Muhammad Ather Nadeem | Agronomy |  Best Researcher Award

Dr. Muhammad Ather Nadeem | Agronomy |  Best Researcher Award

Professor/Dean | University of Sargodha | Pakistan

Dr. Muhammad Ather Nadeem is a distinguished researcher specializing in Weed Science and Agronomy, with a particular focus on nano herbicides, herbicide resistance, allelopathy, and sustainable fodder production systems. His research explores the interactions between crops and weeds, emphasizing innovative and eco-friendly weed management approaches, plant–plant biochemical interactions, and the optimization of fertilizer and nutrient application for enhanced yield and quality. Serving as a leading academic at the University of Sargodha, Pakistan, Dr. Nadeem has played a vital role in advancing agricultural science through his extensive teaching, research supervision, and collaborative projects aimed at improving productivity and environmental sustainability. His scholarly contributions encompass over a hundred peer-reviewed publications, including highly cited works such as “Pesticides: Impacts on Agriculture Productivity, Environment, and Management Strategies” and “Can Hormesis of Plant-Released Phytotoxins Be Used to Boost and Sustain Crop Production?” which collectively demonstrate his commitment to balancing agricultural efficiency with environmental health. His pioneering studies on the integrated use of microbial and synthetic nitrogen sources, drought tolerance mechanisms, and sustainable fodder production have provided practical insights into mitigating climate change impacts on crop systems. Dr. Nadeem’s expertise extends beyond laboratory research to field-level innovations, influencing regional agricultural practices and policy discussions related to weed management and food security. Recognized for his remarkable academic metrics with over 5,000 citations, an h-index of 43, and an i10-index of 127, his research continues to shape new paradigms in agro-ecosystem management and resource-efficient farming. Through interdisciplinary collaboration and scientific leadership, Dr. Nadeem envisions a future where advanced biotechnological and ecological principles drive resilient and sustainable agriculture. His ongoing work contributes profoundly to global innovation in sustainable crop protection, positioning him as a key figure in the advancement of eco-agronomic research and an advocate for science-led agricultural transformation.

Profiles: Google Scholar | ResearchGate

Featured Publications

1. Ayub, M., Nadeem, M. A., Sharar, M. S., & Mahmood, N. (2002). Response of maize (Zea mays L.) fodder to different levels of nitrogen and phosphorus. Asian Journal of Plant Sciences, 1(4), 352–354.

2. Khan, B. A., Nadeem, M. A., Nawaz, H., Amin, M. M., Abbasi, G. H., Nadeem, M., & Ali, M. (2023). Pesticides: Impacts on agriculture productivity, environment, and management strategies. Emerging Contaminants and Plants: Interactions, Adaptations and Remediation, 219.

3. Ayub, M., Nadeem, M. A., Tanveer, A., & Husnain, A. (2002). Effect of different levels of nitrogen and harvesting times on the growth, yield and quality of sorghum fodder. Asian Journal of Plant Sciences, 1(4), 304–307.

4. Nadeem, M. A., Ahmad, R. A. R., & Ahmad, M. S. (2004). Effects of seed inoculation and different fertilizer levels on the growth and yield of mung bean (Vigna radiata L.). Asian Journal of Plant Sciences, 3(4), 299–303.*

5. Ayub, M., Nadeem, M. A., Tahir, M., Ibrahim, M., & Aslam, M. N. (2009). Effect of nitrogen application and harvesting intervals on forage yield and quality of pearl millet (Pennisetum americanum L.). Pakistan Journal of Life and Social Sciences, 7(2), 185–189.

