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)

 

Girma Ganebo | farmers | Best Researcher Award

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Assist. Prof. Dr Girma Ganebo | farmers |  Best Researcher Award

Assistant professor at  Wolaita Sodo University ,  Ethiopia

Dr. Girma Gata Ganebo is an Ethiopian scholar and development expert specializing in Agricultural Economics and Development Economics. He was born in Wolaita/Shanto and is currently based in Boditi, Ethiopia.

Profile:

🔹 Academic Background 🎓

  • Ph.D. in Agricultural Economics – Wolaita Sodo University (2013-2017)
  • MA in Development Economics – Arba Minch University (2007-2008)
  • BA in Economics – Arba Minch University (1997-2000)
  • Diploma in Geography – Awasa College of Teachers Education (1995-1997)

🔹 Professional Experience 💼

Dr. Girma has held various leadership and research roles in economic development, finance, and urban infrastructure projects, including:

  • Senior Secondary School Teacher (1998)
  • Head of Economic Development, Population & Statistics Division – Damot Pulasa District (1999-2001)
  • Executive Manager – Shanto Town Municipality (2002)
  • Head of Finance & Economic Development Office – Damot Pulasa District (2004-2006)
  • Senior M&E Officer – Wolaita Zone Urban & Construction Development Department (2009-2017)

🔹 Skills & Research Contributions 📊

  • Expertise in economic development, project evaluation, and impact assessment
  • Proficient in data analysis tools (SPSS, STATA, R, E-Views)
  • Conducted studies on climate change risk mitigation and economic sustainability
  • Consultancy services in business and investment

🔹 Languages & Training 🌍

  • Fluent in English, Amharic, and Wolaitagna
  • Certified in strategic communication, finance, leadership, and strategic planning

Publication:

  • Can asset accumulation weigh the welfare status of mung bean farmers in lowland areas of South Ethiopia?

 

Alula Tafesse Shirko | Farmers | Top Researcher Award

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Dr Alula Tafesse Shirko | Farmers |  Top Researcher Award

Dean at  Wolaita Sodo AVET College,  Ethiopia

Dr. Alula Tafesse Shirko is an Assistant Professor at Wolaita Sodo University and currently serves as the Dean of Wolaita Sodo Agricultural Vocational Training College in Ethiopia. He holds a strong academic background and expertise in agricultural sciences, specializing in agricultural education and vocational training. Dr. Alula has contributed significantly to the development of agricultural training programs aimed at improving local farming practices and promoting sustainable agricultural development in the region. His leadership roles at both the university and vocational training college highlight his dedication to the advancement of agricultural education in Ethiopia.

Profile:

Education:

  • PhD in Agricultural Economics (2016-2021), Haramaya University, Ethiopia
    Dissertation: Technical Efficiency, Commercialization, and Food & Nutrition Security Impacts of Moringa in SNNP Region, Ethiopia
  • MSc in Natural Resource Economics and Policy (2010-2012), Hawassa University, Ethiopia
  • BSc in Natural Resource Economics and Management (2007-2009), Mekelle University, Ethiopia

Administrative and Academic Positions:

  • Dean, Wolaita Sodo Agricultural Vocational Training College (January 2024 – Present)
  • Head, Department of Agricultural Economics, Wolaita Sodo University (2021-2023, 2014-2016)
  • Assistant Professor, Wolaita Sodo University (2016 – 2024)
  • Lecturer, Wolaita Sodo University (2013 – 2016)
  • Lecturer, Mekelle University (2012-2013)
  • Graduate Assistant, Mekelle University (2009-2012)

Grants and Research Funding:

  • Wolaita Sodo University Research Fund: Integrated watershed management for sustainable fish production for enhanced youth job creation and food security in Wolaita Area, Ethiopia (Completed, 250,000 ETB)
  • Ethiopian Ministry of Science and Higher Education Scholarship: PhD research on Moringa commercialization, food security, and technical efficiency (Completed, 60,000 ETB)
  • SNNPR and Wolaita Sodo University Research Fund: Assessing development bottlenecks of mixed agricultural production system in Southern Ethiopia (Completed, 1.5m ETB)

Workshop and Conference Participation:

  • Presenter at Fourth Annual International Research Conference (2015, Wolaita Sodo University)
  • Curriculum reviewer at Curriculum Validation Workshop (2021, Worabe University)

Dr. Tafesse is a seasoned academic and researcher with significant contributions to agricultural economics and policy. He holds leadership roles in both academia and research, with a focus on food security, agricultural efficiency, and rural development.

