Workiye Abera | Food | Best Scholar Award

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Mr Workiye Abera |  Food  |  Best Scholar Award

Lecturer and Researcher at  Debre Tabor University,  Ethiopia

Workiye Getnet Abera is a dedicated Ethiopian academic and researcher born on October 12, 1991, in South Gondar, Amhara, Ethiopia. He holds a B.Sc. in Chemical Engineering (Environmental Engineering Stream, 2017) and an M.Sc. in Process Engineering (2020) from Jimma University.

 

Publication Profile

🎓 Educational Background:

  • M.Sc. in Process Engineering: Jimma University (2018–2020), Thesis: Synthesis and Characterization of Bioplastic Film from Banana Peel Starch Blending with Banana Pseudo-Stem Fiber.
  • B.Sc. in Chemical Engineering: Jimma University (2013–2017), Thesis: Synthesis and Characterization of Furfural from Sugar Cane Bagasse for Engine Fuel Application.

💼 Professional Experience:

  • Lecturer: Debre Tabor University, Ethiopia (Feb 2024 – Present)
  • Lecturer: Dilla University, Ethiopia (Feb 2020 – Feb 2024)
  • Internship Trainer: Fincha Sugar Factory, Ethiopia (Oct 2015 – Feb 2016)
  • Reviewer: Elsevier (2023–Present) & Springer (2024–Present)

🛠️ Skills:

Proficient in software such as MATLAB, Aspen Plus, Design Expert, MiniTab, and Ansys.

Publication Top Note:

  • “Quality Assessment of Gluten-Free Sorghum Bread Prepared with Sourdough and the Addition of Sweet Lupin Flour”
    CYTA – Journal of Food, 2024.
    DOI: 10.1080/19476337.2024.2397022.
  • “Synthesis, Characterization, and Optimization of Antimicrobial Biolubricant Derived from Ocimum lamiifolium and Lactic Acid”
    Heliyon, 2024.
    DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e38972.
  • “Synthesis and Characterization of Bioplastic Film from Banana (Musa Cavendish Species) Peel Starch Blending with Banana Pseudo-Stem Cellulosic Fiber”
    Biomass Conversion and Biorefinery, 2023.
    DOI: 10.1007/s13399-023-04207-8.

 

 

Kedir Jebo | Food Science | Young Scientist Award

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Mr Kedir Jebo | Food Science |  Young Scientist Award

Researcher at  Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research, Ethiopia

Kedir Kebero Jebo is a Food Science and Nutrition Researcher at the Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research. He holds a Master’s degree in Food Science and Nutrition from Addis Ababa University and a Bachelor’s degree in Food Science and Post-Harvest Technology from Hawassa University. His research focuses on food science and nutrition, including the analysis of microbial, chemical, and anti-nutritional contents of agricultural commodities and animal products.

 

Publication Profile

🎓 Education:

  • MSc in Food Science and Nutrition – Addis Ababa University (2019–2021)
    Thesis: Development and Optimization of Wheat-Sorghum-based Bread Enhanced with Orange Flashed Sweet Potato.
  • BSc in Food Science and Post-Harvest Technology – Hawassa University (2008–2013)
    Thesis: Development of Chips from Cassava and Sensory Characteristics of Sweet Variety Cassava Chips.

💼 Work Experience:

  1. Researcher (Food Science and Nutrition) – Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research (2017–Present)
    • Conducts research on food science, nutrition, and bioactive compounds.
    • Provides community training on nutrition education, food processing, and post-harvest management.
  2. Food Processing Associate – TechnoServe Ethiopia (June–November 2023)
    • Coordinated technical assistance and supported sector-wide training events.
  3. Researcher (Food Technology) – Ethiopian Food, Beverage, and Pharmaceutical Industry Development (2016–2017)
    • Conducted research on food science and performed dietary behavior assessments.
  4. Plant Operator – Selale Dairy Cooperative Union (2014–2016)
    • Operated pasteurized milk processing and supervised production shifts.

🏆 Awards and Recognitions:

  • Certificate of Presentation at Biennial Africa Climate Smart Agriculture Stakeholders Conference (2022).
  • Recognition for participation in “Food Factory 4-Us Sustainable Supply Chain Competition” (2021).
  • Training completion certificates in food safety and thermal processing.

