring Wheat. Graduated in Spring 15

18.   Miss. Tehreem Hayat. MS (Biotechnology). Thesis Title: Role of IL28B Gene related Single Nucleotide polymorphism in the treatment of Chronic Hapatitis C.). Graduated in Spring 2014.

19.   Miss. Tibgha Mobeen. MS (Biotechnology). Thesis Title: DNA based identification of indigenous medicinal plants in Thandiani region of District Abbottabad. Graduated in Spring 2014.

20.   Miss. Rabia Basri. MS (Biotechnology). Thesis Title: Molecular and Biochemical Characterization of Viburnum species of District Abbottabad. Graduated in Spring 2014.

21.   Miss. Faiza Afzal. MS (Biotechnology).   Thesis Title: Molecular Characterization of Monoterpene Synthase Gene from Tagetes (Marigold). Graduated in Fall (September) 2013

22.   Muhammad Mughees. MS (Biotechnology).  Thesis Title. Molecular Marker Based Identification of Dwarfing Genes in Wheat. Graduated in Fall (September) 2013

23.   Mr. Muhammad Farooq. Thesis Title. Molecular Marker Based Screening of Winter Wheat Lines for VRN1 and NAM-B1 Genes.   Graduated in Fall (September) 2013

24.   Mr. Akhtar Munir Khan. MS (Biotechnology).  Thesis Title: Marker Assisted Evaluation of NAM-B1 Gene Responsible for Enhancing Iron and Zinc Contents in Bread Wheat. Graduated in Fall (September) 2012.

25.   Miss. Maria Khatoon.  MS (Biotechnology).  Thesis Title: Molecular, Chemical, and Antibacterial Characterization of Arisaema Species. Graduated in Fall (September) 2012.

26.   Mr. Muhammad Aamir.  MS (Biotechnology). Thesis Title: Identification of Genes for Glutenin Protein in Advanced Wheat Lines using Molecular Markers. Graduated in Fall (September) 2012.

27.   Miss. Ayesha Bibi.  MS (Biotechnology). Thesis Title: Molecular Characterization of PC Synthase Gene from Petroselinum Crispum (Parsely. Graduated in Fall (September) 2012.

28.   Miss. ZareenSarfraz.  MS (Biotechnology). Thesis Title: Mapping Genes Controlling Important Traits on the “A” Genome of Diploid Wheat.  Graduated in Fall (September) 2012.

29.   Mr. Muhamamd Ali Tahir Bokhari.  MS (Biotechnology). Thesis Title: Isolation and Characterization of Dichlorodiphenyltrichloroetahne Degrading Bacterial Strain from Contaminated Soils.  Graduated in Fall (September) 2012.

30.   Mr. Jamal Hussain.  MS (Biotechnology). Thesis Title: Marker Assisted Screening of Winter Wheat Lines for Vernalization Genes. Graduated in Fall (September) 2012.

31.   Miss. Asma Khan. MS (Biotechnology). Thesis Title: Determining the Relationship between Phytic Acid Contents and Agronomic Traits in Pakistani Wheat Germplasm.  Graduated in Fall (September) 2011.

32.   Mr. Nasrullah Khan. MS (Biotechnology). Thesis Title: PCR-Based Identification of Rye Translocations in Pakistani Wheat Germplasm.  Graduated in Fall (September) 2011.

33.   Mr. Mohammad Wajidullah.  MS (Biotechnology). Thesis Title: Exploring the Potential of Winter Wheat in Pakistan using Conventional and Biotechnological Techniques. Graduated in Fall (September) 2011.

34.   Miss. Mehreen Batool. MS (Biotechnology). Thesis Title: Molecular characterization of Pakistani wheat for quality traits. Graduated in Fall (September) 2011.

35.   Miss. Wajeeha Saeed. MS (Biotechnology). Thesis Title: Detection of Phytochelatin synthase mediated heavy metal detoxification activity in Petroselinum crispum (Parsley).Graduated in Fall (September) 2011

36.   Mr. Khalid Khan. MS (ES).  Thesis Title: Studying Genetic Diversity of Edible pea Under Different Environmental Conditions. Graduated in Fall (September) 2008

37.   Miss. Ummara Waheed Khan. MS (ES).  Thesis Title: Molecular Analysis of Ph1 Gene Region in Wheat Using Comparative Mapping Approaches. Graduated in Fall (September) 2008

38.   Miss. Qudsia Khalid. MS (ES).  Thesis Title: Variation in genotypic responses and biochemical analysis of callus induction in cultivated wheat. Graduated in Fall (September) 2008

39.   Miss. Habiba Kiran. MS (ES).  Thesis Title: Studying the Potato Germplasm Diversity in Response to Phytophthorainfestansand Morphological Traits.  Graduated in Fall (September) 2008

40.   Muhammad Saqib Khan. MS (ES). Thesis Title: Determination and Quantification of Pesticides Residues in Summer Vegetables Using Chromatographic Techniques. Graduated in Spring (March) 2008

41.   Aftab Ahmed Khan. MS (ES).  Thesis Title: Ethnobotanical Study of Indigenous Medicinal Plants in Thandiani Region of Abbottabad District.  Graduated in Spring (March) 2008

42.   Khurram Maqbool. MS (ES).  Thesis Title: Additive Main Effect and Multiplicative Interaction (AMMI) Analysis of Maize under Different Environments.  Graduated in Spring (March) 2008

M.Phil Graduates at IBGE Peshawar
  • Mr. Sajid-Ul-Ghafoor. Graduated in August 2005. Molecular Characterization of Ephedra Species found in Pakistan, M.Phil in Biotechnology, Institute of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering (IBGE), NWFP Agricultural University Peshawar
  • Mr. Syed Waqas Hassan. Graduated in August 2005. Assessment of genetic variation in cultivated maize grown in NWFP, using molecular markers, M.Phil in Biotechnology, Institute of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering (IBGE), NWFP Agricultural University Peshawar
  • Miss. Musarrat Shaheen. Graduated in August 2005. Identification of molecular markers to dissect genetic variability in a set of potential salt tolerant synthetic wheat. M.Phil in Biotechnology, Institute of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering (IBGE), NWFP Agricultural University Peshawar
  • Miss. Rakhshanda Habib. Graduated in August 2005. PCR based molecular characterization of synthetic hexaploid wheat conferring resistance against Fusarium head blight (SCAB). M.Phil in Biotechnology, Institute of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering (IBGE), NWFP Agricultural University Peshawar
  • Mr. Farhad Ali. Graduated in August 2005. PCR Based Molecular Characterization of Wheat Varieties Grown in NWFP; M.Phil in Biotechnology, Institute of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering (IBGE), NWFP Agricultural University Peshawar
Research Associates
  • Miss Asma Khan (MPhil-Biochemistrty and Moloecular Biology, QUI) March 2010-present
  • Mr. Muhammad Wajidullah Khan Kundi (BS-Biotechnology, Peshawar University), March 2010
  • Miss. Ummara Waheed Khan (MSc-Botany; MS Env. Sciences), CIIT, Abbottabad. March 2006-present
  • Mr. Muhammad Saqib Khan (MS-Env. Sciences), CIIT, Abbottabad, Sep 2008-present (on leave to overseas for higher education)
  • Mr. Muhammad Ali (M.Phil Biotechnology-IBGE), Institute of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering (IBGE), NWFP Agricultural University Peshawar; May-September 2005
  • Miss. Sanila Amir (M.Phil Molecular Biology and Biochemistry-QU), CIIT, Abbottabad. January 2005-2009