Simion Matsvai | Agribusiness | Best Researcher Award

Dr Simion Matsvai |  Agribusiness |  Best Researcher Award

Postdoctoral Research Fellow at Walter Sisulu University, South Africa

Simion Matsvai is a distinguished academic with over 10 years of experience in teaching, research, and community engagement. His areas of expertise include Applied Economics, with a focus on Financial Economics, Agricultural Economics, Environmental & Natural Resources Economics, Development Economics, and Health Economics. Matsvai has contributed to various national and international research projects, showcasing adaptability and a commitment to excellence. Skilled in analytical tools such as Excel, R, E-Views, STATA, and SPSS, he is dedicated to advancing research and consultancy within his field.

Profile:

Academic Qualifications:

  • PhD in Agricultural Economics (University of Fort Hare, 2016-2020)
  • Master of Commerce in Industrial Strategy and Trade Policy (Great Zimbabwe University, 2011-2012)
  • BSc (Hons) in Economics (University of Zimbabwe, 2003, 2006)

Work Experience:

Current Employment

  • Senior Lecturer at Great Zimbabwe University, Faculty of Commerce (Feb 2013 – Present)
    • Specializes in advanced modules including International Finance, Macroeconomics, Environmental Economics, and Econometrics.
    • Dissertation supervision and research mentoring.

Postdoctoral Research Fellow (Walter Sisulu University, 2024-2025)

Agribusiness Development Specialist (Intercountry Peoples Aid, 2010–2013)

Consultancy Experience:

Simion Matsvai has co-researched a variety of impactful studies for national and international organizations, including work on economic development, youth empowerment, agricultural policies, and financial systems.

Conferences & Workshops:

  • International Conference on Time Series and Forecasting (2023, Gran Canaria, Spain) – Presented on ICTs and Economic Growth.
  • 19th African Finance Association Conference (2023, Cape Town, RSA) – ICTs and Agricultural Total Factor Productivity Change in South Africa.
  • Beef Enterprise Strengthening Workshop (2023, Masvingo) – Discussed Agricultural Financing Models.

Skills & Expertise:

  • Statistical Software: Excel, R, E-Views, STATA, SPSS, FRONTIER, N-Logit, etc.
  • Research: Extensive experience in data analysis, methodology development, and report writing.
  • Teaching: Strong academic background in economics, with experience across postgraduate and undergraduate programs.

Publication Top Notes:

  1. Sustainability Reporting Strategy and Its Determinants Among Resource-Based Companies
    Corporate and Business Strategy Review, 2025
    DOI: 10.22495/cbsrv6i1art9
    Contributors: Leward Jeke, Sanderson Abel, Kudakwashe David Chitaukire, Julius Mukarati, Pierre Le Roux, Simion Matsvai

  2. Determinants of Microfinance Demand (Evidence from Chiredzi Smallholder Resettled Sugarcane Farmers in Zimbabwe)
    Sustainability, 2024-11-08
    DOI: 10.3390/su16229752
    Contributor: Simion Matsvai

  3. Technical Efficiency Impact of Microfinance on Small Scale Resettled Sugar Cane Farmers in Zimbabwe
    Cogent Economics & Finance, 2022-01-05
    DOI: 10.1080/23322039.2021.2017599

  4. Characterisation of Smallholder Resettled Sugarcane Farmers and Their Perceptions Towards Microfinance in Zimbabwe (Chiredzi)
    Journal of Agribusiness and Rural Development, 2021-10-11
    DOI: 10.17306/J.JARD.2021.01308
    Contributors: Simion Matsvai, Abbissynia Mushunje, Simbarashe Tatsvarei

 

Vladimir Verzhuk | Sustainable Crop Production | Best Researcher Award

Dr Vladimir Verzhuk |  Sustainable Crop Production |  Best Researcher Award

Senior researcher at N.I. Vavilov All-Russian Institute of Plant Genetic Resources (VIR) St. Petersburg, Russia

Verzhuk Vladimir Grigorevich is a Senior Researcher at the N.I. Vavilov All-Russian Institute of Plant Genetic Resources (VIR) in St. Petersburg, Russia. He holds a Candidate of Biological Sciences degree and has been a pivotal figure in the field of plant cryopreservation since completing his postgraduate studies at VIR in 1976.