🌟 Skills:

  • Research: Expertise in food formulation, bioactive compounds, and data analysis.
  • Languages: Fluent in Oromo, Amharic, and English; basic Arabic.
  • Digital Tools: Proficient in Microsoft Office, statistical software, and data collection tools.

🌱 Memberships:

  • Food and Nutrition Society of Ethiopia.
  • Ethiopian Crop Science Society.
  • Ethiopian Society of Post-Harvest Management.

Publication Top Note:

  • Formulation and Quality Evaluation of Finger Millet-Based Composite Food Products
    M. Feyera, F. Dasa, K. Kebero, M. Esvaran, P.L. Conway, L. Aifeng
    International Journal of Nutrition and Food Sciences, 10(3), 59-65, 2021.
  • Finger Millet—A Possible Source of Human Nourishment and Health
    K. Dida, K. Kebero
    Advances in Nutrition and Food Science, 8(1), 17-25, 2023.
  • Bio-Fortification of Cereals-Based Bread Using OFSP for Alleviating Vitamin-A Deficiency
    K. Kebero, K. Urga
    Asian Journal of Research in Biochemistry, 11(3-4), 36-44, 2022.
  • Nutritional and Organoleptic Properties of Wheat-Based Snack Foods Incorporated with Common Bean or Cowpea Flours
    K. Kebero, W. Bajo, B. Abdeta
    Tamirat Kore, Semhal Marsha, 2022.
  • Evaluation of Physicochemical and Product-Making Quality of Candidate Tomato Varieties
    K. Kebero, D. Abera, K. Dida, 2020.
  • Developing Tef-Based Biscuits
    K. Kebero, W. Bajo, 2020.
  • Bio-Fortification of Cereals-Based Bread Using Orange-Fleshed Sweet Potato
    K. Kebero, K. Urga, 2023.
  • International Journal of Current Research and Academic Review
    C. Bajji, R.K.R. Kosana, R.M. Kanumuri, M.K.R. Tummuru
    Int. J. Curr. Res. Acad. Rev., 6(5), 50-65, 2018.

 

 

Hashini Abeysuriya | Food Science | Best Researcher Award

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Mrs Hashini Abeysuriya | Food Science |  Best Researcher Award

Lecturer at University of Ruhuna, Sri Lanka, Sri Lanka

Hashini Imalsha Abeysuriya is a dedicated academic and researcher specializing in Food Science and Technology. She earned her M.Phil. in Natural Product Chemistry from the University of Ruhuna, Sri Lanka, in November 2020, where her thesis focused on the vitamin C content and antioxidant properties of various fruits. She also holds a B.Sc. Special degree in Food Science & Technology (1st Class, GPA: 3.9/4.0) from the University of Sri Jayewardenepura.

 

Publication Profile

Academic Qualifications:

  • M.Phil. in Natural Product Chemistry (2020)
    University of Ruhuna, Sri Lanka
    Thesis: Vitamin C content, antioxidant properties, and iron content in common, underutilized, and wild fruits of Sri Lanka under various storage conditions.
  • B.Sc. Special Degree in Food Science & Technology (2014, 1st Class, GPA: 3.9/4.0)
    University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Sri Lanka
    Thesis: Design and development of a low-cost prototype food penetrometer to measure food quality.

Professional Experience:

  • Lecturer, Department of Food Science and Technology, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Ruhuna (2021 – Present)
  • Visiting Lecturer, University College of Matara (2021 – Present)
  • Temporary Demonstrator, University College of Matara (2019 – 2021)
  • Graduate Intern, Institute of Nanotechnology (SLINTEC) (2015)
  • Trainee, Harischandra Mills PLC (2014)

Research Interests:

A.P.H.I. Abeysuriya’s research focuses on the nutritional properties of fruits, particularly the antioxidant capacities and vitamin C content of underutilized and wild fruits in Sri Lanka. She has contributed to various studies published in reputed journals and holds a patent for the industrial design of a food penetrometer.

Awards and Recognition:

  • Best Presenter (Poster) at the 16th Academic Sessions, University of Ruhuna.
  • First and third place at the Ruhuna Invention and Innovation Exhibition 2023 in the Southern Province Competition.

