Smitha Thomas | Agricultural Microbiology | Best Researcher Award

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Ms. Smitha Thomas | Agricultural Microbiology | Best Researcher Award

Research Scholar at St.Teresas College, Ernakulam,  India

Ms. Smitha Thomas is a dedicated research scholar specializing in Agricultural Microbiology at Mahatma Gandhi University, Kerala. Her research focuses on the role of beneficial microbes in enhancing soil fertility and sustainable crop productivity. With a strong academic background and passion for microbial interactions in agroecosystems, she aims to contribute to environmentally friendly agricultural practices.

Profile:

🎓 Academic Background:

  • Ph.D. (Ongoing) in Botany – Agricultural Microbes, Mahatma Gandhi University, Kerala (Coursework Grade: A – 79.3%)

  • M.Phil. in Botany, St. Teresa’s College, Ernakulam – M.G. University (Grade: A – 84.4%)

  • M.Sc. in Botany, M.G. University, Kerala – 66.14%

  • B.Ed. in Natural Science, M.G. University, Kerala – 67%

  • B.Sc. in Botany, M.G. University, Kerala – 75%

🧪 Research Focus:

  • Application of Plant Growth-Promoting Rhizobacteria (PGPR) in Olericulture

  • Biological Control, Molecular Genetics, Plant Tissue Culture, and Medical Drug Designing

🏆 Academic Recognition & Awards:

  • SET Qualified, 2004

  • DCE Aspire Fellowship for Ph.D. (2022–2023), Govt. of Kerala

  • Outstanding Researcher Award, 1st International Agriculture Conference on Natural vs Organic Farming, Gujarat (Dec 2023)

  • Certificate of Excellence in Reviewing – Journal of Scientific Research and Reports (2024)

🎤 Oral Presentations:

  • PGPR research presentations at:

    • 7th Asian PGPR Conference, Telangana (2022)

    • 36th Kerala Science Congress, Kasaragod (2024)

    • RICERCA 2021 National Conference, Alappuzha

    • National Seminar on Miracle Millets, Ernakulam (2023)

🌱 Professional Experience:

  • Over 10 years of teaching experience (2004–2024) as Lecturer in Botany

🌍 Conferences & Training (2020–2024):

  • Attended and presented in 11 Conferences, 4 Oral Presentations, 47 Webinars/Seminars, and 4 Certified Courses

  • Topics include Biotechnology, Natural Farming, Thesis Writing, Molecular Docking, and AI Tools in Research

  • Notable Participation:

    • International Conference on Decarbonizing Agriculture (2023)

    • National Conference on Ethnic Vegetables, Dr. YSRHU (2023)

🧬 Certifications & Courses:

  • Research and Publication Ethics – St. Thomas College & Calicut University

  • Advanced Molecular Docking – SAFI Institute of Advanced Studies

  • AI Tools in Academia – Assumption College, Kerala

  • International Internship on Bioanalytical Techniques – Sacred Heart College & BSN

📝 Peer Reviewer For:

  • Asian Journal of Advances in Agricultural Research

  • Asian Journal of Soil Science and Plant Nutrition

  • Journal of Scientific Research and Reports

Publication Top Notes:

  • Molecular Identification of Plant Growth-Promoting Rhizobacteria and Their Antiphytopathogenic Compounds by LC-MS TOF Analysis
    Preprint published on March 26, 2025
    DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-6083519/v1
    Contributors: Smitha Thomas, Lizzy Mathew

  • Isolation and Molecular Identification of Phosphate Solubilizing Bacteria, Bacillus licheniformis UBPSB-07 Capable of Enhancing Seed Germination in Vigna radiata L.
    Published in: Phytomorphology (Journal Article)
    Author: Smitha Thomas

 

Sanjay Kumar | Food Safety | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Sanjay Kumar | Food Safety | Best Researcher Award

Principal Scientist at Niagara Bottling, United States

Dr. Sanjay Kumar is a Principal Scientist specializing in food safety and microbiology with over two decades of international research experience. He holds a Ph.D. from ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, India, with a strong foundation in microbial ecology and antimicrobial interventions. Dr. Kumar’s research centers on the inactivation of foodborne pathogens using novel, GRAS-status antimicrobials, quantitative microbiological risk assessment, and the microbiome of food animals.

Profile:

🎓 Education:

  • Ph.D. in Microbiology, ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, India (2010)

  • M.S. in Microbiology, Kurukshetra University, India (2001)

  • B.S. in Industrial Microbiology, Kurukshetra University, India (1998)

🔬 Research Interests:

  • Control of foodborne pathogens using GRAS-status antimicrobials

  • Microbial ecology and contamination in food processing systems

  • Risk assessment through omics-based microbial exposure evaluation

💼 Professional Experience:

  • Principal Scientist, Niagara Bottling LLC (2019–Present)
    Leads microbiological R&D, food safety strategy, and regulatory compliance across 40+ plants.

  • Staff Scientist, Poultry Science, University of Georgia (2015–2019)
    Focused on microbiome, food safety interventions, and poultry gut health.

  • Postdoctoral Research Fellow, University of Pennsylvania (2013–2015)
    Investigated antimicrobial resistance and microbiome shifts in dairy cattle.

  • Postdoctoral Fellow, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience & Biotechnology (2012–2013)
    Characterized rumen methanogens and enzymes for methane mitigation.

