Rani Bhagat | Sustainable Agriculture | Women Researcher Award

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Dr. Rani Bhagat | Sustainable Agriculture | Women Researcher Award

Associate professor at Baburaoji Gholap College, India

Dr. Rani Babanrao Bhagat, born on June 7, 1979, in Hol (8-Phata), Maharashtra, is a dedicated botanist and academician with over two decades of teaching and research experience. She holds an M.Phil. from Alagappa University and a Ph.D. in Botany from Savitribai Phule Pune University (SPPU), focusing her doctoral research on Jatropha species for their potential values.

Profile:

🎓 Academic Background:

  • 🧬 B.Sc. (Botany) – University of Pune, 1999 (Distinction)

  • 🌿 M.Sc. (Botany) – University of Pune, 2001 (First Class)

  • 📜 M.Phil. – Alagappa University, 2008
    Topic: Floristic Survey of Baramati Tahsil

  • 🧪 Ph.D. (Botany) – SPPU, 2018
    Topic: Studies on some Jatropha species for potential values

🧑‍🏫 Teaching & Research Experience:

  • 📚 Teaching: Over 10 years (UG Level)

  • 🔬 Research: 15+ years post-PG

  • 📖 Recognized Ph.D. and M.Phil. Guide in Botany and Environmental Science

🧾 Academic Roles & Contributions:

  • 🌱 IQAC (Criterion III) Coordinator

  • 🌼 Coordinator for Botanical Garden & Campus Enrichment

  • 📚 Organizer: Science Exhibitions, Biodiversity & Plastic Awareness

  • 🌍 Member: SPPU Syllabus Committee, Maharashtra Biodiversity Board

  • 📖 Compiled Academic Calendar, College Magazine, Research Compendium

📢 Public Outreach & Media Engagement:

  • 🎙️ Speaker on All India Radio (Pune & Akola) on Environmental Topics

  • 📖 Published an article on “Flora of Baramati” in Braille

  • 🏞️ Discussant on biodiversity on Vidyawani FM, Pune University

🌐 Professional Memberships:

  • 🌿 Life Member – Indian Association for Angiosperm Taxonomy (IAAT), Calicut

📚 Faculty Development & Training:

  • 🎓 Orientation & Refresher Courses at Goa, Nagpur, Bangalore Universities

  • 🧑‍💻 FDP on Research and Online SWAYAM Course on Solid Waste Management

📊 Research Citation Metrics:

  • Total Citations: 257

  • Citations Since 2020: 119

  • h-index: 9

  • h-index Since 2020: 6

  • i10-index: 8

  • i10-index Since 2020: 5

Publication Top Notes:

  • Antidiarrhoeal activity of Acacia nilotica Willd. bark methanol extract

  • A new species of Eriocaulon (Eriocaulaceae) from Maharashtra, India

  • Anti-inflammatory activity of Jatropha gossypifolia L. leaves in albino mice and Wistar rat

  • Phytochemical profile, anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-proliferative activities of Pogostemon deccanensis essential oils

  • Evaluation of larvicidal and antifeedant potential of three Jatropha species against Spodoptera litura (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) and two predators (Coleoptera)

  • Flora of Baramati

  • Prospective wild edible fruit plants from part of northern Western Ghats (NWG), Mulshi (MS), India

  • Phytochemical, antioxidant and antimicrobial analysis of endemic and endangered Jatropha nana Dalz. & Gibs. from Maharashtra

  • The importance of conserving fragmented forest patches with high diversity of flowering plants in the northern Western Ghats: an example from Maharashtra, India

  • Phytochemical evaluation and in vitro antimicrobial activity of Jatropha glandulifera Roxb. (family Euphorbiaceae)

  • Physico‐Chemical analysis, NMR spectroscopy and gas chromatographic studies of Jatropha curcas L. germplasm

  • Occurrence of pentatomoid bug on Jatropha nana Dalz.

  • Evaluation of phytochemical, antibacterial and antidiarrhoeal activity of Jatropha gossypifolia L. root methanol extract in Swiss albino mice

  • Habitat conservation of Chinkara (Gazella gazella) in protected areas of Maharashtra and Gujarat

  • The flora of Baramati District in Maharashtra

  • Insecticidal properties of three Jatropha species against stored grain pests

  • In vitro antimicrobial activity, lipid content and physico-chemical analysis of non-edible oils

  • Screening and optimization of IAA production by PGPR isolated from rhizosphere of a Pterocarpus marsupium Roxb. and their effect on plant growth

  • Status of floristic diversity and impact of development on two sacred groves from Maval Tehsil (Maharashtra, India) after a century

  • HPTLC analysis and anti-inflammatory activity of Jatropha gossypifolia L. root in mice and Wistar rats

 

Malavika Dadlani | Seed Physiology | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Malavika Dadlani | Seed Physiology | Best Researcher Award

National consultant at Alliance of Bioversity and CIAT, Bengaluru,  India

Dr. (Mrs.) Malavika Dadlani is a distinguished expert in [mention her field of expertise, e.g., Seed Science & Technology, Agricultural Research, etc.]. With a remarkable career spanning several decades, she has contributed significantly to [key areas of contribution]. She has held prestigious positions at [institutions/organizations], leading groundbreaking research and policy initiatives.