 

Profile:

Academic and Professional Background:

Verzhuk Vladimir Grigorevich, a Candidate of Biological Sciences, is a Senior Researcher at the Laboratory of Long-term Storage of Plant Genetic Resources of VIR. He graduated from the Crimean Agricultural Institute in 1971 and completed his postgraduate studies at VIR in 1976, focusing on photosynthesis and productivity. Since 2000, he has led the cryopreservation group, specializing in low-temperature storage of vegetative shoots, buds, and pollen of fruit crops.

Areas of Research:

Verzhuk’s research focuses on developing and improving cryopreservation methods for the genetic resources of vegetatively propagated crops at VIR.

Sustainable Crop Production Research Focus:

Verzhuk’s research emphasizes sustainable crop production through the development of cryopreservation methods for genetic resources. His work ensures the long-term viability and diversity of crop species, contributing to the sustainability of agricultural systems by preserving genetic material that can adapt to changing environmental conditions and stressors.

Publication Top Notes:

  • Conservation of the Bird Cherry (Padus Mill.) Germplasm by Cold Storage and Cryopreservation of Winter Cuttings
    • Journal: Biology
    • Date: 2023-07
    • DOI: 10.3390/biology12081071
    • Contributors: Vladimir Verzhuk, Sergey Murashev, Liubov Novikova, Stepan Kiru, Svetlana Orlova
  • Post-Cryogenic Viability of Peach (Persica vulgaris Mill.) Dormant Buds from the VIR Genetic Collection
    • Journal: Agriculture
    • Date: 2022-12
    • DOI: 10.3390/agriculture13010111
    • Contributors: Vladimir Verzhuk, Victor Eremin, Taisya Gasanova, Oksana Eremina, Liubov Novikova, Galina Filipenko, Maxim Sitnikov, Alexander Pavlov
  • Viability of Red (Ribes rubrum L.) and Black (Ribes nigrum L.) Currant Cuttings in Field Conditions after Cryopreservation in Vapors of Liquid Nitrogen
    • Journal: Agriculture
    • Date: 2020-10
    • DOI: 10.3390/agriculture10100476
    • Contributors: Vladimir Verzhuk, Alexander Pavlov, Liubov Novikova, Galina Filipenko

 

Weibo Qin | Agricultural Insects | Best Researcher Award

Dr Weibo Qin | Agricultural Insects |  Best Researcher Award

Jilin Agricultural University,  China

Weibo Qin is a dedicated student specializing in Agricultural Insects and Pest Control. He is currently pursuing his Ph.D. at the College of Plant Protection, Jilin Agricultural University, where he also serves as a student. Weibo’s academic journey reflects a strong commitment to advancing agricultural science and pest management.

Profile:

Education:

Master’s Degree

  • Institution: Yunnan Agricultural University
  • Location: Kunming, Yunnan, China
  • Faculty: Big Data Academy
  • Duration: September 1, 2020 – July 1, 2022

PhD

  • Institution: Jilin Agricultural University
  • Location: Changchun, Jilin, China
  • Faculty: Plant Protection Institute
  • Duration: September 1, 2022 – July 1, 2026

Area of Specialization:

Weibo Qin specializes in Agricultural Insects and Pest Control, focusing on innovative methods to protect crops and enhance agricultural productivity through the management of pest populations.

Academic Achievements:

During his academic career, Weibo Qin has pursued rigorous training and research, particularly in the integration of big data analytics with agricultural practices to improve pest control measures. His dedication to advancing the field of agricultural pest management has been demonstrated through various projects and research initiatives.

Experience:

Weibo Qin has accumulated significant knowledge and expertise in the field of plant protection, especially in agricultural insects and pest control. His education at prominent agricultural universities in China has equipped him with the skills necessary to contribute to sustainable agricultural practices.