Fariya Abubakari | Soil Science | Women Researcher Award

Dr. Fariya Abubakari | Soil Science | Women Researcher Award

Research Scholar | Murdoch University | Australia

Dr. Fariya Abubakari is a distinguished researcher at Murdoch University, specializing in agriculture, crop science, soil science, and horticulture. Her research primarily focuses on sustainable agricultural practices, food security, and the socio-economic impacts of climate change on farming systems in sub-Saharan Africa. Dr. Abubakari’s emerging research interests include optimizing nitrogen fixation in leguminous crops and enhancing soil conservation techniques to improve smallholder productivity. Throughout her academic career, she has held vital research and teaching roles in agricultural science, where she has contributed extensively to policy-driven studies on soil fertility management, fertilizer subsidy effects, and farmers’ adaptation strategies to climate change. Her influential works, including “Determinants of Household Food Security and Climate Change Impacts on Agriculture in Ghana” and “Strategies for Improving Nodulation and Nitrogen Fixation of Leguminous Crops,” have shaped local and regional agricultural policies promoting climate resilience and sustainable crop production. Dr. Abubakari’s research on soil conservation technologies, fertilizer awareness, and tomato production constraints among rural farmers has offered practical frameworks for improving yields and livelihoods in vulnerable regions. She has also contributed to gender and development studies, notably examining the intersection of women’s empowerment and agricultural sustainability in Ghana. With over 70 citations and a growing research footprint, her work bridges scientific inquiry and real-world agricultural challenges. Her impact vision is to advance sustainable farming systems that ensure food security and environmental protection through innovative soil management, efficient crop production, and inclusive agricultural policies. By integrating scientific evidence with rural development strategies, Dr. Abubakari continues to influence both academic discourse and practical implementation, reinforcing her commitment to improving the resilience of African agriculture against climate and economic pressures while empowering communities toward sustainable livelihoods.

Profile: Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Dario Gaudioso | Seed Science | Excellence in Innovation Award

Dr. Dario Gaudioso | Seed Science | Excellence in Innovation Award

PhD researcher | Università degli studi di Firenze | Italy

Dr. Dario Gaudioso is a distinguished researcher specializing in molecular plant pathology, with expertise in plant health, quarantine pathogens, and molecular biology. His research primarily focuses on developing rapid, economical, and high-throughput diagnostic strategies for the detection of quarantine plant pathogens, using Curtobacterium flaccumfaciens pv. flaccumfaciens as a model organism. He also explores innovative, eco-friendly biotechnological approaches for sustainable crop protection and microbial interactions in leguminous plants. Currently serving as a PhD researcher at the Department of Agricultural, Food, Environmental and Forestry Science and Technology (DAGRI), University of Florence, Dr. Gaudioso also contributes as a Scientific Communicator and OpenLab Operator, bridging science and public understanding. His prior work as a Research Fellow at the same institution strengthened his contributions to applied plant pathology and diagnostic microbiology. Among his significant scientific outputs are publications such as Isolation of a Novel Microplastic-Degrading Bacterial Strain in Chemosphere (2025), Fly High: Volatile Organic Compounds for the Early Detection of Curtobacterium flaccumfaciens in Agronomy (2025), and Exploiting Bacterial Pigmentation for Non-Destructive Detection of Seed-Borne Pathogens in Sensors (2024). He has also contributed to the book Innovative Detection of the Quarantine Plant Pathogen Curtobacterium flaccumfaciens pv. flaccumfaciens published in Plant Pathology (2022), and to reviews on multidrug transporters in Microorganisms (2024), highlighting his diverse contributions across microbiology and plant science. As an active member of prestigious organizations, including the British Society for Plant Pathology, the Italian Society of Plant Pathology, and the Italian Association for Plant Protection, he continuously engages with the international scientific community. His research outputs integrate molecular diagnostics, sensor technologies, and microbial ecology to advance sustainable agriculture and improve global plant biosecurity frameworks. Through his innovative and interdisciplinary approach, Dr. Gaudioso envisions a future where sustainable diagnostic solutions enable effective management of plant diseases, safeguard agricultural biodiversity, and support resilient food systems. His scientific vision emphasizes strengthening global plant health surveillance, fostering early detection methods that reduce economic losses and environmental impact, and promoting a collaborative framework that bridges science, technology, and sustainability to address emerging agricultural challenges.

