Biruk Wubetie | Agri-Food System | Best Researcher Award

Dr Biruk Wubetie | Agri-Food System | Best Researcher Award

Assistant Professor at Tottori University, Japan

Dr. Biruk Yazie Wubetie is an Assistant Professor at Bahir Dar University, Ethiopia, specializing in Agricultural & Environmental Sciences with a focus on Nutrition-Sensitive Agriculture. His research explores the intersection of sustainable agriculture, food security, and environmental conservation, aiming to enhance nutritional outcomes through innovative agricultural practices.

Profile:

🎓 Academic Background:

  • Ph.D. in Agricultural Sciences (Global Dryland Science), Tottori University, Japan (2024)
    • Thesis: Agro-ecosystem based analysis of dietary intake and malnutrition in the Chemoga watershed, Ethiopia
    • Applied structural equation modeling (SEM) & multilevel analysis
  • Master of Public Health in Nutrition, Debre Markos University, Ethiopia (2020)
    • Thesis: Undernutrition among lactating mothers in rural Ethiopia
  • M.A. in Development Studies, Addis Ababa University, Ethiopia (2013)
  • B.Sc. in Rural Development and Family Science, Hawassa University, Ethiopia (2009)

👨‍🏫 Teaching & Academic Experience:

  • Assistant Professor, Bahir Dar University (2024 – Present)
  • Lecturer & Researcher, Bahir Dar University (2018 – 2021)
  • Lecturer & Researcher, Debre Markos University (2010 – 2018)
  • Graduate Assistant, Wolaita Sodo University (2009 – 2010)

📌 Courses Delivered:
✅ Nutrition-Sensitive Agriculture
✅ Rural Development Policies
✅ Research Methods & Supervised Research Projects

🔬 Research & Publications:

  • Published 9 peer-reviewed articles, with several in Q1-ranked journals indexed in Web of Science, PubMed, and Scopus.
  • Research focus: Malnutrition, agroecosystem-based dietary analysis, food security, and sustainable agriculture.
  • Notable publication:
    • Analysis of Malnutrition among Children under Five Years in Northwest Ethiopia using Structural Equation Modeling. Nutrients, 2024
    • Agroecosystem-Based Household Dietary Diversity Analysis in the Upper Blue Nile Basin. Environmental Development, 2024

🏆 Grants & Awards:

  • MEXT Scholarship, Japan (2021-2024)
  • Overseas Travel Grant, Tottori University (2022, 2023)
  • Best Student Award, Hawassa University (2007)

🌱 Research & Academic Contributions:

  • Expertise in quantitative and qualitative research, structural equation modeling (SEM), and multilevel analysis
  • Secured research funding for three projects, all completed and published in reputable journals
  • Supervised undergraduate and master’s students, ensuring timely research completion
  • Extensive experience in curriculum development, online learning platforms (Blackboard, Zoom), and student mentoring

Publication Top Notes:

1️⃣ Factors Influencing Consumers’ Choice of Street-Foods and Fast-Foods in China
📄 African Journal of Marketing Management, 10(4), 28-39 (2018)
👥 Authors: HB Atinkut, Y Tingwu, B Gebisa, S Qin, K Assefa, B Yazie, T Melese, et al.

2️⃣ Determinants of the Use of Hermetic Storage Bags for Maize Storage Among Smallholder Farmers in Northwest Ethiopia
📄 Advances in Agriculture, 2021(1), 6644039 (2021)
👥 Authors: TK Mekonen, BY Wubetie

3️⃣ Undernutrition and Associated Factors Among Lactating Mothers in Rural Yilmana Densa District, Northwest Ethiopia: A Community‐Based Cross‐Sectional Study
📄 Food Science & Nutrition, 11(3), 1383-1393 (2023)
👥 Authors: BY Wubetie, TK Mekonen

4️⃣ Determinants of Women’s Participation in Agricultural Extension Services Among Rural Women Farmers in Yilmana Densa District, Northwest Ethiopia
📄 Journal of Agricultural Extension, 20(1) (2019)
👥 Authors: BAAB Yazie

5️⃣ Analysis of Malnutrition Among Children Under Five Years Across Contrasting Agroecosystems of Northwest Ethiopia: Application of Structural Equation Modeling
📄 Nutrients, 16(8), 1208 (2024)
👥 Authors: BY Wubetie, A Tsunekawa, N Haregeweyn, M Tsubo, Z Nigussie, et al.

6️⃣ Cost-Benefit Analysis of Purdue Improved Crop Storage Bags for Maize Storage Among Smallholder Farmers in Northwest Ethiopia
📄 African Journal of Food, Agriculture, Nutrition and Development, 22(9) (2022)
👥 Authors: T Kefale, Z Ayalew, Z Birhanie, BY Wubetie, D Baributsa

7️⃣ Agroecosystem-Based Analysis of Household Dietary Diversity and Its Linkage with Agricultural Production Diversification in the Upper Blue Nile Basin, Ethiopia: Multilevel Analysis
📄 Environmental Development, 100999 (2024)
👥 Authors: BY Wubetie, A Tsunekawa, N Haregeweyn, M Tsubo, Z Nigussie, et al.