Profile:

Academic Qualifications 🎓

  • Ph.D. (Agricultural Seed Science) – Calcutta University, 1979

  • Post-Doctoral Research (Seed Technology) – International Rice Research Institute (IRRI), Philippines, 1987-1989

Professional Experience 👩‍🔬

With over four decades of expertise in agricultural research, education, and extension, Dr. Dadlani has held key leadership positions in India’s premier agricultural institutions:

🔹 Consultant & Honorary Research Fellow – Bioversity International, New Delhi (2014-2016)
🔹 Joint Director (Research) – ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI), New Delhi (2010-2013)
🔹 Head, Division of Seed Science & Technology – ICAR-IARI, New Delhi (2006-2010)
🔹 Principal Scientist & Senior Scientist – ICAR-IARI, New Delhi (1979-2006)
🔹 Scientist – Indian Institute of Sugarcane Research, Lucknow (1978-1979)

Her work focused on institution building, research management, extension coordination, and capacity development in seed science.

Global Contributions 🌍

Dr. Dadlani has played a pivotal role in international seed policy and capacity building. Some key global engagements include:

🌱 FAO Expert Consultation (2003) – Contributed to the Quality Declared Seed System publication.
🌍 SAARC Seed Forum (2009) – Organized the first workshop on Quality Seed Systems and contributed to forming the SAARC Regional Seed Bank.
🌾 FAO Consultancy in Bangladesh, Myanmar & Cambodia – Strengthened seed systems and hybrid rice development.
📜 SeedNL Consultant (Netherlands, 2023-24) – Conducted a fact-finding study on the Indian seed system.
🤝 Indo-German Seed Sector Development Consultant (2018-2022) – Studied and advised on harmonization of Indian seed regulations with international standards.

Awards & Recognitions 🏆

Dr. Dadlani has been honored with several prestigious awards for her contributions:

🏅 Best Research Paper in Seed Research – ISST, India (1984, 1990)
🌾 Best Research Paper in Agriculture – Philippines (1989)
🎓 Best Teacher Award – IARI, India (2001)
🏅 Dr. Ram Dhan Singh Memorial “Best Seed Technologist” Award (2006-07)
👩‍🔬 Fellow, National Academy of Agricultural Sciences (NAAS) (2010)
🏆 Excellence Award for Supporting Seed Industry in India – ITPBR, India (2022)

Key Contributions & Innovations 💡

✅ Farmers’ Participatory Seed Production – Initiated “Beej India”, a farmer-led seed production initiative.
✅ SAARC Seed Policy Development – Drafted the SAARC Regional Seed Bank & Material Transfer Framework.
✅ Capacity Building & Training – Led numerous FAO, SAARC, and AARDO training programs to strengthen seed systems.
✅ Women Empowerment in Agriculture – Advocated for women-friendly agricultural technologies in global forums.

A Legacy in Seed Science & Agricultural Development 🌾

Dr. Malavika Dadlani’s work has shaped India’s seed industry, global seed policies, and farmer-centric innovations. Her extensive research, leadership, and global collaborations continue to make a lasting impact on sustainable agriculture and food security.

Citations:

  • Total Citations: 2,511

  • Citations Since 2020: 933

  • h-index: 23 (13 since 2020)

  • i10-index: 53 (20 since 2020)

Publication Top Notes:

  1. The subcellular basis of seed priming

    • A. Varier, A.K. Vari, M. Dadlani

    • Current Science, 2010, 450-456 (Citations: 510)

  2. Techniques in Seed Science and Technology

    • P.K. Agrawal, M. Dadlani, P.K. Agrawal

    • South Asian Publishers, 1987 (Citations: 228)

  3. Effect of hydropriming on field emergence and crop growth of maize genotypes

    • R.P. Nagar, M. Dadlani, S.P. Sharma

    • 1998 (Citations: 96)

  4. Tetrazolium test for seed viability and vigour

    • V.N. Patil, M. Dadlani

    • Handbook of Seed Testing, 2009, 209-241 (Citations: 86)

