Chrispin Kaphaika | Agri-food systems and innovation | Young Researcher Award

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Chrispin Kaphaika | Agri-food systems and innovation | Young Researcher Award

Chrispin Kaphaika | Agri-food systems and innovation - Research and Innovation Specialist/Technology Transfer Officer at Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Malawi

Chrispin K. Kaphaika is an intellectual property management specialist and innovation advocate with deep expertise in technology transfer, agribusiness entrepreneurship, and research commercialization. With an interdisciplinary academic background and a strong orientation toward inclusive development, Chrispin supports enterprise growth, innovation-driven policies, and sustainable commercialization strategies. Their professional focus integrates agribusiness economics, startup support, and IP policy reform. Chrispin thrives in multicultural research and institutional settings, consistently driving impact through capacity building, policy engagement, and cross-sector collaboration aimed at fostering inclusive economic transformation in Malawi and beyond.

ACADEMIC PROFILE

ORCID

EDUCATION

Chrispin holds a PhD candidacy in Agribusiness Management and Entrepreneurship at LUANAR, and a Master's in Intellectual Property from Africa University. They also completed an MSc in Agricultural and Applied Economics at LUANAR, with a specialization in climate economics through a joint program with NMBU. Chrispin’s academic journey began with a BSc in Agricultural Economics at LUANAR. This multidisciplinary education equipped them with solid analytical, economic, and legal knowledge, enabling a unique perspective in areas like technology commercialization, innovation policy, and startup support across agriculture and allied industries.

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

Chrispin’s experience spans roles at LUANAR, University of Cape Town, CIIER, UNICEF, and various consulting projects. They currently serve as Technology Transfer Specialist at LUANAR and Co-Director at CIIER Consult. They have led national research initiatives, coordinated innovation projects, and managed IP portfolios. Their practical contributions include supporting university TTO functions, drafting commercialization agreements, and facilitating stakeholder engagement. With years of experience in research assistance and tutoring, they continue to build networks and support systems that drive institutional innovation and entrepreneurial success across multiple sectors.

RESEARCH INTEREST

Chrispin’s research interests lie at the intersection of intellectual property rights, agribusiness development, and sustainable innovation systems. They explore how IP and commercialization mechanisms can foster entrepreneurship, particularly in agriculture and food systems. Their focus extends to climate economics, policy impact evaluation, seed system adoption, and biofortified crop technologies. They are deeply engaged in assessing innovation ecosystems and contributing to frameworks that enable equitable access to knowledge, increase technology adoption, and support inclusive economic empowerment through research-led enterprise development.

AWARD AND HONOR

Chrispin has received several accolades recognizing their leadership and research excellence. These include the Research Award for Outstanding Contribution, Best Graduate and Best Student Awards in Intellectual Property Studies, and multiple Leadership Awards. These honors reflect their commitment to academic excellence, impactful research, and contributions to institutional and national innovation ecosystems. Their accolades are a testament to their consistent pursuit of high standards in both scholarly and professional capacities, particularly in shaping the future of IP and innovation in agriculture and beyond.

RESEARCH SKILL

Chrispin is highly skilled in technology transfer, IP policy design, commercialization strategies, and innovation management. They are proficient in patent search and drafting, market analysis, IP valuation, contract negotiation, and institutional policy development. With experience conducting field research, facilitating focus groups, and managing research ethics, they effectively bridge research and practice. Their ability to communicate technical concepts to diverse stakeholders and mentor early-career innovators underlines their capacity to lead innovation platforms and enhance institutional research translation across academic and entrepreneurial domains.

PUBLICATIONS

Chrispin’s publications reflect their research interest in seed systems, agricultural innovation, and pro-nutritional technology adoption. Notable works include: "More Interventions, Low Adoption: To What Extent Are the Existing Seed Sources to Blame?" and "Does the Adoption of Pro-nutritional Technologies Spur Farmers’ Yields? Evidence from Biofortified Orange-Fleshed Sweet Potato in Rural Malawi." These contributions underscore their commitment to evidence-based policy reform and inclusive innovation. Their research is informed by practical field experience and aims to generate insights that support transformative agricultural development.