8️⃣ Factors Affecting the Practice of Sustainable Land Management in East Gojjam Zone, Northwest Ethiopia
📄 Journal of Agricultural Extension, 20(2) (2019)
👥 Authors: BY Wubetie, BA Abebe

9️⃣ Assessment on Challenges and Prospects of the Community Livelihood in Upper Blue Nile, Chira Watershed, Northwest Ethiopia
📄 Unpublished/Conference Paper
👥 Authors: BY Wubetie, TK Mekonen, BA Abebe

Ratibor Štrbanović | Vegetable Plants | Best Researcher Award

Dr Ratibor Štrbanović | Vegetable Plants | Best Researcher Award

Senior Research Associate at  Institute for Plant Protection and Environment,  Serbia

Dr. Ratibor Štrbanović is a Senior Research Associate at the Institute for Plant Protection and Environment in Belgrade, Serbia. He specializes in forage crop genetics, seed quality assessment, and molecular breeding. He earned his Ph.D. in Agriculture from the University of Belgrade in 2016, focusing on the identification of alfalfa cultivars using molecular markers.

Profile:

🎓 Education & Expertise:

Dr. Ratibor Štrbanović is an accomplished plant scientist specializing in forage crop genetics, seed quality, and molecular breeding. He earned his Ph.D. in Agriculture from the University of Belgrade (2016), focusing on the identification of alfalfa cultivars using molecular markers.

🔬 Research & Professional Experience:

  • Senior Research Associate at the Institute for Plant Protection and Environment, Belgrade (2012–present)
    • Head of the Laboratory for Seed Quality Testing
    • Specializes in seed quality assurance, genetic improvement, and molecular breeding
    • Oversees ISO/IEC 17025:2017 implementation in laboratory testing
  • Research Assistant at the Institute for Forage Crops, Kruševac (2006–2011)
    • Focused on selection and breeding of perennial legumes

📑 Research Contributions & Impact:

167 scientific publications in international and national journals
Key researcher in multiple national projects on forage breeding, genetic improvement, and sustainable livestock production
Member of national commissions for soybean variety recognition
Active in scientific societies, including the Society of Geneticists and Plant Breeders of Serbia

🛠 Skills & Achievements:

✔ Expertise in genetic variability, plant breeding, and seed technology
✔ Strong background in laboratory quality management and risk analysis
✔ Fluent in English and proficient in computer applications
✔ Experienced in international collaboration and research supervision

Citation Metrics:

  • Total Citations: 104
  • h-index: 6
  • Total Publications: 21
  • Cited Documents: 97

Publication Top Notes:

  • Seed Quality and Seedling Growth After Applying Ecological Treatments to Crimson Clover Seeds
    Plants, 2025-03-07. DOI: 10.3390/plants14060839
    Authors: Ratibor Štrbanović, Branimir Šimić, Mariana Stanišić, Dobrivoj Poštić, Nenad Trkulja, Violeta Oro, Rade Stanisavljević

  • Dynamics of Moisture Release from Maize Husks as a Function of Crop Density
    Journal on Processing and Energy in Agriculture, 2024. DOI: 10.5937/jpea28-49481
    Authors: Marijneka Tabaković, Dobrivoj Poštić, Ivana Živković, Ratibor Štrbanović, Ljubiša Kolarić, Mile Sečanski, Rade Stanisavljević, Violeta Oro

  • Evaluation of the Quality Indicators of Pepper Hybrid Seeds During Germination
    Journal on Processing and Energy in Agriculture, 2024. DOI: 10.5937/jpea28-49491
    Authors: Dobrivoj Poštić, Ratibor Štrbanović, Marijenka Tabaković, Nenad Đurić, Nenad Pavlović, Sanja Đurović, Rade Stanisavljević

  • Quality of Alfalfa Seeds from Different Regions of Serbia During Storage Up to 42 Months
    Journal on Processing and Energy in Agriculture, 2024. DOI: 10.5937/jpea28-49467
    Authors: Rade Stanisavljević, Dobrivoj Poštić, Ratibor Štrbanović, Violeta Oro, Jasmina Milenković, Marijenka Tabaković, Dragoslav Đokić

  • Application of Alternative Methods of Crop Protection in Sustainable Agriculture
    Selekcija i Semenarstvo, 2023. DOI: 10.5937/SelSem2301043T
    Authors: Marijenka Tabaković, Vesna Dragičević, Ratibor Štrbanović, Ivana Živković, Milan Brankov, Sveto Rakić, Violeta Oro

  • Changes in Quality Indicators of Different Cucumber Hybrid Seeds During Five Years of Aging
    Journal on Processing and Energy in Agriculture, 2023. DOI: 10.5937/jpea27-42793
    Authors: Dobrivoj Poštić, Ratibor Štrbanović, Marijenka Tabaković, Nenad Đurić, Ivana Živković, Marija Milivojević, Rade Stanisavljević

  • Influence of the Presence of Weeds and Other Impurities in Natural Alfalfa Seed on Finishing Machines Work and Seed Quality During Three Years
    Romanian Agricultural Research, 2023. DOI: 10.59665/rar4025
    Authors: Dragoslav Đokić, Dragan Terzić, Jasmina Knežević, Aleksandar Vuković, Dobrivoj Poštić, Ratibor Štrbanović, Rade Stanisavljević

 

Zhizhou Ren | Agricultural Products | Best Researcher Award

Mr Zhizhou Ren | Agricultural Products |  Best Researcher Award

postgraduate at College of Artificial Intelligence, Nanjing Agricultural University, China

Zhizhou Ren is a postgraduate researcher specializing in smart agriculture and non-destructive detection of agricultural products. His work focuses on integrating hyperspectral imaging, electronic noses, and deep learning for efficient wheat disease detection. He has published two SCI papers in high-impact journals and developed the GFNN model, achieving 98.76% accuracy in disease identification. Ren has contributed to four major collaborative projects and holds one patent. As a member of the China Electronics Society, he actively engages in research that enhances precision agriculture and food security.