🧪 Notable Funded Projects (Co-PI):

  • U.S. Soybean Board: Gut health in antibiotic-free broilers

  • Innovation Enzymes: Enzyme supplementation and poultry performance

  • Huvepharma: Probiotics against poultry pathogens

🏆 Awards and Honors:

  • Best Poster Awards (CAES, Center for Food Safety, ASAS)

  • ICAR Senior Research Fellowship

  • DBT Travel Award (BioMicroWorld, Lisbon)

  • Outstanding Teacher Award – Dolphin College, India

Citation Metrics:

  • Total Citations: 3,680

  • Citations Since 2020: 2,237

  • h-index: 29 (26 since 2020)

  • i10-index: 41 (30 since 2020)

Publication Top Notes:

  • Chicken Gut Microbiota: Importance and Detection Technology
    BOWKK Yue Shang, Sanjay Kumar
    Frontiers in Veterinary Sciences, 2018
    📚 Citations: 479

  • Magnesium ammonium phosphate formation, recovery and its application as valuable resources: a review
    YH Liu, S Kumar, JH Kwag, CS Ra
    Journal of Chemical Technology and Biotechnology, 2012
    📚 Citations: 229

  • Probiotics and atopic dermatitis: an overview
    YHP IA Rather, VK Bajpai, S Kumar, J Lim, WK Paek
    Frontiers in Microbiology, 2016
    📚 Citations: 224

  • New aspects and strategies for methane mitigation from ruminants
    S Kumar et al.
    Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology, 2014
    📚 Citations: 205

  • Effect of antibiotic withdrawal in feed on chicken gut microbial dynamics…
    HT S Kumar et al.
    PLoS ONE, 2018
    📚 Citations: 199

  • Factors affecting rumen methanogens and methane mitigation strategies
    S Kumar et al.
    World Journal of Microbiology and Biotechnology, 2009
    📚 Citations: 169

  • Associative patterns among anaerobic fungi, methanogenic archaea and bacteria…
    D Kumar, S., Indugu, N., Vecchiarelli, B., Pitta
    Frontiers in Microbiology, 2015
    📚 Citations: 168

  • Temporal dynamics in the ruminal microbiome of dairy cows during the transition period
    Pitta, Kumar, et al.
    Journal of Animal Science, 2014
    📚 Citations: 155

  • Metagenomic assessment of the functional potential of the rumen microbiome…
    Pitta, Kumar, et al.
    Anaerobe, 2016
    📚 Citations: 133

  • Prevalence and antimicrobial resistance patterns of Salmonella…
    Velasquez, Macklin, Kumar, et al.
    Poultry Science, 2018
    📚 Citations: 118

 

Peter Andrew Windsor | Livestock Health | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Peter Andrew Windsor |  Livestock Health | Best Researcher Award

The University of Sydney, Camden, NSW,  Australia

Professor Peter A. Windsor is a veterinary scientist with over four decades of experience in livestock health, production, and welfare. Currently Professor Emeritus at the Sydney School of Veterinary Science, he is also President of the Sheep, Camelid & Goat SIG of the Australian Veterinary Association. He has worked extensively in pathology, epidemiology, academia, and international livestock consulting. His global contributions include disease risk management, pain mitigation strategies, and improving livelihoods of smallholder farmers across Southeast Asia. With over 300 peer-reviewed publications, he has received numerous honors, including the Fulbright Scholarship and medals from Cambodia and Laos.

Profile:

🎓 Academic & Professional Background:

Prof. Windsor is a distinguished veterinary scientist with a career spanning over four decades, covering diagnostic pathology, applied epidemiology, academia, and international consultancy. A Fulbright Scholar (1980), he holds a PhD (1987) and DVSc (2007), and is the recipient of the AVA/ACVSc Kesteven Medal (2012). He currently leads the Sheep, Camelid & Goat Special Interest Group of the Australian Veterinary Association and has authored over 300 peer-reviewed publications.

🔬 Research & Innovation:

His work focuses on livestock health, production, and welfare, contributing to sustainable farming and One Health approaches.
Key Projects Include:

  • ✅ Enhancing Smallholder Livelihoods in Lao PDR

  • 🐄 Biosecurity for Livestock in Cambodia

  • 🌍 Transboundary Disease Risk Management in SE Asia

  • 🧬 Teaching Curriculum Upgrade in Animal Health (ADB, Laos)

💼 Consultancy & Collaborations:

Prof. Windsor has led or contributed to several ADB and ACIAR projects across Southeast Asia, collaborating with:

  • 🐘 Departments of Livestock in Laos and Cambodia

  • 🌐 World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH)

  • 🐄 FAO of the United Nations

  • 🇪🇸 Universidad de Zaragoza, Spain

📘 Recent Publications & Books:

  • Veterinary Reproduction and Obstetrics (2019)

  • Diseases of Cattle of Australasia (2019)

  • Pain Management in Ruminants (2020)

  • Differential Diagnosis in Sheep (2022)

  • Merino Sheep in Australia (2023)

🧪 Innovations & Patents:

  • Development of Tri-Solfen for pain relief

  • Therapy contributions for Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD)

  • Registered Gudair vaccine for Ovine Johne’s Disease

🌱 Impact & Contributions:

Prof. Windsor has contributed to:

  • 📉 Eradication of FMD in the Philippines

  • 🧫 Understanding animal models of human diseases

  • 🐂 Improving smallholder farming through health and nutrition

📊 Citation Metrics:

  • Total Citations: 8,938

  • Citations Since 2020: 3,261

  • h-index: 52

  • h-index Since 2020: 28

  • i10-index: 185

  • i10-index Since 2020: 115

Publication Top Notes:

