Lelethu Mdoda | Climate change | Best Researcher Award

Posted on by sciencefather

Dr Lelethu Mdoda | Climate change | Best Researcher Award

Senior Lecturer at  University of KwaZulu-Natal,  South Africa

Dr. Lelethu Mdoda is a Senior Lecturer at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, specializing in Agricultural Economics. He earned his PhD at 25 from the University of Fort Hare, focusing on market participation and value chain integration among smallholder farmers in South Africa.

Profile:

🎓 Academic Background:

  • PhD in Agriculture – Agricultural Economics (2017) – University of Fort Hare
    • Thesis: Market participation and value chain integration among smallholder farmers in Eastern Cape
  • MSc in Agriculture – Agricultural Economics (2015) – University of Fort Hare
    • Dissertation: Farmers’ awareness of climate change and its effects on productivity
  • BSc in Agriculture – Agricultural Economics/Economics (2013) – University of Fort Hare

🔬 Research Focus & Expertise:

Dr. Mdoda specializes in agricultural policy, climate change adaptation, smallholder economies, food security, and rural development. His expertise extends to agribusiness, value chains, sustainability, and resource economics. He has extensive experience in applied econometric modeling, data analysis, and market research.

📚 Professional Career & Contributions:

  • Senior Lecturer at the University of KwaZulu-Natal
  • Published over 30 peer-reviewed journal articles
  • NRF Rating: Y2
  • Active in mentoring, research, and project management

🌍 Professional Memberships & Leadership:

  • President of the African Farm Management Association (AFMA)
  • Member of AEASA, IAAE, and IFAMA

🏆 Awards & Recognitions:

  • DAAD German Scholarship (2016)
  • NRF Bursary for MSc (2015)
  • Best Agricultural Student Award (2007)
  • Travel Grants from IFAMA (2016, 2017)

🤝 Community Engagement & Projects:

  • Founder & Executive Director of #HaySureLesner Foundation – Youth mentorship, drug abuse awareness, and career guidance
  • Nguni Project – Market coordination for livestock farming
  • Keiskamahoek Market Day – Supporting smallholder farmers with market access
  • WRC Project – Enhancing smallholder irrigation farming in Eastern Cape

Publication Top Notes:

  • Factors affecting the use of information and communication technologies (ICTs) by livestock farmers in the Eastern Cape province
    L Mdoda, L Mdiya
    Cogent Social Science 8 (1), 2026017 (43 citations, 2022)

  • Factors affecting subsistence farming in rural areas of Nyandeni Local Municipality in the Eastern Cape Province
    S Qange, L Mdoda
    South African Journal of Agricultural Extension 48 (2), 92-105 (43 citations, 2020)

  • The direct and indirect economic contribution of small-scale black agriculture in South Africa
    M Aliber, L Mdoda
    Agrekon 54 (2), 18-37 (36 citations, 2015)

  • RETRACTED: Factors impacting sugarcane production by small-scale farmers in KwaZulu-Natal Province-South Africa
    Z Thibane, S Soni, L Phali, L Mdoda
    Heliyon 9 (1) (30 citations, 2023)

  • Analysis of profitability of smallholder irrigated food plots in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa
    L Mdoda, A Obi
    Journal of Agribusiness and Rural Development 3 (53), 225–232 (23 citations, 2019)

  • Socio-economic factors affecting home gardens as a livelihood strategy in rural areas of the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa
    L Mdiya, L Mdoda
    South African Journal of Agricultural Extension 49 (3), 1-15 (21 citations, 2021)

  • Adoption drivers of improved open-pollinated (OPVs) maize varieties by smallholder farmers in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa
    M Sigigaba, L Mdoda, A Mditshwa
    Sustainability (20 citations, 2021)

  • Profit efficiency in family-owned crop farms in Eastern Cape Province of South Africa: A translog profit function approach
    N Mujuru, A Obi, S Mishi, L Mdoda
    Agriculture & Food Security 11 (20), 2-9 (18 citations, 2022)

  • Determinants of Climate-Smart Agriculture (CSA) technologies adoption by smallholder food crop farmers in Mangaung Metropolitan Municipality, Free State
    A Makamane, J Van Niekerk, O Loki, L Mdoda
    South African Journal of Agricultural Extension 51 (4), 52-74 (14 citations, 2023)