Profile:

🔬 Research Focus:

Zhizhou Ren specializes in smart agriculture and non-destructive detection of agricultural products. His research integrates hyperspectral imaging, electronic noses, and deep learning algorithms to detect wheat diseases efficiently.

📚 Key Contributions:

  • Developed the GFNN model for detecting VOCs using an electronic nose, achieving 98.76% accuracy in wheat disease detection.
  • Published two SCI papers in Q1 and Q2 journals, including Agriculture-Basel and International Journal of Agricultural and Biological Engineering.
  • Holds one patent and has contributed to four major collaborative projects funded by Jiangsu Province.

🏆 Achievements & Collaborations:

  • Active member of the China Electronics Society.
  • Engaged in consultancy and industry projects, contributing to agricultural disease management and food security.
  • Participated in prestigious research programs, including the Natural Science Foundation of Jiangsu Province.

Citations:

Citations: 948 (All), 947 (Since 2020)
h-index: 11 (All), 11 (Since 2020)
i10-index: 11 (All), 11 (Since 2020)

Publication Top Notes:

  • QPLEX: Duplex Dueling Multi-Agent Q-Learning
    J. Wang, Z. Ren, T. Liu, Y. Yu, C. Zhang
    Ninth International Conference on Learning Representations (ICLR 2021)550 citations

  • Exploration via Hindsight Goal Generation
    Z. Ren, K. Dong, Y. Zhou, Q. Liu, J. Peng
    Thirty-third Conference on Neural Information Processing Systems (NeurIPS 2019)99 citations

  • Towards Understanding Cooperative Multi-Agent Q-Learning with Value Factorization
    J. Wang, Z. Ren, B. Han, J. Ye, C. Zhang
    Thirty-fifth Conference on Neural Information Processing Systems (NeurIPS 2021)61 citations

  • Proximal Exploration for Model-guided Protein Sequence Design
    Z. Ren, J. Li, F. Ding, Y. Zhou, J. Ma, J. Peng
    Thirty-ninth International Conference on Machine Learning (ICML 2022)47 citations

  • Generalizable Episodic Memory for Deep Reinforcement Learning
    H. Hu, J. Ye, G. Zhu, Z. Ren, C. Zhang
    Thirty-eighth International Conference on Machine Learning (ICML 2021)43 citations

  • Off-Policy Reinforcement Learning with Delayed Rewards
    B. Han, Z. Ren, Z. Wu, Y. Zhou, J. Peng
    Thirty-ninth International Conference on Machine Learning (ICML 2022)41 citations

  • Learning Long-Term Reward Redistribution via Randomized Return Decomposition
    Z. Ren, R. Guo, Y. Zhou, J. Peng
    Tenth International Conference on Learning Representations (ICLR 2022 Spotlight)39 citations

  • On the Estimation Bias in Double Q-Learning
    Z. Ren, G. Zhu, H. Hu, B. Han, J. Chen, C. Zhang
    Thirty-fifth Conference on Neural Information Processing Systems (NeurIPS 2021)24 citations

  • Self-Organized Polynomial-Time Coordination Graphs
    Q. Yang, W. Dong, Z. Ren, J. Wang, T. Wang, C. Zhang
    Thirty-ninth International Conference on Machine Learning (ICML 2022)13 citations

  • Efficient Meta Reinforcement Learning for Preference-based Fast Adaptation
    Z. Ren, A. Liu, Y. Liang, J. Peng, J. Ma
    Thirty-sixth Conference on Neural Information Processing Systems (NeurIPS 2022)12 citations

  • Object-Oriented Dynamics Learning through Multi-Level Abstraction
    G. Zhu, J. Wang, Z. Ren, Z. Lin, C. Zhang
    Thirty-fourth AAAI Conference on Artificial Intelligence (AAAI 2020)11 citations

  • Full-Atom Peptide Design based on Multi-modal Flow Matching
    J. Li, C. Cheng, Z. Wu, R. Guo, S. Luo, Z. Ren, J. Peng, J. Ma
    Forty-first International Conference on Machine Learning (ICML 2024)7 citations

  • Enhancing Protein Mutation Effect Prediction through a Retrieval-Augmented Framework
    R. Guo, R. Wang, R. Wu, Z. Ren, J. Li, S. Luo, Z. Wu, Q. Liu, J. Peng, J. Ma
    Thirty-eighth Conference on Neural Information Processing Systems (NeurIPS 2024)1 citation

  • Bridging Distribution Gaps: Invariant Pattern Discovery for Dynamic Graph Learning
    Y. Jin, M. Wang, Y. Xiong, Z. Ren, C. Huo, F. Zhu, J. Zhang, G. Wang, H. Chen
    World Wide Web 27 (4), 44 (2024)

 

Anatolii Semenov | Seed Priming | Best Researcher Award

Prof Anatolii Semenov | Seed Priming | Best Researcher Award

Professor at Department of Engineering and Technology, Ukraine

Dr. Anatolii Semenov is an accomplished physicist with expertise in thermophysics, molecular physics, and ultraviolet optical technologies. He earned his PhD in 2001 from Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, specializing in acoustic relaxation processes in molecular systems. With over 250 scientific publications, 10 patents, and an h-index of 13, Dr. Semenov has made significant contributions to bactericidal disinfection technologies, agro-industrial UV applications, and food safety innovation.