Profiles: Google Scholar | Scopus | ORCID | ResearchGate | LinkedIn

Featured Publications

1. Gaudioso, D. (2025). Isolation of a novel microplastic-degrading bacterial strain: A promising agent for low-density polyethylene remediation. Chemosphere. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.chemosphere.2025.144400

2. Gaudioso, D. (2025). On the effectiveness of ozone treatments: A silver bullet for plant health? Agronomy, 15(3), 567. https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15030567

3. Gaudioso, D. (2025). Fly high: Volatile organic compounds for the early detection of the seed-borne pathogen Curtobacterium flaccumfaciens pv. flaccumfaciens. Agronomy, 15(2), 497. https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15020497

4. Gaudioso, D. (2024). Exploiting bacterial pigmentation for non-destructive detection of seed-borne pathogens by using photoacoustic techniques. Sensors, 24(23), 7616. https://doi.org/10.3390/s24237616

5. Gaudioso, D. (2024). Multidrug and toxic compound extrusion transporters: Ubiquitous multifaceted proteins in microbes, plants, and their interactions. Microorganisms, 12(12), 2433. https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms12122433

Xiufeng Xing | Agri Policy | Best Scholar Award

Dr. Xiufeng Xing | Agri Policy | Best Scholar Award

Master's Supervisor | Qingdao University of Technology | China

Dr. Xiufeng Xing currently serves as a faculty member at Qingdao University of Technology, China, specializing in population, resources, and environmental economics with an additional academic interest in higher education studies. She holds advanced degrees in economics and has developed a strong interdisciplinary foundation that enables her to bridge socio-economic analysis with sustainable development policy. Her research primarily explores inclusive growth, environmental responsibility, and the economics of education, while her emerging interests focus on global energy market fluctuations and the socio-economic impacts of crises such as pandemics and geopolitical conflicts. Over the course of her academic career, Dr. Xing has published more than 40 peer-reviewed research papers addressing pressing issues such as the evaluation of shared prosperity in developing regions, the effects of COVID-19 and the Ukraine conflict on global oil and natural gas prices, and comparative analyses of hybrid versus traditional teaching models in higher education settings. Complementing her journal contributions, she is also the author of four scholarly books—Inclusive Growth, Corporate Environmental Responsibility, The Marketization of Urban Water Industry, and The Marketization of Domestic Service—which collectively reflect her commitment to equitable economic policy and sustainable industrial practice. Alongside her research, she has taken on key teaching responsibilities, delivering courses in environmental economics, macroeconomics, and microeconomics, where she is recognized for integrating real-world case studies into economic theory instruction. Dr. Xing has contributed to strategic policy discussions through her evidence-based evaluations of water industry reform, corporate accountability frameworks, and social service market mechanisms. She has been acknowledged through competitive research grants and institutional commendations for her leadership in advancing sustainability-focused economic analytics. Beyond authorship, she actively serves as a peer reviewer for academic journals in the domains of development economics and environmental policy and maintains membership in several professional economic and educational societies, where she contributes to collaborative research initiatives and scholarly evaluation panels. Her growing influence in the academic sphere is reflected in her role in shaping curricula and advising on macroeconomic planning within institutional and regional contexts. Driven by a vision to promote equitable prosperity through data-driven policymaking, Dr. Xiufeng Xing strives to advance frameworks that balance economic growth with social inclusion and ecological responsibility. Her work not only informs scholarly dialogue but also supports governments, industries, and educational institutions in making informed decisions that align long-term economic resilience with public welfare.

