Supriya Ambawat | Agricultural Biotechnology | Women Researcher Award

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

 

 

Petya Veleva | Agricultural Science | Best Researcher Award

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

 

Muhammad Zakaria Hossain | Agricultural Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Dr Muhammad Zakaria Hossain |  Agricultural Engineering |  Best Researcher Award

Scientific Officer at  Bangladesh Agricultural Research Institute, Gazipur,  Bangladesh

Muhammad Zakaria Hossain has been serving as a Scientific Officer at BARI since 2012. His research focuses on precision agriculture, farm machinery, and renewable energy, with notable contributions to developing IoT-based agricultural systems and robotic mowers for orchard management. He has published 11 journal articles and a book chapter, earning recognition such as the Best Paper Award at the 63rd Annual Meeting of the Japanese Weed Society (2024). With over 12 years of experience, Zakaria has led multiple innovative projects, presented at international conferences, and completed advanced training programs, including a 7-month JICA training in Japan.

 

Publication Profile

📚 Academic and Professional Background:

Muhammad Zakaria Hossain has been a Scientific Officer at BARI since 2012, focusing on precision agricultural techniques for sustainable crop production. His PhD research explored robotic mowers for orchard floor management. With over 12 years of experience, he has published 11 journal articles and a book chapter in reputable platforms like Wiley and MDPI.

🚜 Research and Innovations:

He has led and contributed to various projects, including developing IoT-based systems, solar-powered machinery, and automated agricultural tools. Notable projects include the Farm Machinery Technology Development Project (2020–2025) and the Smallholder Agricultural Competitiveness Project (2024).

🌟 Achievements:

  • Best Paper Award at the 63rd Annual Meeting of the Japanese Weed Society (2024).
  • Presented research at 11 conferences, including ASABE AIM (2021).
  • Completed advanced training programs, including a 7-month JICA training in Japan.

🛠️ Areas of Expertise:

Precision agriculture, farm machinery, renewable energy, UAV imagery, and sensor-embedded systems.

🌐 Professional Memberships:

Member of ASABE, Bangladesh Society of Agricultural Engineers, Japanese Society of Farm Work Research, and JICA Alumni Association Bangladesh.

Publication Top Note:

  • Hanging as a method of suicide: Retrospective analysis of postmortem cases
    M Ahmad, MZ Hossain
    Journal of Armed Forces Medical College, Bangladesh, 2010
  • Design and development of solar dryer for chilli drying
    MZ Hossain, MA Hossain, MA Awal, MM Alam, A Rabbani
    International Journal of Research, 2015
  • Weed management and economic analysis of a robotic lawnmower: A case study in a Japanese pear orchard
    MZ Hossain, M Komatsuzaki
    Agriculture, 2021
  • Performance evaluation of a cabinet solar dryer for drying red pepper in Bangladesh
    MZ Hossain, MM Alam, MFB Hossain, MSH Sarker, MA Awal, N Jahan
    Journal of Agricultural Engineering, 2018
  • Design of a new beneficial single-axis automatic controlled solar tracker
    MRI Sarker, RA Beg, MZ Hossain, MT Islam
    Proceedings of the 11th APM, 2006
  • Drying and dehydration kinetics of ginger
    MM Alam, MZ Hossain, M Aktar, MS Islam, Z Hasan
    International Journal of Innovation and Applied Studies, 2014
  • Robotic lawnmower saves labor and operation costs in a pear (Pyrus pyrifolia) orchard
    MZ Hossain, K Takahashi, M Komatsuzaki
    Japanese Journal of Farm Work Research, 2020
  • Rehydration characteristics of dried summer onion
    MM Alam, MZ Hossain, MN Islam
    International Journal of Research, 2014
  • Optimization of the year‐round mowing schedule of a robotic lawnmower in a Japanese pear orchard
    MZ Hossain, S Watanabe, T Okayama, M Komatsuzaki
    Weed Biology and Management, 2022
  • Risk of High Systolic Blood Pressure among the Air Crew in Bangladesh Air Force
    MM Rahman, MA Wahab, MZ Hossain, MM Yasin, NKBG Quddus
    Journal of Armed Forces Medical College, Bangladesh, 2021
  • Osmotic development of value-added garlic products through dehydration and mechanical drying
    M Alam, MZ Hossain, W Ahmed, S Nahar
    Scientia, 2017
  • Architecture program structure in Bangladesh: A critical study
    M Ahsan, SI Raj, M Hossain, A Kundu
    International Seminar on Architecture: Education, Practice and Research, 2012
  • The need to incorporate ergonomics in smart agriculture and organic farming in agricultural and biological engineering education
    M Komatsuzaki, MZ Hossain, NS Dewi
    Agricultural, Biosystems, and Biological Engineering Education, 2024
  • RTK-UAV monitoring of oat cover crop termination by a straight-bar roller-crimper amid weeds
    MZ Hossain, M Komatsuzaki
    2021 ASABE Annual International Virtual Meeting, 2021
  • Design and development of a low-cost power tiller operated potato harvester for small farmers, Bangladesh
    MZHKKS MI Hossain
    Bangladesh Journal of Agricultural Engineering, 2016
  • Computer vision technique for optimum nitrogen application in rice
    MZ Hossain, MM Alam, MA Haque, A Rahman, MA Awal
    International Journal of Research (IJR), 2014
  • Impact study of a generation-rich island and development of auto load shedding scheme to improve service reliability
    M Hossain, MS Alam, MI Hossain, MQ Ahsan
    1st International Conference on Electrical Engineering and Information, 2014
  • Study of impacts on operation of island and frequency-based auto load shedding to improve service reliability using CYME PSAF
    M Hossain, H Rahman, MQ Ahsan
    7th International Conference on Electrical and Computer Engineering, 2012
  • Effects of gibberellic acid and indole-3-acetic acid on growth, development, and yield of Arahar plants (Cajanus Cajan (L.) millsp. cultivar 76013)
    R Parveen, SN Hossin, F Hossain, M Hossain
    Bangladesh Journal of Life Sciences, 1994
  • 日本のナシ果樹園におけるロボット芝刈り機の評価と草刈りの最適化
    MZ Hossain