Profile:

 

🎓 Education:

  • PhD in Physics and Mathematics (2002)
    Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, Ukraine. Dissertation: Molecular Mechanisms of Acoustic Relaxation Processes in Heavy Water, Propyl Alcohols, and Their Aqueous Solutions.
  • Master’s Degrees:
    • 2021: Commodity Science and Expertise in Customs Affairs, Poltava University of Economics and Trade.
    • 2024: Electrical Power Engineering and Electromechanics, State Biotechnological University.

🏆 Key Achievements:

  • Publications: Over 250 works, including 10 patents, 8 monographs, and 16 Scopus-indexed papers.
  • H-index: 13 (Google Scholar), with 611 citations and an i10-index of 19.
  • Innovations: Creator of the UBZPR bactericidal air disinfection unit, winner of the “Poltava Brand” award.
  • Leadership: Directed 4 state-registered research projects and supervised over 50 theses.

🏢 Professional Experience:

  • Poltava State Agrarian University: Associate Professor, researcher in bactericidal and UV technologies.
  • Gas Discharge Lamp Plant: Quality Director, Technical Control Head (2005–2012).
  • Poltava Diamond Plant: Head of Experimental Diamond Synthesis Laboratory (2003–2004).

🌟 Skills and Expertise:

  • Proficient in quality management systems, certification, and UV irradiation technologies.
  • Practical experience with software like Word, Excel, and Origin.
  • Fluent in Ukrainian and Russian, with technical English proficiency.

🔬 Research Focus:

  • Development of bactericidal disinfection technologies for air, water, and food products.
  • Use of ultraviolet optical radiation to stimulate agro-industrial processes.

Publication Top Notes : 

  • The Mechanical Method of Collecting the Colorado Potato Beetle (Leptinotarsa decemlineata SAY, 1824, Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae) Using a Device with Passive Working Elements
    Arendarenko, V., Semenov, A., Kharak, R., Prudkyi, T., Drozhchana, O.
    International Journal of Agricultural Technology, 2024, 20(5), pp. 1755–1764.
  • Clusteroluminogenic Polymers: Applications in Biology and Medicine (Review Article)
    Sakhno, T., Ivashchenko, D., Semenov, A., Ivashchenko, O., Sakhno, Y.
    Low Temperature Physics, 2024, 50(3), pp. 257–267.
  • Roles of Seed Priming in Increasing the Adaptability and Productive Potential of Agricultural Crops
    Sakhno, T., Marenych, M., Semenov, A., Sakhno, Y., Jaisi, D.
    Advances in Agronomy, 2024.
  • Method of Predicting the Useful Life of Ultraviolet Lamps in Electrotechnical Systems under UV Radiation
    Semenov, A., Kharak, R., Bychkov, Y., Dudnyk, V., Yeleussinov, B.
    Przeglad Elektrotechniczny, 2024, (8), pp. 280–283.
  • Mechanism of Determining the Kinetics of Moisture Content and Temperature in Meat During Conductive Drying
    Skrypnyk, V.О., Semenov, A.О., Ponomarenko, B.H., Farisieiev, A.H.
    Journal of Chemistry and Technologies, 2024, 32(1), pp. 89–98.
  • Assessment of the Danger of Using Ultraviolet Lamps in Electrical Systems
    Semenov, A., Popov, S., Yakhin, S., Yeleussinov, B., Sakhno, T.
    Przeglad Elektrotechniczny, 2024, 2024(2), pp. 152–155.
  • Ultraviolet Disinfection of Activated Carbon from Microbiological Contamination
    Semenov, A., Hmelnitska, Y.
    Archives of Materials Science and Engineering, 2022, 115(1), pp. 34–41.

 

Bashir Olaniyi Sadiq | Smart Agri Awards | Best Researcher Award

Assoc Prof Dr. Bashir Olaniyi Sadiq | Smart Agri Awards | Best Researcher Award

Assoc Prof Dr. Bashir Olaniyi Sadiq, Kampala International University , Uganda

Assoc. Prof Dr. Bashir Olaniyi Sadiq currently serves as an Associate Professor and Director of ICT at Kampala International University, Uganda, starting in July 2024. He is also affiliated with the Department of Electrical, Telecommunication & Computer Engineering. His duties include conducting research using advanced equipment, curriculum review, and supervising students in fields like computer communications, IoT, image processing, and ad hoc networks. Additionally, he teaches both undergraduate and postgraduate students in various electrical and computer engineering courses.

Publication profile

Orcid

Academic Qualifications 

Dr. Bashir holds a PhD in Computer Engineering (2018) from Ahmadu Bello University Zaria, where he developed a routing protocol for light fidelity-based indoor flying ad hoc networks. He also holds a Master’s in Computer Engineering (2015) from the same university, where his thesis focused on improving edge detection algorithms using Particle Swarm Optimization. He earned his B. Eng in Electrical Engineering in 2011, with a project on TCP and UDP protocol service level analysis.

 

Professional Qualifications

Dr. Bashir has completed various certifications, including the ICT Application in Higher Education (2021) from the Ministry of Commerce, China, and the Huawei Certified Information Professional (HCIP) certification (2020) from Huawei Academy. Additionally, he has been recognized as a Huawei Certified Academy Instructor.