Profile: ORCID

Featured Publications 

1. Xing, X., & Wang, Y. (2025). The evaluation of shared prosperity: A case from China. Sustainability, 17(2), 621. https://doi.org/10.3390/su17020621

2. Xing, X., Cong, Y., Wang, Y., & Wang, X. (2023). The impact of COVID-19 and war in Ukraine on energy prices of oil and natural gas. Sustainability, 15(19), 14208. https://doi.org/10.3390/su151914208

3. Xing, X., & Saghaian, S. (2022). Learning outcomes of a hybrid online virtual classroom and in-person traditional classroom during the COVID-19 pandemic. Sustainability, 14(9), 5263. https://doi.org/10.3390/su14095263

4. Xing, X. (2020). Spillovers of urban road infrastructure investment and operation: A case study using synthetic control methods. Business, Management and Economics Research, 6(10), 100–110.*

5. Xing, X. (2019, June). Does university class size matter? Evidence from course micro data. In Proceedings of the Education and Economics Conference 2019.

Noah Adamtey | Soil Fertility Management | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Noah Adamtey | Soil Fertility Management | Best Researcher Award

Senior Researcher | International Water Management Institute | Ghana

Dr. Noah Adamtey is a distinguished Agronomist and Environmental Scientist, currently serving as Senior Researcher in Resource Recovery and Agri-food Systems at the International Water Management Institute (IWMI), Ghana. He earned his BSc in Agricultural Science and MPhil in Environmental Science from the University of Ghana, followed by a PhD in Environmental Science from the University of Ghana in collaboration with IWMI and Eawag-Sandec, Switzerland, and later pursued a Habilitation at the University of Giessen, Germany, focusing on resource recovery and use efficiency in farming systems. With over two decades of expertise, Dr. Adamtey’s research spans agroecology, bio-circular economy, soil fertility, nutrient cycling, sustainable water use, and climate-resilient agricultural systems. He has led and collaborated on several international projects, including long-term farming systems comparison trials across Africa, Asia, and Latin America, significantly advancing knowledge on organic versus conventional agriculture. His extensive publication record includes impactful articles in Applied Soil Ecology, Frontiers in Sustainable Food Systems, and Global Environmental Change, as well as contributions to book chapters, training manuals, and technical guides. Dr. Adamtey’s research has been recognized with prestigious awards such as the 2025 IWMI Board of Governors Award, the 2021 Louis Malassis International Scientific Award for Agroecology, and the 2019 Swiss Forum for International Agricultural Research Award. Beyond research, he contributes to academia as a lecturer at the University of Giessen and University of Hohenheim, Germany, and has been instrumental in curriculum development for agricultural institutions in Africa. He is also an active reviewer for leading journals, including Nutrient Cycling in Agroecosystems, Agronomy Journal, and Sustainability. Through his scientific leadership, teaching, and international collaborations, Dr. Adamtey continues to influence sustainable agriculture, environmental stewardship, and food security worldwide

Profile: Google Scholar 

Featured Publications 

1. Adamtey, N., Musyoka, M. W., Zundel, C., Cobo, J. G., Karanja, E., Fiaboe, K. K. M., ... (2016). Productivity, profitability and partial nutrient balance in maize-based conventional and organic farming systems in Kenya. Agriculture, Ecosystems & Environment.

2. Adamtey, N., Cofie, O., Ofosu-Budu, K. G., Ofosu-Anim, J., Laryea, K. B., & Forster, D. (2010). Effect of N-enriched co-compost on transpiration efficiency and water-use efficiency of maize (Zea mays L.) under controlled irrigation. Agricultural Water Management.

3. Adamtey, N., Cofie, O., Ofosu-Budu, G. K., Danso, S. K. A., & Forster, D. (2009). Production and storage of N-enriched co-compost. Waste Management.

4. Neither, W., Schneidewind, U., Armengot, L., Adamtey, N., Schneider, M., ... (2017). Spatial-temporal soil moisture dynamics under different cocoa production systems. Catena.

5. Atandi, J. G., Haukeland, S., Kariuki, G. M., Coyne, D. L., Karanja, E. N., ... (2017). Organic farming provides improved management of plant parasitic nematodes in maize and bean cropping systems. Agriculture, Ecosystems & Environment.