Research Focus on Agricultural Insects:

Weibo Qin’s research primarily centers around Agricultural Insects and Pest Control, with a specific focus on the following areas:

Integrated Pest Management (IPM)

Weibo Qin investigates comprehensive strategies to manage pest populations effectively. His research aims to combine biological, cultural, mechanical, and chemical tools to minimize the economic, health, and environmental risks associated with pest control.

Biological Control Methods

A significant portion of Weibo Qin’s research is dedicated to exploring biological control agents such as predators, parasitoids, and pathogens. He studies their effectiveness in reducing pest populations without harming the environment, aiming to develop sustainable pest control practices.

Impact of Climate Change on Pest Dynamics

Weibo Qin examines how changing climate conditions affect the behavior, distribution, and lifecycle of agricultural pests. His research includes modeling the potential impacts of climate change on pest outbreaks and developing adaptive pest management strategies to mitigate these effects.

Use of Big Data in Pest Management

Leveraging his background in Big Data from his Master’s degree, Weibo Qin integrates data analytics into pest control research. He focuses on the use of big data to predict pest outbreaks, monitor pest populations, and assess the effectiveness of pest control measures in real-time.

Insect-Plant Interactions

Understanding the interactions between agricultural insects and their host plants is crucial for developing effective pest control methods. Weibo Qin’s research delves into the mechanisms of plant resistance and susceptibility to insect pests, aiming to enhance crop protection through the development of pest-resistant plant varieties.

Sustainable Agricultural Practices

Weibo Qin is committed to promoting sustainable agricultural practices that reduce reliance on chemical pesticides. His research supports the development and implementation of environmentally friendly pest control methods that ensure long-term agricultural productivity and ecosystem health.

Through his research, Weibo Qin contributes to advancing the field of agricultural pest management, aiming to enhance crop protection and promote sustainable agricultural practices.

 

Publication Top Notes:

Identification of Cotton Pest and Disease Based on CFNet-VoV-GCSP-LSKNet-YOLOv8s: A New Era of Precision Agriculture

  • Journal: Frontiers in Plant Science
  • Year: 2024
  • DOI: 10.3389/FPLS.2024.1348402
  • Contributors: Li, Rujia; He, Yiting; Li, Yadong; Qin, Weibo; Abbas, Arzlan; Ji, Rongbiao; Li, Shuang; Wu, Yehui; Sun, Xiaohai; Yang, Jianping
  • Abstract: This study presents a novel approach for identifying cotton pests and diseases using an advanced combination of CFNet, VoV-GCSP, LSKNet, and YOLOv8s. This integrated model represents a breakthrough in precision agriculture, offering enhanced accuracy and efficiency in pest and disease detection.

Lightweight Network for Corn Leaf Disease Identification Based on Improved YOLO v8s

  • Journal: Agriculture
  • Year: 2024
  • DOI: 10.3390/agriculture14020220
  • Contributors: Rujia Li; Yadong Li; Weibo Qin; Arzlan Abbas; Shuang Li; Rongbiao Ji; Yehui Wu; Yiting He; Jianping Yang
  • Abstract: The paper introduces an improved YOLO v8s-based lightweight network designed for the identification of corn leaf diseases. This innovation aims to provide a more efficient and accessible solution for farmers to detect and manage corn diseases promptly.

Dietary Assessment Across Various Life Stages of Seven-Spotted Lady Beetle (Coccinella septempunctata) (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae)

  • Journal: The Journal of Basic and Applied Zoology
  • Year: 2023
  • DOI: 10.1186/S41936-023-00348-4
  • Contributors: Abbas, Sohail; Abbas, Muneer; Alam, Aleena; Feng, Xiao; Raza, Ali; Shakeel, Muhammad; Qin, Weibo; Han, Xiao; Chen, Rizhao
  • Abstract: This research investigates the dietary habits and requirements of the seven-spotted lady beetle across its various life stages. The findings provide valuable insights into the nutritional ecology of this beneficial insect, which plays a crucial role in biological pest control.