Publication Top Notes:

  • Can asset accumulation weigh the welfare status of mung bean farmers in lowland areas of South Ethiopia?
    Gata, G., Kuma, B., Tafesse, A., Habte, Z. (2025). Journal of Agriculture and Food Research, 19, 101611.
  • Status and determinants of multi-dimensional poverty in Wolaita Sodo Town, southern Ethiopia
    Esrael, E., Worku, A., Cucchi, C., Recha, J.W., Tafesse, A. (2025). Journal of Agriculture and Food Research, 19, 101562.
  • Assessment of cumulative incidences of mung bean crop production in lowlands of south Ethiopia through multiple factor analysis
    Gata, G., Kuma, B., Tafesse, A. (2024). Heliyon, 10(10), e31012.
  • Digital tools and welfare: adoption determinants among ginger producers in Southern and Central Ethiopia
    Gizachew, F., Kuma, B., Tafesse, A., Lambamo, A. (2024). Frontiers in Sustainable Food Systems, 8, 1443775.
  • Effect of credit constraint on yield: the case of ginger producers in southern and central Ethiopia
    Tilore, F.G., Shano, B.K., Shirko, A.T., Hawitibo, A.L. (2024). Frontiers in Sustainable Food Systems, 8, 1334799.
  • Impact of credit on household food security: The case of Omo microfinance institution in southern Ethiopia
    Boltana, A., Tafesse, A., Belay, A., Recha, J.W., M.Osano, P. (2023). Journal of Agriculture and Food Research, 14, 100903.
  • Determinants of Smallholder Farmers’ Income Diversification in Sodo Zuria District, Southern Ethiopia
    W/kidan, A., Tafesse, A. (2023). Advances in Agriculture, 2023, 6038569.
  • Irrigated Onion Production Efficiency in Humbo District, Southern Ethiopia
    Tafesse, A., Dema, S., Belay, A. (2023). Cogent Economics and Finance, 11(1), 2207928.
  • Determinants of maize farmers market participation in Southern Ethiopia: Emphasis on demographic, socioeconomic and institutional factors
    Tafesse, A., Gechere, G., Asale, A., Demissie, T.D., Solomon, D. (2023). Cogent Food and Agriculture, 9(1), 2191850.
  • Cassava Production Efficiency in Southern Ethiopia: The Parametric Model Analysis
    Tafesse, A., Mena, B., Belay, A., Endalamaw, T.B., Solomon, D. (2021). Frontiers in Sustainable Food Systems, 5, 758951.

 

Richard Moyo | Food Security | Best Researcher Award

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Mr Richard Moyo |  Food Security  |  Best Researcher Award

Associate Consultant at  University of Malawi,  Malawi

Richard Steven Moyo is a pragmatic and results-driven economist with over five years of hands-on experience in evidence-based monitoring and evaluation. His expertise includes economic modeling, data collection, survey design, data analysis, and preparing research reports. Richard specializes in health economics, public sector economics, and evidence-based decision-making, using tools such as STATA, R, and Excel for economic evaluation.

Profile:

Education:

  • Master of Arts in Economics (2024) – University of Malawi (Health Economics & Public Sector Economics)
  • Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Economics (2019) – Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources

Professional Experience:

  • Associate Consultant (2022-Present) – ASPIRE Consultancy
    • Data Manager for the Malawi Water and Sanitation Project-1 (MWSP 1), overseeing customer satisfaction and willingness-to-pay surveys.
  • Research Fellow (2024-2025) – Malawi Environment Protection Authority (MEPA)
    • Co-author of the Malawi State of Environment Outlook Report, contributing to environmental research and policy.
  • Adjunct Lecturer (2024-Present) – University of Livingstonia
    • Teaching courses in Health Economics and Public Health.
  • Research Fellow (2024-Present) – University of Malawi
    • Conducted economic impact assessments on the Art sector and evaluated the Titukulane Project with IFPRI Malawi.
  • Research Supervisor/Data Analyst (2020-2023) – Center for Social Research (CSR)
    • Led impact evaluations of educational programs focused on reducing teenage pregnancies in Malawi.
  • Monitoring & Evaluation Officer (2020-2023) – Ministry of Finance and Economic Planning
    • Conducted data analysis on market trends and evaluated the impact of the COVID-19 Urban Cash Transfer Intervention.

Skills Profile:

  • Technical Skills: Proficient in Microsoft Excel, Power BI, STATA, R-Studio, SPSS.
  • Leadership: Led teams in the implementation and evaluation of multiple research projects.
  • Research: Conducted 4 baseline studies and 6 impact evaluations, achieving 20% savings in project budgets.

Publication Title Format:

  • Moyo, R., & Chirwa, G.C. (2025). The economic implications of noncommunicable diseases on food security and resilience in Malawi. Journal of Agriculture and Food Research, 19, 101646.
  • Moyo, R., Love, D., Mul, M., Mupangwa, W., & Twomlow, S. (2006). Impact and sustainability of low-head drip irrigation kits, in the semi-arid Gwanda and Beitbridge Districts, Mzingwane Catchment, Limpopo Basin, Zimbabwe. Physics and Chemistry of the Earth, 31(15-16), 885–892.