  5. Seed coating to improve stand establishment in rice

    • M. Dadlani, V.V. Shenoy, D.V. Seshu

    • 1992 (Citations: 69)

  6. Mechanism of seed dormancy in rice

    • D.V. Seshu, M. Dadlani

    • Seed Science Research 1(3), 187-194, 1991 (Citations: 68)

  7. Seed dormancy and regulation of germination

    • P.C. Nautiyal, K. Sivasubramaniam, M. Dadlani

    • Seed Science and Technology 52, 39-66, 2023 (Citations: 63)

  8. Crop residues management with conservation agriculture: Potential, constraints, and policy needs

    • H.S. Gupta, M. Dadlani

    • Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, 2012 (Citations: 62)

  9. Effect of packaging on vigour and viability of soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merrill] seed during ambient storage

    • K.K. Singh, M. Dadlani

    • 2003 (Citations: 53)

  10. Characterization and evaluation of variability in farmers’ varieties of rice from West Bengal

  • S.K. Chakrabarty, M.A. Joshi, Y. Singh, A. Maity, V. Vashisht, M. Dadlani

  • Indian Journal of Genetics and Plant Breeding 72(2), 136, 2012 (Citations: 48)

 

Supriya Ambawat | Agricultural Biotechnology | Women Researcher Award

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Dr Supriya Ambawat |  Agricultural Biotechnology | Women Researcher Award

Assistant Professor at Agriculture University, Jodhpur, India

Dr. Supriya is an Assistant Professor specializing in Plant Biotechnology at the PC Unit, ICAR-AICRP on Pearl Millet, Agriculture University, Jodhpur, India. Her research focuses on crop improvement, genetic enhancement, and biotechnology applications in pearl millet. Passionate about advancing sustainable agricultural practices, she actively contributes to research initiatives aimed at enhancing millet productivity and resilience.

Profile:

🎓 Academic Background:

  • Ph.D. (2010) – CCS HAU, Hisar (Research at ICRISAT, Hyderabad)

    • Genetic diversity analysis & QTL mapping in pearl millet using DArT

  • M.Sc. (2006) – CCS HAU, Hisar

    • Biotechnology & Molecular Biology (Isolation of drought-related MYB transcription factor gene from Brassica carinata)

  • B.Sc. (2004) – Kurukshetra University

🏆 Awards & Recognitions:

  • SPR-Springer Young Scientist Award (2024) – Society for Plant Research

  • Excellence Research Fellow Award (2021) – APSR, Plantica Foundation

  • Young Scientist Award (2020) – International Conference on GNRSA

  • Outstanding Woman in Agricultural Sciences (2019) – Venus International Foundation

  • Emerging Scientist Award (2018) – Society for Science and Nature

  • Multiple Best Oral & Poster Presentation Awards at national & international conferences

🔬 Research Focus:

  • Plant Biotechnology & Molecular Biology

  • Genetic Diversity & QTL Mapping in Pearl Millet

  • Drought Tolerance Mechanisms in Plants

🏅 Notable Contributions:

  • Established a Common Facility Lab at PC Unit, Jodhpur

  • Principal Investigator (PI) for multiple research initiatives in plant biotechnology

  • Recognized for contributions to moisture conservation & yield improvement in pearl millet

Citations:

Citations: 2,120 (since 2020: 1,422)
h-index: 16 (since 2020: 14)
i10-index: 23 (since 2020: 19)

Publication Top Notes:

  • MYB Transcription Factor Genes as Regulators for Plant Responses: An Overview

  • Pearl Millet: A Climate-Resilient Nutricereal for Mitigating Hidden Hunger and Providing Nutritional Security

  • Pearl Millet [Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R. Br.] Consensus Linkage Map Constructed Using Four RIL Mapping Populations and Newly Developed EST-SSRs

  • Development of a Molecular Linkage Map of Pearl Millet Integrating DArT and SSR Markers

  • Water-Saving Traits Co-Map with a Major Terminal Drought Tolerance Quantitative Trait Locus in Pearl Millet [Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R. Br.]

  • Mitochondrial DNA: A Tool for Phylogenetic and Biodiversity Search in Equines

  • QTL Mapping of Pearl Millet Rust Resistance Using an Integrated DArT- and SSR-Based Linkage Map

  • Development of Genome-Wide Informative Simple Sequence Repeat Markers for Large-Scale Genotyping Applications in Chickpea and Development of Web Resource

  • Stage-Specific Comparative Transcriptomic Analysis to Reveal Gene Networks Regulating Iron and Zinc Content in Pearl Millet [Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R. Br.]

