Dr. Alfonso Andrade | Biofertilizer Production | Outstanding Scientist Award

Post doctoral student at Juárez University of the state of Durango, Mexico

Dr. Alfonso Andrade Sifuentes is a dedicated agronomist and soil scientist with extensive expertise in environmental and agricultural sciences. He holds advanced degrees in Soil Science and Water and Soil Sciences. His work focuses on sustainable agriculture, plant-microbe interactions, and soil fertility enhancement. With significant teaching experience in microbiology, bio-statistics, and environmental sciences, he contributes actively to academia and research. He is currently a postdoctoral fellow at Universidad Juárez del Estado de Durango, leading research initiatives and mentoring students. Dr. Andrade is also recognized by the National System of Researchers (SNI) as a candidate-level investigator.

Professional Profile

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Education

Dr. Andrade obtained his Agronomy Engineering degree from the Instituto Tecnológico de Torreón in 2008. He went on to earn a Master's degree in Soil Sciences from the same institution in 2015. Pursuing further specialization, he completed his Doctorate in Water and Soil Sciences in 2022, also from Instituto Tecnológico de Torreón. Throughout his academic journey, he developed a strong foundation in agro-environmental sciences, preparing him for diverse roles in research and academia. Each of his degrees is supported by professional certifications and practical field-oriented training, marking a consistent commitment to scientific advancement.

Professional Experience

Dr. Andrade has served in various academic and technical capacities since 2010. His roles include teaching and advisory positions in institutions such as UJED, Instituto Tecnológico Superior de Lerdo, and Universidad de Sonora. He has taught subjects like biology, chemistry, microbiology, and bio-statistics at the undergraduate level. Additionally, he contributed to governmental and rural development projects under FIRCO-SAGARPA. His experience extends to advising farmers, managing infrastructure projects, and conducting postdoctoral research. Dr. Andrade’s work bridges academic research and practical applications in sustainable agriculture and rural innovation.

Research Interest

Dr. Andrade’s research interests lie in soil microbiology, plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR), organic amendments, and nutrient management. He focuses on integrating microbial technologies and organic fertilization to enhance crop productivity and soil health, particularly in arid and saline environments. His current postdoctoral work explores the interactions between rhizobacteria, vermicomposting agents, and phosphorus solubilization. These investigations aim to support ecological farming practices, reduce chemical dependencies, and provide sustainable solutions to regional agricultural challenges. His interdisciplinary approach combines biotechnology, soil science, and environmental sustainability.

Award and Honor

Dr. Alfonso Andrade Sifuentes is recognized by Mexico's Sistema Nacional de Investigadores (SNI) as a Candidate-Level Researcher, an honor highlighting his early-career research contributions. His scholarly presentations at national and international conferences have earned him acclaim and professional recognition. He has also been selected for multiple postdoctoral research programs, including “Estancias Posdoctorales por México,” reflecting the academic community’s trust in his expertise. His collaborative efforts with institutions like Universidad de Sonora and Universidad Autónoma de Chihuahua have further established his professional standing in the field of sustainable agricultural science.

Research Skill

Dr. Andrade possesses extensive skills in microbial isolation, biofertilizer development, and molecular biology techniques. His research proficiency includes nutrient solution formulation, greenhouse management, and vermicomposting processes. He is adept in designing and executing field experiments, analyzing bio-statistical data, and preparing scientific manuscripts for high-impact journals. His knowledge spans multiple scientific disciplines, which he integrates to solve complex agricultural problems. Additionally, he is experienced in academic curriculum planning and guiding undergraduate and postgraduate research theses, showcasing both technical and pedagogical competence.

Publications

Andrade-Sifuentes*, A., Fortis-Hernández, M., Preciado-Rangel, (2020). Azospirillum brasilense and solarized manure on the production and phytochemical quality of tomato fruits (Solanum lycopersicum L.). Agronomy, 10(12), 1956.

Hernández, M. F., Lopez, J. O., Rangel, P. P.,Andrade-Sifuentes*, Valencia, R. T., Fortiz, E. (2022). Biofortification with copper nanoparticles (Nps Cu) and its effect on the physical and nutraceutical quality of hydroponic melon fruits. Notulae Botanicae Horti Agrobotanici Cluj-Napoca, 50(1), 12568–12568.

Preciado-Rangel, P., Andrade-Sifuentes*, A., Sánchez-Chávez, (2019). Potassium influence the nutraceutical and antioxidant content of Serrano hot pepper (Capsicum annuum L.). Agrociencia, 53(4).

Andrade-Sifuentes*, A., Gaucin-Delgado, J. M., Fortis-Hernandez, (2024). Iodine biofortification improves yield and bioactive compounds in melon fruits. Horticultura Brasileira, 42, e275325.

Conclusion

Dr. Alfonso Andrade Sifuentes stands out as a committed academic, researcher, and practitioner in the fields of agronomy and soil science. His diverse experiences in teaching, research, and fieldwork make him a valuable contributor to sustainable agriculture. Through his work, he not only enhances scientific understanding but also supports practical solutions for farmers and environmental conservation. His passion for education, paired with technical excellence, continues to drive his impactful contributions to agroecological development and innovation in Latin America.