 

Anelia Iantcheva | Agricultural Science | Excellence in Research

Prof Anelia  Iantcheva |   Agricultural Science  |  Excellence in Research

Prof. Principal Investigator at  AgroBioInstitute, Agricultural Academy,  Bulgaria

Prof. Anelia Iantcheva is a distinguished researcher in plant genetics and biotechnology, currently serving as a Professor and Principal Investigator at the Agrobioinstitute of the Agricultural Academy in Bulgaria. She obtained her Master’s degree from Sofia University in 1987, followed by a Ph.D. in 1997 and a DSc in 2019 from the Agricultural Academy.

 

Publication Profile

Academic Background:

Prof. Iantcheva earned her Master’s degree from Sofia University in 1987, followed by a Ph.D. from the Agricultural Academy, Bulgaria in 1997, and a DSc degree in 2019. She became a professor and principal investigator at Agrobioinstitute in 2022.

Research Focus:

Her expertise lies in plant genetics, genomics, transcriptomics, molecular biology, and biotechnology of model and grain and forage legumes.

Research Contributions:

Prof. Iantcheva has coordinated several EU-funded projects, including Horizon 2020 “Legumes Translated” and the ongoing Horizon Europe “Legume Generation.” She has published 64 articles in indexed journals and contributed chapters to five books on somatic embryogenesis and genetic transformation.

Innovations:

Her research has led to the development of efficient plant regeneration systems and insertional mutant collections in Medicago truncatula, laying the groundwork for functional genomics in legumes. She has also innovated a low-temperature pre-treatment method for soybean seeds to enhance agricultural practices.

