Xiaomei Gou | Sustainable Agriculture | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Xiaomei Gou | Sustainable Agriculture | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Xiaomei Gou | Sustainable Agriculture - lecturer at Guangxi University, China

Xiaomei Gou is a dedicated researcher and lecturer at Guangxi University, specializing in soil ecology. With a doctoral degree in agriculture from the University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, her academic journey has been marked by an emphasis on ecological mechanisms in soil systems. She has authored several high-impact research publications and has significantly contributed to understanding soil nutrient dynamics and microbial interactions at a global scale.

AUTHOR PROFILE

Scopus

EDUCATION

Xiaomei Gou earned her doctoral degree in agriculture from the University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences. Her academic focus was centered on soil ecology, equipping her with an in-depth understanding of the biological, chemical, and environmental factors influencing soil systems. Her educational background forms a strong foundation for her research activities and teaching responsibilities.

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

Currently serving as a Lecturer at Guangxi University, Xiaomei Gou actively engages in teaching and research. Her role involves mentoring students, conducting field studies, and contributing to scientific knowledge in soil ecology. Her experience as an educator and researcher allows her to bridge academic learning with applied ecological practices.

RESEARCH INTEREST

Her research interests lie primarily in soil ecology, with a strong emphasis on nutrient cycling, microbial interactions, and sustainable agricultural practices. Xiaomei explores the mechanisms of nutrient losses and microbial functioning, especially involving arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi, to enhance soil health and ecosystem management.

AWARD AND HONOR

Xiaomei Gou has been nominated for the Best Researcher Award in recognition of her substantial scientific contributions. Her pioneering studies on nitrogen mineralization and microbial ecology have received acknowledgment in top-tier journals. This nomination reflects her commitment to advancing sustainable agricultural science.

RESEARCH SKILL

Her research expertise includes soil microbial ecology, nutrient loss mitigation, and ecological modeling. She is skilled in designing and executing experiments related to soil nutrient dynamics and microbial analysis. Xiaomei utilizes both field-based and laboratory methodologies to derive scalable insights from complex ecological data.

PUBLICATIONS

Xiaomei Gou has authored 12 research papers as the first author in reputed journals including Global Change Biology, Catena, and Pedosphere. Notably, her 2025 publication in Agriculture investigates the role of crop rotation in enhancing soil organic carbon. She has published eight articles in SCI-indexed journals to date.

Title: Climate and soil pH modulate global negative effects of nitrogen enrichment on soil nematodes
Authors: Weibo Kong, Nico Eisenhauer, Josep Peñuelas, Liping Qiu, Xiaomei Gou, Yu Song, Jintao Jiao, Xiaoxu Jia, Xiang Wang, Mingan Shao, Gehong Wei, Xiaorong Wei
Journal: Nature Communications

Title: Global patterns of soil phosphatase responses to nitrogen and phosphorus fertilization
Authors: Xiaomei Gou, Yongqing Ren, Xin Qin, Xiaorong Wei, Jingjing Wang
Journal: Soil Biology and Biochemistry

Title: Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi alleviate erosional soil nitrogen loss by regulating nitrogen cycling genes and enzymes in experimental agro-ecosystems
Authors: Xiaomei Gou, Yaxian Hu, Huaqian Ni, Xiang Wang, Liping Qiu, Xingchen Chang, Mingan Shao, Gehong Wei, Xiaorong Wei
Journal: Science of The Total Environment

CONCLUSION

Through her focused research on soil ecology and microbial interactions, Xiaomei Gou has made commendable contributions to sustainable agriculture. As a lecturer and scientist, she continues to influence academic and environmental research. Her dedication and output underscore her role as a rising leader in soil ecological science.

Indrani Nath – Sustainable Agriculture – Women Researcher Award

Indrani Nath - Sustainable Agriculture - Women Researcher Award

Tamil Nadu Agricultural University - India

AUTHOR PROFILE

Google Scholar

ORCID

SUMMARY

Indrani Nath is a passionate researcher in the field of Sericulture, currently affiliated with the Forest College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University. Her academic pursuits and research work reflect a strong commitment to sustainable agriculture, organic practices, and integrated crop-soil systems. Indrani has actively contributed to several scholarly publications, workshops, and international conferences. With a solid foundation in plant and soil sciences, she is focused on innovation-driven, eco-friendly agricultural technologies that bridge traditional knowledge and modern research for sustainable rural development.