Prof.Dr. Mercy Manyuchi | Bio-Fertilizers | Women Researcher Award

Prof.Dr. Mercy Manyuchi | Bio-Fertilizers - Director at SustainableTech Environmental Management Company, Zimbabwe

Prof. Dr. Eng. Mercy Manyuchi is a distinguished chemical engineer and academic leader with a rich portfolio in sustainable engineering. With extensive experience in academia, research, innovation, and leadership, Prof. Manyuchi has contributed significantly to the fields of waste valorisation, bioenergy, and environmental sustainability. Currently serving as Professor Extraordinarius at UNISA and former Visiting Professor at the University of Johannesburg, Prof. Manyuchi has held several high-impact academic and consultancy roles. Recognized globally for contributions to sustainability, this profile highlights a strong foundation in engineering education, groundbreaking research initiatives, and impactful publications that support the global sustainability and circular economy agenda.

Professional Profile

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Education

Prof. Manyuchi holds a Doctor of Technology in Chemical Engineering from Cape Peninsula University of Technology, complemented by an MScEng from Stellenbosch University and a BEng from the National University of Science and Technology, Zimbabwe. Additionally, executive leadership training was completed through an EMBA at Bindura University and an Executive Diploma at the Zimbabwe Institute of Management. This educational trajectory highlights a strong blend of technical and managerial competencies, positioning Prof. Manyuchi as a dynamic leader in the intersection of engineering, research, and sustainable development.

Professional Experience

Prof. Manyuchi’s professional career spans over a decade of service in higher education, research, and consulting. Academic appointments include tenure at Harare Institute of Technology and a multi-level visiting professorship at the University of Johannesburg. Industry experience includes roles at ZimChem Refiners and Nestlé Zimbabwe. In leadership, Prof. Manyuchi directed departments, academic programs, and consultancy firms focused on sustainability. These roles were pivotal in leading engineering education reforms, developing environmental technologies, and managing cross-disciplinary teams. Their unique experience merges academic scholarship with industrial application, making valuable contributions to engineering practice and societal development.

Research Interest

Prof. Manyuchi’s current research focuses on the water-energy-food nexus and its alignment with sustainable development goals. Specialized areas include waste-to-energy technologies, biomass valorisation, biochar production, wastewater treatment, and circular economy innovations. Collaborative projects span local and international platforms, addressing global challenges through innovative green technologies. Their research also explores low-cost environmental engineering solutions for developing regions. By fostering interdisciplinary collaborations, Prof. Manyuchi aims to bridge scientific research and policy to promote climate resilience and sustainable urban development. The overarching objective is to engineer eco-efficient systems that benefit both society and the environment.

Award and Honor

Prof. Manyuchi has been recognized with numerous prestigious awards and fellowships. These include the Women Corporate Directors Award (2023), Green Talents Fellowship (Germany), Japanese Agricultural Researchers Award (2016), and the Presidential Research Award (Zimbabwe). Notably, Prof. Manyuchi has been a Tony Elumelu Foundation grantee and a World Energy Council Future Energy Leader. Many other accolades reflect contributions to entrepreneurship, engineering excellence, and sustainable innovation. These honors demonstrate a global appreciation of Prof. Manyuchi’s efforts in advancing environmental engineering and shaping future-ready solutions for global sustainability challenges.

Research Skill

Prof. Manyuchi is adept in experimental design, techno-economic assessments, process optimization, and life cycle analysis related to chemical and environmental engineering. Key skills include biomass valorisation, bioenergy systems modeling, and development of sustainable waste management technologies. Proficiency in supervising postgraduate research, conducting interdisciplinary projects, and publishing in high-impact journals showcases an ability to translate complex scientific findings into practical applications. Additional competencies include technology transfer, vermicomposting innovation, and environmental impact assessment. These skills are foundational to Prof. Manyuchi’s mission of developing technologies that contribute to cleaner, safer, and more resource-efficient communities.

Publications

Muisa, N., Nhapi, I., Ruziwa, W., & Manyuchi, M.M* (2020). Utilization of alum sludge as adsorbent for phosphorus removal in municipal wastewater: A review. Journal of Water Process Engineering.

Chaukura, Manyuchi, M.M* N., Gwenzi, W., & Tawenga, N. (2016). Biosorbents for the removal of synthetic organics and emerging pollutants: Opportunities and challenges for developing countries. Environmental Development.

Phiri, Manyuchi, M.M*. (2013). Vermicomposting in solid waste management: A review. International Journal of Scientific Engineering and Technology.

Manyuchi,M.M*, Phiri, A., Muredzi, P., & Chitambwe, T. (2013). Comparison of vermicompost and vermiwash bio-fertilizers from vermicomposting waste corn pulp. World Academy of Science, Engineering and Technology.

Manyuchi M.M*, CMEM. (2018). Potential to use municipal waste bio char in wastewater treatment for nutrients recovery.

Conclusion

Prof. Dr. Eng. Mercy Manyuchi exemplifies a rare combination of academic brilliance, practical innovation, and leadership in the domain of sustainable chemical engineering. From impactful research and transformative teaching to international collaborations and industry contributions, Prof. Manyuchi has consistently championed green technologies and environmental resilience. With a forward-thinking approach, the work continues to inspire new solutions in waste valorisation, climate adaptation, and circular economy systems. As a mentor, researcher, and policy advocate, Prof. Manyuchi remains at the forefront of global sustainability efforts, building a legacy grounded in science, service, and societal impact.