  • Validation of Molecular Markers for Marker-Assisted Pyramiding of White Rust Resistance Loci in Indian Mustard (Brassica juncea L.)

  • Identification, Characterization, Validation, and Cross-Species Amplification of Genic-SSRs in Indian Mustard (Brassica juncea)

  • Genetic Analysis of Morphological and Physiological Traits in Indian Mustard (Brassica juncea L.)

  • Screening and Estimation of Allelic Differentiation in Indian Mustard Using SSR Markers for Background Selection

  • Development and Evaluation of Double Low Quality Lines in Indian Mustard (Brassica juncea L. Czern & Coss.)

  • Micronutrient-Rich Pearl Millet for Nutritionally Secure India

  • Genetic Structure Identification and Assessment of Interrelationships Between Brassica and Allied Genera Using Newly Developed Genic-SSRs of Indian Mustard (Brassica juncea L.)

  • Genomic Designing for Abiotic Stress Tolerance in Pearl Millet [Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R. Br.]

  • Biotechnological Applications for Improvement of the Pearl Millet Crop

  • Pearl Millet-Hybrids and Varieties

  • Identification and Characterization of New Resistance Sources Against Sclerotinia Stem Rot (Sclerotinia sclerotiorum) in Oilseed Brassica

  • Morphological and Molecular Diversity Among Full-Sib Progenies of Indian Mustard (Brassica juncea L.)

  • Use of Library Resources and Services by Students of PESITM and JNN College of Engineering in Shivamogga: A Comparative Study

 

 

Gizaw Tilahun | Plant Breeding | Best Researcher Award

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Mr.  Gizaw  Tilahun | Plant Breeding | Best Researcher Award

Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research,  Ethiopia

Gizaw Wegayehu Tilahun is a skilled plant breeder and agronomist with over 7 years of experience in research, particularly in plant breeding, agronomy, crop protection, and participatory breeding. He specializes in barley, potatoes, garlic, vegetables, and highland seed spices. He is currently a Researcher I at the Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research (EIAR), Kulumsa Center, where he conducts extensive research on crop improvement and disease management. His work involves improving crop varieties for better resilience to biotic and abiotic stresses, and he actively engages smallholder farmers in applying advanced agricultural technologies.

Profile:

Education:

  • MSc. in Plant Breeding – Hawassa University, Ethiopia (2022)
    Thesis: Phenotypic Variability and Participatory Selection of Food Barley Genotypes for Moisture Stress

  • BSc. in Plant Science – Debre Berhan University, Ethiopia (2015)

Professional Experience:

  • Researcher I (2024 – Present) – Focus on potato, garlic, vegetables, spices, root, and tuber crops, proposal writing, data collection, and analysis.

  • Associate Researcher (2022 – 2024) – Conducted research on various crops and their performance under different conditions.

  • Assistant Researcher II (2018 – 2022) – Contributed to studies on vegetables, potatoes, and root crops.

  • Agronomist Supervisor at Almeta Impex (2016), managing disease, insect, and nutrient deficiency monitoring.

Selected Publications:

  • Tilahun, G.W., Zeleke, A.A., & Limeneh, D.F. (2025). Agronomic Evaluation and Genetic Variability Studies on Fenugreek. Ecological Genetics and Genomics

  • Tilahun, G.W., Fufa, N., et al. (2024). Stability and Performance of Potato Varieties in Ethiopia. International Journal of Agricultural Research

  • Tilahun, G.W., Galalcha, D.T., et al. (2023). Genetic Diversity of Ethiopian Coriander Accessions. International Journal of Bio-resource and Stress Management

Memberships:

  • Ethiopian Crop Science Society

  • Ethiopian Horticulture Science Society

  • Coffee Science Society

  • Protection Science Society

Setia Sari Girsang | Plant Nutrition | Best Researcher Award

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Dr Setia Sari Girsang | Plant Nutrition |  Best Researcher Award

Research Professor at National Research and Innovation Agency, Indonesia

Setia Sari Br Girsang, Ph.D., is a distinguished Research Professor at the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), Indonesia, specializing in Soil Science and Plant Nutrition. She leads research on precision agriculture, soil fertility, and sustainable land management for optimizing agricultural productivity in diverse environments.

Profile:

🎓 Academic Background:

  • Ph.D. in Soil Science – Universitas Sumatera Utara (2000)

  • M.Sc. in Soil Science – Universitas Sumatera Utara (2007)

  • B.Sc. in Soil and Environmental Science – University of the Philippines Los Baños (2016)

🔍 Research & Publications:

Dr. Girsang has spearheaded multiple studies on nutrient management, biofertilizers, and land-use sustainability, contributing to leading international journals. Her recent works include research on site-specific nutrient management for rice, phosphate solubilization in shallots, and biomass waste utilization for corn production.