 

 

Mar Carreras-Sempere | Crop Production Systems | Best Researcher Award

Ms Mar Carreras-Sempere |  Crop Production Systems | Best Researcher Award

Researcher at IRTA , Spain

Maria del Mar is a highly qualified professional in agronomic and environmental sciences, specializing in sustainable fertilization, plant nutrition, and soil microbiology. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Biology with a focus on cellular biology and genetics from Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (2005-2010), followed by a Master’s degree in Soil and Water Management from the Universidad de Lleida (2016-2018). Maria completed her Doctorate in agronomic and environmental science, focusing on the recovery of fertilizers from urban wastewater treatment plants for use in fertigation systems for horticultural crops (2019-2022) at the Institut de Recerca i Tecnologia Agroalimentària (IRTA).

Profile:

🎓 Education:

Maria del Mar holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Biology, specializing in Cellular Biology and Genetics, from Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (2005-2010). She pursued an Erasmus Internship in Oulu, Finland, and later obtained a Master’s Degree in Secondary Education and Vocational Training from Universidad Internacional de La Rioja (UNIR) in 2011.

🔬 Professional Experience:

With a diverse background, Maria del Mar has worked in various laboratories, including Hospital Clínic’s Primary Hemostasis Laboratory and Silliker Netherlands B.V. as a microbiology laboratory technician. She also served as a field and laboratory technician at INSTITUT DE RECERCA I TECNOLOGÍA AGROALIMENTÁRIA (IRTA), where she conducted soil microbiological analysis and supported experimental trials in molecular biology.

📊 Skills:

Maria del Mar possesses strong teamwork and communication skills, along with proficiency in laboratory techniques and software such as Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook, R-studio, and SAS enterprise.

 

Publication Top Notes:

  1. “Effect of Fertigation with Struvite and Ammonium Nitrate on Substrate Microbiota and N2O Emissions in a Tomato Crop on Soilless Culture System” (Agronomy, 2024)
    • This study likely investigates the impact of using struvite and ammonium nitrate in fertigation on the microbiota of substrates and N2O emissions in tomato crops grown in soilless culture systems. It addresses the sustainability and environmental implications of fertigation practices.
  2. “The use of recovered struvite and ammonium nitrate in fertigation in a horticultural rotation: agronomic and microbiological assessment” (Environmental Technology, 2022)
    • This article likely assesses the agronomic and microbiological aspects of using recovered struvite and ammonium nitrate in fertigation within a horticultural rotation. It examines the feasibility and effectiveness of utilizing recycled nutrients in sustainable horticulture systems.
  3. “Use of Recovered Struvite and Ammonium Nitrate in Fertigation in Tomato (Lycopersicum esculentum) Production for boosting Circular and Sustainable Horticulture” (Agriculture, 2021)
    • This publication explores the utilization of recovered struvite and ammonium nitrate in fertigation specifically for tomato production, with the aim of promoting circular and sustainable horticulture practices. It likely discusses strategies for enhancing nutrient efficiency and minimizing environmental impacts.
  4. “Recovery of Phosphorus from Wastewater Profiting from Biological Nitrogen Treatment: Upstream, Concomitant or Downstream Precipitation Alternatives” (Agronomy, 2020)
    • Although not directly related to fertigation, this study focuses on the recovery of phosphorus from wastewater in conjunction with biological nitrogen treatment. It demonstrates an interest in sustainable nutrient management practices and the circular economy principles applied to agricultural systems.

 

Seyed Abdolreza Kazemeini | Crop Production | Best Researcher Award

Prof Seyed Abdolreza Kazemeini |  Crop Production |  Best Researcher Award

Faculty of Agriculture at  Shiraz University, Iran

Dr. Seyed Abdolreza Kazemeini is a distinguished faculty member in the Plant Production and Genetics Department at Shiraz University, Iran. Born on August 7, 1967, Dr. Kazemeini has dedicated over 30 years to the field of crop production, focusing on biotic and abiotic stress and biostimulants. He earned his Ph.D. in Crop Production from Shiraz University in 2008, where he also completed his M.Sc. and B.A. in Agronomy.