Awards

Dr. Bashir’s research contributions have been recognized with several awards, including the TETFUND Institution-based Research Grant (2019), where he was the Principal Researcher. He also received the Excellent Instructor Award from the Huawei ICT Academy in 2018 and the Petroleum Development Trust Fund (PTDF) Local PhD Scholarship Scheme in 2017.

Research Interests

His research interests include Computer Communications & Networks, Image Processing, Ad hoc Networks, and Computer Engineering Applications. His work focuses on developing and improving network protocols, edge detection algorithms, and integrating new technologies such as IoT into these systems.

Teaching Experience

Dr. Bashir has an extensive teaching portfolio, which includes courses like Advanced Data Analysis, Biomedical Signal and Image Processing, and Computational Modeling and Artificial Intelligence at Kampala International University. At Ahmadu Bello University Zaria, he taught a wide array of subjects, including Network Technology, Digital Signal Processing, and Operating Systems.

Honor Societies

He is a registered member of various prestigious engineering societies, including the Council for the Regulation of Engineers (COREN), the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), the International Association of Engineers (IAENG), and the Nigerian Society of Engineers.

Publication Top Notes

  • High-tech herding: Exploring the use of IoT and UAV networks for improved health surveillance in dairy farm systems (2024) 🐄📡| DOI: 10.1016/j.sciaf.2024.e02266
  • Maximizing network capacity, control, and management in designing a telemedicine network: A review and recent challenges (2024) 🏥💻 | DOI: 10.4314/njt.v43i1.11
  • Performance Analysis of Various Image Feature Extractor Filters for Pothole Anomaly Classification (2024) 🚗🛤 | DOI: 10.5815/ijigsp.2024.01.03
  • Review of Error Correction in 2D Shingled Magnetic Detection (2023) 📀🛠 | DOI: 10.11113/elektrika.v22n3.265
  • A Comparative Analysis of Symmetric Cryptographic Algorithm as a Data Security Tool: A Survey (2023) 🔐🖥 | | DOI: 10.5281/ZENODO.8313097
  • Energy-aware Message Distribution Algorithm for Enhanced FANET Pipeline Surveillance Reliability (2023) 🛰💡  | DOI: 10.1016/j.sciaf.2023.e01660
  • FANET Experiment: Real-Time Surveillance Applications Connected to Image Processing System (2023) 📷🛸 | | DOI: 10.59568/kjset-2023-2-1-02
  • Statistical LOS/NLOS Classification for UWB Channels (2023) 📡🔎 | Cited by: – | DOI: 10.59568/kjset-2023-2-1-05
  • An adaptive ant colony optimisation for improved lane detection in intelligent automobile vehicles (2022) 🚗🐜 | DOI: 10.1504/ijbic.2022.121225
  • SIFT-CNN Pipeline in Livestock Management: A Drone Image Stitching Algorithm (2022) 🚁🐄 | DOI: 10.3390/drones7010017

Conclusion

Dr. Bashir Olaniyi Sadiq’s extensive research experience, academic qualifications, professional certifications, and teaching expertise make him a strong candidate for the Research for Best Researcher Award. His contributions to computer engineering, particularly in network protocols and image processing, as well as his awards and leadership roles, highlight his excellence in research and academia.

 

 

Zahoor Ahmad | Crop Physiology | Best Researcher Award

Assoc Prof Dr Zahoor Ahmad |  Crop Physiology |  Best Researcher Award

Associate Professor at  University of Central Punjab, Pakistan

Associate Professor, Campus Coordinator University of Central Punjab, Constituent Punjab College Bahawalpur.

Profile:

Academic Qualifications:

  • Post-Doctorate: Department of Field Crops, Faculty of Agriculture, Cukurova University, Adana, Turkey (January 17 – September 17, 2020)
  • Ph.D. in Crop Physiology: University of Agriculture Faisalabad, Punjab, Pakistan (Completed on December 13, 2015)
    • Thesis Title: Maize (Zea mays L.) Responses to Supplemental Foliar Applied Phosphorus under Drought Stress
  • M.Sc. (Hons.) in Agriculture (Agronomy/Crop Physiology): University of Agriculture Faisalabad, Punjab, Pakistan (2011)
    • Thesis Title: Response of Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) to Foliar Applied Potassium Sulphate (K2SO4)
  • B.Sc. (Hons.) in Agriculture (Agronomy/Crop Physiology): University of Agriculture Faisalabad, Punjab, Pakistan (2009)
  • Intermediate (F.Sc. Pre-medical): BISE Bahawalpur (2005)
  • Matric (Science): BISE Bahawalpur (2002)

Professional Experience:

  • Assistant Professor, Head of Botany Department: Constituent College of University of Central Punjab, Bahawalpur (October 2, 2020 – Present)
  • Post-Doctoral Researcher: Department of Field Crops, Faculty of Agriculture, Cukurova University, Adana, Turkey (January 17 – September 17, 2020)
  • Visiting Faculty Member: Department of Life Sciences (Botany), The Islamia University of Bahawalpur (October 4, 2017 – January 10, 2020)
  • Lecturer: Allama Iqbal College Bahawalpur (September 15, 2017 – December 31, 2019)
  • Assistant Professor: Cholistan Institute of Desert Studies (CIDS), The Islamia University of Bahawalpur, Punjab, Pakistan (July 19, 2016 – July 18, 2017)

Research Interests:

  • Understanding the physiological limitations to crop productivity under field and controlled conditions.
  • Exploring abiotic stress tolerance (drought, salinity, heavy metals, heat) through foliar application of nutrients and trace elements.
  • Identifying morphological, physiological, and biochemical traits for enhanced stress tolerance in crops.
  • Screening germplasm for stress tolerance traits and developing methodologies for productivity enhancement under abiotic stress conditions.