 

Prof. Sue Walker | Agrometeorology | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Sue Walker | Agrometeorology | Best Researcher Award

Principal Researcher Agromet | ARC-NRE & UFS | South Africa

Prof. Sue Walker is an Affiliated Emeritus Professor of Agrometeorology at the University of the Free State and a Principal Specialist Researcher in Agrometeorology at the Agricultural Research Council, South Africa. She holds a Ph.D. in Plant Physiology from the University of California, Davis, and advanced diplomas in Project Management and Innovation & Design Thinking. Prof. Walker’s research focuses on the development of climate services for agricultural systems, climate-smart agriculture, crop-climate modeling, and adaptation strategies for smallholder farmers in semi-arid regions. She has authored over 131 peer-reviewed scientific articles and 40 book chapters, contributing significantly to areas like water-energy-food nexus, crop modeling, and the application of seasonal forecasts in agriculture. Her work includes notable projects such as the “Climate-Wise Women” initiative and the “Rain for Africa” project. Prof. Walker has received several prestigious awards, including a Fulbright Scholarship, a South African National Research Foundation B3-rating, a fellowship with the South African Society of Crop Production, and the Bram Fischer Oxford-South Africa Award. She has served as Chair of the World Meteorological Organization's OPAG on Agrometeorological Services and as a representative to WMO-CAgM and ICID Working Groups. Additionally, she serves on the Editorial Committee of the South African Journal of Plant and Soil. Her work emphasizes participatory rural appraisal methods, decision support tools for farmers, and the integration of climate services into agricultural development strategies. With extensive global experience from over 54 countries, she remains a leading expert in building resilience against climate variability in the agricultural sector. She has 3039 citations from 2600 documents across 115 publications, with an h-index of 30.

Profiles:  Google Scholar | ORCID | Scopus

Publications 

1. Kumssa, D. B., Joy, E. J. M., Ander, E. L., Watts, M. J., Young, S. D., Walker, S., ... (2015). Dietary calcium and zinc deficiency risks are decreasing but remain prevalent. Scientific Reports, 5(1), 10974.

2. Tsubo, M., Walker, S., & Ogindo, H. O. (2005). A simulation model of cereal–legume intercropping systems for semi-arid regions: I. Model development. Field Crops Research, 93(1), 10–22.

3. Tsubo, M., Walker, S., & Mukhala, E. (2001). Comparisons of radiation use efficiency of mono-/inter-cropping systems with different row orientations. Field Crops Research, 71(1), 17–29.

4. Gandure, S., Walker, S., & Botha, J. J. (2013). Farmers' perceptions of adaptation to climate change and water stress in a South African rural community. Environmental Development, 5, 39–53.

5. Tesfaye, K., Walker, S., & Tsubo, M. (2006). Radiation interception and radiation use efficiency of three grain legumes under water deficit conditions in a semi-arid environment. European Journal of Agronomy, 25(1), 60–70.

Mather Khan | Food Security and Nutrition | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Mather Khan | Food Security and Nutrition | Best Researcher Award

Scientist at University of Missouri | United States

Dr. Mather A Khan is a distinguished Plant Molecular Biologist with over a decade of research expertise focused on metal homeostasis, crop nutrition, and abiotic stress adaptation. His work integrates advanced molecular techniques, yeast systems, and multi-omics approaches to uncover plant-environment interactions. Dr. Khan has led independent research programs and published extensively in high-impact journals, contributing significantly to plant stress biology. He emphasizes sustainable agricultural solutions, aligning his research with global food security goals. As a mentor and innovator, Dr. Khan supports interdisciplinary collaboration to advance scientific understanding and develop practical solutions to agricultural challenges.