Publication Top Notes

  1. A novel Microbacterium strain SRS2 promotes the growth of Arabidopsis and MicroTom (S. lycopersicum) under normal and salt stress conditions
    • Journal: Planta
    • Publication Date: October 2024
    • DOI: 10.1007/s00425-024-04510-2
    • Contributors: Ho Manh Tuong, Sonia García Méndez, Michiel Vandecasteele, Anne Willems, Anelia Iantcheva, Pham Bich Ngoc, Do Tien Phat, Chu Hoang Ha, Sofie Goormachtig.
  2. Transcriptional and Metabolic Profiling of Arabidopsis thaliana Transgenic Plants Expressing Histone Acetyltransferase HAC1 upon the Application of Abiotic Stress—Salt and Low Temperature
    • Journal: Metabolites
    • Publication Year: 2023
    • DOI: 10.3390/metabo13090994
    • EID: 2-s2.0-85172238091
    • Contributors: T. Ivanova, I. Dincheva, I. Badjakov, A. Iantcheva.
  3. Transition to legume-supported farming in Europe through redesigning cropping systems
    • Journal: Agronomy for Sustainable Development
    • Publication Year: 2023
    • DOI: 10.1007/s13593-022-00861-w
    • EID: 2-s2.0-85146474358
    • Contributors: I. Notz, C.F.E. Topp, J. Schuler, S. Alves, L.A. Gallardo, J. Dauber, T. Haase, P.R. Hargreaves, M. Hennessy, A. Iantcheva, et al.
  4. Auxin and stringolactone interaction in extreme phosphate conditions
    • Book Chapter: In Agricultural Biocatalysis: Biological and Chemical Applications
    • Publication Year: 2022
    • EID: 2-s2.0-85142565230
    • ISBN: 9781000635287, 9781003313144
    • Contributors: M. Revalska, A. Iantcheva.
  5. Functional characterization of Medicago truncatula GRAS7, a member of the GRAS family transcription factors, in response to abiotic stress
    • Journal: Biotechnology and Biotechnological Equipment
    • Publication Year: 2022
    • DOI: 10.1080/13102818.2022.2074893
    • EID: 2-s2.0-85130201236
    • Contributors: M. Revalska, M. Radkova, A. Iantcheva.
  6. Legumes in natural post-fire successions of forest meadows and pastures in Northern Bulgaria
    • Journal: Thaiszia Journal of Botany
    • Publication Year: 2022
    • DOI: 10.33542/TJB2022-1-05
    • EID: 2-s2.0-85133384347
    • Contributors: G. Naydenova, M. Radkova, A. Iantcheva.
  7. Long-lasting low temperature pretreatment of soybean seeds enhances plant field performance and content of free metabolites
    • Journal: Bulgarian Journal of Agricultural Science
    • Publication Year: 2022
    • EID: 2-s2.0-85143811831
    • Contributors: G. Naidenova, I. Dincheva, I. Badjakov, M. Radkova, M. Revalska, A. Iantcheva.
  8. Moldovan soybean varieties testing in the condition of North Bulgaria
    • Journal: Bulgarian Journal of Agricultural Science
    • Publication Year: 2022
    • EID: 2-s2.0-85127731032
    • Contributors: G. Naydenova, M. Radkova, A. Iantcheva.

 

Donald Manigat | Crop | Best Researcher Award

Dr Donald Manigat |  Crop |  Best Researcher Award

Pesquisador at  Universidade Federal do Amapá – UNIFAP, Brazil

Dr. Donald Manigat holds a PhD in Entomology and a Bachelor’s degree in Agronomy. As a dedicated scientific researcher, his expertise spans insect bioecology, biological control, and plant resistance against arthropod pests. He specializes in Integrated Pest Management (IPM) and Plant-Insect interactions. His ongoing research includes bioactive natural insecticides for Spodoptera frugiperda and past projects on detoxification in Plutella xylostella. Dr. Manigat collaborates with prominent institutions such as Embrapa and has published in journals like MDPI. His work contributes significantly to sustainable agricultural practices through ecological pest management.

Publication profile:

🎓 Academic and Professional Background:

Dr. Donald Manigat holds a Bachelor’s degree in Agronomy and a PhD in Entomology. He is a dedicated researcher with expertise in insect bioecology, biological control, resistant plants against arthropod pests, and plant-insect interaction. His work focuses on Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategies to promote sustainable agriculture.

🔬 Research and Innovations:

  • 🐛 Ongoing: Identification and characterization of bioactive compounds in Spodoptera frugiperda (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae).
  • 🦋 Completed: Research on the detoxification and immunity in Plutella xylostella.
  • 🌱 Completed: Ecological pest control using essential oil-based formulations and resistance management.

🏆 Contributions and Impact:

Dr. Manigat has made significant contributions to entomology, particularly in biological control and pest resistance management. His innovative research on natural insecticides and plant-insect interactions is vital to promoting sustainable agricultural practices. He collaborates with notable institutions such as Embrapa and CENTELHA-MCTI and has published in leading journals like MDPI.