CONCLUSION

Chrispin K. Kaphaika exemplifies leadership in research commercialization and intellectual property management with a passion for agribusiness transformation and institutional innovation. Their trajectory reflects a rare blend of academic depth, professional engagement, and policy insight. With a vision anchored in inclusive development, Chrispin continues to contribute to building ecosystems that empower communities, elevate startups, and promote knowledge-driven economies. Their career is a model of how multidisciplinary expertise and dedication to equity can drive meaningful change across education, research, and enterprise.

Dr. Xuxian Xuan – Pomology – Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Xuxian Xuan - Pomology - Best Researcher Award

Nanjing Agricultural University - China

AUTHOR PROFILE

Scopus

SUMMARY

Xuxian Xuan is a dedicated doctoral student at Nanjing Agricultural University with deep expertise in grape molecular biology, particularly in the mechanisms of flower and fruit development, and the breeding of seedless grape varieties. His research contributions are impactful, evidenced by multiple publications in leading journals and involvement in significant scientific projects. His work integrates molecular genetics, hormone signaling, and epigenetics, advancing theoretical and practical knowledge in pomology. His commitment to academic excellence and research innovation establishes him as a promising figure in agricultural biotechnology.

EDUCATION

Xuxian Xuan is currently pursuing his Ph.D. at Nanjing Agricultural University since 2021. His academic training focuses on the transcriptional and epigenetic regulation mechanisms in grape development. He has cultivated a solid foundation in plant biotechnology and fruit science, with his doctoral research combining both molecular and applied perspectives. He has also served as an associate editor for a Chinese academic monograph, indicating academic maturity beyond his level. His continuous academic journey supports his research contributions and scientific competence in plant developmental biology and seedless grape improvement.

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

Though still a doctoral student, Xuxian Xuan has shown professional excellence through his participation in four government-funded research projects. He has also collaborated with established scientists from Nanjing Agricultural University, the Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences, and China Agricultural University. His contributions to both laboratory work and scholarly writing in collaborative environments underscore his ability to work in interdisciplinary and institutional settings. His position has enabled him to contribute to real-world agricultural challenges while refining his technical skills and contributing meaningfully to ongoing grape breeding efforts.

RESEARCH INTEREST

Xuan's research is rooted in understanding the molecular mechanisms of grape flower and fruit development, especially in seedless grape formation. His interests include transcriptional regulation, epigenetic modifications, hormone signal transduction, and molecular breeding strategies. He explores how gibberellins influence grape development and fruit set, and how miRNA networks regulate these processes. His passion lies in linking theoretical frameworks with practical grape breeding techniques to improve fruit quality and yield, making his work both foundational and applied in scope within the field of pomology and biotechnology.

RESEARCH SKILL

Xuan possesses a wide range of research skills, including transcriptomics, gene expression profiling, hormone signaling pathway analysis, miRNA functional studies, and molecular marker development. He is proficient in designing and executing laboratory experiments involving grape tissue cultures and transgenic analysis. His ability to manage complex data and interpret molecular interactions allows him to contribute significantly to understanding parthenocarpy and seedlessness in grapes. He also demonstrates expertise in academic writing, literature synthesis, and scientific communication, enabling him to present research findings clearly and effectively.

PUBLICATIONS

Xuan has published 13 SCI-indexed research articles in high-impact journals such as Plant, Cell & Environment, Horticultural Plant Journal, and International Journal of Molecular Sciences. His work covers diverse topics such as polyamine and ethylene biosynthesis pathways, GA-mediated fruit setting, and miRNA-regulated gene networks. In addition, he has co-authored a Chinese academic book titled Grape Breeding in China. His consistent publication record reflects both the depth and breadth of his research, marking him as a significant contributor to grape biotechnology and molecular plant science.