Professional Profile

Google Scholar 

Education

Dr. Mather A Khan completed his Ph.D. in Biotechnology from Hamdard University, New Delhi, India, where his thesis focused on Fusarium wilt resistance in chickpea using sulfur and microbial consortium. He earned a Master of Science in Biotechnology from Barkatullah University, Bhopal, India, with research on the chemopreventive role of green tea at CNCI, Kolkata. He graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Biosciences from the University of Calcutta, India. Additionally, Dr. Khan completed a specialized Certificate Program in Preparing Tomorrow's Leaders for Science at the University of Missouri, USA.

Professional Experience

Dr. Khan is currently a Scientist at the University of Missouri, where he pioneers integrative molecular and systems biology research to decode iron sensing mechanisms in plants. He previously served as Senior Scientist at Heinrich Heine University in Germany, where he led projects to enhance iron bioavailability in legumes and developed innovative protein interaction pipelines. As a Research Scientist and Postdoctoral Fellow at the University of Missouri, he assembled Arabidopsis transcription factor libraries and advanced single-cell proteomics. His contributions include mentoring over 15 researchers and coordinating high-profile scientific discussions, with a strong focus on precision nutrient uptake and sustainable crop engineering.

Research Interest

Dr. Khan’s research focuses on understanding plant nutrient homeostasis, particularly iron sensing, uptake, and transport mechanisms. He employs multi-omics strategies, high-throughput yeast one-hybrid and yeast two-hybrid platforms, and CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing to uncover molecular interactions regulating plant responses to abiotic stress. His work extends to developing tissue-specific expression systems for trait improvement and engineering advanced metal transporters to enhance nutrient use efficiency in crops. Dr. Khan emphasizes integrating transcriptomic, proteomic, and metabolomic data to reveal complex regulatory networks. His research contributes to sustainable agriculture by improving crop resilience and nutritional quality in the face of global environmental challenges.

Awards and Honor

Dr. Khan has received multiple honors for his contributions to plant molecular biology, including being a panelist for the National Science Foundation’s Division of Biological Infrastructure in 2024 and 2025. He was recognized as a Plantae Fellow by the American Society of Plant Biologists and awarded the Douglas D Randall Young Scientists Development Fund. His scientific impact is further validated by travel awards and participation in international conferences. Dr. Khan’s pioneering work in iron sensing and biofortification has earned him invitations to prestigious scientific meetings and key roles in research panels, reflecting his leadership and expertise in advancing global agricultural science.

Research Skill

Dr. Khan possesses a comprehensive technical skill set in molecular and synthetic biology, including advanced cloning techniques, vector design, and genome engineering with CRISPR-Cas9. His expertise extends to yeast system manipulation for functional gene analysis, protein-protein and protein-DNA interactions using Y1H/Y2H, Co-IP, and BiFC. In plant systems, he conducts genetic crossings, transient expression studies, and elemental analysis. He is proficient in multi-omics techniques such as RNA-seq, proteomics, metabolomics, and ionomics, alongside advanced microscopy and bioinformatics for data analysis. Dr. Khan integrates computational tools (R, Python) for data visualization and analysis, promoting innovative, data-driven solutions in plant molecular research.

Publications

Dr. Khan has an extensive publication record, contributing to high-impact journals in plant biology and molecular sciences. His recent work includes elucidating the role of bHLH35 in plant stress responses and age-dependent iron deficiency responses in Arabidopsis. He has co-authored studies on secondary metabolite biosynthesis, sustainability research comparing mung bean growth conditions, and molecular transport mechanisms in plants. Dr. Khan’s publications extend from mechanistic studies of phloem transporters to innovative methods in proteomics and metabolomics. His research is well cited, contributing substantially to the scientific understanding of plant nutrition, stress adaptation, and molecular biofortification strategies worldwide.

Khan, M. A., Castro-Guerrero, N., & Mendoza-Cozatl, D. G. (2014). Moving toward a precise nutrition: Preferential loading of seeds with essential nutrients over non-essential toxic elements. Frontiers in Plant Science, 5, 51.