  • Use of information systems (Mobile phone app) for enhancing smallholder farmers’ productivity in Eastern Cape Province, South Africa: Implications on food security
    L Mdoda, M Christian, I Agbugba
    Journal of the Knowledge Economy 15 (1), 1993-2009 (13 citations, 2024)

 

Roberta Trani | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Posted on by sciencefather

Dr Roberta Trani |  Environmental Science |  Best Researcher Award

Researcher fellow at  University of Bari Aldo Moro,  Italy

Dr. Roberta Trani is a Research Fellow at the University of Bari Aldo Moro, Italy. With a strong background in agricultural sciences, she focuses on innovative research to enhance sustainable farming practices. Passionate about scientific advancement, she actively contributes to academia through research and collaborations.

Profile:

Education & Certifications:

  • PhD in Biodiversity, Agriculture & Environment (2021), University of Bari Aldo Moro
    • Thesis: Marine Multi-Trophic Bioremediation in Aquaculture & Biomass Valorization
  • Scientific Diver Certification (2024), A.I.O.S.S.
  • Professional Qualification in Biology – Section A (2021)
  • Foreign Internship on Marine Natural Products Extraction (2019), University of the Balearic Islands, Spain

Work Experience:

Current Roles

  • Principal Investigator (2024–Present): MaSBIA Project – Marine Sponges as Bioremediators in Integrated Aquaculture (ERC SEEDS UNIBA)
  • Research Fellow (2021–Present): Macrozoobenthic Community Analysis in Corallium rubrum Habitats, Puglia
  • Subject Expert in Zoology & Animal Biodiversity (2021–Present), University of Bari Aldo Moro

Previous Roles

  • Research Fellow (2021–2023): Rete Natura 2000 – Habitat & Species Monitoring in Puglia
  • Underwater Surveys & Marine Strategy Puglia Project (2021), CoNISMa
  • Field Research Support in Hard Substrate Benthos Analysis (2021), CoNISMa
  • Bioremediation & Benthos Invertebrate Management (2021), University of Bari
  • REMEDIA Life Project Team Member (2017–2020), University of Bari

Academic and Professional Background

  • Bachelor’s Degree in Environmental Sciences (2012)
  • Master’s Degree in Environmental Biology (2015)
  • PhD in Environmental Sciences (2021), University of Bari Aldo Moro
  • Over 14 years of research experience in marine zoology and ecology, with training in Italy, Russia, and the Balearic Islands
  • Since 2018, research focus on marine bioremediation via Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture (IMTA), contributing to the REMEDIA Life project
  • Current research on marine filter-feeding invertebrates for ecosystem restoration and sustainability

Areas of Research

  • Bioremediation
  • Marine Biodiversity & Ecology
  • Aquatic Ecosystems
  • Marine Zoology & Biology
  • Marine Environment & Natural Product Extraction
  • Underwater Monitoring & Sampling

Citation Metrics:

  • Total Citations: 251
  • Citations Since 2020: 249
  • h-Index: 9
  • h-Index Since 2020: 9
  • i10-Index: 9
  • i10-Index Since 2020: 9

Publication Top Notes:

  • An Innovative IMTA System: Polychaetes, Sponges and Macroalgae Co-Cultured in a Southern Italian In-Shore Mariculture Plant (Ionian Sea)
  • Chaetomorpha linum in the Bioremediation of Aquaculture Wastewater: Optimization of Nutrient Removal Efficiency at the Laboratory Scale
  • Filtering Activity and Nutrient Release by the Keratose Sponge Sarcotragus spinosulus Schmidt, 1862 (Porifera, Demospongiae) at the Laboratory Scale
  • Environmental Quality Improvement of a Mariculture Plant After Its Conversion Into a Multi-Trophic System
  • Sponges as Emerging By-Product of Integrated Multitrophic Aquaculture (IMTA)
  • Biofouling Role in Mariculture Environment Restoration: An Example in the Mar Grande of Taranto (Mediterranean Sea)
  • An Integrated Monitoring Approach to the Evaluation of the Environmental Impact of an Inshore Mariculture Plant (Mar Grande of Taranto, Ionian Sea)
  • Nitrogen Metabolism at Tillering Stage Differently Affects the Grain Yield and Grain Protein Content in Two Durum Wheat Cultivars
  • Bioremediation Capabilities of Hymeniacidon perlevis (Porifera, Demospongiae) in a Land-Based Experimental Fish Farm
  • Invertebrate Diversity Associated With a Shallow Rhodolith Bed in the Mediterranean Sea (Mar Piccolo of Taranto, South-East Italy)
  • Anti-Fouling Activity and Toxicity of the Mediterranean Alien Sponge Paraleucilla magna Klautau, Monteiro & Borojevic, 2004 (Porifera, Calcarea)
  • Influence of an Innovative IMTA System (Mediterranean Sea, Italy) on Environmental and Biological Parameters: Seasonal Analysis
  • The REMEDIA LIFE Integrated Multitrophic Aquaculture System as a Powerful Sponge Biomass Supply
  • Porifera in the REMEDIA LIFE Integrated Multitrophic Aquaculture (IMTA) System
  • Do Sustainably Reared Marine Sponges Represent a Potential New Product in Aquariology? A Citizen Science-Based Approach
  • Metodologie di Allevamento di Poriferi in un Sistema di Acquacoltura Multi Trophica Integrata
  • Synthesis of Brominated Lactones Related to Mycalin A: Selective Antiproliferative Activity on Metastatic Melanoma Cells and Inhibition of the Cell Migration
  • Tethya meloni (Porifera, Demospongiae): A Promising Bioremediator Species and Source of Marine Natural Products
  • Integrated Study for the Assessment of an Inshore Mariculture Plant Impact on the Surrounding Environment (Ionian Sea)
  • Multi-Trophic Species Interactions in a Marine Bioremediation Model Assessment

 

Subir Kumar Nag | Climate Change | Best Researcher Award

Posted on by sciencefather

Dr Subir Kumar Nag | Climate Change |  Best Researcher Award

Principal Scientist at  ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute,  India

Dr. Subir Kumar Nag is a Principal Scientist at the ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Barrackpore, India. With a strong background in agricultural chemistry and soil science, he holds a Ph.D. from ICAR-IARI and a Diploma in Management from IGNOU. Dr. Nag has held various positions in ICAR, including Scientist and Senior Scientist, and has contributed extensively to research in pesticide residue analysis, ecosystem health, and organic feeding systems for livestock. He has received prestigious awards such as the Lal Bahadur Shastri Young Scientist Award and Fellowship Awards from both the Range Management Society of India and the Inland Fisheries Society of India.

Profile:

Education:

  • B.Sc. (Agriculture) Hons.
  • M.Sc. (Agr.) in Agricultural Chemistry & Soil Science
  • Ph.D. in Agricultural Chemicals (ICAR-IARI)
  • Diploma in Management (IGNOU)

Awards & Fellowships:

  • Lal Bahadur Shastri Young Scientist Award, ICAR (1999-2000)
  • Best Paper Awards (2010, 2011)
  • Fellowship Award (2017, 2024) from the Range Management Society of India & Inland Fisheries Society of India

Research Focus:

  • Pesticide residue analysis in feed, fodder, and milk
  • Monitoring pesticide and metal contamination in aquatic environments
  • Organic feeding systems for livestock production
  • Carbon sequestration and GHG emissions from wetlands
  • Endocrine disruption in fish due to emerging contaminants

Research Projects:

  • Led several projects on pesticide residue monitoring, ecosystem health, and the impact of pollutants on aquatic life.
  • Worked on improving livestock production through better resource management and quality assurance.

Teaching Experience:

  • Guided three Ph.D. students

International Experience:

  • Postdoctoral Research, CSIRO, Australia (2010)
  • NAIP Training on Carbon Sequestration, Ohio State University, USA (2013-2014)

Citations:

Citations: 1,003
Documents: 946
h-index: 16

Publication Top Notes : 

