Sharif Ahmed | Weed Management | Editorial Board Member

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Dr. Sharif Ahmed | Weed management | Editorial Board Member

Postdoctoral Fellow | International Rice Research Institute | Bangladesh

Sharif Ahmed is a distinguished agricultural research specialist whose core specialization lies in resource conservation technologies, dry-seeded rice systems, weed management, cropping systems, and crop modeling under climate change scenarios. His research focuses on developing sustainable, high-efficiency rice production strategies that enhance crop performance while minimizing environmental impacts, with emerging interests in climate-smart agronomic innovations and integrated weed ecology for resilient farming systems. Over his career, he has served as a Specialist in Agricultural Research and Development at the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI), where he has contributed extensively to improving rice cultivation practices across Asia, particularly in Bangladesh and the Philippines. Sharif Ahmed’s key scientific contributions include pioneering studies on herbicide performance, nitrogen use efficiency, sowing management, and weed biology in dry-seeded rice ecosystems, leading to significant advancements in understanding crop–weed interactions and optimizing agronomic inputs for productivity. His work has generated widely cited publications on integrated weed management, seed rate optimization, herbicide efficacy, and sowing strategies tailored to floodplain environments, directly informing best practices for sustainable rice production. In addition, his research on the germination ecology of problematic weed species and the morphological plasticity of Leptochloa chinensis has provided critical insights for improved weed control policies and cropping system design. Through collaborations with leading agronomists, Sharif Ahmed has helped develop decision-support frameworks that enhance farmers’ ability to adopt resource-efficient technologies, thereby supporting both national and regional food security goals. His research outcomes have influenced agricultural extension programs, technology dissemination models, and environmentally sound weed management guidelines used in multiple rice-growing regions. Sharif Ahmed envisions a future where evidence-based agricultural innovation drives resilient food systems, climate adaptability, and sustainable intensification of rice production. His ongoing efforts aim to bridge scientific discovery with practical field applications, empowering farming communities through knowledge, improved production strategies, and eco-friendly crop management tools. By contributing to global discussions on crop sustainability and climate-adapted agronomy, he continues to advance a research agenda that supports food security, environmental stewardship, and the long-term viability of agricultural ecosystems worldwide.

Profile: Google Scholar | ORCID | Scopus | ResearchGate 

Featured Publications 

1. Ahmed, S., Salim, M., & Chauhan, B. S. (2014). Effect of weed management and seed rate on crop growth under direct dry-seeded rice systems in Bangladesh. PLOS ONE, 9(7), e101919.

2. Ahmed, S., & Chauhan, B. S. (2014). Performance of different herbicides in dry-seeded rice in Bangladesh. The Scientific World Journal, 2014, 729418.

3. Chauhan, B. S., Ahmed, S., Awan, T. H., Jabran, K., & Manalil, S. (2015). Integrated weed management approach to improve weed control efficiencies for sustainable rice production in dry-seeded systems. Crop Protection, 71, 19–24.

4. Ahmed, S., Humphreys, E., Salim, M., & Chauhan, B. S. (2016). Growth, yield and nitrogen use efficiency of dry-seeded rice as influenced by nitrogen and seed rates in Bangladesh. Field Crops Research, 186, 18–31.

5. Ahmed, S., & Chauhan, B. S. (2015). Efficacy and phytotoxicity of different rates of oxadiargyl and pendimethalin in dry-seeded rice (Oryza sativa L.) in Bangladesh. Crop Protection, 72, 169–174.

Amit Kesarwani | Climate Change | Editorial Board Member

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Assist. Prof. Dr. Amit Kesarwani | Climate Change | Editorial Board Member

Assistant Professor | Govind Ballabh Pant University of Agriculture and Technology | India

Dr. Amit Kesarwani is a distinguished researcher specializing in agronomy, with core expertise in soil and plant nutrition, nitrogen-use efficiency, organic farming, and wheat agronomy. His research focuses on optimizing nutrient management systems, advancing sustainable crop production strategies, and enhancing the biochemical and physiological quality of cereals through improved farming practices. Emerging interests in biofortification, soil microbial dynamics, and climate-resilient agronomic interventions further expand the scope of his scientific contributions. Over his career, Dr. Kesarwani has served in pivotal academic roles, including Assistant Professor of Agronomy at GBPUAT, Pantnagar, and Visiting Fellow at Western Sydney University, Australia, where he actively engaged in collaborative research on plant nutrition and sustainable production systems. His key contributions span influential studies on nutrient management strategies, organic farming impacts, and rice and wheat quality enhancement, reflected in widely cited works on microbial-function-based nutrient strategies, integrated nutrient management, antioxidant properties of cereals, and long-term fertilizer impacts on soil microbiology. His research has advanced practical innovations for improving nitrogen-use efficiency, reducing nitrate toxicity through decision-support tools, and strengthening soil health under intensive cultivation, offering valuable insights for modern agricultural policy and sustainable farming frameworks. Dr. Kesarwani’s work also contributes to understanding genotype–environment interactions for quality traits in cereal crops, supporting industry efforts toward healthier and more resilient food systems. His scientific output, including high-impact publications in agricultural productivity, plant biochemistry, and soil science, demonstrates continued commitment to improving crop performance while minimizing environmental degradation. Guided by a vision to strengthen global food security, he aims to drive innovations that foster climate-smart agriculture, empower farmers through evidence-based nutrient-management solutions, and enhance the sustainability of cereal-based cropping systems. Through his leadership in research, collaborative initiatives, and knowledge dissemination, Dr. Kesarwani continues to contribute meaningfully to agricultural science, ensuring that sustainable agronomic practices remain central to meeting the world’s growing food and environmental challenges.