Khan, M. A., Castro-Guerrero, N. A., McInturf, S. A., Nguyen, N. T., Dame, A. N., & Mendoza-Cozatl, D. G. (2018). Changes in iron availability in Arabidopsis are rapidly sensed in the leaf vasculature and impaired sensing leads to opposite transcriptional programs in leaves and roots. Plant, Cell & Environment, 41(10), 2263-2276.

Ram, M., Abdin, M. Z., Khan, M. A., & Jha, P. (2011). HPTLC fingerprint analysis: A quality control for authentication of herbal phytochemicals. High-Performance Thin-Layer Chromatography (HPTLC), 105–116.

Ram, M., Khan, M. A., Jha, P., Khan, S., Kiran, U., Ahmad, M. M., & Javed, S. (2010). HMG-CoA reductase limits artemisinin biosynthesis and accumulation in Artemisia annua L. plants. Acta Physiologiae Plantarum, 32(5), 859-866.

Jha, P., Ram, M., Khan, M. A., Kiran, U., & Abdin, M. Z. (2011). Impact of organic manure and chemical fertilizers on artemisinin content and yield in Artemisia annua L. Industrial Crops and Products, 33(2), 296–301.

Conclusion

Dr. Mather A Khan is a visionary researcher dedicated to advancing plant molecular biology for sustainable agriculture. His interdisciplinary approach bridges molecular techniques and systems biology to address critical issues in crop nutrition and abiotic stress resilience. With a passion for scientific discovery and mentorship, Dr. Khan continues to innovate high-throughput methodologies, paving the way for improved plant nutrient sensing and enhanced agricultural productivity. His commitment to global food security is demonstrated through collaborative research, impactful publications, and participation in international panels. Dr. Khan’s work exemplifies the integration of fundamental research with practical solutions for a sustainable future.

Ricardo Luna Murillo | Crop Production | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Ricardo Luna Murillo | Crop Production | Best Researcher Award

Researcher at Technical University of Cotopaxi | Ecuador

Ricardo Augusto Luna Murillo is an accomplished academic and researcher in the field of agricultural sciences, with a specialization in microbiology and livestock production. Over the course of his career, he has contributed significantly to teaching, research, and consultancy, focusing on sustainable livestock management, organic agriculture, and innovative agronomic practices. His experience spans universities, research institutions, and consultancy roles, where he has worked on multidisciplinary projects, published numerous scientific papers, and participated in international conferences. Through his academic and professional efforts, he has strengthened agricultural knowledge in Ecuador and beyond, promoting scientific innovation and sustainability in rural development.

Professional Profiles

Google Scholar | ORCID | Scopus

Education

Ricardo Augusto Luna Murillo pursued his undergraduate studies in Animal Science, earning a degree as an Agricultural Engineer specializing in Zootechnics. He later advanced his knowledge with a Diploma in Microbiology and subsequently a Master’s degree in Advanced Microbiology with an Industrial focus. Complementing his academic foundation, he received international certification in project formulation, evaluation, and management, which broadened his expertise in planning and implementing research-based projects. His continuous participation in specialized courses on biotechnology, livestock production, and sustainable farming has enriched his scientific background, allowing him to integrate theory with practical innovations in agriculture and microbiology.

Professional Experience

With a professional career spanning decades, Ricardo Augusto Luna Murillo has served in diverse academic, technical, and consultancy roles. He has been a professor and researcher at multiple institutions, including the Universidad Técnica Estatal de Quevedo, Universidad Agraria del Ecuador, and Universidad Técnica de Cotopaxi. His teaching has covered areas such as microbiology, animal nutrition, and pasture management, while his research projects have focused on sustainable livestock production and organic agriculture. Beyond academia, he has worked as a technical consultant, advising on agricultural investment and scientific projects. His leadership in research units and scientific committees reflects his strong commitment to advancing knowledge and innovation.