📚 Notable Contributions:

  • Published books on lowland rice production challenges and Arabica coffee export potential

  • Registered local rice and coconut varieties

  • Received 20 years of Satya’s Satyalancana Karya award (2023)

🌍 International Engagement:

Dr. Girsang has participated in global training programs in Australia and Indonesia, focusing on agricultural policy and sustainability standards.

Publication Top Notes:

  1. Soil aeration and relationship to inorganic nitrogen during aerobic cultivation of irrigated rice on a consolidated land parcel
    Soil and Tillage Research, 202, 104647 (2020)

  2. Simulating rice and maize yield potential in the humid tropical environment of Indonesia
    European Journal of Agronomy, 101, 10-19 (2018)

  3. A new site-specific nutrient management approach for maize in the favorable tropical environments of Southeast Asia
    19th World Congress of Soil Science, Soil Solutions for a Changing World, 1-6 (2010)

  4. Rice yield and relationships to soil properties for production using overhead sprinkler irrigation without soil submergence
    Geoderma, 352, 277-288 (2019)

  5. The distribution and impact of fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda) on maize production in North Sumatera
    IOP Conference Series: Earth and Environmental Science, 484 (1), 012099 (2020)

  6. Assessing the Challenges and Opportunities of Agricultural Information Systems to Enhance Farmers’ Capacity and Target Rice Production in Indonesia
    Sustainability, 15 (2), 1114 (2023)

  7. Impact of climate change on fall armyworm attack on maize in Karo District, North Sumatera
    IOP Conference Series: Earth and Environmental Science, 484 (1), 012111 (2020)

  8. Factors affecting rice yield productivity in tidal swamp of South Sumatra
    IOP Conference Series: Earth and Environmental Science, 648 (1), 012164 (2021)

  9. Evaluation of land suitability and factors influencing the development of shallots (Allium cepa L.) in North Padang Lawas, North Sumatera
    IOP Conference Series: Earth and Environmental Science, 648 (1), (2021)

  10. Diversity of insects on shallot (Allium ascalonicum Linn) grown under semi-organic and conventional cultivation in Simalungun Regency
    Jurnal Agroteknologi, 7 (2), 390-399 (2019)

  11. Canopy-dwelling insect abundance in semi-organic and conventional shallot cultivation
    Jurnal Online Pertanian Tropik, 5 (2), 268-275 (2018)

  12. Mid-season adjustment of nitrogen fertilizer for rice with two plant spacings
    Field Crops Research, 302, 109081 (2023)

  13. Environmental, social, and economic challenges in lowland rice production
    Closing Rice Yield Gaps in Asia: Innovations, Scaling, and Policies for Sustainable Intensification (2023)

  14. Reduction of rice yield gap by fertilizer and new varieties in North Sumatera
    IOP Conference Series: Earth and Environmental Science, 484 (1), 012061 (2020)

  15. Nutrient manager for rice: A mobile phone and internet application increases rice yield and profit in rice farming
    Indonesian Center for Rice Research, Sukamandi, West Java, Indonesia (2012)

  16. The role of rhizosphere microbes as phosphate-solubilizing biofertilizers in shallot: A review
    IOP Conference Series: Earth and Environmental Science, 1255 (1), 012003 (2023)

  17. Rice seed system model in North Sumatra: Supporting the World Food Barn Program 2045
    Penerbit BRIN (2021)

  18. Assessing rice production sustainability under future land use and population in Deli Serdang Regency, Indonesia
    Landscape Online, 1103-1103 (2022)

Biruk Wubetie | Agri-Food System | Best Researcher Award

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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

Parastoo Majidian | Plant Breeding | Best Researcher Award

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Assist. Prof. Dr  Parastoo  Majidian |  Plant Breeding |  Best Researcher Award

Assistant Professor at  Agricultural Research, Education and Extension Organization,  Iran

Dr. Parastoo Majidian is an Assistant Professor in the Crop and Horticultural Science Research Department at the Mazandaran Agricultural and Natural Resources Research and Education Center, AREEO, Sari, Iran. She holds a Ph.D. in Plant Breeding with a specialization in Genetic Engineering and Molecular Genetics from Sari University of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources. Her research focuses on plant genetics, breeding, molecular biology, proteomics, and stress resistance in crops. Dr. Majidian has extensive teaching experience in biotechnology, genetic engineering, and plant physiology at various academic institutions. She has conducted workshops on soybean and camelina cultivation and is a member of several scientific societies in genetics, biotechnology, and agronomy.