Publication Top Notes

  • Total Vitamin C, Ascorbic Acid, Dehydroascorbic Acid, Antioxidant Properties, and Iron Content of Underutilized and Commonly Consumed Fruits in Sri Lanka
    HI Abeysuriya, VP Bulugahapitiya, J Loku Pulukkuttige
    International Journal of Food Science, 2020 (1), 4783029.
  • Comparative Account of Vitamin C Contents, Antioxidant Properties and Iron Contents of Minor Fruits in Sri Lanka
    HI Abeysuriya, VP Bulugahapitiya, LP Jayatissa
    Plant Science Today, 8 (4), 795–803, 2021.
  • Variation of Vitamin C Content and Antioxidant Capacities During the Post-Harvest Storage of Fresh Fruits Under Different Temperatures
    LPJ Hashini I. Abeysuriya, Vajira P. Bulugahapitiya
    Journal of Stored Products Research, 109, 2024.
  • Characterization of Physico-Functional, Nutritional, and Antioxidant Properties of Jackfruit By-Product Flour and Assess Its Potential Use in the Development of Pasta
    GSN Fernando, A Abeysuriya, HA Dilrukshi
    Tropical Agricultural Research & Extension, 27 (3), 171-181, 2024.
  • Applications of Biomimicry in Food Analysis
    APHIA N.T. Nanayakkara, G.H.H.D. Jayasekara
    The International Conference on Biomimicry for Sustainability, 2024.
  • Functional and Nutritional Properties of Musa Paradisiaca (Ash Plantain) Flour (Peel and Flesh of Fruit) and Development of Ready-to-Serve Flakes from Musa Paradisiaca Flesh Flour
    APHIA N.T. Nanayakkara, A.A.M. Subodinee
    Agro Food, 2024.
  • Development of Novel Functional Foods from Guava (Psidium Guajava) and Veralu (Elaeocarpus Serratus) Fruits
    H Jayampathi, VP Bulugahapitiya, HI Abeysuriya
    Faculty of Agriculture, University of Ruhuna, Sri Lanka, 2023.
  • Research Article: Total Vitamin C, Ascorbic Acid, Dehydroascorbic Acid, Antioxidant Properties, and Iron Content of Underutilized and Commonly Consumed Fruits in Sri Lanka
    HI Abeysuriya, VP Bulugahapitiya, JL Pulukkuttige, 2020.
  • Comparing Accuracy and Precision of Different Analytical Methods for Determination of Vitamin C Content in Fruits and Vegetables
    HI Abeysuriya, VP Bulugahapitiya, LP Jayatissa
    Institute of Chemistry Ceylon, Rajagiriya, Sri Lanka, 2020.
  • Change in Contents of Vitamin C, Total Phenolic, Total Flavonoid, and Antioxidant Capacities of Selected Fruits Under Refrigeration
    VP Bulugahapitiya, HI Abeysuriya, LP Jayatissa
    University of Ruhuna, 2019.
  • Determination of Vitamin C Content and Antioxidant Properties of Sri Lankan Wild Fruit Species
    VP Bulugahapitiya, HI Abeysuriya, LP Jayatissa
    University of Ruhuna, 2018.
  • Determination of Total Vitamin C and Antioxidant Capacity of Selected Underutilized Fruits in Sri Lanka and the Stability of Vitamin C Under Different Storage Conditions
    HI Abeysuriya, VP Bulugahapitiya, LP Jayatissa
    Faculty of Agriculture, University of Ruhuna, Sri Lanka, 2018.
  • Antioxidant Properties, Contents of Vitamin C, Total Phenolic, Total Flavonoid, and Dietary Iron of Selected Sri Lankan Fruit Species
    VP Bulugahapitiya, HI Abeysuriya, DNA Arachchi, LP Jayatissa, 2018.
  • Design and Development of a Low Cost Prototype Food Penetrometer to Evaluate Quality of Foods
    APHI Abeysuriya, SB Navaratne, P Alwis
    International Journal of Scientific & Engineering Research, 2015.

 

Li Zheng | Plant Food Components | Best Researcher Award

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Dr Li Zheng | Plant Food Components | Best Researcher Award

Lecturer at Northeast Agricultural University, China

Dr. Li Zheng is a distinguished lecturer at the College of Food Science, Northeast Agricultural University, specializing in Food Science and Engineering with a focus on the processing and storage of agricultural products. Born on May 4, 1990, she completed her joint doctoral studies at Cornell University, USA, a prestigious Ivy League institution, before joining Northeast Agricultural University in July 2021 under the fifth-level B talent introduction program.