EDUCATION

Indrani Nath has pursued both undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in Sericulture, specializing in organic nutrient management for mulberry cultivation. Her academic journey is marked by consistent excellence, backed by rigorous research under reputed agricultural universities in Assam and Tamil Nadu. She developed deep expertise in crop-soil interactions, sustainable mulberry growth, and organic input development. Through her thesis and coursework, she has refined her understanding of plant physiology, soil health, and biological productivity, aligning her education with her vision for eco-agricultural transformation.

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

Although in the early stages of her career, Indrani Nath has accumulated significant exposure through academic research, training workshops, and technical presentations at various national and international conferences. She has demonstrated a proactive approach in applying theoretical knowledge to practical scenarios, particularly in the sericulture sector. Her collaborative projects and research paper contributions showcase her capabilities in experimental design, laboratory analysis, and interdisciplinary teamwork. Indrani is keen on applying research outputs for the benefit of the agricultural and sericultural communities across India.

RESEARCH INTEREST

Indrani’s core research interests include plant physiology, soil microbiology, and sustainable mulberry cultivation. She is particularly focused on the development and application of organic fertilizers, crop-soil nutrient dynamics, and waste valorization. Her work explores leaf nutrient analysis, mulberry root development, and organic amendments to improve soil health. She also investigates the environmental and socio-economic implications of sericulture in India. Her research aims to enhance productivity and sustainability by integrating modern agronomic techniques with traditional farming systems.

AWARD AND HONOR

Indrani Nath has been recognized with prestigious accolades such as the “Young Researcher Award” and “Best Academician Award” in major international conferences. These honors reflect her academic excellence, research innovation, and growing influence in the agricultural and allied sciences community. Her dedication to knowledge dissemination is also evident from her active participation in training programs and professional seminars. These achievements affirm her commitment to advancing scientific research and contribute meaningfully to academic and applied agricultural domains.

RESEARCH SKILL

Indrani possesses diverse research skills ranging from field experiments and laboratory diagnostics to statistical analysis and scientific writing. She is proficient in analyzing soil-plant relationships, bioactive compound profiling, and conducting review-based syntheses. She has developed capabilities in publishing research, managing experimental trials, and utilizing digital research platforms such as ResearchGate and Google Scholar. Her interdisciplinary outlook and hands-on approach in experimental agronomy and sericultural bioproducts make her an asset to academic and applied research teams.

PUBLICATIONS

Indrani has co-authored several impactful review and research articles in NAAS-rated journals covering themes like mulberry carbon sequestration, sericulture waste utilization, pollination ecology, and organic biofertilizers. She has also contributed to book chapters and popular science articles promoting sustainable sericulture. Her publication portfolio showcases collaborations with researchers from diverse institutions, reinforcing her collaborative and multidisciplinary strengths. Indrani’s work reflects her commitment to evidence-based innovation and knowledge dissemination across both academic and grassroots platforms.

  • Pollination ecology: Understanding plant-pollinator relationships
    Authors: PB Patil, RA Rajah, NR Bora, D Brahma, SN Krishnan, V Vasanth, I Nath
    Journal: International Journal of Agricultural Research

  • Role of plant extracts on growth and development of mulberry and non-mulberry silkworms
    Authors: I Nath, PL Dutta, AS Gadge, PR Narzary
    Journal: Sci World

  • Harnessing mulberry trees for carbon sequestration: A review of strategies to enhance air quality
    Authors: I Nath, PL Dutta, A R Rajah, D M
    Journal: International Journal of Advanced Biochemistry Research
  • Turning Trash into Treasure: Utilizing Sericultural wastes in Mushroom Cultivation
    Authors: I Nath, PL Dutta, PR Narzary, MA Niranjan
    Journal: Journal of Scientific Research and Reports

  • Commercial Culture of Cordyceps militaris from Waste Products of Sericulture in India
    Authors: PR Narzary, D Brahma, J Sarma, I Nath, PL Dutta, NR Bora
    Journal: Journal of Advances in Biology & Biotechnology

CONCLUSION

Indrani Nath is a motivated and research-driven professional with a strong foundation in sustainable agriculture and sericulture. Her achievements across education, research, and academic recognition highlight her as a promising contributor to eco-agricultural science. With a clear vision for sustainable rural development and environmental conservation, she aspires to further her research and knowledge outreach for the benefit of the farming and sericultural communities. Her passion for integrating science with social impact defines her as a future leader in agricultural innovation.