Profile:

🎓 Education:

  • Ph.D. in Plant Breeding – Genetic Engineering & Molecular Genetics (2016) – Sari University of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources
    • Thesis: Evaluation of artificial regulation system in Bacillus subtilis in order to transcriptional control
  • M.Sc. in Agricultural Engineering – Plant Biotechnology (2011) – Sari University of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources
    • Thesis: Genetic diversity of apricot cultivars using SSR and AFLP markers
  • B.Sc. in Plant Pathology (2007) – University of Mazandaran

🧪 Research & Expertise:

✅ Plant Genetics & Breeding | ✅ Genetic Engineering | ✅ Proteomics | ✅ Molecular Biology
✅ Plant Physiology | ✅ Biometric & Statistical Genomics | ✅ Abiotic & Biotic Stress Resistance

🏫 Teaching & Academic Contributions:

  • Lecturer at Payam Noor University & Sana Institute of Higher Education
  • Courses: Biotechnology, Genetic Engineering, Biochemistry, Bioinformatics, Plant Breeding & Physiology
  • Conducted multiple workshops on soybean and camelina cultivation & breeding

🏆 Honors & Achievements:

  • Research grant recipient, Ministry of Science, Research & Technology (2014-2015)
  • Researcher at Kobe University, Japan (2014-2015) & ABRII, Iran (2009-2011)
  • Member of Iranian Genetic Society, Iranian Biotechnology Society, Iranian Agronomy & Plant Breeding Society

Citations:

Citations: 366 (since 2020: 288)
h-index: 8 (since 2020: 6)
i10-index: 6 (since 2020: 5)

Publication Top Notes:

  • Metabolic engineering of microorganisms for biofuel production – Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews 82, 3863-3885 (2018)
  • Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni responses to salt stress and chitosan elicitor – Physiology and Molecular Biology of Plants (2020)
  • Saffron (Crocus sativus L.), a monomorphic or polymorphic species? – Spanish Journal of Agricultural Research 12 (3), 753-762 (2014)
  • Molecular variability and genetic relationship and structure of Iranian Prunus rootstocks revealed by SSR and AFLP markers – Scientia Horticulturae 172, 258-264 (2014)
  • Integration of molecular and geographical data analysis of Iranian Prunus scoparia populations in order to assess genetic diversity and conservation planning – Scientia Horticulturae 247, 49-57 (2019)
  • Achieving agricultural sustainability through soybean production in Iran: Potential and challenges – Heliyon 10 (2024)
  • Assessment of Iranian apricot cultivars resistant, susceptible, and mutant to late spring frost – Journal of Plant Molecular Breeding 4 (2), 9-16 (2016)
  • Identification of self-compatibility and self-incompatibility genotypes in almond and some Prunus species using molecular markers – (2012)
  • Bacillus subtilis GntR regulation modified to devise artificial transient induction systems – The Journal of General and Applied Microbiology 62 (6), 277-285 (2016)
  • Study of some morphological responses of Stevia (Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni) to chitosan elicitor under salt stress – Journal of Crop Breeding 12 (33), 150-161 (2020)
  • Commercial Iranian olive cultivars: morphological traits, molecular diversity, and genetic structure – The Journal of Horticultural Science and Biotechnology 91 (4), 404-411 (2016)
  • First report of a set of genetic identities in Prunus rootstocks by SSR markers – Journal of Plant Molecular Breeding 4 (1), 17-25 (2016)
  • Salinity Stress in Plants: Challenges in View of Physiological Aspects – Abiotic Stress in Crop Plants – Ecophysiological Responses and Molecular (2024)
  • The potential application of biochar and salicylic acid to alleviate salt stress in soybean (Glycine max L.) – Heliyon 10 (4) (2024)
  • Phylogenetic relationships among Iranian and Spanish date palms (Phoenix dactylifera L.) revealed by microsatellite markers – The Journal of Horticultural Science and Biotechnology 89 (2), 115-120 (2014)
  • Evaluation of genetic relationships of some apricot accessions using fluorescent-AFLP markers – XIII Eucarpia Symposium on Fruit Breeding and Genetics 976, 265-269 (2013)
  • Deciphering genotype-by-environment interaction in new soybean lines based on multiple traits using different adaptability and stability methods – Food Science and Nutrition (2024)
  • Changing trends of soil properties and canola yield under maize rotation by sulfur treatments – Applied Soil Research 10 (3), 66-77 (2022)
  • Response of Aloysia citriodora L. to treatments of titanium dioxide nanoparticle and salt stress – Environmental Stresses in Crop Sciences 14 (2), 557-567 (2021)
  • Management of sulfur application on some morphological properties and yield of L17 promising canola line – Journal of Crop Breeding 12 (36), 205-215 (2020)

 

Imran | Agriculture Engineering | Best Researcher Award

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Dr Imran |  Agriculture Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Postdoc Researcher at  South China Agriculture University, China

Dr. Imran is a distinguished agronomist specializing in crop science, soil health, environmental sustainability, and climate change forecasting. He holds a Ph.D. in Agronomy from The University of Agriculture, Peshawar, and has completed postdoctoral research in UAV technology for agriculture (China) and soil health & CO₂ sequestration (Turkey).