Profile:

🎓 Educational and Professional Journey:

Dr. Zheng’s academic journey is highlighted by her joint Ph.D. training at Cornell University, an Ivy League institution in the United States. Her research primarily focuses on the interactions of plant food components and the formation of colloidal structures, gels, and proteins.

📜 Academic Achievements:

Dr. Zheng has authored 20 scientific papers in renowned international journals, with 13 as the first or corresponding author, including publications in JCR-Q1 journals. Her work includes two highly cited papers and one hot paper, boasting a cumulative impact factor of 138.1. She has also published an article in a prestigious Science journal. Her innovative contributions are marked by four pending invention patents.

🏅 Honors and Recognition:

She has been honored as an “Academic Backbone” of Northeast Agricultural University, “Sanjiang Talents” of Jiamusi City, and “Science and Technology Special Correspondent” of Guangdong Province.

🔬 Research and Development:

Dr. Zheng has actively participated in numerous research projects, with a notable grant portfolio totaling $220,000. Her efforts have advanced scientific knowledge, improved industry practices, and facilitated cost-effective innovations. She has also been instrumental in extension activities, bridging the gap between research and practical applications through workshops and training programs.

Research Focus: Plant Food Components

Dr. Li Zheng’s research in plant food components primarily revolves around understanding and leveraging the intricate interactions within plant-based foods. Her work aims to enhance the quality, functionality, and storage of agricultural products. Key areas of her research include:

  1. Interaction of Plant Food Components:
    • Colloidal Structure Formation: Investigating how plant food components such as proteins, polysaccharides, and lipids interact to form stable colloidal systems.
    • Gel Formation: Exploring the mechanisms behind gelation in plant-based foods to develop improved textural properties in food products.
    • Protein Functionality: Studying the functional properties of plant proteins, including their solubility, emulsification, and foaming abilities, to enhance their use in various food applications.
  2. Innovation and Application:
    • Developing novel plant-based food products with improved nutritional and sensory properties.
    • Enhancing the shelf-life and stability of food products through advanced processing and storage techniques.
  3. Publications and Patents:
    • Authored 20 scientific papers in internationally recognized journals, including 9 in JCR-Q1 journals.
    • Holds 4 pending invention patents related to her research in plant food components.
  4. Project Involvement:
    • Principal investigator or participant in national and provincial research projects, focusing on high-impact studies in food science.
  5. Industry Collaboration:
    • Collaborating with industry partners to implement research findings into practical applications, improving food quality and sustainability.

Dr. Li Zheng’s dedication to plant food components research has significantly advanced the understanding of food science, driving innovation and enhancing the quality and efficiency of agricultural product processing and storage.

Publication Top Notes:

  • 3D Printing of Smart Labels with Curcumin-loaded Soy Protein Isolate
    • Authors: Li, H., Liu, M., Li, J., Wei, A., Hua, S.
    • Journal: International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, 2024
    • Citations: 5
  • Understanding the Structure, Interfacial Properties, and Digestion Fate of High Internal Phase Pickering Emulsions Stabilized by Food-Grade Coacervates
    • Authors: Wang, L., Liu, M., Guo, P., Cui, Q., Hua, S.
    • Journal: Food Chemistry, 2023
    • Citations: 15
  • Gel Properties and Structural Characteristics of Composite Gels of Soy Protein Isolate and Silver Carp Protein
    • Authors: Zheng, L., Regenstein, J.M., Zhou, L., Mokhtar, S.M., Wang, Z.
    • Journal: Gels, 2023
    • Citations: 3
  • Reconstituted Rice Protein: The Raw Materials, Techniques, and Challenges
    • Authors: Zheng, L., Regenstein, J.M., Wang, Z., Zhang, H., Zhou, L.
    • Journal: Trends in Food Science and Technology, 2023
    • Citations: 6
  • The Amur Tiger Needs Transborder Protection
    • Authors: Zheng, L., Regenstein, J.M., Jiang, L., Wang, Z.
    • Journal: Science, 2022