 

 

Francisco Guilhien Gomes Junior | Seed Technology | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Dr Francisco Guilhien Gomes Junior |  Seed Technology |  Best Researcher Award

Professor at University of Sao Paulo – Luiz de Queiroz College of Agriculture, Brazil

Francisco Guilhien Gomes Junior is a renowned researcher and professor at the University of São Paulo (USP) in Piracicaba, Brazil. He holds a Doctorate in Phytotechnics from USP/ESALQ and a Master’s degree in Production Systems from UNESP. His research mainly focuses on the application of image analysis techniques to evaluate seed and seedling characteristics, including their physical, chemical, and physiological aspects.

Profile:

Academic Background:

  • Doctorate (2009) in Phytotechnics, USP/ESALQ, Brazil
    Thesis: “Mechanical injuries in sweet corn seeds”
  • Master’s (2006) in Production Systems, UNESP, Brazil
    Thesis: “Nitrogen application in bean crops under no-till systems”
  • Bachelor’s (2003) in Agronomy, UNESP, Brazil

Awards & Recognitions:

  • 2024: Primeiro lugar no Desafio GDM Universidades
  • 2022: Best Paper at the IX Congresso Brasileiro de Soja
  • 2020: Premio “Lic. Anna Peretti” for scientific excellence at the First Argentine Seed Congress
  • 2016: Honorable Mention for research on mechanical injuries in corn seeds at USP/Esalq

Key Achievements:

  • Co-created Vigor-S, a system for seed vigor analysis used by soybean seed companies in Brazil.
  • Holds a patent for a device for acquiring and processing seedling images.
  • Currently an associate editor of the Journal of Seed Science and a vice-president-elect of the International Seed Testing Association (ISTA).
  • Member of the Brazilian Association of Seed Technology (ABRATES) board of directors.

 

Citations:

Citation Count:

  • Total Citations: 1932
  • Citations Since 2020: 1077

H-index:

  • Total H-index: 28
  • H-index Since 2020: 18

i10-index:

  • Total i10-index: 53
  • i10-index Since 2020: 34

Publication Top Notes:

  • Testes de vigor baseados em desempenho de plântulas
    • Authors: FC Krzyzanowski, JB França-Neto, FG Gomes-Junior, J Nakagawa
    • Journal: Vigor de sementes: conceitos e testes
    • Year: 2020
    • Citations: 93
  • Effect of ultrasound technology on barley seed germination and vigour
    • Authors: AC Miano, VA Forti, HF Abud, FG Gomes-Junior, SM Cicero, …
    • Journal: Seed Science and Technology 43(2), 297-302
    • Year: 2015
    • Citations: 78
  • Vigor-S, a new system for evaluating the physiological potential of maize seeds
    • Authors: DOC Castan, FG Gomes-Junior, J Marcos-Filho
    • Journal: Scientia Agricola 75(2), 167-172
    • Year: 2018
    • Citations: 63
  • Avaliação da viabilidade de sementes de pinhão manso pelos testes de tetrazólio e de raios X
    • Authors: TLF Pinto, J Marcos Filho, VA Forti, C Carvalho, FG Gomes Junior
    • Journal: Revista Brasileira de Sementes 31, 195-201
    • Year: 2009
    • Citations: 61
  • Radiographic images and relationship of the internal morphology and physiological potential of broccoli seeds
    • Authors: HF Abud, SM Cicero, FG Gomes Junior
    • Journal: Acta Scientiarum. Agronomy 40, e34950
    • Year: 2018
    • Citations: 58
  • Automated image analysis of seedlings for vigor evaluation of common bean seeds
    • Authors: FG Gomes Junior, HMCP Chamma, SM Cicero
    • Journal: Acta Scientiarum. Agronomy 36, 195-200
    • Year: 2014
    • Citations: 58
  • Evaluation of priming effects on sweet corn seeds by SVIS
    • Authors: FG Gomes-Junior, VHV Mondo, SM Cicero, MB McDonald, MA Bennett
    • Journal: Seed Technology, 95-100
    • Year: 2009
    • Citations: 56
  • Assessment of physiological potential of cucumber seeds using the software Seedling Vigor Imaging System®(SVIS®)
    • Authors: AA Chiquito, FG Gomes Junior, J Marcos-Filho
    • Journal: Revista Brasileira de Sementes 34, 255-263
    • Year: 2012
    • Citations: 53
  • X-ray densitometry to assess internal seed morphology and quality
    • Authors: FG Gomes-Junior, JT Yagushi, UL Belini, SM Cicero, M Tomazello-Filho
    • Journal: Seed Science and Technology 40(1), 102-107
    • Year: 2012
    • Citations: 49
  • Cadmium exposure triggers genotype-dependent changes in seed vigor and germination of tomato offspring
    • Authors: MEA Carvalho, FA Piotto, ML Nogueira, FG Gomes-Junior, …
    • Journal: Protoplasma 255, 989-999
    • Year: 2018
    • Citations: 47