  • Perspectives on progression of transboundary disease, one health and ecosystem health management in the Greater Mekong Subregion and beyond
    PA Windsor
    Animal Production Science 64 (11), 2024

  • Use of a local anaesthetic and antiseptic wound formulation for the treatment of lambs naturally infected with Orf virus
    Á Gómez, D Lacasta, MT Tejedor, MR de Arcaute, JJ Ramos, H Ruiz, …
    Veterinary Microbiology 292, 110037, 2024

  • Efficiency of different Orf virus infection routes for the experimental reproduction of contagious ecthyma in lambs
    Á Gómez, M Cuadra, M Ríos, T Tejedor, AR Largo, E Pérez, …
    Journal of Comparative Pathology 210, 54, 2024

  • Comparative study of three different routes of experimental inoculation of the Orf virus
    D Lacasta, M Cuadra, A Gómez, A Ortín, MR de Arcaute, JJ Ramos, …
    Small Ruminant Research 233, 107248, 2024

  • Eficacia de un antiséptico/analgésico local para el tratamiento de corderos con ectima contagioso
    PQ Solano, ÁG Calvo, MTT Hernández, MR de Arcaute Rivero, JJ Ramos, …
    Badajoz Veterinaria, 6-11, 2024

  • Use of a local anaesthetic/antiseptic formulation for the treatment of lambs experimentally infected with Orf virus
    D Lacasta, M Ríos, M Ruiz de Arcaute, A Ortín, JJ Ramos, …
    Animals 13 (18), 2962, 2024

  • Reduced rumen methane eructation in smallholder cattle and buffalo by dietary supplementation with a plant tannins and citral extract
    PA Windsor, J Hill, D Olsson, A Cameron, S Martin
    Preprints 2023, 2023051495, 2023

  • O-171 Evaluation of the effect of a topical wound anaesthesia formulation used for the treatment of contagious ecthyma in lambs infected experimentally
    M Borobia, MR De Arcaute, A Ortín, MT Tejedor, R Reina, H Bertrán, …
    Animal-science proceedings 14 (1), 184, 2023

  • O-172 Evaluation of the effect of a topical anaesthetic/antiseptic formulation for the treatment of contagious ecthyma in lambs on the concentration of serum amyloid A
    A Ortín, S Villanueva-Saz, M Ríos, A Fernández, MT Tejedor, …
    Animal-science proceedings 14 (1), 184-185, 2023

  • O-168 Livestock analgesia for improved welfare: An update
    P Windsor
    Animal-science proceedings 14 (1), 181-182, 2023

  • O-134 Efficiency of different infection routes for the experimental reproduction of contagious ecthyma in lambs
    M Cuadra, A Calvo, T Tejedor, A Rodríguez-Largo, E Pérez, P Windsor, …
    Animal-science proceedings 14 (1), 156, 2023

  • O-173 Rethinking use of topical anaesthesia for improved livestock welfare
    P Windsor
    Animal-science proceedings 14 (1), 185-186, 2023

  • RT-08 Veterinary services for small ruminants in SE Asia
    P Windsor
    Animal-science proceedings 14 (1), 51-52, 2023

  • PL-2 History of the Merino in Australia
    P Windsor
    Animal-science proceedings 14 (1), 2-3, 2023

  • Multiple benefits of molasses nutrient blocks for cattle: helping the fight against climate change
    P Windsor
    Research Outreach, 66-69, 2023

  • Provision of high-quality molasses blocks to improve productivity and address greenhouse gas emissions from smallholder cattle and buffalo: studies from Lao PDR
    PA Windsor, J Hill
    Animals 12 (23), 3319, 2023

  • Role of topical anaesthesia in pain management of farm animals, a changing paradigm
    PA Windsor
    Animals 12 (18), 2459, 2022

  • Method of Disease Control
    CR Olsson, M Sheil, A Giffard, P Windsor
    US Patent App. 17/613,771, 2022

  • Changes in farmer animal health and biosecurity knowledge, attitudes and practices: Insights from Cambodia and Laos
    I MacPhillamy, L Olmo, J Young, S Nampanya, S Suon, S Khounsy, …
    Transboundary and Emerging Diseases 69 (4), e517-e531, 2022

  • Contributions of village animal health workers to foot-and-mouth disease control in Cambodia
    S Sieng, IW Patrick, PA Windsor, SW Walkden‐Brown, J Kerr, S Sen, …
    Transboundary and Emerging Diseases 69 (4), e406-e422, 2022

 

Mohammad Reza Pahlavan Rad | Soil Science | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Mohammad Reza Pahlavan Rad | Soil Science | Best Researcher Award

Agricultural Research Education And Extension Organization (AREEO), Iran

Dr. Mohammad Reza Pahlavan-Rad is an Associate Professor at the Soil and Water Research Department of AREEO, Gorgan, Iran. He holds a Ph.D. in Soil Science from Gorgan University of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, with a specialization in digital soil mapping, soil salinity, and machine learning applications in soil science.

Profile:

🎓 Education:

  • Ph.D. in Soil Science, Gorgan University of Agricultural Sciences & Natural Resources (2014)
    Thesis: Mapping and Updating Soil Map Using Random Forest and Multinomial Logistic Regression

  • M.S. in Soil Science, Gorgan University of Agricultural Sciences & Natural Resources (2006)
    Thesis: Effects of Irrigation Systems on Soil Moisture, Salinity, and Nutrient Uptake in Wheat

  • B.S. in Soil Science, Guilan University (1998)

👨‍🏫 Academic Positions:

  • Associate Professor, Dept. of Soil Science (2023–Present)

  • Assistant Professor, Dept. of Soil Science (2014–2023)

🔬 Research Focus:

Dr. Pahlavan-Rad’s work specializes in digital soil mapping, soil salinity modeling, soil texture and organic carbon prediction, and application of machine learning (e.g., Random Forest, MLR) in soil science. His regional expertise includes arid and floodplain landscapes in Iran and collaborative research in Europe, particularly the Czech Republic.