  • Wetlands function as carbon sink: Evaluation of few floodplains of middle Assam, northeast India in the perspective of climate change
    Nag, S.K., Ghosh, B.D., Das, B.K., Sarkar, U.K.
    Journal of Environmental Management, 2025, 373, 123841
  • An appraisal of carbon capture and sequestration in few selected wetlands of West Bengal
    Nag, S.K., Ghosh, B.D., Sarkar, U.K., Das, B.K.
    Environment, Development and Sustainability, 2024, 26(2), pp. 4229–4244
  • Trophic transfer patterns of arsenic in freshwater ecosystem layers in arsenic-endemic Ganges Delta and its potential human health risk
    Das Sarkar, S., Naskar, M., Sahu, S.K., … Das, B.K., Mohanty, B.P.
    Environmental Science and Pollution Research International, 2023, 30(60), pp. 126178–126194
  • Endocrine disruptive toxicity of cypermethrin in Labeo catla: Involvement of genes and proteins related to the HPG axis
    Ganguly, S., Adhikari, A., Sadhukhan, D., … Nag, S.K., Das, B.K.
    Science of the Total Environment, 2023, 901, 165958
  • Ameliorative effect of natural floating island as fish aggregating devices on heavy metals distribution in a freshwater wetland
    Sarkar, D.J., Das Sarkar, S., Santhana Kumar, V., … Samanta, S., Das, B.K.
    Environmental Pollution, 2023, 336, 122428
  • Emerging contaminant triclosan incites endocrine disruption, reproductive impairments and oxidative stress in the commercially important carp, Catla (Labeo catla): An insight through molecular, histopathological and bioinformatic approach
    Adhikari, A., Das, B.K., Ganguly, S., … Sadhukhan, D., Raut, S.S.
    Comparative Biochemistry and Physiology Part – C: Toxicology and Pharmacology, 2023, 268, 109605
  • Changes in seed yield and oil quality of flax (Linum usitatissimum L.) for industrial use in response to nitrogen and potassium fertilization
    Mitra, S., Adhikary, B., Islam, S., … Mondal, A., Kar, G.
    Archives of Agronomy and Soil Science, 2023, 69(15), pp. 3619–3636
  • Assessment of environmental and human health risk from pesticide residues in river Gomti, Northern India
    Nag, S.K., Sajina, A.M., Sahu, S.K., … Saha, K., Bandyopadhyay, S.
    Environmental Science and Pollution Research, 2023
  • Comparative assessment of carbon sequestration potential of different types of wetlands in lower Gangetic basin of West Bengal, India
    Nag, S.K., Das Ghosh, B., Nandy, S., … Sarkar, U.K., Das, B.K.
    Environmental Monitoring and Assessment, 2023, 195(1), 154
  • Impact assessment of an invasive macrophyte community on ecosystem properties: A Mass Balance Approach for Chilika lagoon, India
    Swain, P.R., Parida, P.K., Panikkar, P., … Nag, S.K., Das, B.K.
    Ecological Informatics, 2022, 69, 101592

 

Marley Nunes Vituri Toloi | Environmental Impacts | Excellence in Research

Posted on by sciencefather

Mrs Marley Nunes Vituri  Toloi | Environmental Impacts | Excellence in Research

Administradora at  Institute Of Financial Management Training And Research, Brazil

Marley Nunes Vituri Toloi is an accomplished researcher and administrator specializing in agricultural production and its intersections with economic, social, and environmental systems. With a Ph.D. from Universidade Paulista, her doctoral research explored the influence of soybean production in Mato Grosso on Brazil’s development. Marley also holds a Master’s in Administration from UFMS, where she analyzed the agricultural sector’s role in socioeconomic growth.

 

Publication Profile

🎓 Academic Background:

  • Ph.D. in Production Engineering (2021) – Universidade Paulista (UNIP)
    Thesis: Soybean Production in Mato Grosso and Its Influence on Economic, Social, and Environmental Sectors
  • Master’s in Administration (2011) – Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso do Sul (UFMS)
    Thesis: The Agricultural Sector in Mato Grosso do Sul and Socioeconomic Development
  • Specializations:
    • Management and Tutoring in Distance Education (UFMS, 2008)
    • Business Management with Marketing Emphasis (Universidade Brasil, 2004)
  • Bachelor’s in Administration (2002) – Universidade Brasil

💼 Professional Experience:

  • Administrator, IFMT – Rondonópolis Campus (2010–Present)
    • Coordinates the Purchasing and Bidding Department.
  • Distance Education Tutor, MEC (2008–2009)
    • Collaborated with UFMS and Universidade Aberta do Brasil.
  • Substitute Professor, UFMS (2006)

🌟 Key Interests:

  • Agricultural production and sustainability
  • Socioeconomic impacts of agribusiness
  • Logistics and supply chain management

Publication Top Note:

  • Development Indicators and Soybean Production in Brazil
    Journal: Agriculture
    Publication Date: November 2021
    Type: Journal Article
    DOI: 10.3390/agriculture11111164
    Contributors: Marley Nunes Vituri Toloi, Silvia H Bonilla, Rodrigo Carlo Toloi, Helton Raimundo Oliveira Silva, Irenilza de Alencar Nääs
    Source: Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute
  • CO2 Gas Emissions of Soybean Production and Transportation in the Different Macro-regions of Mato Grosso State – Brazil
    Book: IFIP Advances in Information and Communication Technology
    Publication Date: August 2019
    Type: Book Chapter
    DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-30000-5_25
    Part of ISBN: 9783030299996, 9783030300005
    Part of ISSN: 1868-4238, 1868-422X
    Contributors: Marley Nunes Vituri Toloi
    Source: IFIP Advances in Information and Communication Technology

 

Zeeshan Zafar | Climate Change | Best Researcher Award

Posted on by sciencefather

Dr Zeeshan Zafar |  Climate Change | Best Researcher Award

Postdoctoral Researcher at  Wuhan University,  China

 

Dr. Zeeshan Zafar is a physical geographer and researcher with expertise in remote sensing, GIS, and environmental modeling. His work focuses on machine learning applications in hydrology and climate change impact studies, particularly in urban and natural ecosystems. Dr. Zafar has contributed to research publications on carbon storage modeling, LULC, urban heat islands, and soil erosion, and he actively collaborates on projects assessing ecological health risks and sustainable urban planning.

 

Publication Profile

Education:

Dr. Zeeshan Zafar completed his Ph.D. in Physical Geography from Northwest University, Xi’an, China. He holds an M.S. in Remote Sensing & GIS from PMAS Arid Agriculture University, Rawalpindi, Pakistan.

Professional Experience:

Dr. Zafar is currently a Postdoctoral Researcher at Wuhan University, China, where he focuses on advanced GIS and ecological modeling methodologies. Previously, he served as a GIS Manager at GreenAge Services in Pakistan (2016-2018) and as an Instructor at Virtual University, Pakistan (2013-2016), where he developed remote sensing and GIS curricula and trained students in these fields.

Research Interest:

Dr. Zafar’s research integrates machine learning, hydrological modeling, ecosystem services, and climate change impacts. His expertise extends to ecological modeling, land-use/land-cover (LULC) change, urbanization, and land surface temperature modeling. He is proficient in advanced spatial analysis using satellite data, machine learning, deep learning, and statistical modeling.

Author Metrics:

Dr. Zafar has published extensively in reputable journals, including Ecological Informatics, Theoretical and Applied Climatology, and Water Supply. His research, recognized for its impact on understanding climate and urban dynamics, is supported by over 20 peer-reviewed articles and ongoing submissions to high-impact journals. His work is regularly cited by peers in environmental science and remote sensing domains.