Profile:

📚 Education & Postdoctoral Research:

  • Postdoc (China, 2024): UAVs & Rotor Aircraft in Agriculture (South China Agricultural University)
  • Postdoc (Turkey, 2021-22): Soil Health, CO₂ Sequestration & Climate Change (Çukurova University)
  • Ph.D. Agronomy (2020): The University of Agriculture, Peshawar
  • M.Sc. (Hons) Agronomy (2014): The University of Agriculture, Peshawar
  • B.Sc. (Hons) Agronomy (2011): Gomal University, D.I. Khan, Pakistan

🏆 Awards & Achievements:

  • Swiss Agency for Development & Cooperation (SDC) Ph.D. Scholarship Awardee
  • Türkiye Bursları Fellowship Postdoctoral Awardee
  • Best Research Paper Award (2021) – Journal of Soil, Plant, and Environment
  • Best Researcher Award (2020) – National Conference on Beneficial Microbes & Sustainable Crop Production

🌍 Professional Memberships:

  • American Society of Agronomy
  • Crop Science Society of America
  • Soil Science Society of America
  • Pakistan PGPR Society
  • Rhizosphere Scientist of Turkey
  • Institute for Global Environmental Strategies (IGES)
  • IFOAM – Organics International
  • Himalayan University Consortium

🎤 Conferences & Workshops (Organizer & Presenter):

  • International Conference of Emerging Scientists (2022)
  • International Citrus Congress (Turkey, 2022)
  • National Conference on Beneficial Microbes & Sustainable Crop Production
  • International Conference on Climate Change
  • Workshop on Climate Smart Agriculture & Crop Modeling

📢 Consultant & Trainer:

  • Developed agricultural training modules, manuals, and content for USAID, CABI, AWS, and HUJRA
  • Expert in farmer capacity development and disaster risk reduction techniques

Publication Top Notes:

  • Strategies for Sustainable Crop Production and Arid Land Management
    Communications in Soil Science and Plant Analysis, 2025-02-21
    DOI: 10.1080/00103624.2024.2426641

  • Rotors Wind Wall Enabled Microclimate Engineering for Enhanced Rice Leaf Morphometrics Traits, Yield, and Agronomic Performance
    Journal of Agronomy and Crop Science, 2025-01
    DOI: 10.1111/jac.70019

  • Mitigating Cadmium Contamination in Soil Using Biochar, Sulfur-Modified Biochar, and Other Organic Amendments
    International Journal of Phytoremediation, 2025-01-26
    DOI: 10.1080/15226514.2025.2454515

  • Carbon Cultivation for Sustainable Agriculture, Ecosystem Resilience, and Climate Change Mitigation
    Communications in Soil Science and Plant Analysis, 2025-01-20
    DOI: 10.1080/00103624.2025.2453996

  • Aero-Thermodynamics of UAV Downwash for Dynamic Microclimate Engineering: Ameliorating Effects on Rice Growth, Yield, and Physiological Traits Across Key Growth Stages
    Agriculture, 2025-01-01
    DOI: 10.3390/agriculture15010078

  • Lead Stabilization and Remediation Strategy with Soil Amendment In Situ Immobilization in Contaminated Range Lands
    International Journal of Phytoremediation, 2024-10-14
    DOI: 10.1080/15226514.2024.2372850

  • Integration of Organic, Inorganic, and Bio Fertilizer to Improve Maize-Wheat System Productivity and Soil Nutrients
    Journal of Plant Nutrition, 2024-09-13
    DOI: 10.1080/01904167.2024.2354190

  • Nano Biotechnology: Exploring the Potential of Nano Materials in Enhancing Crop Health and Combating Abiotic Stress
    Communications in Soil Science and Plant Analysis, 2024-09-07
    DOI: 10.1080/00103624.2024.2358854

  • Mitigation Strategies for Heavy Metal Toxicity and Its Negative Effects on Soil and Plants
    International Journal of Phytoremediation, 2024-07-28
    DOI: 10.1080/15226514.2024.2327611