Citation Metrics:

  • Total Citations: 1,132

  • Citations Since 2020: 833

  • h-index: 13 (since 2020: 12)

  • i10-index: 15 (since 2020: 14)

Publication Top Notes:

  • Updating Soil Survey Maps Using Random Forest and Conditioned Latin Hypercube Sampling in the Loess Derived Soils of Northern Iran
    Geoderma, 232, 97–106. (2014)

  • Development and Analysis of the Soil Water Infiltration Global Database
    Earth System Science Data, 10(3), 1237–1263. (2018)

  • Response of Wheat Plants to Zinc, Iron, and Manganese Applications and Uptake and Concentration of Zinc, Iron, and Manganese in Wheat Grains
    Communications in Soil Science and Plant Analysis, 40(7–8), 1322–1332. (2009)

  • Spatial Variability of Soil Texture Fractions and pH in a Flood Plain (Case Study from Eastern Iran)
    Catena, 160, 275–281. (2018)

  • Application of Artificial Neural Networks to Predict the Final Fruit Weight and Random Forest to Select Important Variables in Native Population of Melon (Cucumis melo L.)
    Scientia Horticulturae, 181, 108–112. (2015)

  • Prediction of Soil Water Infiltration Using Multiple Linear Regression and Random Forest in a Dry Flood Plain, Eastern Iran
    Catena, 194, 104715. (2020)

  • Legacy Soil Maps as a Covariate in Digital Soil Mapping: A Case Study from Northern Iran
    Geoderma, 279, 141–148. (2016)

  • Predicting Regional Spatial Distribution of Soil Texture in Floodplains Using Remote Sensing Data: A Case of Southeastern Iran
    Catena, 182, 104149. (2019)

  • Predicting Soil Organic Carbon Concentrations in a Low Relief Landscape, Eastern Iran
    Geoderma Regional, 15, e00195. (2018)

  • Digital Soil Mapping of Deltaic Soils: A Case of Study from Hirmand (Helmand) River Delta
    Geoderma, 313, 233–240. (2018)

  • Effects of Potassium Rates and Irrigation Regimes on Yield of Forage Sorghum in Arid Regions
    International Journal of Agronomy and Agricultural Research, 6(4), 207–212. (2015)

  • Digital Soil Mapping Using Random Forest Model in Golestan Province
    Journal of Water and Soil Conservation, 21(6), 73–93. (2015)

  • Prediction of Soil Properties Using Random Forest with Sparse Data in a Semi-Active Volcanic Mountain
    Eurasian Soil Science, 53(9), 1222–1233. (2020)

  • Effects of Application of Zn, Fe and Mn on Yield, Yield Component, Nutrient Concentration and Uptake in Wheat Grain
    Pajouhesh & Sazandegi, 79, 142–150. (2008)

  • Nutrient Uptake, Soil and Plant Nutrient Contents, and Yield Components of Wheat Plants Under Different Planting Systems and Various Irrigation Frequencies
    Journal of Plant Nutrition, 34(8), 1133–1143. (2011)

  • Application of Generalized Additive Model and Classification and Regression Tree to Estimate Potential Habitat Distribution of Range Plant Species (Case Study: Khazri …)
    Iranian Journal of Range and Desert Research, 27(3), 561–576. (2020)

  • Application of Random Forest Method for Predicting Soil Classes in Low Relief Lands (Case Study: Hirmand County)
    Journal of Water and Soil Conservation, 24(1), 67–84. (2017)

  • Spatial Prediction of WRB Soil Classes in an Arid Floodplain Using Multinomial Logistic Regression and Random Forest Models, South-East of Iran
    Arabian Journal of Geosciences, 13, 1–11. (2020)

  • Digital Soil Mapping of Soil Classes in Floodplain and Low Relief Lands (Case Study: Hirmand County)
    Journal of Water and Soil Resources Conservation, 9(4), 107–120. (2020)

  • Digital Soil Mapping Using Machine Learning-Based Methods to Predict Soil Organic Carbon in Two Different Districts in the Czech Republic
    Soil & Water Research, 19(1). (2024)

  • Predicting Spatial Variability of Soil Salinity and Clay Content Using Geostatistics and Artificial Neural Networks Methods (Short Technical Report)
    Journal of Soil Management and Sustainable Production, 6(1), 247–254. (2016)

  • Responses of Wheat Plants in Terms of Soil Water Content, Bulk Density, Salinity, and Root Growth Under Different Planting Systems and Various Irrigation Frequencies
    Journal of Plant Nutrition, 33(6), 874–888. (2010)

  • Digital Modeling of Surface and Subsurface Soil Salinity in Golestan Province, Iran
    Geoderma Regional, 37, e00800. (2024)

  • Modeling Wheat Yield Using Some Soil Properties at the Field Scale (Case Study: Sistan Dam Research Farm, University of Zabol)
    Agricultural Engineering, 44(1), 81–95. (2021)

  • Preparation of Three-Dimensional Maps of Soil Particle Size Fractions by Combining Quantile Regression Forest Algorithm and Spline Depth Function in Golestan Province
    Iranian Journal of Soil and Water Research, 55(1), 51–68. (2024)

 

zongzheng zou | Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. zongzheng zou | Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

Capital Medical University,  China

Mr. Zou Zongzheng, born in Hubei in 1998, is a promising young researcher in the field of ophthalmology. He earned his M.S. in Ophthalmology from Shandong First Medical University and his B.S. in Optometry from Hubei University of Science and Technology. His research focuses on ocular diseases, particularly meibomian gland dysfunction and herpes simplex virus keratitis. He has published in leading journals such as Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy, including both original studies and review articles.