🧪 Collaborations and Memberships:

Dr. Manigat collaborates with Revista Pesquisa Agropecuária Brasileira and Embrapa. He is also actively involved in scientific and industry projects related to vector control, water quality, and waste management.

Publication Top Notes:

  • Associational Resistance Using Wild and Commercial Tomato Genotypes Employed in the Management of Tomato Virus Vectors
    Agriculture, 2024-01-04 | Journal article
    DOI: 10.3390/agriculture14010098
    ISSN: 2077-0472
    Contributors: Donald Manigat, Karolayne Campos, Joyce S. dos Santos, Catiane Oliveira Souza, Jorge Braz Torres, Fabio Suinaga, Cristina S. Bastos
  • Post Marked Field Monitoring and Evolution of Occurrence of Spodoptera frugiperda (Smith) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) in Bt Maize in Brazil
    13th International Symposium on the Biosafety of Genetically Modified Organisms (ISBGMO13), 2014-11-09 | Conference paper
    AGR: Knowledge Center Biotech Updates, March 19, 2014 Issue
    Contributors: Donald Manigat

 

Thiyagarajan T | Plant | Best Researcher Award

Dr Thiyagarajan T | Plant |  Best Researcher Award

Research Associate |  ICAR- IIRr |  India

Dr. Thiyagarajan Thulasinathan is committed to exploring various facets of natural science and applying his expertise to benefit society. His passion lies in utilizing scientific knowledge to serve the community and contribute to sustainable development.

Publication profile

Educational Qualifications:

  • Ph.D. (Agricultural Biotechnology) – Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore (2016-2021) – 87.40%
  • M.Sc. (Agricultural Biotechnology) – Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore (2008-2010) – 83.90%
  • B.Sc. (Agriculture) – Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore (2004-2008) – 83.00%

Work Experience:

  • Research Associate, ICAR-National Academy of Agricultural Research Management (NAARM), Hyderabad (2022-2023)
  • Contract Scientist and Research Associate-III, ICAR-National Institute of Plant Biotechnology (NIPB), New Delhi (2021-2022)
  • Research Fellow, Gyeongsang National University, South Korea (2011-2015)
  • Senior Research Fellow, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore (2011)

Key Research Contributions:

  • Development of genome-edited rice plants with resistance to rice blast
  • Genetic fidelity testing for various crops including banana, potato, and sugarcane
  • Pioneered research on developing multiple stress-tolerant rice varieties through marker-assisted backcross breeding (MABB)

Training Programs Attended:

  • Gene Editing & Technology Management in Agriculture, NAARM (2023)
  • Application of Bioinformatics in Accelerating Agricultural Research, NAARM (2023)
  • Genetic Fidelity Testing, ICAR-NIPB (2022)

Awards and Recognitions:

  • Dr. S. Robin Memorial Award for Best Ph.D. Thesis in Rice Molecular Biology (2024)
  • Best Ph.D. Thesis Award, ITAHAS-2023 (2023)
  • Young Scientist Award, Global Challenges of Food and Agriculture (2023)
  • Multiple awards for poster presentations and research excellence between 2010-2019

Research Work Experience:

Focused on plant biotechnology, especially rice molecular biology, and multiple stress tolerance. He standardized protocols for somatic embryogenesis, developed rice lines resistant to biotic and abiotic stresses, and conducted extensive phenotypic screenings for resistance traits.

Ph.D. Research: Developed multiple stress-tolerant versions of rice variety CO 51 through Genomics-Assisted Breeding. Developed rice lines resistant to drought, salinity, submergence, phosphorus starvation, and various diseases using QTLs/genes.

Research Metrics:

  • Citations: 108 (by 105 documents)
  • Publications: 10
  • h-index: 4

Publication top notes

  • Genetic Enhancement of Blast and Bacterial Leaf Blight Resistance in Rice Variety CO 51 through Marker-Assisted Selection
    Subburaj, S., Thulasinathan, T., Sakthivel, V., Swaminathan, M., Muthurajan, R.
    Agriculture (Switzerland), 2024, 14(5), 693
  • Unveiling the Distribution of Free and Bound Phenolic Acids, Flavonoids, Anthocyanins, and Proanthocyanidins in Pigmented and Non-Pigmented Rice Genotypes
    Avinash, G., Sharma, N., Prasad, K.R., Pagidipala, N., Thulasinathan, T.
    Frontiers in Plant Science, 2024, 15, 1324825
  • Plant Stomata: An Unrealized Possibility in Plant Defense against Invading Pathogens and Stress Tolerance
    Meddya, S., Meshram, S., Sarkar, D., Savani, A.K., Thulasinathan, T.
    Plants, 2023, 12(19), 3380
  • Marker Assisted Introgression of Resistance Genes and Phenotypic Evaluation Enabled Identification of Durable and Broad-Spectrum Blast Resistance in Elite Rice Cultivar, CO 51
    Thulasinathan, T., Ayyenar, B., Kambale, R., Swaminathan, M., Muthurajan, R.
    Genes, 2023, 14(3), 719
  • Development of Biotic Stress Resistant Version of CO 51 Rice Cultivar through Marker Assisted Introgression of Major Genes, Pi9 and Xa21
    Subburaj, S., Thulasinathan, T., Viswabharathy, S., Manonmani, S., Raveendran, M.
    Electronic Journal of Plant Breeding, 2023, 14(3), pp. 1035–1043
  • Harnessing Parent-Offspring Regression Analysis to Develop High-Yielding Submergence Tolerant Lines of Oryza sativa L.
    Viswabharathy, S., Thulasinathan, T., Subburaj, S., Kalaimagal, T., Raveendran, M.
    Electronic Journal of Plant Breeding, 2023, 14(2), pp. 675–686
  • Current Status of Bioinformatics Resources of Small Millets
    Thulasinathan, T., Jain, P., Yadav, A.K., Sevanthi, A.M., Solanke, A.U.
    Omics of Climate Resilient Small Millets, 2022, pp. 221–234
  • Evaluation of Blast Resistance Genes Pi9 and Pi54 in Rice Against Local Isolates of Tamil Nadu
    Thulasinathan, T., Kambale, R., Ayyenar, B., Manonmani, S., Muthurajan, R.
    Electronic Journal of Plant Breeding, 2020, 11(4), pp. 1153–1158
  • Pyramiding QTLs Controlling Tolerance Against Drought, Salinity, and Submergence in Rice through Marker Assisted Breeding
    Muthu, V., Abbai, R., Nallathambi, J., Ayyenar, B., Muthurajan, R.
    PLoS ONE, 2020, 15(1), e0227421
  • Limited Addition of the 6-Arm β-1,2-Linked N-Acetylglucosamine (GlcNAc) Residue Facilitates the Formation of the Largest N-Glycan in Plants
    Yoo, J.Y., Ko, K.S., Seo, H.-K., Lee, S.Y., Lee, K.O.
    Journal of Biological Chemistry, 2015, 290(27), pp. 16560–16572

 

 

Anna Rita Dipierro | Agricultural | Best Researcher Award

Dr Anna Rita Dipierro |  Agricultural  |  Best Researcher Award

Research Fellow at  University of Calabria, Italy

Anna Rita Dipierro, born on February 26, 1997, in Castellana Grotte, Italy, is a Research Fellow in Econometrics at the University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende, Cosenza, Italy, and the University of Salento, Lecce, Italy. She holds a Ph.D. in Economics and Management of Sustainability and Innovation from LUM “G. Degennaro” University, where she also completed her Master’s and Bachelor’s degrees in Economics and Management, all with high distinction.

Profile:

Education:

  • Ph.D. in Economics and Management of Sustainability and Innovation
    🎓 LUM “G. Degennaro” University, Casamassima, Bari, Italy, July 2024
    Thesis: Combining operational research and artificial intelligence to address performance evaluation under dynamic taxonomy of risks
    Tutor: Prof. P. Toma
    Internal PhD Commission: Prof. K. De Witte, Prof. G. Secundo, Prof. P. Toma
  • Master’s Degree (cum laude) in Economics and Management (LM77)
    🎓 LUM “G. Degennaro” University, Casamassima, Bari, Italy, October 2020
    Thesis: Geographical Indications in Agri-food: an econometrical and geospatial approach through R-studio and QGIS
    Tutor: Prof. P. Toma
  • Bachelor of Science (cum laude) in Economics and Management (L18)
    🎓 LUM “G. Degennaro” University, Casamassima, Bari, Italy, October 2018
    Thesis: A step away from disaster: State-saving measures to overcome the crisis of the third millennium
    Tutor: Prof. C. Bussoli