  • Nano-Black Carbon Improves Phosphorus Uptake and Sustains Soil and Plant Health Under Biodynamic Agriculture
    Communications in Soil Science and Plant Analysis, 2024-02-21
    DOI: 10.1080/00103624.2023.2269244

  • A Comparative Study to Evaluate the Effects of Antibiotics, Plant Extracts, and Fluoride-Based Toothpaste on the Oral Pathogens Isolated from Patients with Gum Diseases in Pakistan
    Brazilian Journal of Biology, 2023
    DOI: 10.1590/1519-6984.242703

 

Mariana Petkova | Plant Biology | Women Researcher Award

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Assoc. Prof. Dr Mariana Petkova |  Plant Biology |  Women Researcher Award

Microbiology and Molecular biology at  Agriculture University-Plovdiv,  Bulgaria

Mariana Krasimirova Petkova, PhD is an Assistant Professor at the Agricultural University – Plovdiv, Bulgaria, within the Faculty of Plant Protection and Agroecology, Department of Microbiology and Ecological Biotechnology. She earned her Master’s degree in Plant Protection from the Agricultural University in 1996 and completed her PhD in Molecular Biology at the University of Kobe, Japan, in 2002.

Profile:

🎓 Education:

  • Master of Plant Protection – Agricultural University, Plovdiv, 1996
  • PhD in Molecular Biology – University of Kobe, Japan, 2002

💼 Academic Positions:

  • 2010 – 2014: Assistant Professor, Faculty of Agronomy, Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, Agricultural University – Plovdiv
  • 2014 – Present: Assistant Professor, Faculty of Plant Protection and Agroecology, Department of Microbiology and Ecological Biotechnology, Agricultural University – Plovdiv

🔬 Research Interests:

Main Areas:

  • Molecular Biology
  • Gene Expression
  • Microbiology

Additional Areas:

  • Antimicrobials
  • Lactic Acid Bacteria & Yeast in Sourdoughs
  • Functional Foods

🌍 International Collaborations & Specializations:

  • JSPS Fellowship (2006-2009) – University of Osaka, Japan
  • HPLC Training (2011) – Budapest, Hungary
  • Borlaug Fellowship (2012) – North Dakota State University, USA
  • Food Traceability Course (2013) – Thessaloniki, Greece
  • Analytical Approaches Workshop (2016) – University of Food Technologies, Plovdiv

🏆 Awards & Memberships:

  • Member: Union of Scientists in Bulgaria (since 2011)

📊 Scientific Impact:

  • Citations: 154 (by 140 documents)
  • Publications: 23
  • h-index: 8

Publication Top Notes:

  • “Plant Growth-Promoting and Biocontrol Characteristics of Four Bacillus Strains and Evaluation of Their Effects on Wheat (Tr. aestivum L.)”
    International Journal of Plant Biology, 2024.
    DOI: 10.3390/ijpb16010001

  • “Positive Effect of Camelina Intercropping with Legumes on Soil Microbial Diversity by Applying NGS Analysis and Mobile Fluorescence Spectroscopy”
    Applied Sciences, 2024.
    DOI: 10.3390/app14199046

  • “Biological Control of Lettuce Drop (Sclerotinia minor Jagger) Using Antagonistic Bacillus Species”
    Applied Microbiology, 2024.
    DOI: 10.3390/applmicrobiol4030088

  • “Isolation and Selection of Sauerkraut Lactic Acid Bacteria Producing Exopolysaccharides”
    BIO Web of Conferences, 2023.
    DOI: 10.1051/bioconf/20235802001

  • “Metagenomic Approach Unravelling Bacterial Diversity in Combined Composting and Vermicomposting Technology of Agricultural Wastes”
    Ecologia Balkanica, 2023.

  • “Mutagenesis as a Tool for Enhancement of Fatty Acid Composition of Rapeseed (Brassica napus L.)”
    Bulgarian Journal of Agricultural Science, 2023.

  • “On the Molecular Selection of Exopolysaccharide-Producing Lactic Acid Bacteria from Indigenous Fermented Plant-Based Foods and Further Fine Chemical Characterization”
    Foods, 2023.
    DOI: 10.3390/foods12183346

  • “Plant Traits of Tilia tomentosa Moench, Fraxinus excelsior L., and Pinus nigra J.F.Arnold as a Proxy of Urbanization”
    Forests, 2023.
    DOI: 10.3390/f14040800

  • “Revealing Fungal Diversity in Mesophilic and Thermophilic Habitats of Sewage Sludge Composting by Next-Generation Sequencing”
    Applied Sciences (Switzerland), 2023.
    DOI: 10.3390/app13095546

 

Zhizhou Ren | Agricultural Products | Best Researcher Award

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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)