Profile:

🎓 Education:

  • 🎓 Master of Science in Ophthalmology – Shandong First Medical University, Jinan

  • 🎓 Bachelor of Science in Optometry – Hubei University of Science and Technology, Xianning

🏅 Awards & Honors:

  • 🏆 National Scholarship for Graduate Students (2022)

  • 🎖️ Second-Class Postgraduate Scholarship (2021)

  • 🌟 Excellent School Communist Youth League Member (2022)

🔬 Research Experience:

  • 🔍 Participated in NSFC Youth Program project (82301182) focusing on MANF’s role in nerve repair via modulation of NETs

  • 🧪 Led animal experiments and molecular biology analyses

  • 💡 Master’s research on astrocyte-derived MANF in herpes simplex keratitis, exploring NETs inhibition and immune modulation—currently submitted to Advanced Science

  • 📝 Reviewer for the Journal of Ethnopharmacology

📌 Research Interests:

  • 👁️ Ophthalmology & Meibomian Gland Dysfunction

  • 🧠 Neuroinflammation & Immune Regulation

  • 🦠 Neutrophil Extracellular Traps (NETs) in Ocular Diseases

Publication:

  • Loss of TRPM8 Exacerbate Herpes Simplex Keratitis Infection in Mice by Promoting the Infiltration of CD11b+ Ly6G+ Cells and Increasing the Viral Load in the Cornea

Azadeh N. Noorivandi | Agricultural Extension | Best Researcher Award

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Azadeh N. Noorivandi |  Agricultural Extension | Best Researcher Award

Islamic Azad University, Iran

Azadeh N. Noorivandi is an Assistant Professor at the Islamic Azad University, Shoushtar Branch, with a strong research portfolio focused on agricultural extension, sustainable development, organic farming, and food security in Iran. Her work bridges the domains of agricultural education, innovation management, and rural development, often employing qualitative and structural modeling approaches such as SEM and AHP. Dr. Noorivandi has co-authored numerous high-impact papers in peer-reviewed journals, including the Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology, Discover Sustainability, and Biological Agriculture & Horticulture. She has contributed to advancing knowledge in agricultural startup ecosystems, learning organizations in cooperatives, science and technology parks, and performance management in extension services. Her interdisciplinary research has become a critical resource for shaping policies and practices in sustainable agriculture and rural livelihoods in Iran.

Profile:

Citation Metrics (as of 2025):

  • Total Citations: 116

  • Citations since 2020: 63

  • h-index: 5

  • h-index since 2020: 4

  • i10-index: 3

  • i10-index since 2020: 1

Publication Top Notes:

  1. Role of extension and education programs in development of organic farming in Lorestan Province, Iran

  2. Agricultural start-up ecosystem: A model of entrepreneurial ecosystem in Iran

  3. Agricultural extension education model to household food security (AEE to HFS) in Khouzestan Province, Iran

  4. Designing the structural equation model (SEM) for improving marketing of organic products (MOP) in Lorestan Province, Iran

  5. Identifying and prioritizing performance management challenges in Iran’s agricultural extension and education

  6. Identifying and prioritizing performance management challenges in Iran’s agricultural extension and education

  7. Challenges of sustainable food security in Iran: Using grounded theory and AHP

  8. Designing a model to improve the role of science and technology parks in the development of agricultural technologies

  9. Qualitative analysis and prioritization of the challenges of sustainable agricultural development through grounded theory and AHP in Iran

  10. Designing a model of sustainable human resource development in agricultural extension and education organizations of Iran

  11. Identifying the conceptual model of sustainable food security with a resistance economy approach in the rural community of Khuzestan Province: A qualitative approach

  12. Identifying and prioritizing the challenges of sustainable livelihood of villagers in Dezful Township

  13. Identifying and prioritizing the challenges of organic farming development among farmers in Lorestan Province

  14. Identifying the barriers of science and technology parks (STPs) in the development of agricultural technology in Iran

  15. What should we do to make extension training a learning organization? A mixed approach in rural cooperatives of Alborz Province

  16. Learning organization model in agricultural cooperatives of Iran: A two-step approach to SEM based on DLOQ

  17. Learning organization model in agricultural cooperatives of Iran: A two-step approach to SEM based on DLOQ

  18. Qualitative analysis and prioritization of the challenges of sustainable agricultural development through grounded theory and AHP in Iran (Persian title translated)

  19. Application of SEM analysis for designing strategic model for agricultural sustainable development (ASD) in Iran

  20. Comparative analysis of the status of agricultural cooperative extension training in compliance with the learning organization in Iran

 

Indra Jeet Chaudhary | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Indra Jeet Chaudhary | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Assistant Professor at Savitribai Phule Pune University, India

Dr. Indra Jeet Chaudhary is an Assistant Professor at the Department of Environmental Science at Savitribai Phule Pune University. He completed his Ph.D. in Environmental Science from Central University of Gujarat in 2022. His research focuses on environmental pollution assessment, plant stress physiology, and wastewater treatment. Dr. Chaudhary has contributed to various environmental projects and has guided postgraduate students on topics related to pollution and plant stress. He is actively involved in academic leadership and has earned several honors, including the Young Scientist Award in 2022. Dr. Chaudhary is passionate about fostering sustainable environmental practices and advancing research in his field.