 

Run Gao | Forage silage | Best Researcher Award

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Assist. Prof. Dr  Run  Gao |  Forage silage |  Best Researcher Award

Research associate at  Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences ,  China

Run Gao is a Research Associate at the Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences. He earned his Ph.D. from China Agricultural University in 2021. His research primarily focuses on forage production and processing utilization, with a particular interest in the anaerobic fermentation of forage. Gao has made significant contributions to this field, including the discovery of the Monascus fungus, which is present in triticale silage and may promote fermentation during the grain-filling to milk-ripening stages. He has published three SCI papers as the first author and is actively involved in ongoing research projects related to forage fermentation.

Profile:

Academic and Professional Background:

Run Gao earned his Ph.D. from China Agricultural University in 2021. He is currently a research associate at the Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, focusing on forage production and processing utilization. His work primarily involves the anaerobic fermentation of forage.

Research and Contributions:

Run Gao has made significant contributions to agricultural research, particularly in the area of forage fermentation. He discovered the fungus Monascus, which is present in triticale silage and may promote fermentation during the grain-filling to milk-ripening stages. He has published three SCI papers as the first author and is involved in ongoing research projects.

Research Areas:

  • Anaerobic fermentation of forage
  • Forage production and processing utilization

Citations:

  • Citations: 143
  • Cited Documents: 129
  • h-index: 8

Publication Top Notes:

  1. Effect of Harvest Maturity and Lactiplantibacillus plantarum Inoculant on Dynamics of Fermentation Characteristics and Bacterial and Fungal Community of Triticale Silage
    Agriculture (Switzerland), 2024, 14(10), 1707.
  2. Transcriptomic analysis of ncRNAs and mRNAs interactions during drought stress in switchgrass
    Plant Science, 2024, 339, 111930.
  3. Genome-wide characterization of LBD transcription factors in switchgrass (Panicum virgatum L.) and the involvement of PvLBD12 in salt tolerance
    Plant Cell Reports, 2023, 42(4), pp. 735–748.
  4. Panicum virgatum improvement of coastal saline-alkali soil and its feeding values
    Pratacultural Science, 2023, 40(6), pp. 1551–1558.
  5. Membership function analysis for concentrate-to-forage ratio and ensiling time in total mixed ration fermentation
    Pratacultural Science, 2023, 40(10), pp. 2711–2720.
  6. Associative effects of ensiling mixtures of sweet sorghum and korshinsk pea shrub on fermentation quality, chemical composition, and in vitro rumen digestion characteristics
    Animal Science Journal, 2022, 93(1), e13700.
  7. Evaluation of Sweet Sorghum as a High-Quality Forage in Pasture-livestock Industry Development
    Chinese Journal of Grassland, 2021, 43(3), pp. 104–112.
  8. Effect of mixing alfalfa with whole-plant corn in different proportions on fermentation characteristics and bacterial community of silage
    Agriculture (Switzerland), 2021, 11(2), pp. 1–11, 174.
  9. Effects of replacing ensiled-alfalfa with fresh-alfalfa on dynamic fermentation characteristics, chemical compositions, and protein fractions in fermented total mixed ration with different additives
    Animals, 2021, 11(2), pp. 1–16, 572.
  10. Effects of applying lactic acid bacteria and molasses on the fermentation quality, protein fractions and in vitro digestibility of baled alfalfa silage
    Agronomy, 2021, 11(1), 91.

 

Petya Veleva | Agricultural Science | Best Researcher Award

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Assoc. Prof. Dr Petya Veleva |  Agricultural Science |  Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Professor at  Department of Agricultural Engineering, Faculty of Agriculture, Trakia University, Stara Zagora, Bulgaria.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Petya Marinova Veleva is an expert in automated systems, artificial intelligence, and precision agriculture. She holds a Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering Technology and Machine Tools and a PhD in Automation of Engineering Labor and Systems for Automated Design. Dr. Veleva’s research focuses on intelligent data analysis, agricultural safety, and the application of artificial neural networks and Near Infrared Spectroscopy in agriculture and food safety. She has collaborated with renowned institutions, including Kobe University (Japan) and Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (Germany), and has published 34 journal articles and 6 books.

Profile:

Academic & Professional Background:

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Petya Veleva holds a Master’s degree in “Mechanical Engineering Technology and Machine Tools” and a PhD in “Automation of the Engineering Labor and Systems for Automated Design.” Her research focuses on automated systems for data analysis, artificial intelligence in precision agriculture, intelligent animal husbandry, and food safety evaluation, with specializations in artificial neural networks, Near Infrared Spectroscopy, and Aquaphotomics. She has gained valuable international experience through JSPS Fellowship in Japan, and research mobility at the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (Germany) and the University of Agronomic Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Bucharest (Romania).