Research Interests

Ricardo Augusto Luna Murillo’s research interests are centered on sustainable livestock production, animal nutrition, microbiology, and organic agriculture. He has dedicated much of his career to studying the nutritional value of tropical forages, the use of biofertilizers and organic amendments, and the role of rhizobacteria in promoting crop growth. His interests also extend to silvopastoral systems, integrated farming practices, and the application of biotechnology in agriculture. By exploring the intersection of animal science and microbiology, his research aims to improve productivity while maintaining environmental sustainability, contributing to food security and rural development in Ecuador and the wider Latin American region.

Awards and Honors

Throughout his career, Ricardo Augusto Luna Murillo has been recognized for his outstanding academic and research contributions. He has received honors for his role as a dedicated tutor, professor, and researcher in various institutions. His scientific leadership has been acknowledged at national and international congresses, where he has been commended for advancing agricultural innovation and sustainability. He has been accredited by Ecuador’s national higher education authority as a categorized researcher, underscoring his valuable contributions to scientific knowledge. These distinctions reflect his dedication to education, research, and the dissemination of innovative practices that benefit both academia and the agricultural sector.

Research Skills

Ricardo Augusto Luna Murillo possesses a diverse range of research skills developed through years of academic and professional engagement. He is adept at designing, planning, and executing research projects, often leading multidisciplinary teams across agricultural and microbiological studies. His expertise includes animal nutrition analysis, forage evaluation, microbiological techniques, and the application of biofertilizers in crop production. Additionally, he has experience in statistical analysis, technical writing, and scientific publication. His skills extend to organizing scientific events, mentoring young researchers, and contributing as a peer reviewer for academic journals, which highlights his ability to promote high-quality, impactful scientific work.

Publications

A prolific author, Ricardo Augusto Luna Murillo has published numerous articles in indexed journals, conference proceedings, and scientific books. His publications span topics such as animal nutrition, organic fertilization, pasture and forage evaluation, microbiology, and sustainable crop production. His research findings have been disseminated in national and international journals, contributing to advancements in agricultural science. Notably, he has explored the effects of enzymes, biofertilizers, and organic amendments on animal and crop productivity. His academic output demonstrates his commitment to producing practical knowledge that supports sustainable agricultural systems, reinforcing his reputation as a respected researcher and academic leader in his field.

Avellaneda-Cevallos, J. H., Cedeño-Cedeño, T. A., Suárez-Chiquito, A., Montañez-Valdez, O., Cepeda-Cantos, C. D., Luna-Murillo, R., Espinoza-Guerra, I., Quintana, J., & Casanova-Ferrín, L. (2007). Effect of palm kernel meal plus urea on finishing of Brown Swiss young bulls. Journal of Animal Science, 85(Suppl. 1), 96.

Avellaneda-Cevallos, J. H., Quintana-Zamora, G., Espinoza-Torrico, F., Montañez-Valdez, O., Espinoza-Guerra, I., Luna-Murillo, R., González-Muñoz, S., & Tuárez-Cobeña, J. (2007). Effect of an exogenous fibrolytic enzyme on in vivo digestibility of king grass hay. Journal of Animal Science, 85(Suppl. 1), 337.

Avellaneda-Cevallos, J. H., Montanez-Valdez, O. D., Romero-Garaicoa, D., Luna-Murillo, R., Bravo-Loor, J., & Pena-Galeas, M. (2011). Effect of exogenous fibrolytic enzymes on dry matter in situ digestibility of two Brachiaria grasses. Journal of Animal Science, 89(Suppl. E. 1), 387.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Ricardo Augusto Luna Murillo stands as a distinguished figure in the fields of microbiology, zootechnics, and sustainable agriculture. His professional journey reflects a balance between teaching, research, and consultancy, with a strong focus on innovation and sustainability. Through his contributions to scientific literature, leadership in research projects, and participation in international congresses, he has become a reference point for agricultural development in Ecuador. His commitment to fostering young researchers and promoting environmentally responsible practices ensures his work continues to have a meaningful impact on academia, agricultural producers, and broader rural communities across the region.