Publication Top Notes
  • Selection of medical clinic for disease diagnosis by using TOPSIS method
    RM Zulqarnain, S Abdal, B Ali, L Ali, F Dayan, MI Ahamad, Z Zafar
    International Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences Review and Research, 61(1), 2020.
  • Application of TOPSIS method in decision making via soft set
    RM Zulqarnain, S Abdal, A Maalik, B Ali, Z Zafar, MI Ahamad, S Younas
    Biomedical Journal of Scientific & Technical Research, 24(3), 18208-18215, 2020.
  • Trend analysis of the decadal variations of water bodies and land use/land cover through MODIS imagery: An in-depth study from Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan
    Z Zafar, MS Mehmood, MI Ahamad, A Chudhary, N Abbas, AR Khan
    Water Supply, 21(2), 927-940, 2021.
  • Fostering deep learning approaches to evaluate the impact of urbanization on vegetation and future prospects
    Z Zafar, MS Mehmood, Z Shiyan, M Zubair, M Sajjad, Q Yaochen
    Ecological Indicators, 146, 109788, 2023.
  • Time Series Analyses and Forecasting of Surface Urban Heat Island Intensity Using ARIMA Model in Punjab, Pakistan
    MS Mehmood, Z Zafar, M Sajjad, S Hussain, S Zhai, Y Qin
    Land, 12(1), 142, 2022.
  • Performance assessment of machine learning algorithms for mapping of land use/land cover using remote sensing data
    Z Zafar, M Zubair, Y Zha, S Fahd, AA Nadeem
    The Egyptian Journal of Remote Sensing and Space Sciences, 27(2), 216-226, 2024.
  • Spatial Downscaling and Gap-Filling of SMAP Soil Moisture to High Resolution Using MODIS Surface Variables and Machine Learning Approaches over ShanDian River Basin, China
    AA Nadeem, Y Zha, L Shi, S Ali, X Wang, Z Zafar, Z Afzal, MAUR Tariq
    Remote Sensing, 15(3), 812, 2023.
  • Generalized fuzzy TOPSIS to solve multi-criteria decision-making problems
    RM Zulqarnaın, M Saeed, B Ali, S Abdal, M Saqlaın, MI Ahamad, Z Zafar
    Journal of New Theory, 40-50, 2020.
  • Comprehensive assessment on groundwater quality, pollution characteristics, and ecological health risks under seasonal thaws: Spatial insights with Monte Carlo simulations
    C Jia, AR Altaf, F Li, I Ashraf, Z Zafar, AA Nadeem
    Groundwater for Sustainable Development, 22, 100952, 2023.
  • Mapping flood extend and its impact on land use/land cover and settlements variations: A case study of Layyah District, Punjab, Pakistan
    S Soomro, C Hu, MW Boota, MHAA Soomro, S Jian, Z Zafar, X Li
    Acta Geophysica, 69, 2291-2304, 2021.
  • Application of Intuitionistic Fuzzy Soft Matrices for Disease Diagnosis
    RM Zulqarnain, M Saeed, MI Ahamad, S Abdal, Z Zafar, M Aslam
    International Journal of Discrete Mathematics, 5(1), 4-9, 2020.
  • The spatial coupling effect between urban street network’s centrality and collection & delivery points: A spatial design network analysis-based study
    MS Mehmood, G Li, A Jin, A Rehman, V Wijeratne, Z Zafar, AR Khan
    PLOS One, 16(5), e0251093, 2021.
  • Predictive modeling of regional carbon storage dynamics in response to land use/land cover changes: An InVEST-based analysis
    Z Zafar, M Zubair, Y Zha, MS Mehmood, A Rehman, S Fahd, AA Nadeem
    Ecological Informatics, 102701, 2024.
  • Disease identification using trapezoidal fuzzy numbers by Sanchez’s approach
    RM Zulqarnain, XL Xin, B Ali, S Abdal, A Maalik, L Ali, MI Ahamad, Z Zafar
    International Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences Review and Research, 61(1), 13-18, 2020.
  • Effects of Temperature and Pressure on Reservoir Fluids and Seismic Properties of Reservoir Rocks
    MI Ahamad, Z Zafar, M Arsalan, A Rehman, M Sajid, RM Zulqarnain
    International Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences Review and Research, 63, 36-43, 2020.
  • Spatiotemporal dynamics analysis of surface water body and snow cover area to climate change in Gilgit Baltistan, Pakistan
    Z Zafar, MS Mehmood, A Akbar, MA Khan
    Physical Geography, 44(5), 600-619, 2023.
  • Evaluating land use/cover change associations with urban surface temperature via machine learning and spatial modeling: Past trends and future simulations in Dera Ghazi Khan
    MS Mehmood, A Rehman, M Sajjad, J Song, Z Zafar, Z Shiyan
    Frontiers in Ecology and Evolution, 11, 1115074, 2023.
  • SAFER-ET based assessment of irrigation patterns and impacts on groundwater use in the central Punjab, Pakistan
    AA Nadeem, Y Zha, L Shi, Z Zafar, S Ali, Y Zhang, AR Altaf, M Afzal
    Agricultural Water Management, 289, 108545, 2023.
  • Modelling the Climate Change on Crop Estimation in the Semi-Arid Region of Pakistan Using Multispectral Remote Sensing
    Z Zafar, S Farooq, MI Ahamad, MS Mehmood
    Optics, 9(1), 1-7, 2020.
  • Assessment of urbanization impacts on vegetation cover in major cities of Pakistan: Evidence from remotely sensed data
    Z Zafar
    GeoJournal, 89(4), 167, 2024.