Research & Innovations:

Dr. Veleva has completed 39 research projects and is currently involved in 6 ongoing projects. Her work has resulted in 34 journal publications (SCI, Scopus), 6 books, and 1 patent. She collaborates with prestigious institutions like Kobe University (Japan), Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (Germany), and the University of Agronomic Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Bucharest (Romania). She is also a member of the editorial board of the journal SLOVJANI.info and has an h-index of 5 in Scopus.

Contributions:

Dr. Veleva’s research contributes to advancements in sustainable agriculture, smart crop production, and intelligent animal husbandry. Her work supports human health, bioeconomy, and quality of life through innovative applications of digital technologies and artificial intelligence in agriculture.

Publication Top Notes:

  • Impact of Different Sugar Syrups on the Development of the Fat Body in Worker Bees (Apis mellifera macedonica)
    Agriculture (2025-01-02)
    DOI: 10.3390/agriculture15010083
  • Exploring Microelement Fertilization and Visible–Near-Infrared Spectroscopy for Enhanced Productivity in Capsicum annuum and Cyprinus carpio Aquaponic Systems
    Plants (2024-12-20)
    DOI: 10.3390/plants13243566
  • Differentiation of Amaranthus Species and Estimation of Their Polyphenolic Compounds and Antioxidant Potential Using Near-Infrared Spectroscopy
    Plants (2024-11-30)
    DOI: 10.3390/plants13233370
  • Assessment of Tomato Quality through Near-Infrared Spectroscopy—Advantages, Limitations, and Integration with Multivariate Analysis Techniques
    Conference Paper (2024-08-08)
    DOI: 10.3390/engproc2024070034
  • Indirect Determination of Basic Tomato Quality Parameters Using Color Digital Images
    Conference Paper (2024-08-06)
    DOI: 10.3390/engproc2024070024
  • Near-Infrared Spectroscopy for Rapid Differentiation of Fresh and Frozen–Thawed Common Carp (Cyprinus carpio)
    Sensors (2024-06-04)
    DOI: 10.3390/s24113620
  • Evaluating the Performance and Practicality of a Multi-Parameter Assessment System with Design, Comparative Analysis, and Future Directions
    Sustainability (2024-05-14)
    DOI: 10.3390/su16104124
  • Detection of Fungal Diseases in Lettuce by VIR-NIR Spectroscopy in Aquaponics
    Microorganisms (2023)
    DOI: 10.3390/MICROORGANISMS11092348
  • Non-Destructive Determination of Plant Pigments Based on Mobile Phone Data
    TEM Journal-Technology Education Management Informatics (2023)
    DOI: 10.18421/TEM123-23
  • An Aquaphotomics Approach for Investigation of Water-Stress-Induced Changes in Maize Plants
    Sensors (2023-12-07)
    DOI: 10.3390/s23249678
  • Influence of Some Environmental Factors on Summer Phytoplankton Community Structure in the Varna Bay, Black Sea (1992–2019)
    Water (2023-04-25)
    DOI: 10.3390/w15091677

 

Davoud Akhzari | Biofertilizer Application | Best Researcher Award

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Prof Davoud Akhzari | Biofertilizer Application | Best Researcher Award

Malayer University,  Iran

Dr. Davoud Akhzari is an Associate Professor specializing in phytoremediation, biotic and abiotic stress management, and plant eco-physiology. With a Ph.D. in Soil, Plant, and Environmental Sciences from Gorgan University of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, his research focuses on vegetation improvement, rangeland management, and soil rehabilitation. Dr. Akhzari has held key administrative roles at Malayer University and serves as a reviewer for numerous international journals. His expertise includes biofertilizer production, composting, and advanced data analysis using R and SAS software.

 

Publication Profile

🎓 Education:

  • Ph.D. in Soil, Plant, and Environmental Sciences (2012), Gorgan University of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, Iran.
  • M.S. in Natural Resource Management (2007), Gorgan University of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, Iran.

🧑‍🏫 Professional Experience:

  • Assistant Professor, Malayer University (2011–2016).
  • Associate Professor, Malayer University (2016–present).
  • Held administrative roles, including Head of Department, Dean of Central Library, and Dean of Brilliant Talents Office.

🔬 Skills & Contributions:

  • Expertise in compost and biofertilizer production.
  • Reviewer for numerous scientific journals, including PLOS ONE and Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology.
  • Proficient in R and SAS for data analysis.

🌱 Research Focus:

Dr. Akhzari specializes in phytoremediation, biotic and abiotic stress management, and plant eco-physiology. His work addresses vegetation improvement in arid zones, rangeland management, and soil rehabilitation.