Pankaj Lushan Dutta – Agri Waste Management – Best Academic Researcher Award

Pankaj Lushan Dutta - Agri Waste Management - Best Academic Researcher Award

Tamil Nadu Agricultural University - India 

AUTHOR PROFILE

Google Scholar

ORCID

SUMMARY

Pankaj Lushan Dutta is an emerging researcher in the field of sericulture and wood science, with notable contributions toward renewable energy from biomass and sustainable agriculture. He is currently affiliated with the Forest College and Research Institute under Tamil Nadu Agricultural University. Known for his interdisciplinary expertise, he bridges traditional sericulture practices with innovative technologies. His academic path and prolific research output demonstrate a commitment to enhancing the value of sericultural byproducts and promoting environmental sustainability, making him a promising talent in agricultural and biological sciences.

EDUCATION

Pankaj Lushan Dutta holds a Postgraduate degree in Sericulture from the Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, where he focused his thesis on the wood quality profiling of mulberry clonal genetic resources. He completed his undergraduate studies with a B.Sc. (Hons.) in Sericulture from Assam Agricultural University. His educational journey showcases a consistent focus on sericulture, sustainable practices, and biological innovations. Throughout his academic career, he has emphasized applied research with potential for real-world agricultural and industrial applications, especially in the context of renewable resource development.

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

Pankaj has engaged in various academic and professional enrichment programs, including workshops and conferences that reflect his deep involvement in the sericulture and agricultural research community. His training includes pest management, sericulture business opportunities, and agri-entrepreneurship. He has presented papers and participated in international and national conferences, showcasing his research on sustainable sericulture, mushroom cultivation from waste, and renewable biomass energy. These experiences underline his growing contribution to science and technology and his proactive efforts to bridge the gap between academic research and industrial application.

RESEARCH INTEREST

His research interests include wood science, dendro biomass energy generation, renewable energy from woody biomass, and sustainable utilization of sericultural byproducts. He also works on mini clonal technology in sericulture and emphasizes resource efficiency. Pankaj aims to utilize waste and underused materials to generate energy or develop bio-based products. His work contributes to environmental protection, alternative fuel solutions, and socio-economic upliftment through sustainable farming practices. These interests reflect a progressive, eco-conscious research philosophy that merges biology, agriculture, and energy.

AWARD AND HONOR

Pankaj has received multiple prestigious awards, such as the “Young Researcher Award” and the “Young Fellow Award” at international conferences for his innovative research contributions. These accolades were granted for his significant work in natural resource management, sustainable agriculture, and sericultural waste utilization. His recognition among national and international academic bodies speaks to his scholarly promise and influence. These honors not only validate his scientific rigor but also position him as a rising thought leader in the realms of eco-agriculture and sustainable innovations.

RESEARCH SKILL

Pankaj demonstrates a strong skillset in experimental design, scientific writing, literature synthesis, and laboratory techniques related to sericulture and biomass evaluation. His technical knowledge spans from field-level data collection to analytical assessments of mulberry and silkworm interactions. His capability in reviewing scientific literature, conducting collaborative research, and using biotechnology tools is evident from his peer-reviewed publications. Additionally, his familiarity with digital tools, AI-based applications, and pest management systems enhances his research efficiency and output. His interdisciplinary acumen allows him to tackle complex biological challenges with innovative perspectives.

PUBLICATIONS

He has authored over ten review and research articles in reputed journals, covering themes such as mulberry biomass, sericultural waste utilization, pollination ecology, carbon sequestration, and eco-friendly alternatives to fuel. His NAAS-rated publications and popular articles reflect his ability to blend academic rigor with practical relevance. His contributions also include a book chapter on botanical insecticides. His recent works address cultural sustainability and nucleic acid detection methods, highlighting his diversity in research areas and his focus on real-world agricultural issues.