 

Juergen Junk | Climate Change | Best Researcher Award

Posted on by sciencefather

Dr. Juergen Junk | Climate Change | Best Researcher Award

Head of research group at University of Trier, Luxembourg

Dr. Juergen Junk is an accomplished environmental meteorologist and geographer with a distinguished career in climate research and agro-environmental systems. As the Head of Group at the Luxembourg Institute of Science and Technology, he leads critical projects aimed at understanding and mitigating the impacts of climate change. With extensive experience in research and academia, Dr. Junk has supervised numerous PhD and MSc theses, contributed to national climate strategies, and secured several significant research grants. His work bridges the gap between climate science and practical solutions for sustainable agriculture and environmental protection. 🌍🌱🔬

Profile:

Educational Background:

Juergen Junk holds a Diploma in Physical Geography from the University of Trier, completed in 1999 under the supervision of Prof. Dr. A. Helbig. He further specialized in Environmental Meteorology, graduating in 2013 from the University of Trier.

Professional Experience:

Since 2021, Juergen Junk has been the Head of Group at the Luxembourg Institute of Science and Technology (LIST), ERIN Department, Agro-environmental Systems in Belvaux, Luxembourg. Before this, he served as a Senior Researcher at the same institute from 2016 to 2021. His career includes significant roles such as Senior Researcher at the Centre de Recherche Gabriel Lippmann in Belvaux, Luxembourg (2007-2014), and Research Associate in Environmental Meteorology at the University of Trier (1999-2007). Since 2015, he has continued his role as a Senior Researcher at LIST.

Research Interests:

Juergen Junk’s research focuses on climate change impacts, environmental meteorology, and agro-environmental systems. He has a keen interest in studying the interaction between climate change and agricultural ecosystems, including the effects on pests and their natural enemies, air pollution, and thermal stress on human health. He is also involved in high-resolution climate change projections and the analysis of nanoparticles in the near-surface atmosphere.

Publication Top Notes:

  • Buchholz, S., A. Krein, J. Junk, A. C. Gutleb, L. Pfister and L. Hoffmann (2011). “Modeling, measuring, and characterizing airborne particles: Case studies from southwestern Luxembourg.” Critical Reviews in Environmental Science and Technology, 41(23): 2077-2096.
  • Buchholz, S., A. Krein, J. Junk, G. Heinemann and L. Hoffmann (2013). “Simulation of Urban-Scale Air Pollution Patterns in Luxembourg: Contributing Sources and Emission Scenarios.” Environmental Modeling & Assessment, 18: 271-283.
  • den Outer, P. N., H. Slaper, J. Kaurola, A. Lindfors, A. Kazantzidis, A. F. Bais, U. Feister, J. Junk, M. Janouch and W. Josefsson (2010). “Reconstructing of erythemal ultraviolet radiation levels in Europe for the past 4 decades.” Journal of Geophysical Research, 115(D10).
  • Eickermann, M., M. Beyer, K. Goergen, L. Hoffmann and J. Junk (2014). “Shifted migration of the rape stem weevil (Ceutorhynchus napi) linked to climate change.” European Journal of Entomology, 111(2): 243-250.
  • Eickermann, M., J. Junk, L. Hoffmann and M. Beyer (2015). “Forecasting the breaching of the control threshold for Ceutorhynchus pallidactylus in oilseed rape.” Agricultural and Forest Entomology, 17(1): 71-76.
  • Eickermann, M., J. Junk and C. Rapisarda (2023). “Climate Change and Insects.” Insects.
  • El Jarroudi, M., L. Kouadio, J. Junk and C. H. Bock (2020). “Improved Prediction of Leaf Emergence for Efficacious Crop Protection: Assessing Field Variability in Phyllotherms for Upper Leaves in Winter Wheat and Winter Barley.” Agronomy, 10(11): 1825.
  • El Jarroudi, M., L. Kouadio, J. Junk, H. Maraite, B. Tychon and P. Delfosse (2022). “Assessing the Interplay between Weather and Septoria Leaf Blotch Severity on Lower Leaves on the Disease Risk on Upper Leaves in Winter Wheat.” Journal of Fungi, 8(11).
  • Emmerling, C., A. Krein and J. Junk (2020). “Meta-Analysis of Strategies to Reduce NH3 Emissions from Slurries in European Agriculture and Consequences for Greenhouse Gas Emissions.” Agronomy, 10: 10.
  • Goergen, K., J. Beersma, L. Hoffmann and J. Junk (2013). “ENSEMBLES-based assessment of regional climate effects in Luxembourg and their impact on vegetation.” Climatic Change, 119(3): 761-773.