Profile:

Research Interests:

  • Environmental Pollution Assessment

  • Plant Stress Physiology

  • Waste Water Treatment

  • Impact of Ozone Pollution on Crop Plants

Education:

  • Ph.D. in Environmental Science, Central University of Gujarat (2022)

  • M.Phil. in Environmental Science, Central University of Gujarat (2016)

  • M.Sc. in Environmental Science, Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University, Lucknow (2012)

  • B.Sc. in Zoology, Botany, Chemistry, University of Lucknow (2009)

Professional Experience:

  • Assistant Professor, Department of Environmental Science, Savitribai Phule Pune University (Nov 2022 – Present)

  • Project Fellow, Central University of Gujarat (2016-2019)

Fellowships and Honors:

  • UGC-Net Qualified (Environmental Sciences), 2019

  • Young Scientist Award, VDGOOD® Professional Association (2022)

  • Best Poster Presentation Award, 9th ICER, Amity University (2018)

Technical Skills & Equipment Expertise:

  • FTIR, SEM, Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer, ICP-OES, UV-Visible Spectrophotometer, Respirable Dust Sampler

  • Guided MSc students on environmental pollution assessment and plant stress physiology projects

Extracurricular Activities:

  • Green Audit Rally for Community Sensitization (2019)

  • Winner of 7th Annual Sports Meet (Cricket) at Central University of Gujarat

Citations:

  • Total Citations: 722

  • Citations Since 2020: 704

h-index:

  • Overall: 14

  • Since 2020: 14

i10-index:

  • Overall: 18

  • Since 2020: 18

Publication Top Notes:

  • Dust pollution: Its removal and effect on foliage physiology of urban trees
    IJ Chaudhary, D Rathore
    Sustainable Cities and Society, 51, 101696 (2019)

  • Suspended particulate matter deposition and its impact on urban trees
    IJ Chaudhary, D Rathore
    Atmospheric Pollution Research, 9(6), 1072-1082 (2018)

  • Crop Residue Burning and Its Effects on the Environment and Microbial Communities
    IJ Chaudhary, S Soni
    Microbes in Agriculture and Environmental Development, 1, 20 (2020)

  • Titanium Dioxide Nanoparticles and its Impact on Growth, Biomass and Yield of Agricultural Crops under Environmental Stress: A Review
    VS Indra Jeet Chaudhary
    Research Journal of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, 10(1), 1-8 (2020)

  • Ozone risk assessment of castor (Ricinus communis L.) cultivars using open top chamber and ethylenediurea (EDU)
    D Rathore, IJ Chaudhary
    Environmental Pollution, 244, 257-269 (2019)

  • Relative effectiveness of ethylenediurea, phenyl urea, ascorbic acid and urea in preventing groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L) crop from ground level ozone
    IJ Chaudhary, D Rathore
    Environmental Technology & Innovation, 19, 100963 (2020)

  • Assessment of ozone toxicity on cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) cultivars: Its defensive system and intraspecific sensitivity
    IJ Chaudhary, D Rathore
    Plant Physiology and Biochemistry, 166, 912-927 (2021)

  • Utilization of Low-cost Agricultural Waste for Removal of Toxic Metals from Environment: A Review
    S Singh, IJ Chaudhary, P Kumar
    Int. J. Sci. Res. in Biological Sciences, 6(4), 56-61 (2019)

  • Assessment of dose–response relationship between ozone dose and groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L) cultivars using Open Top Chamber (OTC) and Ethylenediurea (EDU)
    IJ Chaudhary, D Rathore
    Environmental Technology & Innovation, 22, 101494 (2021)

  • Nutrient Management Technologies and the Role of Organic Matrix-Based Slow-Release Biofertilizers for Agricultural Sustainability: A Review
    IJ Chaudhary, A Neeraj, MA Siddiqui, V Singh
    Agricultural Reviews, 41(1), 1-13 (2020)

  • Effects of tropospheric ozone on groundnut (Arachis hypogea L.) cultivars: Role of plant age and antioxidative potential
    D Rathore, IJ Chaudhary
    Atmospheric Pollution Research, 12(3), 381-395 (2021)

  • Dust pollution: its removal and effect on foliage physiology of urban trees
    IJ Chaudhary, D Rathore
    Sustain Cities Soc, 51, 101696 (2019)

  • Effects of ambient and elevated ozone on morphophysiology of cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) and its correlation with yield traits
    IJ Chaudhary, D Rathore
    Environmental Technology & Innovation, 25, 102146 (2022)

  • Impact Assessment of Different Organic Manures on Growth, Morphology and Yield of Onion (Allium cepa L.) Cultivar
    KN Shah, IJ Chaudhary, DK Rana, V Singh
    Asian Journal of Agricultural Research, 13(1), 20-27 (2019)

  • Indian traditional trees and their scientific relevance
    AK Tiwari, IJ Chaudhary, AK Pandey
    Journal of Medicinal Plants, 7(3), 29-32 (2019)

  • Effectiveness of nanoparticles in improving soil fertility and eco-friendly crop resistance: A comprehensive review
    SS Kale, R Chauhan, B Nigam, S Gosavi, IJ Chaudhary
    Biocatalysis and Agricultural Biotechnology, 56, 103066 (2024)