Title: Pollination ecology: Understanding plant-pollinator relationships
Author(s): PB Patil, PL Dutta, RA Rajah, NR Bora, D Brahma, SN Krishnan, V Vasanth, I Nath
Journal: International Journal of Agricultural Research

Title: Role of plant extracts on growth and development of mulberry and non-mulberry silkworms
Author(s): I Nath, PL Dutta, AS Gadge, PR Narzary
Journal: Sci World

Title: Commercial Culture of Cordyceps militaris from Waste Products of Sericulture in India
Author(s): PR Narzary, D Brahma, J Sarma, I Nath, PL Dutta, NR Bora
Journal: Journal of Advances in Biology & Biotechnology

Title: Turning Trash into Treasure: Utilizing Sericultural Wastes in Mushroom Cultivation
Author(s): I Nath, PL Dutta, PR Narzary, MA Niranjan

CONCLUSION

Pankaj Lushan Dutta exemplifies a new generation of researchers with an eco-centric and innovation-driven approach. With a deep commitment to sustainable sericulture, biomass energy, and scientific dissemination, he bridges traditional agricultural practices with futuristic solutions. His academic diligence, award-winning contributions, and extensive publication record affirm his role as a valuable contributor to agricultural science. Looking forward, his trajectory suggests impactful research outcomes that align with global goals for renewable energy, biodiversity conservation, and rural development through technology and knowledge dissemination.

MAHAMAT ABDOUNA – Sustainable Agriculture – Best Researcher Award

MAHAMAT ABDOUNA - Sustainable Agriculture - Best Researcher Award

Virtual University of Chad

AUTHOR PROFILE

ORCID

🧾 SUMMARY

Mahamat Abdouna is a dedicated computer science professional with extensive experience in digital systems, education, and research. He currently serves as the Head of the Digital Technology Unit at the Virtual University of Chad. Known for his leadership and problem-solving skills, he actively contributes to educational transformation and digital infrastructure. His passion lies in leveraging technology for sustainable solutions, particularly in transhumance and livestock management. He is seeking opportunities to expand his knowledge and collaborate internationally on impactful digital innovations.

🎓 EDUCATION

Mahamat Abdouna is pursuing a Ph.D. in Mathematics, Computer Science, and Applications at the University of N’Djamena, with a focus on dematerialized marking of transhumance corridors. He also holds a Master’s in Computer Networks and a Professional Bachelor's in Computer Science from INSTA, Chad. His academic path has been enriched through affiliations with LARTIC and international workshops. These educational milestones have laid a strong foundation for his research-driven and solution-oriented career in applied computer science and digital systems.

💼 PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

Since 2020, Mahamat Abdouna has been a Laboratory Technician and later Head of the Digital Technology Unit at the Virtual University of Chad. His responsibilities include managing system infrastructure, cybersecurity, digital access, and e-learning environments. He has trained numerous students and educators in digital platforms, participated in examination and selection committees, and coordinated online assessments. His consistent leadership in digital transformation and technical training has significantly enhanced the university’s capacity to deliver modern, scalable education systems.

🔬 RESEARCH INTEREST

Mahamat Abdouna’s research focuses on intelligent systems in agriculture and livestock, specifically in transhumance corridor management using AI and agent-based models. He is interested in conflict prevention through digital mapping and reinforcement learning applications. His work bridges the gap between computer science and socio-environmental issues in Central Africa. By exploring innovative digital frameworks, he aims to contribute solutions to real-world challenges such as climate-resilient livestock mobility and cross-sectoral agricultural sustainability.

🏅 AWARD AND HONOR

Mahamat Abdouna has earned top honors in the “My Thesis in 180 Seconds” competition in 2023 and 2024, winning 1st prizes at AUF Chad. He represented Chad in the 10th edition held in Ivory Coast. His consistent excellence in public communication and scientific innovation has been widely recognized. These awards affirm his ability to present complex research in accessible ways, enhancing visibility and impact. He continues to receive invitations to prestigious academic events and international platforms.