Conclusion:

Considering Dr. Zahoor Ahmad’s research focus, academic background, professional experience, publication record, and contribution to crop physiology under abiotic stress conditions, he seems to be a suitable candidate for the “Best Researcher Award.” His work is significant for improving crop resilience and productivity, making him a valuable contributor to agricultural sciences.

Citations:

  • 1,729 Citations from 1,395 documents
  • 91 Documents authored
  • h-index of 22

Publication Top Notes:

  • Modulating Physiological and Antioxidant Responses in Wheat Cultivars via Foliar Application of Silicon Nanoparticles (SiNPs) Under Arsenic Stress Conditions
    Ahmad, Z., Younis, R., Ahmad, T., Alharby, H.F., Alsamadany, H. (2024). Silicon, 16(12), 5199–5211.
  • Silicon-Mediated Improvement in Maize (Zea mays L.) Resilience: Unrevealing Morpho-Physiological, Biochemical, and Root Attributes Against Cadmium and Drought Stress
    Sabir, A., Waraich, E.A., Ahmad, M., Ahmad, Z., Bibi, S. (2024). Silicon, 16(7), 3095–3109. (1 Citation)
  • Improving Alkaline Stress Tolerance in Maize through Seed Priming with Silicon Nanoparticles: A Comprehensive Investigation of Growth, Photosynthetic Pigments, Antioxidants, and Ion Balance
    Alsamadany, H., Alharby, H.F., Ahmad, Z., Alzahrani, Y.M., Almaghamsi, A. (2024). Silicon, 16(5), 2233–2244.
  • Enhancing the Physiological and Biochemical Potential of Praecitrullus fistulosus L. through Synergistic Action of Biochar and Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles
    Sana, S., Binyamin, A., Ramzan, M., Avila-Quezada, G.D., Abd-Allah, E.F. (2024). Journal of Soil Science and Plant Nutrition.
  • Perspectives of Nanoparticles as Priming Agents for Amelioration of Abiotic Stresses in Crops
    Ahmad, Z., Waraich, E.A., Iqbal, M.A., Ahmed, S., Bano, S. (2024). In The Nanotechnology Driven Agriculture: The Future Ahead (pp. 117–137).
  • Prospects of Nanotechnology for Abiotic and Biotic Stresses Amelioration in Field Crops
    Ahmad, Z., Waraich, E.A., Barutçular, C., Ahmad, M., Bano, S. (2024). In The Nanotechnology Driven Agriculture: The Future Ahead (pp. 67–84).
  • Effect of Form of Silicon and the Timing of a Single Foliar Application on Sugar Beet Yield
    Siuda, A., Artyszak, A., Gozdowski, D., Ahmad, Z. (2024). Agriculture (Switzerland), 14(1), 86.
  • Ecofriendly Management of Insect Pests for Sustainable Agriculture
    Abbasi, A., Asif, A., Ahmad, Z., Saleha, A., Zafar, Z. (2023). In Climate-Resilient Agriculture, Volume 2, pp. 931–957. (1 Citation)
  • Climate Change and Global Crop Production
    Ahmad, Z., Ahmad, T., Abbasi, A., Sana, S., Jameel, J. (2023). In Climate-Resilient Agriculture, Volume 1, pp. 27–56. (1 Citation)
  • Silicon-Mediated Growth, Physiological, Biochemical and Root Alterations to Confer Drought and Nickel Stress Tolerance in Maize (Zea mays L.)
    Ishaq, H., Waraich, E.A., Hussain, S., Ahmad, Z., Saifullah. (2023). Silicon, 15(15), 6579–6589. (1 Citation)

 

 

Alireza Sharifi | Crop yield prediction | Best Researcher Award

Assoc Prof Dr Alireza Sharifi |  Crop yield prediction |  Best Researcher Award

Dr at  Shahid Rajaee Teacher Training, Iran

Dr. Alireza Sharifi is an Associate Professor at Shahid Rajaee Teacher Training University, specializing in geosciences and remote sensing applications for Precision Agriculture. He obtained his graduate degree from the University of Tehran and has focused his research on Earth Observation Programs, particularly using satellite imagery. Dr. Sharifi has led multiple research projects funded by prestigious organizations such as the National Natural Science Foundation of China, contributing significantly to the fields of hyperspectral image classification, crop mapping, and vegetation monitoring. With numerous publications and a strong academic background, he continues to advance innovative approaches in agricultural sustainability through technology.

Profile:

📚 Academic Background:

Dr. Alireza Sharifi graduated from the University of Tehran with expertise in geosciences and remote sensing applications, focusing on Earth Observation Programs for Precision Agriculture using satellite imagery.

🔍 Research Focus:

His research spans various projects, including hyperspectral image classification, spatio-temporal analysis of forest fires, and integration of satellite images for crop mapping. He has published extensively in reputed journals and holds multiple editorial appointments.