Profile: Google Scholar

Featured Publications

1. Mehta, C. M., Emmanuel, B., Kesarwani, A., Sirari, K., & Sharma, A. K. (2016). Nutrient management strategies based on microbial functions. In Microbial Inoculants in Sustainable Agricultural Productivity (Vol. 2).

2. Wailare, A. T., & Kesarwani, A. (2017). Effect of integrated nutrient management on growth and yield parameters of maize (Zea mays L.) as well as soil physico-chemical properties. Biomedical Journal of Scientific & Technical Research, 1(2), 294–299.

3. Kesarwani, A., Chiang, P. Y., & Chen, S. S. (2016). Rapid Visco Analyzer measurements of japonica rice cultivars to study interrelationship between pasting properties and farming system. International Journal of Agronomy, 2016(1), 3595326.

4. Saini, R. K., Khan, M. I., Shang, X., Kumar, V., Kumari, V., Kesarwani, A., & Ko, E. Y. (2024). Dietary sources, stabilization, health benefits, and industrial application of anthocyanins—A review. Foods, 13(8), 1227.

5. Kesarwani, A., Chiang, P. Y., & Chen, S. S. (2014). Distribution of phenolic compounds and antioxidative activities of rice kernel and their relationships with agronomic practice. The Scientific World Journal, 2014(1), 620171.

Dr. Rupal Mangukiya | Climate Change | Editorial Board Member

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Dr. Rupal Mangukiya | Climate Change | Editorial Board Member

Assistant Professor | Cottey College | United States

Dr. Rupal D. Mangukiya is an accomplished researcher and educator specializing in Environmental Science, Environmental Policy, and Waterscape Management, with nine years of full-time equivalent experience in higher education and scholarly research. Her work centers on waterscape ecology, land-use modeling, sustainable development assessments, and GIS-based environmental analysis, with emerging interests in environmental justice and technology-enabled pedagogy. Dr. Mangukiya currently serves as Assistant Professor and Program Coordinator of Environmental Studies at Cottey College, Nevada, Missouri, where she leads curriculum development, supervises student research, delivers core courses in environmental science and geography, and steers departmental planning and program enhancement. Her research has generated meaningful contributions to the understanding of socio-ecological systems, including advanced applications of GIS, quantitative modeling techniques, and policy-relevant evaluations of natural resource management. Among her notable scholarly outputs is her work analyzing the three pillars of the Sustainable Development Goals at sub-national scales within the United States, offering valuable insights for regional policy development and sustainability planning. Through her doctoral research and ongoing publications, she has helped advance the integration of spatial analytics with environmental policy frameworks, supporting improved decision-making around land use, waterscape governance, and long-term resource resilience. Dr. Mangukiya’s broader impact lies in her commitment to strengthening environmental literacy, fostering research-driven academic programs, and equipping future practitioners with the analytical and ethical tools needed to address complex ecological challenges. Her vision is rooted in advancing sustainable resource management, promoting equity-centered environmental policy, and bridging science with community-oriented solutions to support resilient societies and evidence-based environmental innovation.

Profiles: Google Scholar | ORCID

Featured Publications

1. Quality Characterization of Groundwater Using Water Quality Index in Surat City, Gujarat, India. M. Rupal, B. Tanushree, C. Sukalyan
International Research Journal of Environment Sciences, 1(4), 14–23 (2012)

2. Analyzing Three Pillars of Sustainable Development Goals at Sub-National Scales Within the USA . R.D. Mangukiya, D.M. Sklarew
World Development Sustainability, 2, 100058 (2023)

Ileana Cristina Covaliu-Mierla | Climate Change | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Dr. Ileana Cristina Covaliu-Mierla | Climate Change | Best Researcher Award

Director of Doctoral School, Faculty of Biotechnical Systems Engineering at Politehnica University of Bucharest | Romania

Prof. Dr. Ileana Cristina Covaliu-Mierlă is a distinguished academic and researcher in the field of biotechnical systems engineering, environmental sciences, and applied chemistry. With extensive expertise in nanotechnology, wastewater treatment, and biotechnology, she has contributed significantly to advancing sustainable environmental solutions. Currently serving as Director of the Doctoral School of Biotechnical Systems Engineering at the National University of Science and Technology POLITEHNICA Bucharest, she is recognized for her leadership in research, teaching, and innovation. Her career reflects a strong commitment to education, international collaboration, and scientific excellence, earning her numerous distinctions and awards in her field.