Training Schools and Workshops:

  • 🏫 Summer school “Network econometrics,” Venice, Italy, July 2024
  • 🏫 Course “Tidyverse: R for Data Science,” Lecce, Italy, February 2024
  • 🏫 Course “Classifying Higher Education Institutions using Latent Class Analysis,” Lugano, Switzerland, March 2023
  • 🏫 Summer school “Machine Learning: what is good for?” Lugano, Switzerland, August 2022
  • 🏫 Workshop “Visual Thinking” Lugano, Switzerland, August 2022
  • 🏫 Summer School “Panel Data Econometrics: theory and applications” Bertinoro, Italy, July 2021

Teaching Experience:

  • Adjunct Professor of “Econometric models for human resource management,” Master’s level in “Human Resources Management,” LUM School of Management, Casamassima, Italy (A.A. 2022/2023)
  • Adjunct Professor of “Econometrics,” Master’s degree in Economics and Management (LM77), LUM “G. Degennaro” University, Casamassima, Italy (A.A. 2022/2023)

Membership to Scientific Societies:

  • The Econometric Society (2023 – Present)
  • Italian Economics Society (2023 – Present)
  • Italian Econometrics Society (2021 – Present)

Research Focus in Agriculture:

Anna Rita Dipierro’s agricultural research is centered on the efficiency and sustainability of the agricultural sector, particularly within the European context. Her work involves analyzing the intersection of efficiency, sustainability, and environmental risk in agricultural practices. She employs econometric and geospatial techniques to evaluate and improve the performance of agri-food firms, with a focus on geographical indications and their impact on agricultural economics.

Publication Top Notes:

What Lies Behind the Success of Italian GIs Products? Questioning Tradition in Consortia via Aggregated Conditional Efficiency
Authors: C. Colamartino, A.R. Dipierro, P. Toma, M. Frittelli
Journal: Socio-Economic Planning Sciences, Vol. 87, Article 101578 (2023)
This paper explores the factors contributing to the success of Italian Geographical Indications (GIs) products by examining traditional practices within consortia and utilizing aggregated conditional efficiency models.

2. What Lies Behind Perceptions of Corruption? A Cultural Approach
Authors: A.R. Dipierro, A. Rella
Journal: Social Indicators Research, Vol. 172 (2), pp. 371-391 (2024)
This study investigates the cultural determinants influencing perceptions of corruption, providing a comprehensive analysis using a cultural framework.

3. The Underlying Signals of Efficiency in European Universities: A Combined Efficiency and Machine Learning Approach
Authors: A.R. Dipierro, K. De Witte
Journal: Studies in Higher Education, pp. 1-20 (2024)
This research combines efficiency analysis and machine learning techniques to identify underlying factors contributing to the operational efficiency of European universities.

4. European Agricultural Sector: The Tortuous Path Across Efficiency, Sustainability and Environmental Risk
Authors: A. Mergoni, A.R. Dipierro, C. Colamartino
Journal: Socio-Economic Planning Sciences, Vol. 92, Article 101848 (2024)
The paper addresses the challenges faced by the European agricultural sector, focusing on balancing efficiency, sustainability, and managing environmental risks.

5. The Efficient Path of the Protection Consortia to Manage Territorial Risks and Protect the Quality of GIs
Authors: C. Colamartino, A.R. Dipierro
Published Link: Article (2024)
This publication examines how protection consortia can efficiently manage territorial risks and ensure the quality of Geographical Indications (GIs) through strategic measures.

6. Within the Banks: The Determinants of ESG-Controversies
Author: A.R. Dipierro
Book: Digital Transformation: The Harmonic Convergence of People, Culture, Process… (2022)
This work analyzes the factors leading to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) controversies within banks, emphasizing the role of digital transformation.

These publications highlight Anna Rita Dipierro’s diverse research interests, ranging from agricultural economics and the success of GIs products to higher education efficiency and perceptions of corruption.

 

Monika Skowrońska | Agricultural | Best Researcher Award

Assoc Prof Dr Monika Skowrońska |  Agricultural  |  Best Researcher Award

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

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

 

Profile:

Education and Training:

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

Professional Experience:

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

Honours and Awards:

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

Agricultural Research Focus:

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

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

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

Citations:

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

Publication Top Notes:

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