Dr. Abdul Qayyum

About

I am a plant molecular biologist and biotechnologist with extensive hands-on experience in genome editing, transgenic crop development, and advanced molecular diagnostics. My core expertise lies in the application of cutting-edge CRISPR/Cas9 and Cas12 technologies to develop genetically engineered crops with enhanced resistance to biotic and abiotic stresses, particularly focusing on cotton—a vital crop in Pakistan’s economy.

My work involves maintaining, operating, and troubleshooting a range of specialized scientific equipment essential for plant biotechnology and molecular biology. These include real-time PCR systems (ABI StepOnePlus, Bio-Rad CFX96), gel documentation systems, high-throughput DNA/RNA extraction platforms (Qiagen BioRobot EZ1), electroporators, gene guns (Bio-Rad PDS-1000/He), laminar flow hoods, growth chambers, and controlled-environment greenhouses. I have also conducted training sessions and workshops for students, researchers, and lab technicians on proper usage, calibration, and maintenance of these instruments to ensure data quality and lab efficiency.

My research team has successfully developed several genetically modified cotton varieties using Bt genes (Cry1Ac, Cry2A) for insect resistance, EPSPS for herbicide tolerance, and RNAi constructs for Cotton Leaf Curl Virus (CLCuV) management. These innovations have resulted in the release of approved varieties such as CEMB 33 and CA 12, which are now in active cultivation by farmers. The herbicide-tolerant cotton developed under my supervision demonstrated ~99% weed control with a single glyphosate application, dramatically reducing labor and losses.

My CRISPR/Cas-based research includes targeted genome editing to develop resistance against viral pathogens, including ongoing efforts to combat CLCuV in collaboration with the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), Germany. This partnership, supported by the Humboldt Foundation, enabled me to work closely with European experts and optimize genome editing protocols and delivery systems for plant tissues.

Beyond agriculture, I lead research on plant-based immunogenic responses to avian diseases like Newcastle Disease Virus (NDV) and Avian Influenza, using transgenic approaches for vaccine development, underscoring the translational scope of my expertise in molecular tools.

In recognition of my scientific contributions, I was honored with the ICRA Asia Young Innovation Gold Medal (2017). I have also developed technical manuals for CRISPR construct design, plant transformation, molecular assays, and routinely supervise thesis-based training for graduate students.

With a proven record of handling sophisticated scientific instrumentation, leading translational research, and mentoring future scientists, I continue to contribute to sustainable agriculture and bio-innovation.

Areas of Expertise