Mr. FAZLI MAULA, Quaid I Azam university Islamabad, Pakistan.
Fazli Maula is a promising young researcher in the field of Plant Sciences, specializing in fungal taxonomy and environmental studies. With a B.S. in Botany from the University of Swabi and an M.Phil. in Plant Sciences from Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, his academic and research path reflects a deep commitment to biodiversity and ecological health. His notable contributions include the discovery and classification of eleven new mushroom species in District Swabi, as well as research on the environmental and health impacts of tobacco curing practices in Pakistan. Skilled in molecular analysis, fieldwork, and scientific software tools, Fazli has already published and submitted multiple papers to international journals, signaling his early success and potential in biological sciences.
Profile
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🌱 Early Academic Pursuits
Fazli Maula embarked on his academic journey with a strong passion for plant sciences, earning his Bachelor of Science in Botany from the University of Swabi, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan (2017–2021). During this foundational phase, he cultivated a deep interest in the interaction between plants, human activities, and environmental sustainability. His BS thesis, focused on the ecological and health impacts of tobacco curing practices, reflected a strong inclination towards applied environmental research. Building upon this interest, Fazli pursued an M.Phil. in Plant Sciences at Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, where he delved deeper into the world of fungi and plant taxonomy. His educational path showcases not only academic excellence but also a clear direction toward impactful biological research.
🍄 Research Focus and Contributions
As a Masters Research Fellow at Quaid-i-Azam University (2022–2024), Fazli Maula’s research took a significant leap forward with his thesis titled “Taxonomic evaluation of mushrooms of District Swabi, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan based on their Morphological, Anatomical and Molecular perspectives.” His intensive field surveys during the rainy season led to the collection and classification of diverse mushroom species. Integrating classical taxonomy with modern molecular tools such as ITS and LSU sequencing, Fazli successfully identified eleven new species and three new records for Pakistan—several of which have been published in esteemed international journals. His contribution is pivotal in enriching the mycological biodiversity database of the region, offering new insights into fungal taxonomy.
🔬 Professional Endeavors and Technical Proficiency
Throughout his research journey, Fazli has demonstrated mastery over a range of laboratory and analytical techniques. His expertise encompasses DNA extraction, microscopic analysis, and phylogenetic tree construction using platforms like MEGA and CIPRES. Additionally, he has honed his skills in scientific documentation and visualization using software such as BioEdit, Microsoft Office, Adobe Illustrator, Adobe Photoshop, and other digital tools like PhotoScape and Peximetre. His BS-level work also involved statistical analysis using SPSS, along with field surveys and data collection related to forest depletion and public health, showcasing his versatility in both environmental and microbiological research settings.
📚 Academic Publications and Recognition
Fazli Maula’s research contributions have not gone unnoticed. The groundbreaking nature of his mushroom taxonomy work led to publications in impact factor journals, while his undergraduate study on tobacco-related forest degradation was accepted for publication in October 2024. These early accomplishments are remarkable for a young researcher and reflect his commitment to advancing science that addresses both biodiversity and human health. His ability to publish at this stage in his career stands as a testament to the relevance and quality of his work.
🌍 Societal Impact and Influence
Through his M.Phil. and BS research, Fazli Maula has spotlighted critical environmental and public health issues. His exploration of forest depletion due to tobacco curing underscores the delicate balance between agriculture and sustainability, while his mycological work enhances the understanding of fungal diversity in Pakistan. By merging local ecological research with global scientific standards, Fazli is contributing meaningfully to conservation strategies and sustainable land-use planning in his region.
🧭 Vision and Future Contributions
With a strong foundation in plant sciences and a focused trajectory in fungal taxonomy and environmental health, Fazli Maula is poised for an impactful career in biological research. He envisions further exploration into fungal genomics and bioactive compounds with potential medicinal and ecological significance. His future contributions are expected to bridge the gap between traditional biodiversity documentation and cutting-edge molecular biology, offering solutions to ecological degradation and enriching scientific databases globally.
🏆 Legacy in the Making
Though early in his career, Fazli Maula is building a legacy rooted in curiosity, discipline, and a profound respect for nature’s intricacies. From uncovering new species of mushrooms to addressing ecological consequences of agricultural practices, his work lays the groundwork for future ecological and taxonomic studies in Pakistan. As he continues to expand his research horizons, Fazli’s legacy will likely inspire a new generation of scientists to explore, protect, and understand the hidden layers of biodiversity.
Publication
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Title: Lentinus punjabensis (Polyporaceae), a new species from Lal Suhanra National Park, southern Punjab, Pakistan
Authors: M. Asif, M. Saba, F. Maula, M. Raza
Year: 2024
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Title: Taxonomic and phylogenetic evidence reveal a new species and a new record of the genus Marasmius (Marasmiaceae) from Pakistan
Authors: M. Asif, F. Maula, M. Saba, W. Akram, M. Raza
Year: 2024
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Title: Integrated morphological and molecular approaches unveil a new species and a new record of the genus Entoloma (Entolomataceae) from southern Punjab
Authors: M. Asif, M. Saba, W. Akram, F. Maula, M. Raza
Year: 2024
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Title: Integrative taxonomy and multigene phylogeny uncover three novel taxa of the genus Clitopilus from southern Punjab, Pakistan
Authors: M.R. M. Asif, M. Saba, W. Akram, F. Maula, F. Ullah, M. Batool, M. Ullah, I.K. Greilhuber
Year: 2025
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Title: Forest depletion and health hazards: Assessing the environmental and human impacts of tobacco curing practices in Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Pakistan
Authors: W.A.K. Fazli Maula, Zaman Sher, Muhammad Asif, Malka Saba
Year: 2025
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Title: Taxonomic and phylogenetic evidence reveal a new species of the genus Agaricus section Minores from Pakistan
Authors: M.B.A.K. Fazli Maula, M. Saba, M. Asif, W. Akram
Year: 2025
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Title: Multilocus phylogeny contributes to fungal taxonomy with three novel species of Conocybe (Bolbitiaceae) from southern Punjab, Pakistan
Authors: A.K.M.R. Muhammad Asif, Malka Saba, Fazli Maula, Wajahat Akram
Year: 2025
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Title: Combined morphological and molecular approaches reveal Conocybe pakistanensis (Bolbitiaceae), a novel species from Punjab, Pakistan
Authors: A.K.A.N. Wajahat Akram, Malka Saba, Muhammad Asif, Fazli Maula, Momal Batool
Year: 2025
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Title: Tubaria asiatica (Tubariaceae), a new species from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan
Authors: F. Maula, M. Saba, M. Asif, W. Akram
Year: 2025
🧾 Conclusion
Fazli Maula’s journey is a blend of academic excellence, technical expertise, and a passion for ecological discovery. His work not only contributes to scientific knowledge but also addresses real-world environmental issues affecting forests and communities. With a clear research direction and a growing list of accomplishments, Fazli is set to make lasting contributions in the areas of fungal biodiversity, conservation, and environmental sustainability. His dedication, innovation, and scientific rigor position him as a rising figure in the field of plant and fungal sciences.