Citation Metrics:

  • Total Citations: 631
  • Citations Since 2019: 491
  • h-index: 13 (12 since 2019)
  • i10-index: 18 (14 since 2019)

Publication Top Note:

  • The removal of phosphate from aqueous solutions using two nano-structures: copper oxide and carbon tubes
    S. Mahdavi, D. Akhzari
    Clean Technologies and Environmental Policy, 1-11, 2016 (64 citations)
  • Effect of Drought Stress on Total Protein, Essential Oil Content, and Physiological Traits of Levisticum Officinale Koch
    M.P., D. Akhzari
    Journal of Plant Nutrition, 2015 (57 citations)
  • Effects of salinity, drought, and priming treatments on seed germination and growth parameters of Lathyrus sativus L.
    S. Gheidary, D. Akhzari, M. Pessarakli
    Journal of Plant Nutrition 40 (10), 1507-1514, 2017 (47 citations)
  • Effects of Vermicompost and Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi on Soil Properties and Growth of Medicago polymorpha L.
    D. Akhzari, B. Attaeian, A. Arami, F. Mahmoodi, F. Aslani
    Compost Science & Utilization 23 (3), 142-153, 2015 (43 citations)
  • Effects of cadmium stress on seedlings of various rangeland plant species (Avena fatua L., Lathyrus sativus L., and Lolium temulentum L.): Growth, physiological …
    L. Marzban, D. Akhzari, A. Ariapour, B. Mohammadparast, M. Pessarakli
    Journal of Plant Nutrition 40 (15), 2127-2137, 2017 (29 citations)
  • Effects of vermicompost and salinity stress on growth and physiological traits of Medicago rigidula L.
    D. Akhzari, M. Pessarakli, M. Khedmati
    Journal of Plant Nutrition 39 (14), 2106-2114, 2016 (25 citations)
  • Studying the effects of salinity stress on the growth of various halophytic plant species (Agropyron elongatum, Kochia prostrata, and Puccinellia distans)
    D. Akhzari, A. Sepehry, M. Pessarakli, H. Barani
    World Applied Science Journal 16 (7), 998-1003, 2012 (25 citations)
  • Effects of grazing intensity on soil and vegetation properties in a Mediterranean rangeland
    D. Akhzari, M. Pessarakli, S. Eftekhari Ahandani
    Communications in Soil Science and Plant Analysis 46 (22), 2798-2806, 2015 (22 citations)
  • Drought Monitoring Using Vegetation Indices and MODIS Data (Case Study: Isfahan Province, Iran)
    D. Shad, M.S., Ildoromi, A., Akhzari
    Rangeland Science 7 (2), 148-159, 2017 (21 citations)
  • Characterization of bare and modified nano-zirconium oxide (ZrO2) and their applications as adsorbents for the removal of bivalent heavy metals
    S. Mahdavi, N. Amini, H. Merrikhpour, D. Akhzari
    Korean Journal of Chemical Engineering, 1-11, 2017 (18 citations)

 

 

Mehulkumar L. Savaliya | Plants | Best Researcher Award

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Dr Mehulkumar L. Savaliya | Plants |  Best Researcher Award

Assistant Professor at  UPL University of Sustainable Technology, Ankleshwar, India

Dr. Mehulkumar Laljibhai Savaliya is an accomplished chemist and educator with over 8.5 years of academic experience and 2.5 years in the industry. Currently serving as an Assistant Professor at UPL University of Sustainable Technology, he plays a pivotal role in research coordination, curriculum design, and accreditation efforts.

 

Publication Profile

Education and Research Focus:

Dr. Savaliya earned his Ph.D. in Chemistry from the National Institute of Technology, Surat, specializing in eco-friendly heterogeneous catalysts for biodiesel production. His research interests include:

  • Sustainable chemical synthesis.
  • Biomass-to-chemicals conversion.
  • Wastewater treatment and polymer chemistry.

Professional Achievements:

  • Recognized as a Schedule-1 Environmental Auditor by the Gujarat Pollution Control Board.
  • Active Ph.D. and M.Phil. research supervisor.
  • Published extensively in esteemed national and international journals, with notable contributions in biodiesel synthesis, green chemistry, and effluent treatment.
  • Member of multiple Boards of Examinations across prestigious institutions.

Dr. Savaliya is a passionate educator, teaching advanced topics in organic and industrial chemistry while mentoring students in innovative research projects.

Citation Metrics:

  • Citations: 128 total citations, with 91 coming since 2019.
  • h-index: 5, meaning 5 publications have each been cited at least 5 times.
  • i10-index: 4 overall, with 3 publications having at least 10 citations each since 2019.