 

 

Thongsouk Sompouviset | Climate Change | Young Scientist Award

Posted on by sciencefather

Dr. Thongsouk Sompouviset | Climate Change | Young Scientist Award

Teacher, NWAFU, China

Dr. Thongsouk Sompouviset is a dedicated researcher and environmental scientist from Laos, specializing in plant nutrition and climate change. With a solid academic background and hands-on experience in greenhouse gas analysis, he has contributed significantly to understanding the impacts of agricultural practices on the environment. His work, spanning from field surveys to advanced research, reflects a commitment to sustainable agricultural practices and environmental management.

Profile

Orcid

Education 🎓 

Dr. Thongsouk Sompouviset earned his PhD in Plant Nutrition with a focus on Climate Change from Northwest A&F University, China, from 2019 to 2023, achieving a GPA of 3.80. His doctoral research examined the influence of combined organic and inorganic fertilizer applications on greenhouse gas emissions in apple orchards on Weibei dryland, earning him the Outstanding Activities Student Award in 2022. Prior to his PhD, Dr. Sompouviset completed a Master’s in Plant Nutrition (Climate Change) at the same institution from 2015 to 2019, graduating with a GPA of 3.55. His Master’s thesis explored the effects of cover crops combined with manure and chemical fertilizers on greenhouse gas emissions in apple orchards, and he received the Best Student Award in 2019. Dr. Sompouviset also holds a Bachelor of Arts in Environmental Science from the National University of Laos (2007-2012), where he achieved a GPA of 3.48. His undergraduate thesis focused on the study process and water management of the Kaolieo water supply company, and he was recognized with awards in debate competitions, essay contests, and as an outstanding student. Additionally, he completed a Vocational Diploma in General English from Sahakitsamphan College (2008-2011) and is currently pursuing ongoing English studies (IELTS) at Vientiane College from January to August 2024.

Experience 💼

Professionally, Dr. Sompouviset has been serving as a Coordinator and Translator at Sino-Agri Potash Co., Ltd in Vientiane Capital, Laos, since January 2024. Prior to this, he managed the Environment and Social Department at Sino-Agri Potash Co., Ltd in Khammuane, Laos, from September 2012 to July 2015

Research Interests 🔬

Impact of Organic and Inorganic Fertilizers on Greenhouse Gas Emissions: This research investigates how the use of both organic and inorganic fertilizers affects the emission of greenhouse gases in agricultural settings. The combination of these fertilizers can influence soil processes and plant growth, potentially altering the levels of methane (CH₄), nitrous oxide (N₂O), and carbon dioxide (CO₂) released into the atmosphere. Studies typically focus on optimizing fertilizer practices to reduce greenhouse gas emissions while maintaining crop yields.

Effects of Plastic Mulching and Cover Crops on Environmental Sustainability: Plastic mulching and the use of cover crops are techniques aimed at improving soil health and enhancing environmental sustainability. Plastic mulching helps in moisture retention, temperature regulation, and weed suppression, which can indirectly impact greenhouse gas emissions. Cover crops, on the other hand, contribute to soil organic matter, reduce erosion, and enhance nutrient cycling. Research in this area evaluates how these practices affect soil health, greenhouse gas emissions, and overall environmental sustainability.

Climate Change Adaptation and Greenhouse Gas Mitigation Strategies in Agriculture: This area of study focuses on developing strategies for agriculture to adapt to the impacts of climate change while simultaneously mitigating greenhouse gas emissions. Adaptation strategies may include altering crop varieties, adjusting planting dates, and improving irrigation practices. Mitigation strategies might involve adopting more sustainable farming practices, enhancing soil carbon sequestration, and optimizing fertilizer use. The goal is to create resilient agricultural systems that can cope with climate change and reduce their carbon footprint.

Awards 🏆

Outstanding Activities Student Award (2022)
Northwest A&F University, China

Best Student Award (2019)
Northwest A&F University, China

Publications 📝

Combined application of organic and inorganic fertilizers effects on the global warming potential and greenhouse gas emissions in apple orchard in the Loess Plateau Region of China. link

The effects of plastic mulching combined with different fertilizer applications on greenhouse gas emissions, intensity, and apple yield in Northwestern China. link

Evaluation of Soil and Leaf Potassium, Calcium, Magnesium, and Micronutrient Status and Their Relationship in the Main Apple Production Areas of the Loess Plateau, China. link

Distinguishing the contribution of nitrogen fertilizer and native soil nitrogen to young apple trees . link