🛠️ RESEARCH SKILL

Mahamat possesses strong technical skills in AI modeling, system architecture, and e-learning deployment. He is proficient in numerous programming languages (Python, C, SQL), web development, cybersecurity, and cloud technologies. His research toolbox includes UML, Merise, simulation, and agent-based modeling. He is highly skilled in integrating ICT with research for societal impact. His experience in deploying MOOC platforms and facilitating digital education workshops further reflects his multifaceted expertise in academic and practical computing domains.

📚 PUBLICATIONS

Mahamat has published in top-tier venues such as IEEE, MDPI, CSCI, and AFRICOMM. His work includes studies on reinforcement learning for transhumance, livestock monitoring technologies, and virtual fencing. His research contributions are widely recognized for their innovation and interdisciplinary relevance. Notably, his publications offer insights into sustainable livestock migration and data-driven agricultural systems. He collaborates with both local and international researchers, contributing to peer-reviewed journals and conferences that address digital solutions for environmental and agricultural challenges.

Title: Guiding Herds Through Transhumance Corridors: Harnessing Reinforcement Learning With Vicsek Model
Authors: Mahamat Abdouna, Azza Youssouf, Daouda Ahmat Mahamat
Journal/Conference: IEEE – The 7th International Conference on Pattern Analysis and Intelligent Systems

Title: Exploring the Potential of Agent-Based Models for the Problem of Transhumance Path Exits in Central Africa: Chad’s Routes as a Case Study
Authors: Mht Abdouna, Adrien Cotil, Hazael Jones, Bertrand Cloez
Journal/Conference: MDPI – AgriEngineering

Title: Algorithms and Technologies Behind Livestock Monitoring: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Mahamat Abdouna, Daouda Ahmat Mahamat, Brahim Issa Hassaballah
Journal/Conference: CSCI – International Conference on Computational Science and Computational Intelligence

Title: Towards Intelligent Livestock Migration in Sahalian Transhumance Corridors to Prevent Conflicts Between Farmers and Herders
Authors: Mahamat Abdouna, Azza Youssouf, Daouda Ahmat Mahamat
Journal/Conference: ASTI – Advances in Science, Technology & Innovation

Title: Virtual Fences: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Abdouna Mahamat, Daouda Ahmat, Bissyande Tegawende F.
Journal/Conference: ICST – AFRICOMM 2022 – International Conference on e-Infrastructure and e-Services for Developing Countries

🔚 CONCLUSION

Mahamat Abdouna is a promising researcher and digital systems innovator whose work intersects academic rigor with social relevance. His dedication to advancing digital education, environmental sustainability, and technological applications makes him an asset to the global research community. With a strong foundation in both theory and practice, he is well-positioned to lead impactful projects at national and international levels. His future goals include expanding collaborative networks and contributing to transformative solutions through science and technology.

Anis Elaoud – Sustainable Agriculture – Best Researcher Award

Anis Elaoud - Sustainable Agriculture - Best Researcher Award

Carthage University - Tunisia

AUTHOR PROFILE 

ORCID
SCOPUS

SUMMARY

Dr. Anis Elaoud is a distinguished professor and researcher in environmental sciences and sustainable agriculture. Affiliated with Carthage University in Tunisia, he is renowned for his expertise in water and soil engineering. With a career spanning academic, consultancy, and research roles, he has coordinated major international projects, including those funded by the EU and Arab organizations. Dr. Elaoud's work combines technical innovation with practical agricultural applications, particularly in magnetic water treatment, soil management, and nanotechnology-based filtration. His contributions are reflected in numerous publications, patents, and training programs aimed at improving agricultural sustainability in Mediterranean and Arab regions.

EDUCATION

Dr. Elaoud holds a Doctorate in Sustainable Agriculture from ISA Sousse, Tunisia. Prior to that, he earned a Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from the National School of Engineers of Sfax and an Engineering degree in Horticultural Systems. His educational background forms a strong interdisciplinary foundation, blending agronomic, environmental, and engineering principles. This academic path empowered him to explore innovative methods for water treatment, soil compaction, and agricultural productivity. The integration of mechanical and agricultural sciences in his education paved the way for his specialization in eco-engineering and sustainable irrigation technologies critical for arid and semi-arid regions.