Publication Top Note:

  • Current trends in separation and purification of fatty acid methyl ester
    ML Savaliya, BD Dhorajiya, BZ Dholakiya
    Separation & Purification Reviews 44 (1), 28-40 (2015)
  • A simpler and highly efficient protocol for the preparation of biodiesel from soap stock oil using a BBSA catalyst
    ML Savaliya, BZ Dholakiya
    RSC Advances 5 (91), 74416-74424 (2015)
  • Cutting cost technology for the preparation of biodiesel using environmentally benign and cheaper catalyst
    ML Savaliya, MS Bhakhar, BZ Dholakiya
    Catalysis Letters 146, 2313-2323 (2016)
  • Eco-friendly process for preparation of biodiesel from WFO over MTSA-Si catalyst: An innovative approach for the utilization of side product
    ML Savaliya, BZ Dholakiya
    Journal of Industrial and Engineering Chemistry 64, 352-366 (2018)
  • Cellulose sulfuric acid catalyzed esterification of biodiesel derived raw glycerol to medium chain triglyceride: the dual advantage
    ML Savaliya, BZ Dholakiya
    Catalysis Letters 144, 1399-1406 (2014)
  • A Concise Review on Acid, Alkali and Enzyme Catalyzed Transesterification of Fatty Acid Esters of Glycerol (FAEG) to Fatty Acid Methyl Ester (FAME) Fuel
    BZD Mehulkumar L. Savaliya, Jigarkumar R. Patel
    International Journal of Chemical Studies 1 (2), 39-54 (2013)
  • Chemical Transformation of Triglycerides of Fatty Acid of Pongamia pinnata Seed to Fatty Acid Methyl Esters by Microwave Irradiation
    BZD Mehulkumar L Savaliya
    Chemical Sciences Journal 2013 (CSJ-104), 1-6 (2013)
  • Rational design of hierarchically porous sulfonic acid and silica hybrids with highly active sites for efficient catalytic biodiesel synthesis
    ML Savaliya, RS Tank, BZ Dholakiya
    Chemistry of Inorganic Materials 1, 100005 (2023)
  • A notice on newly synthesized silica-induced boron trisulfonic acid catalyst towards biodiesel synthesis from refined soybean oil
    ML Savaliya, BZ Dholakiya
    Research on Chemical Intermediates, 1-12 (2014)
  • An experimental investigation into methyl laureate production via direct esterification of solid fatty acid by using amylum sulfuric acid: an efficient, biodegradable, and …
    ML Savaliya, BZ Dholakiya
    Research on Chemical Intermediates, 1-10 (2014)
  • Exploration of HPTLC Technology for Rapid Chemical Fingerprinting and Simultaneous Determination of Bioactive Constituents from Clitoria ternatea Linn.
    J Makasana, N Gajbhiye, A Kumar Bishoyi, M Savaliya, S Raju, S Bansod, …
    ChemistrySelect 8 (13), e202203217 (2023)
  • A simple and sustainable process for the preparation of fuel grade esters using PE-Si composite: A reusable catalytic system
    ML Savaliya, PJ Patel, BZ Dholakiya
    Renewable Energy 109, 1-12 (2017)
  • A study of dairy effluent of various products on the basis of oil and grease value and a comparative study between common ETP with respect to other plants and possible load …
    N VADI, MK SAVALIYA, BK DHOLAKIYA
    Acta Chim. Pharm. Indica 2 (3), 151-155 (2012)
  • Structure-Based Design and Virtual Screening of Indole Scaffolds Targeting Plasmodium falciparum: An Experimental and Computational Approach for Antimalarial
    NPV AR Shama, ML Savaliya
    Russian Journal of General Chemistry, S993-S1005 (2023)
  • Experimental Investigation on Corrosive Nature of Acid Oil Biodiesel on Selected Automotive Materials
    S Vaishak, PV Bhale, ML Savaliya, BZ Dholakiya
    International Conference on Advances in Energy Research, 1-8 (2022)
  • Influence of oil and grease towards dairy wastewater generation
    BD M. Savaliya
    Recent Trends in Water Science and Technology 1, 176-179 (2014)
  • Measurement and evaluation of total dissolved solid (TDS) from dairy ETP and it’s comparison with other plants and possible load reduction method
    BZD MEHULKUMAR L. SAVALIYA, NIKHIL P. VADI
    Acta Chim. Pharm. Indica 3 (1), 17-20 (2013)
  • A Study of Dairy Effluent on the basis of do Value and a Comparative Analysis of CETP With Respect to other Plants and Possible Load Reduction Methods
    ML Savaliya, NP Vadi, BD Dhorajiya, BKZ Dholakiya
    International Journal of Pharmaceutical and Chemical Sciences (2013)
  • A Study of Dairy Effluent of Various Products on the Basis of Chemical Oxygen Demand Value and a Comparative Study Between Common ETP with Respect to Other Plants and Possible …
    M Savaliya, N Vadi, Y Gambhava
    (2012)
  • A Study of Dairy Effluent of Various Products on the Basis of Biological Oxygen Demand Value and a Comparative Study between Common ETP with Respect to other Plants and …
    NVYG Mehulkumar Savaliya
    International Journal of Environmental Engineering and Management 3 (2), 131-138 (2012)