Professional Profiles

Scopus | ORCID

Education

Prof. Covaliu-Mierlă pursued her academic training at the University POLITEHNICA of Bucharest, specializing in chemistry, biotechnical systems, and environmental engineering. She earned her PhD in Chemistry, focusing on nanostructured composites with biomedical applications. Later, she completed postdoctoral studies on hybrid nanomaterials with biomedical potential and conducted research in bionanotechnology applications for wastewater treatment. Her earlier academic journey included a Master’s degree in nanostructured composites and an Engineering diploma in environmental protection within the chemical and petrochemical industries. This rigorous academic foundation provided her with a solid background in chemistry, nanotechnology, and biotechnology, enabling her to integrate science with practical environmental solutions.

Professional Experience

Prof. Covaliu-Mierlă has over two decades of academic and research experience at the National University of Science and Technology POLITEHNICA Bucharest. She advanced through roles as Lecturer, Associate Professor, Professor, PhD Supervisor, and now serves as Director of the Doctoral School of Biotechnical Systems Engineering. She also contributes nationally as a member of the National Council for the Certification of Titles, Diplomas, and University Certificates (CNATDCU). In these roles, she has guided doctoral students, conducted impactful research, and designed innovative solutions in biotechnology and environmental engineering. Her teaching expertise spans environmental analysis, biotechnology, ecological protection, and sustainable industries.

Research Interest

Her research interests lie at the intersection of biotechnology, nanotechnology, and environmental engineering. She is particularly passionate about developing nanostructured and hybrid materials for wastewater treatment and biomedical applications. Prof. Covaliu-Mierlă explores sustainable technologies for depollution, with a focus on photocatalysis, bioengineering, and eco-friendly nanomaterials. Her work also covers environmental quality analysis, food biotechnology, and advanced separation techniques. By integrating cutting-edge nanotechnology with ecological approaches, she contributes to solving pressing global challenges such as water pollution, industrial waste management, and public health. Her interdisciplinary perspective makes her research highly relevant for both academia and industry.

Awards and Honors

Prof. Covaliu-Mierlă has been honored with numerous national and international awards recognizing her innovation and scientific contributions. She has received multiple gold, silver, and bronze medals at EUROINVENT exhibitions for groundbreaking wastewater treatment technologies and nanotechnology applications. Her research achievements have also been acknowledged by leading academic institutions and professional associations, including awards from UMF Carol-Davila, INMA Institute, and international scientific bodies. She has received diplomas of excellence for her role as a postdoctoral researcher, coordinator of award-winning student projects, and distinguished speaker at scientific conferences. These recognitions highlight her outstanding dedication to advancing environmental and biotechnical sciences.

Research Skills

Prof. Covaliu-Mierlă possesses advanced research skills in nanomaterials synthesis, wastewater treatment technologies, and biochemical processes in environmental engineering. She is highly experienced in spectrophotometric analyses (UV-Vis, FT-IR), X-ray diffraction, and morphological characterization using TEM and SEM. Her expertise extends to separation and purification technologies, as well as modern analytical techniques applied to food products and environmental quality. She demonstrates strong project management abilities, having led several nationally funded research projects. Additionally, her proficiency in multiple programming languages and scientific software supports her analytical work, while her leadership in research teams underscores her capacity to mentor and inspire innovation.

Publications

Prof. Covaliu-Mierlă is the author and co-author of several specialty books, scientific articles, and research studies. Her publications cover topics in biochemistry, ecology, nanotechnology, and environmental protection. Notable works include books on environmental biotechnology, ecological protection, and analytical techniques for water quality assessment. She has presented her findings at numerous international conferences, earning recognition for oral communications and research excellence. Her contributions to peer-reviewed journals emphasize the practical applications of nanotechnology and biotechnology in sustainable environmental solutions. Through her publications, she disseminates knowledge that bridges theory with practice, inspiring future research in science, technology, and environmental innovation.

Novel adsorbent based on banana peel waste for removal of heavy metal ions from synthetic solutions. (2021). Materials.

Magnetite oxide nanomaterial used for lead ions removal from industrial wastewater. (2021). Materials.

BIOGAS – A solution for treating animal waste resulting from zootechnical activities. (2024). UPB Scientific Bulletin, Series B: Chemistry and Materials Science.

Biodegradation of anionic and cationic surfactants using bacterial strains from activated sludge. (2021). International Journal of Conservation Science.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Prof. Dr. Ileana Cristina Covaliu-Mierlă exemplifies academic excellence, research innovation, and professional leadership in environmental engineering and biotechnology. Her career reflects a harmonious balance between teaching, research, and practical application, with a focus on addressing environmental challenges through nanotechnology and sustainable solutions. Recognized internationally for her pioneering contributions, she continues to mentor future generations of scientists while advancing cutting-edge research. Her work has a lasting impact on environmental protection, biotechnical systems, and sustainable industries, making her a respected figure in the global scientific community.