  • PHYTOMONITORING OF DUST LOAD AND ITS EFFECT ON FOLIAR MICRO MORPHOLOGICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF URBAN TREES
    IJ Chaudhary, D Rathore
    Journal of Plant Science, 2(3), 170-179 (2018)

  • Micro-morphological and anatomical response of groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) cultivars to ground-level ozone
    IJ Chaudhary, D Rathore
    Journal of Applied Biology and Biotechnology, 9(4), 137-150 (2021)

  • Effect of elevated ozone on soybean (Glycine max L.) cultivar: Role of orange juice and synthetic ascorbic acid
    IJ Chaudhary, B Nigam, D Rathore
    Nature Environment and Pollution Technology, 22, 1225-1238 (2023)

  • Growth, yield and quality of knol-khol (Brassica oleracea var. gongylodes) as affected by fertilizer management
    KN Shah, IJ Chaudhary, DK Rana, V Singh
    Fundamental and Applied Agriculture, 4(3), 959–969 (2019)

 

Zitong Fei | Environment | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Zitong Fei | Environment | Best Researcher Award

Postdoctoral at Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School, China

Dr. Zitong Fei, born in August 1997, is a materials scientist specializing in the recycling and regeneration of spent lithium-ion battery cathode materials. She earned her Ph.D. in Metallurgical Physical Chemistry from Kunming University of Science and Technology in 2024, where she also completed her Master’s degree in Metallurgical Engineering in 2020. Under the supervision of Professor Yingjie Zhang, her research has focused on high-voltage LiCoO₂ cathode materials and sustainable regeneration technologies for cobalt-based electrodes.

Profile:

🎓 Educational Background:

  • Ph.D. in Metallurgical Physical Chemistry (2020.08 – 2024.06)
    Kunming University of Science and Technology
    Research Focus: Direct regeneration mechanisms of spent LiCoO₂ cathode materials
    Supervisor: Prof. Yingjie Zhang

  • M.Sc. in Metallurgical Engineering (2019.08 – 2020.07)
    Kunming University of Science and Technology
    Research Focus: High-voltage LiCoO₂ cathode material design

🧪 Research Expertise:

Dr. Fei’s work revolves around the regeneration and recycling of spent lithium-ion batteries, with a particular focus on cathode material recovery, environmental sustainability, and green chemistry applications.

🛠️ Patents (10+):

  • Targeted oxidative solvent for cathode regeneration

  • Single crystal and rapid regeneration methods for ternary materials

  • Battery disassembly and recycling devices

  • Deep eutectic solvent recovery systems

Dr. Fei holds over 10 national and international patents in advanced lithium battery recycling technologies.

📊 Citation Metrics:

  • Total Citations: 522

  • Cited by: 387 documents

  • Total Publications: 20

  • h-index: 10

Publication Top Notes:

  • Su, Y., Fei, Z., Fan, Y., Peng, X., & Dong, P. (2025). Enhanced selective lithium extraction and regeneration of spent LiNi₁/₃Co₁/₃Mn₁/₃O₂ through carbon–sulfur composite roasting. Separation and Purification Technology.

  • Liu, Q., Li, Y., Fei, Z., Peng, X., & Dong, P. (2025). Review and perspectives on direct regeneration of spent ternary cathode materials based on failure mechanisms. (Journal name not specified).

 

Shivani Srivastava | Home Science | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Shivani Srivastava | Home Science | Best Researcher Award

Professor at Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Girls Government Degree College aliganj,  Lucknow,  India

Prof. Shivani Srivastava is an accomplished academic with over 25 years of teaching and research experience in Home Science, specializing in Extension Education and Women Studies. She holds a Ph.D. from Banaras Hindu University and has qualified both UGC-NET and ICAR-NET multiple times. Her scholarly contributions include over 35 publications in UGC CARE and Scopus-indexed journals, 7 books, and 2 patents. She has completed two research projects and successfully guided four Ph.D. scholars. In addition to her academic work, Prof. Srivastava serves as Director of the Research and Development Committee, IQAC Director, and Chief Proctor. She is actively involved in curriculum development as a member of various Boards of Studies and has organized several national and international seminars and workshops.

Profile:

🎓 Academic Background:

  • B.Sc. (Home Science) – 77.10% – Narendra Dev University of Agriculture & Technology (1994)

  • M.Sc. (Home Science) – 75% – Banaras Hindu University (1997)

  • Ph.D. in Home Science (Extension Education) – BHU (2002)

  • UGC-NET & ICAR-NET qualified (4 times total)

  • Merit Scholarship holder at UG & PG levels

🔬 Research & Innovation:

  • 📚 Published Research Papers: 35+ (UGC CARE & Scopus indexed)

  • 📘 Books Authored: 7 (ISBN)

  • 🧪 Research Projects: 2 completed

  • 🧾 Patents: 2 (1 published, 1 under process)

  • 📊 Citation Index: 8 | H-index: 2

🏛️ Academic Leadership:

  • Director, Research & Development Committee

  • IQAC Director & Chief Proctor

  • Member, Board of Studies (Multiple Universities)

  • Organizer of several national & international seminars

  • Guided 4 Ph.D. scholars

  • Cleared Principalship exam by the Higher Education Commission (2021)

Publication Top Notes:

  1. Changing status of Women in India
    S Srivastava
    International Journal of Research in Humanities & Social Sciences, 4 (8), 68-77, 2016