 

 

Saurabh Shekhar | Fertilizer Production | Best Researcher Award

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Dr Saurabh Shekhar | Fertilizer Production | Best Researcher Award

Scientist at  CSIR-NML,  India

Dr. Saurabh Shekhar is a Senior Scientist in the Metal Extraction & Recycling Division at the CSIR-National Metallurgical Laboratory (CSIR-NML), Jamshedpur, India. With over a decade of experience in metallurgical research, he specializes in metal extraction, material synthesis, and waste management.

 

Publication Profile

Education:

  • Ph.D.: Materials and Metallurgical Engineering (CSIR-NML, AcSIR, 2023).
  • M.Tech: Materials and Metallurgical Engineering, specializing in Mineral Processing (CSIR-NML, AcSIR, 2014).
  • B.E.: Chemical Engineering (Haldia Institute of Technology, 2011).

Professional Achievements:

  • Research Funding: Successfully led 34 projects (18 completed, 16 ongoing) with a cumulative budget exceeding ₹10 crore.
  • Publications: Authored 13 SCI-indexed publications and over 10 conference proceedings.
  • Patents: Holder of 13 patents, including 4 granted.
  • Technology Transfer: Successfully transferred one innovative technology.

Awards and Recognition:

  • National Innovation Award (NRDC, 2020): Recognized for technology transfer with a ₹5 lakh prize.
  • S. Banerjee Award (2020): For excellence in in-house projects.
  • Additional Honors: Nine paper and poster awards at prestigious conferences such as NMD, MPT, and MetWaste.

Dr. Saurabh’s groundbreaking contributions to metallurgical science and his focus on sustainable practices make him a leader in his field.

Citation Metrics:

  • Publications: 13 SCI-indexed papers with 171 citations (156 since 2019).
  • h-index: 7 (since 2019: 7)
  • i10-index: 6 (since 2019: 6)
  • Patents: Filed 13 patents, with 4 granted.

Publication Top Note:

  • Physical and chemical characterization and recovery of potash fertilizer from glauconitic clay for agricultural application
    Applied Clay Science, 143, 50-56, 2017. (Citations: 55)
  • Physico-chemical treatment of glauconitic sandstone to recover potash and magnetite
    Journal of Cleaner Production, 147, 681-693, 2017. (Citations: 41)
  • A sustainable process for recovery of potash fertilizer from glauconite through simultaneous production of pigment grade red oxide
    Sustainable Materials and Technologies, 23, e00129, 2020. (Citations: 19)
  • Phosphonomethyl iminodiacetic acid functionalized metal organic framework supported PAN composite beads for selective removal of La(III) from wastewater: Adsorptive study
    Journal of Hazardous Materials, 425, 127802, 2022. (Citations: 18)
  • Valorisation of waste galvanizing dross: Emphasis on recovery of zinc with zero effluent strategy
    Journal of Environmental Management, 256, 109985, 2020. (Citations: 11)
  • Study of process efficiency for high-ash fine coal cleaning in a Kelsey centrifugal jig
    International Journal of Coal Preparation and Utilization, 38(5), 250-259, 2018. (Citations: 11)
  • Extraction of manganese through baking-leaching technique from high iron containing manganese sludge
    Materials Today: Proceedings, 46(3), 1499-1504, 2021. (Citations: 7)
  • Simultaneous extraction of copper and iron from chalcopyrite concentrate via surfactant-assisted chlorination leaching
    Materials Today: Proceedings, 2023. (Citations: 3)
  • Petro-Mineralogical and Geochemical Evaluation of Glauconitic Rocks of the Ukra Member (Bhuj Formation), Kutch Basin, India
    Clays and Clay Minerals, 70(1), 135-153, 2022. (Citations: 3)
  • Recovery of zinc as zinc phosphate and by-products from hydrometallurgical treatment of hot-dip galvanizing (Zn-Al) dross
    Materials Today: Proceedings, 46, 1532-1536, 2021. (Citations: 3)
  • A Clean Process for the Recovery of Potash Fertilizer from Glauconitic Rock via Hydrogen Gas Pre-treatment and Mild Acid Leaching
    JOM, 76(7), 3343-3353, 2024.
  • A clean process for the recovery of iron as value-added product from highly acidic chloride leach solution
    Materials Today: Proceedings, 2023.
  • Emulsion Mediated Low Temperature Pressure Leaching of Base Metals from Mixed Sulfide Minerals Through Enhanced Oxygen Mass Transfer
    Extraction 2018: Proceedings of the First Global Conference on Extractive Metallurgy, 2018.