  • Title: Competitive network of polyamines metabolic and ethylene biosynthesis pathways during gibberellin-induced parthenocarpic grape fruit setting
    Authors: Xuan, X., Qu, Z., Sadeghnezhad, E., Xie, Z., Qi, Z., Yang, H., Song, X., Yu, M., Luo, L., Aziz, R.B., 
    Journal: HORTICULTURAL PLANT JOURNAL

  • Title: Gibberellin Mediates VvmiR397a-VvLAC4 via VvSLR1-VvWRKY26 Cascade Signal to Repress the Seed-Stone Development During GA-Induced Grape Parthenocarpy
    Authors: Wang, C., Xuan, X., Wang, W., Sadeghnezhad, E., Luo, L., Gong, P., Wu, Q., Chao, R., Chen, X., Yu, M., 
    Journal: PLANT CELL AND ENVIRONMENT

  • Title: A Comprehensive Analysis of Cadmium Contamination in Viticulture: From Soil and Grape to Ecological Risks and Remediation
    Authors: Elatafi, E., Elhendawy, B., Elshahat, A., Iqbal, S., Ren, Y., Xuan, X., Li, W., Li, F., Fan, S., Hakeem, A.,
    Journal: JOURNAL OF SOIL SCIENCE AND PLANT NUTRITION

  • Title: Geographical location influence 'Cabernet Franc' fruit quality in Shandong province
    Authors: Wang, C., Chen, X., Ren, Y., Xuan, X., Pervaiz, T., Shangguan, L., and Fang, J.
    Journal: SCIENTIFIC REPORTS

  • Title: Identification of VvAGL Genes Reveals Their Network's Involvement in the Modulation of Seed Abortion via Responding Multi-Hormone Signals in Grapevines
    Authors: Liu, F., Aziz, R.B., Wang, Y., Xuan, X., Yu, M., Qi, Z., Chen, X., Wu, Q., Qu, Z., Dong, T., 
    Journal: INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES

CONCLUSION

Xuxian Xuan represents the new generation of agricultural researchers whose work bridges molecular science with crop improvement. His dedication to understanding the genetic regulation of grape development and enhancing fruit quality through advanced breeding strategies has already yielded significant academic and practical outcomes. With his current trajectory of scholarly excellence and innovation, he is well-positioned to lead future breakthroughs in pomology and agricultural biotechnology. His work not only contributes to academic knowledge but also has potential applications in improving food production and sustainable fruit cultivation globally.

Mohamed Saleh – Agricultural Biotechnology – Best Researcher Award

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Mohamed Saleh - Agricultural Biotechnology - Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr Mohamed Saleh - Agricultural Biotechnology - Best Researcher Award

National Research Centre - Egypt

AUTHOR PROFILE

SCOPUS

ORCID

GOOGLE SCHOLAR

SUMMARY

Mohamed Maher Saad Saleh is an Emeritus Research Professor and Former Head of the Pomology Department at the National Research Centre, Egypt. With decades of experience in horticultural science, he has contributed significantly to the propagation, cultivation, and postharvest management of fruit crops. His extensive academic and field-based research has made notable advancements in improving fruit yield, quality, and sustainability under various agricultural conditions. Saleh is highly regarded for his leadership in national projects, scholarly publications, and as a mentor to postgraduate students in horticultural sciences.

EDUCATION

Mohamed Maher Saad Saleh earned his B.Sc., M.Sc., and Ph.D. from the Faculty of Agriculture, Ain Shams University. His master’s thesis focused on the effect of planting distance on bananas, while his doctoral research explored the impact of nitrogen fertilizers on banana growth and productivity. This academic foundation laid the groundwork for his lifelong contributions to pomology, where he applied scientific principles to practical agricultural challenges. His formal education was strongly complemented by his participation in specialized training programs in scientific imaging and research methodology.