📊 Citations:

  • Citations: 1970 (1878 since 2019)
  • h-index: 28 (since 2019)
  • i10-index: 40 (since 2019)
📄 Publication:

1. Comparison the accuracies of different spectral indices for estimation of vegetation cover fraction in sparse vegetated areas
S Barati, B Rayegani, M Saati, A Sharifi, M Nasri
The Egyptian Journal of Remote Sensing and Space Science 14 (1), 49-56, 2011
Citations: 221

2. Hyperspectral image classification using a hybrid 3D-2D convolutional neural networks
S Ghaderizadeh, D Abbasi-Moghadam, A Sharifi, N Zhao, A Tariq
IEEE Journal of Selected Topics in Applied Earth Observations and Remote Sensing, 2021
Citations: 132

3. Yield prediction with machine learning algorithms and satellite images
A Sharifi
Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture 101 (3), 891-896, 2021
Citations: 105

4. Spatio-temporal analysis of forest fire events in the Margalla Hills, Islamabad, Pakistan using socio-economic and environmental variable data with machine learning methods
A Tariq, H Shu, S Siddiqui, I Munir, A Sharifi, Q Li, L Lu
Journal of Forestry Research 33 (1), 183-194, 2022
Citations: 76

5. Crop type classification by DESIS hyperspectral imagery and machine learning algorithms
N Farmonov, K Amankulova, J Szatmári, A Sharifi, D Abbasi-Moghadam, …
IEEE Journal of Selected Topics in Applied Earth Observations and Remote Sensing, 2023
Citations: 62

6. Assessing spatio-temporal mapping and monitoring of climatic variability using SPEI and RF machine learning models
SS Wahla, JH Kazmi, A Sharifi, SA Shirazi, A Tariq, H Joyell Smith
Geocarto International 37 (27), 14963-14982, 2022
Citations: 62

7. Multiscale dual-branch residual spectral–spatial network with attention for hyperspectral image classification
S Ghaderizadeh, D Abbasi-Moghadam, A Sharifi, A Tariq, S Qin
IEEE Journal of Selected Topics in Applied Earth Observations and Remote Sensing, 2022
Citations: 60

8. Evaluation of vegetation indices and phenological metrics using time-series MODIS data for monitoring vegetation change in Punjab, Pakistan
P Hu, A Sharifi, MN Tahir, A Tariq, L Zhang, F Mumtaz, SHIA Shah
Water 13 (18), 2550, 2021
Citations: 59

9. Flash flood susceptibility assessment and zonation by integrating analytic hierarchy process and frequency ratio model with diverse spatial data
A Tariq, J Yan, B Ghaffar, S Qin, BG Mousa, A Sharifi, ME Huq, M Aslam
Water 14 (19), 3069, 2022
Citations: 57

10. Remote sensing satellite’s attitude control system: rapid performance sizing for passive scan imaging mode
A Kosari, A Sharifi, A Ahmadi, M Khoshsima
Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology 92 (7), 1073-1083, 2020
Citations: 57

11. Flood mapping using relevance vector machine and SAR data: A case study from Aqqala, Iran
A Sharifi
Journal of the Indian Society of Remote Sensing 48 (9), 1289-1296, 2020
Citations: 55

12. Modeling and predicting land use land cover spatiotemporal changes: A case study in Chalus Watershed, Iran
S Jalayer, A Sharifi, D Abbasi-Moghadam, A Tariq, S Qin
IEEE Journal of Selected Topics in Applied Earth Observations and Remote Sensing, 2022
Citations: 54

13. Integration of Sentinel 1 and Sentinel 2 satellite images for crop mapping
S Felegari, A Sharifi, K Moravej, M Amin, A Golchin, A Muzirafuti, A Tariq, …
Applied Sciences 11 (21), 10104, 2021
Citations: 54

14. Development of a method for flood detection based on Sentinel‐1 images and classifier algorithms
A Sharifi
Water and Environment Journal 35 (3), 924-929, 2021
Citations: 54

15. Estimation of forest biomass using multivariate relevance vector regression
A Sharifi, J Amini, R Tateishi
Photogrammetric Engineering & Remote Sensing 82 (1), 41-49, 2016
Citations: 54

16. Agro climatic zoning of saffron culture in Miyaneh city by using WLC method and remote sensing data
A Zamani, A Sharifi, S Felegari, A Tariq, N Zhao
Agriculture 12 (1), 118, 2022
Citations: 50

17. Forest biomass estimation using synthetic aperture radar polarimetric features
A Sharifi, J Amini
Journal of Applied Remote Sensing 9 (1), 097695-097695, 2015
Citations: 49

18. Remotely sensed vegetation indices for crop nutrition mapping
A Sharifi
Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture 100 (14), 5191-5196, 2020
Citations: 47

19. Using Sentinel-2 data to predict nitrogen uptake in maize crop
A Sharifi
IEEE Journal of Selected Topics in Applied Earth Observations and Remote Sensing, 2020
Citations: 47

20. Speckle reduction of PolSAR images in forest regions using fast ICA algorithm
A Sharifi, J Amini, JT Sri Sumantyo, R Tateishi
Journal of the Indian Society of Remote Sensing 43, 339-346, 2015
Citations: 47

 

Monika Skowrońska | Agricultural | Best Researcher Award

Assoc Prof Dr Monika Skowrońska |  Agricultural  |  Best Researcher Award

PhD, DSc, Assoc. Prof. at  Department of Agricultural and Environmental Chemistry, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, Poland

Dr. Monika Skowrońska is an accomplished academic and researcher specializing in agricultural and environmental chemistry. With over two decades of experience at the University of Life Sciences in Lublin, she has progressed from a Teaching and Research Assistant in 1997 to her current position as an Associate Professor, a role she has held since 2019.

