Currently a Professor in Postharvest Physiology and Technology at the University of Nottingham Malaysia Campus, Prof Asgar, is the founding director of the 'Centre of Excellence for Postharvest Biotechnology' at the University of Nottingham, a research group deemed for great success in its field and great impact beyond. With a range of postharvest students under his guidance and supervision, Prof Asgar has set the grounds for pioneering and innovative research in the field of edible coatings and films for postharvest biology. Additionally, he is constantly involved in the progress of science within postharvest biology as an Associate Editor of the journal of Horticultural Science and Biotechnology.

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Expertise Summary

Experiences span across knowledge of the physiology and biochemistry of fruits and vegetables to the field of post-harvest technology. Primarily the isolation and characterization of bioactive compounds extracted from fruits and vegetables as well as their effect on human health and well-being is a subject of great experience. Additionally, the analysis of physico-chemical and sensory characteristics of fruits, vegetables and flowers is another area of in-depth understanding. Moreover, an elaborate level of expertise has also been acquired in the field of post-harvest quality and shelf-life of fruits and vegetables. This field also includes thorough knowledge of postharvest technologies to extend the shelf life of perishable fruits and vegetables, with particular emphasis on modified atmosphere techniques and edible coatings and films.

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Teaching Summary

The fields of postharvest biology and technology, horticulture and plant physiology are key areas of teaching interests. 

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Research Summary

Currently, strategies are being developed towards gaining a deeper understanding of the pre-harvest and post-harvest factors that control fruit quality and storage life.