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

Professor Saleh has served the National Research Centre since 1982 in various academic and research roles, including Assistant Researcher, Researcher, and eventually, Head of the Pomology Department (2010–2013). He was appointed Emeritus Professor in 2016, reflecting his distinguished career. Throughout his tenure, he led and contributed to major national and international agricultural projects, particularly in fruit crop development, climate adaptation, and sustainable farming techniques. His expertise extends to teaching, supervising graduate research, and guiding training programs in horticultural practices across Egypt.

RESEARCH INTEREST

His primary research interest revolves around the propagation, production, postharvest handling, and physiological improvement of fruit crops. Special attention is given to bananas, citrus, grapes, olives, mangoes, and date palms. His work integrates traditional practices with modern innovations such as biofertilizers, nanotechnology, and sustainable irrigation to optimize yield and quality. He has also contributed to molecular studies for cultivar identification and genetic improvement. Professor Saleh’s interdisciplinary approach merges field trials with laboratory research to develop practical solutions for Egyptian and regional horticulture.

AWARD AND HONOR

Professor Saleh’s illustrious career is highlighted by several honors, including memberships in prestigious scientific committees such as the Permanent Scientific Committee for Agricultural Sciences and the Basic and Applied Research Ethics Committee. He has been an active contributor and organizer of key national and international conferences. His editorial responsibilities in numerous peer-reviewed journals underscore his authority in the field. His role as a scientific supervisor for international doctoral research also demonstrates his global recognition and academic influence.

RESEARCH SKILL

Professor Saleh’s research skills include expertise in experimental design, soil and plant nutrition, physiological analysis, and the application of biotechnology in fruit crop improvement. He is proficient in advanced agronomic practices, including foliar nutrition, growth regulator usage, irrigation optimization, and plant tissue culture. His analytical capabilities extend to evaluating genetic markers and postharvest treatments. His ability to combine fieldwork with scientific methodology has resulted in numerous actionable outcomes for Egypt’s agricultural sector.

PUBLICATIONS

  • Title: Effect of Nitrogen and Potassium fertilization on Productivity and Fruit Quality of 'Crimson Seedless' Grapes
    Authors: A. El-Razek, D. Treutter, M.M.S. Saleh, M. El-Shammaa,
    Journal/Conference: First Symposium on Horticulture in Europe, 17-20 February 2008, Vienna, Austria.
  • Title: Minimizing the quantity of mineral nitrogen fertilizers on grapevine by using humic acid, organic and biofertilizers
    Authors: A. Eman, A. El-Monem, M. Saleh, E. Mostafa
    Journal: Research Journal of Agriculture and Biological Sciences, Vol. 4 (1), pp. 46-50, 2008.
  • Title: Response of Balady mandarin trees to girdling and potassium sprays under sandy soil conditions
    Authors: E.A.M. Mostafa, M.M.S. Saleh
    Journal: Research Journal of Agriculture and Biological Sciences, Vol. 2 (3), pp. 137-141, 2006
  • Title: Yield and fruit quality of Florida prince peach trees as affected by foliar and soil applications of Humic acid
    Authors: E.A. El-Razek, A.S.E. Abd-Allah, M.M.S. Saleh
  • Title: The beneficial effect of minimizing mineral nitrogen fertilization on Washington navel orange trees by using organic and biofertilizers
    Authors: M.M. Abd El-Migeed, M.M.S. Saleh, E.A. Mostafa
    Journal: World Journal of Agricultural Sciences, Vol. 3 (1), pp. 80-85, 2007.

CONCLUSION

Mohamed Maher Saad Saleh exemplifies the ideal blend of scientific rigor and practical application in agricultural research. His lifelong dedication to pomology, combined with his leadership, prolific publication record, and mentorship, has positioned him as a pillar in Egyptian agricultural development. His influence extends beyond academia into policy-making and sustainable farming practices. As he continues to contribute as an Emeritus Professor, his legacy shapes future research directions and the next generation of agricultural scientists.