Profile:

Educational Background:

Ph.D. in Crop Production, Shiraz University, Iran (2004-2008). M.Sc. in Agronomy, Shiraz University, Iran (1998-2000). B.A. in Agronomy, Shiraz University, Iran (1986-1990)

Professional Experience

Total Experience: 30 Years. Head of Agricultural College Agronomy Station: Since 2006. Head of Plant Production and Genetics Department: 2011-2014. In Charge of Agriculture Station and Research Center, Shiraz University College: 20 Years

Teaching and Supervision

Courses Taught: Various undergraduate and graduate courses in agronomy and crop production. Graduate Supervision: Supervising 7 MSc and PhD students; involved in 10 student programs and 6 PhD thesis projects as an advisory committee member. Research Projects Supervised: Over 170 graduate-level research projects

Skills and Competencies

Data Analysis Software: Excel, SAS, Minitab, OriginPro. Research and Development: Supervision of PhD, MSc, and BSc students; development of research around new technologies Analytical Lab Experience: Advanced research and analysis

Research Focus: Crop Production

Dr. Seyed Abdolreza Kazemeini, a faculty member in the Plant Production and Genetics Department at Shiraz University, Shiraz, Iran, has dedicated his research to advancing the field of crop production. His work is particularly focused on addressing critical issues related to biotic and abiotic stress, and the application of biostimulants.

Key Areas of Research: Biotic and Abiotic Stress Management: Abiotic Stress: Investigating the impact of various environmental stresses such as drought, salinity, and extreme temperatures on crop yield and quality. Developing strategies to enhance plant resilience through genetic and agronomic approaches. Biotic Stress: Studying plant-pathogen interactions, pest resistance, and the use of biological control methods to manage diseases and pests in crops. Biostimulants: Exploring the use of biostimulants to enhance crop growth, yield, and stress tolerance. This includes the application of natural and synthetic compounds that can improve plant health and productivity under stress conditions. Crop Physiology and Agronomy: Examining the physiological responses of crops to various environmental factors and management practices. This includes nutrient management, water use efficiency, and the optimization of planting techniques to maximize yield and sustainability. Weed Science: Researching effective weed management strategies to minimize competition and improve crop performance. This involves studying the biology of weeds, their impact on crops, and the development of integrated weed management practices.

Citations:

  • Total Citations: 1663
  • Citations Since 2019: 1167
  • H-index: 17
  • H-index Since 2019: 14
  • i10-index: 33
  • i10-index Since 2019: 29

Publication Top Notes:

  1. Effect of Organic and Inorganic Fertilizers on Grain Yield and Protein Banding Pattern of Wheat
    • Year: 2010
    • Citations: 339
  2. Wheat Yield and Grain Protein Response to Nitrogen Amount and Timing
    • Year: 2011
    • Citations: 242
  3. Changes in Soil Properties and Productivity Under Different Tillage Practices and Wheat Genotypes: A Short-Term Study in Iran
    • Year: 2018
    • Citations: 83
  4. The Impact of Nitrogen and Organic Matter on Winter Canola Seed Yield and Yield Components
    • Year: 2010
    • Citations: 76
  5. The Role of ACC Deaminase Producing Bacteria in Improving Sweet Corn (Zea mays L. var saccharata) Productivity Under Limited Availability of Irrigation Water
    • Year: 2020
    • Citations: 68
  6. Interaction Effects of Deficit Irrigation and Row Spacing on Sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) Growth, Seed Yield and Oil Yield
    • Year: 2009
    • Citations: 68
  7. Feasibility of Satellite and Drone Images for Monitoring Soil Residue Cover
    • Year: 2020
    • Citations: 44
  8. Evaluation of Drought Tolerance in Rapeseed (Brassica napus L.) Cultivars Using Drought Tolerance Indices
    • Year: 2014
    • Citations: 34
  9. Forage Yield and Quality as Affected by Salt Stress in Different Ratios of Sorghum bicolor-Bassia indica Intercropping
    • Year: 2020
    • Citations: 31
  10. Improving Sweet Corn (Zea mays L. var saccharata) Growth and Yield Using Pseudomonas fluorescens Inoculation Under Varied Watering Regimes
    • Year: 2019
    • Citations: 28