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

Dr. Elaoud's professional journey includes significant roles in academia and applied research. Since 2017, he has served as a professor at the Higher Institute of Sciences and Technology of Environment, Carthage University. Earlier, he held research and engineering positions at Tunisia’s Water Research and Technologies Center. His experience includes over a decade of contributing to agricultural development through both teaching and fieldwork. Notably, he acted as a consultant for various international agencies, contributing to programs aimed at enhancing irrigation efficiency and sustainable farming. His leadership in technology transfer and farmer training has had regional and cross-border impacts.

RESEARCH INTEREST

Dr. Elaoud’s research interests focus on advanced water treatment methods, sustainable agriculture, soil mechanics, and the application of magnetic fields in environmental management. He explores how nanotechnology, AI, and magnetic systems can revolutionize irrigation and agricultural productivity, particularly in resource-scarce environments. His work often bridges theoretical modeling with practical field applications. His studies on magnetic water treatment and soil behavior under mechanical stress have resulted in new methodologies for enhancing water use efficiency and reducing soil degradation. These interests align with pressing global challenges in climate adaptation, food security, and environmental sustainability.

AWARD & HONOR

Throughout his career, Dr. Elaoud has earned recognition for his scientific excellence and practical contributions to agriculture and environmental engineering. He is a recipient of high-profile project grants such as the European Union’s PRIMA and multiple regional initiatives. His patents on water treatment technologies reflect innovative breakthroughs acknowledged at the national level. Additionally, he serves on scientific and organizational committees for international conferences. His active membership in academic institutions like the Athens Institute for Education and Research further underlines his respected role in global research networks, contributing to both policy and science-based solutions.

RESEARCH SKILL

Dr. Elaoud possesses a diverse range of research skills, including experimental design, statistical modeling, field trials, and technology integration. He specializes in soil compaction modeling, nanotechnology-enhanced filtration systems, and the impact of magnetic fields on water and crop systems. He’s adept at utilizing machine learning tools for predicting soil behavior, and designing pilot projects that scale from lab to field. His competencies extend to interdisciplinary collaboration, grant writing, and coordinating cross-national projects. His ability to combine empirical science with technical engineering makes his research both robust and application-driven, particularly in arid-zone agriculture.

PUBLICATIONS

  • Title: Bayesian networks model for prediction of agricultural soil penetration resistance in interaction with different parameters
    Authors: Anis Elaoud; Rim Jalel; Hanen Ben Hassen
    Journal: Euro-Mediterranean Journal for Environmental Integration

  • Title: Study of Agricultural Soil Infiltration under the Movement of Machinery
    Authors: Amira Souli; Anis Elaoud; Rim Jalel; Hanen Ben Hassen
    Journal: Diyala Agricultural Sciences Journal

  • Title: New Process for the Treatment of Polluted Water Using the Coupling of Nanoparticles and Magnetic
    Authors: Hajer Tlili; Anis Elaoud; Nedra Asses; Karima Horchani-Naifer; Mounir Ferhi; Gerardo F. Goya; Jesús Antonio Fuentes-García
    Journal: Preprint

  • Title: New Process for the Treatment of Polluted Water Using the Coupling of Nanoparticles (Fe₃O₄) and Intense Magnetic System
    Authors: Hajer Tlili; Anis Elaoud; Nedra Asses; Atef Masmoudi; Karima Horchani-Naifer; Mounir Ferhi
    Journal: Preprint

  • Title: Reduction of Oxidizable Pollutants in Waste Water from the Wadi El Bey River Basin Using Magnetic Nanoparticles as Removal Agents
    Authors: Hajer Tlili; Anis Elaoud; Nedra Asses; Karima Horchani-Naifer; Mounir Ferhi; Gerardo F. Goya; Jesús Antonio Fuentes-García
    Journal: Magnetochemistry

CONCLUSION

Dr. Anis Elaoud stands at the intersection of science, innovation, and sustainability. With decades of academic and field experience, he continues to drive impactful research in environmental and agricultural systems. His ability to coordinate large-scale projects, mentor future scientists, and produce high-quality publications showcases a career dedicated to practical innovation. As global concerns over water scarcity and soil degradation rise, Dr. Elaoud’s work remains vital in developing sustainable solutions. His ongoing efforts contribute meaningfully to regional development in North Africa and beyond, ensuring that scientific knowledge serves communities and ecosystems alike.