  2. Social responsibilities among students in national service scheme through participatory methods in India
    Shivani Srivastava, Lucknow
    University News, 53 (25), 23-26, 2015

  3. Political awareness of Panchayati Raj leaders (especially women) in Naugra Block of Chandauli district, Uttar Pradesh
    S Srivastava, SL Gupta
    Journal of Dairying Foods & Home Sciences, 19 (3 and 4), 206-210, 2000

  4. An Evaluation of Usage of Effective Recommendations in School-Based Nutrition Interventions Conducted in India Between 2010-2021: A Review Paper
    SS Singh, Richa
    International Journal of Research and Review, 11 (3), 526-539, 2024

  5. An Exploratory Study on Women Entrepreneurship: An Instinctive Approach
    Tiwari Monika, Srivastava Shivani
    International Journal of Social Science and Management Studies, 10 (2), 41-47, 2024

  6. Bhartiya Gyan Parampara Ke Sanrakshan Mein Adivasiyon Ki Bhoomika
    SA Srivastava, Shivani
    International Journal of Research in Humanities & Social Sciences, 2024

  7. Ensuring Urban Food Security Through Nutritional Gardens
    S Shivani
    Third Concept: An International Journal of Ideas, 37 (433), 28-32, 2023

  8. Comparative Study on Emotional Maturity Among Orphan and Non-Orphan Adolescent Girls
    SS Upadhyay, Pragya, Tiwari Monika
    Annals of the Bhandarkar Oriental Research Institute, 169-178, 2023

  9. Novel Methods for Evaluation of Herbal Plants Benefits During COVID-19: Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Perspective
    S Shivani
    NeuroQuantology, 20 (10), 6767-6773, 2022

  10. A Study on Health and Sanitation Practices Among Women Residing in Slum Areas of Lucknow District
    S Srivastava
    Asian Journal of Home Science, 15 (1), 143-148, 2020

  11. Empowering Women Through Participatory Methods
    S Srivastava
    Kalpaz Publications, Delhi, 1, 9-165, 2018

  12. Dependency of Forest and Tree Products for Food Security in Tribal Areas of Naugarh Block, Chandauli District
    S Srivastava
    Research Reach Journal of Home Science, 13 (2), 24-30, 2014

  13. Gender Perception Through Participatory Methods
    S Srivastava
    Asian Journal of Home Science, 8 (2), 530-532, 2013

  14. Elder People Living in Old Age Homes of Lucknow
    S Srivastava
    Asian Resonance, 2 (3), 182-184, 2013

  15. Gender Perception Through Participatory Methods
    SS Shivani Srivastava
    2013

  16. Socio-Personal Characteristics of Women from the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes
    SS Shivani Srivastava
    2006

  17. Gardening Perception and Practices Related to the Medicinal Plantation: A Factor Loading Analysis
    S Srivastava, S Fatima
    2013

 

Joyce Abrafi Opoku | Sustainable Agriculture | Best Researcher Award

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Ms. Joyce Abrafi Opoku | Sustainable Agriculture | Best Researcher Award

Seventh-day Adventist College of Education, Asokore- Koforidua, Ghana

Joyce Abrafi Opoku is the Director of Professional Development, Research, and International Relations at the Seventh-day Adventist College of Education in Asokore-Koforidua, Ghana. With a research focus on sustainable agriculture and the propagation of difficult-to-propagate plant species, she has contributed significantly to applied agricultural science. Ms. Opoku has authored four publications and participated in additional collaborative research projects. Her dedication has earned her several recognitions, including the “Best Institutional Farmer” award in 2017 and both the “Principal’s Excellence Award” and “Milestone Achievement Award” in 2024. She has served in key academic and administrative roles, including Dean of Students’ Affairs, Head of the Science Department, and Unit Head of Agriculture. A committed member of several professional bodies, including the Horticultural Society of Ghana and the Agricultural Science Teachers’ Association of Ghana, Ms. Opoku continues to advance agricultural education and practice through research and leadership.

Profile:

🧪 Research Focus:

Joyce Abrafi Opoku’s research centers on the use of organic resources for sustainable agriculture and the enhancement of propagation methods for challenging plant species. Her contributions bridge scientific practice and community agriculture.

🏆 Achievements:

  • Best Institutional Farmer Award (2017) – National Farmer’s Day, New Juabeng North Municipality 🚜

  • Principal’s Excellence Award (2024) 🎓

  • Milestone Achievement Award (2024) 🌟

  • Authored four publications and contributed to additional works in progress 📄

🎓 Academic & Administrative Roles:

  • Former Dean of Students’ Affairs

  • Head of the Science Department

  • Unit Head of Agriculture

  • Committee Member – Appointments and Finance, SDA College of Education

🤝 Professional Memberships:

  • Horticultural Society of Ghana 🌼

  • Colleges of Education Teachers’ Association of Ghana (CETAG)

  • Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT)

  • Agricultural Science Teachers’ Association of Ghana (ASTAG)

Publication Top Notes:

  • Effect of Pre-Sowing Treatments on Seed Germination and Seedling Growth of Silver Butterfly Tree (Bauhinia rufescens)
    Current Agriculture Research Journal, 2018-12-28
    DOI: 10.12944/CARJ.6.3.13
    Contributors: J. A. Opoku, J. N. Amissah, M. E. Essilfie, J. C. Norman

  • Seed Germination Percentage and Growth Performance of Caesalpinia pulcherrima as Influenced by Different Pre-Sowing Treatments
    Journal of Forestry, 2018-07-31
    Contributor: Joyce Abrafi Opoku