 

Profile:

Education and Training:

2019: Doctor habilitatus (Post-doctoral Degree). 2009: Post-graduate studies in Management of research projects and development work, Catholic University of Lublin. 2003: Ph.D. in Agricultural Sciences, University of Life Sciences in Lublin. 1998: Post-graduate studies in Management and Marketing, Technical University of Lublin. 1997: M.Sc. in Environmental Protection, University of Life Sciences in Lublin

Professional Experience:

2024-present: Project Manager, Healthy Soil Chemistry (SOSoil), HuMUS project. 2023-present: Task Manager, REDUCOST, National Fund for Environmental Protection and Water Management. Various roles as an expert and project partner with entities like the European Green Deal, WWF, and the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development.

Honours and Awards:

Multiple Rector’s Awards for organizational and scientific achievements. Scientific award for her book on soil acidification and liming. OECD Fellowship and the prestigious Dr. and Mrs. A. S. Dekaban Foundation Scholarship

Agricultural Research Focus:

Dr. Monika Skowrońska is an expert in agricultural and environmental chemistry, with a particular focus on sustainable agricultural practices, soil chemistry, and nutrient management. Her research spans various critical areas:

  1. Soil Chemistry and Health:
    • Soil Acidification and Liming: Dr. Skowrońska has conducted extensive research on soil acidification and its mitigation through liming, which earned her a scientific award in the Lublin region.
    • Healthy Soil Chemistry: Currently, she leads the “Healthy Soil – Healthy Soil Chemistry (SOSoil)” project, which is part of the broader HuMUS project aimed at promoting healthy municipal soils.
  2. Nutrient Management:
    • Carbon and Nitrogen Cycles: She has managed projects investigating the transformation processes of nitrogen and carbon in soil, focusing on the effects of organic waste and plant residue applications.
    • Fertilizer Development: Dr. Skowrońska has worked on developing environmentally friendly fertilizers, including technologies for producing potassium thiosulphate and multi-component fertilizers.
  3. Climate Change Mitigation:
    • Adaptation Practices: As an expert for the World Wildlife Fund (WWF), she has analyzed the economic and environmental value of adaptation and mitigation practices to address climate change.
    • Climate Care Cattle Farming System: She contributed to the CCCFarming project, which integrates climate-friendly practices in cattle farming.
  4. Pollution Reduction:
    • Air Pollution Emissions: Dr. Skowrońska is involved in the REDUCOST project, which assesses the potential for reducing air pollution emissions from agricultural practices, considering technical, financial, and social aspects.
  5. Sustainable Agriculture:
    • Low-Workload Systems: She has been a main contractor for projects developing low-workload and environment-friendly fertilization systems, particularly for crops like maize.
  6. International Collaboration:
    • Global Networks: Dr. Skowrońska is an active member of international networks and working groups, such as the Coalition of Action 4 Soil Health (CA4SH) and the European Compost Network, contributing to global efforts in sustainable agriculture and soil health.

Through her comprehensive research, Dr. Skowrońska aims to enhance sustainable agricultural practices, improve soil health, and mitigate the environmental impacts of farming, thus contributing significantly to the field of agricultural and environmental chemistry.

Citations:

  • Citations: 335 citations by 331 documents.
  • Publications: 22 documents.
  • h-index: 8 (indicating significant influence in her field).

Publication Top Notes:

  • The mineral fertilizer-dependent chemical parameters of soil acidification under field conditions
    • Authors: Tkaczyk, P., Mocek-Płóciniak, A., Skowrońska, M., Kuśmierz, S., Zawierucha, E.
    • Journal: Sustainability (Switzerland), 2020, 12(17), 7165
    • Citations: 20
    • Summary: This open-access article examines the effects of mineral fertilizers on soil acidification under field conditions. It provides insights into how different fertilizers impact soil chemistry and the long-term implications for soil health.
  • Hemp-based phytoaccumulation of heavy metals from municipal sewage sludge and phosphogypsum under field conditions
    • Authors: Zielonka, D., Szulc, W., Skowrońska, M., Rutkowska, B., Russel, S.
    • Journal: Agronomy, 2020, 10(6), 907
    • Citations: 13
    • Summary: This open-access study explores the use of hemp for the phytoaccumulation of heavy metals from municipal sewage sludge and phosphogypsum. The research highlights hemp’s potential for environmental remediation.
  • An integrated assessment of the long-term impact of municipal sewage sludge on the chemical and biological properties of soil
    • Authors: Skowrońska, M., Bielińska, E.J., Szymański, K., Antonkiewicz, J., Kołodziej, B.
    • Journal: Catena, 2020, 189, 104484
    • Citations: 52
    • Summary: This article provides an in-depth assessment of the long-term effects of municipal sewage sludge on soil properties. It discusses both chemical and biological changes in soil, offering valuable data for sustainable soil management practices.
  • Cultivar and foliar feeding of plants as factors determining the chemical composition of spelt (Triticum aestivum ssp. spelta L.) grain
    • Authors: Andruszczak, S., Kraska, P., Kwiecińska-Poppe, E., Skowrońska, M.
    • Journal: Applied Ecology and Environmental Research, 2020, 18(2), pp. 2949–2958
    • Citations: 1
    • Summary: This open-access study investigates how different cultivars and foliar feeding methods influence the chemical composition of spelt grain. It offers practical insights for improving crop quality and nutritional value.