Syamlal Sasi | Sustainable Agriculture | Research Excellence Award 

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Mr. Syamlal Sasi | Sustainable Agriculture | Research Excellence Award 

PhD Student | Australian National University | Australia

Syamlal Sasi is a researcher and technology innovator specializing in aquaculture, agri-tech solutions, plasma technology, IoT-integrated farming systems, and sustainable agriculture, widely recognized for advancing modern farming practices through science-driven innovations. His research focus centers on applying cold atmospheric plasma for agricultural and aquaculture enhancement, hydroponic productivity improvement, and resource-efficient cultivation, alongside emerging interests in space-agriculture, nutrient-enriched water generation using extraterrestrial regolith, nano/micro-bubble systems, and plasma–plant metabolite synergy. Over the years, he has contributed significantly to the integration of advanced engineering with crop and aquaculture ecosystems, exploring next-generation farming tools aimed at scalability and climate resilience. Professionally, he has served in impactful leadership and R&D roles, including Director of Business and Product Research at BudMore PTY Ltd., Canberra, Australia, where he leads technology development for smart-farming platforms and commercial agri-solutions, and previously as CEO at Sygul Technologies Pvt. Ltd., Kochi, India, guiding product innovation and agricultural technology deployment. Earlier, he contributed in data and business technology domains at Cognizant, India, building a foundation for data-driven agri-intelligence systems that later shaped his research initiatives. His key contributions include the development of plasma-assisted aquaponics and hydroponics systems, research demonstrating enhanced plant growth on simulated Martian regolith through water chemistry optimization, and investigations into RONS-enhanced nutrient delivery using plasma-enabled irrigation, which have opened new perspectives in extraterrestrial farming possibilities. He has also explored antimicrobial enhancement through plasma-secondary metabolite interactions, presenting new pathways for reducing chemical usage in crop disease management. His work has produced influential publications across journals such as Chemical Engineering Journal Advances, International Journal of Molecular Sciences, Molecules, and Trends in Biotechnology, collectively strengthening scientific understanding of plasma-for-agriculture interfaces. Several of his studies contribute directly to circular bio-production and food security models, positioning his work as a foundation for future agri-technology transitions. Through his role in research and startup technology development, Syamlal has contributed to smart-farming digitization, remote monitoring systems, and AI-based aquaculture productivity enhancement, supported by grants including the Productization Grant 2022–23 (Kerala Startup Mission) and the Smart Farming to Improve Aquaculture Productivity RKVY-RAFTAAR Grant. His continued mission is to bridge agricultural science with scalable technology, fostering sustainable aquaculture systems, low-resource food production, and climate-adaptive cultivation solutions. With a strong commitment to innovation-driven agriculture, he envisions transforming farming into a tech-empowered, environmentally harmonious sector, enabling farmers to enhance yield with reduced input cost, expanding productivity through precision management tools, and exploring space-based cultivation for future food security. His work ultimately strives to the impact global agriculture by integrating plasma science, IoT frameworks, and smart agro-industries, shaping a future where technology amplifies natural growth potential while securing food sustainability for earth and beyond.

Profile: ORCID

Featured Publications 

1. Sasi, S., Prakash, P., Poiré, R., Hu, T., Weerasinghe, J., Levchenko, I., Prasad, K., & Alexander, K. (2025). Can cold atmospheric plasma make water enriched with minerals from Martian or Lunar regolith more suitable for hydroponic plant growth? Chemical Engineering Journal Advances, 100904. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ceja.2025.100904

2. Sasi, S., Prakash, P., Hayden, S., Dooley, D., Poiré, R., Hu, T., Weerasinghe, J., Levchenko, I., Prasad, K., & Alexander, K. (2025). Enhanced plant growth on simulated Martian regolith via water chemistry optimisation: The role of RONS and nano/micro-bubbles. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 26, 78318. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26178318

3. Prasad, K., Sasi, S., Weerasinghe, J., Levchenko, I., & Bazaka, K. (2023). Enhanced antimicrobial activity through synergistic effects of cold atmospheric plasma and plant secondary metabolites: Opportunities and challenges. Molecules, 28, 27481. https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules28227481

4. Sasi, S., Prasad, K., Weerasinghe, J., Bazaka, O., Ivanova, E. P., Levchenko, I., & Bazaka, K. (2023). Plasma for aquaponics. Trends in Biotechnology, 41(1), 54–69. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tibtech.2022.08.001

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.

Prof. Adil Mihoub | Organic Farming | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Adil Mihoub | Organic Farming | Best Researcher Award

Research Director at the Scientific and Technical Research Center for Arid Areas | Algeria

Adil Mihoub is a highly accomplished Research Scientist and currently serves as the Research Director at the Scientific and Technical Research Center for Arid Areas (CRSTRA), Algeria. With a Ph.D. in Soil Sciences from the University of Ouargla, his professional career spans over a decade, focusing on sustainable agriculture, soil and water management, and environmental restoration. He has published more than 70 scientific articles, accumulating over 133,000 reads and 700 citations, reflecting the impactful nature of his research. His interdisciplinary expertise bridges agronomy, soil chemistry, machine learning, and geospatial analysis to tackle critical challenges in fragile arid environments.

Professional Profiles

Google Scholar | ORCID | Scopus

Education

Adil Mihoub completed his academic journey with a Doctorate in Soil Sciences from University Kasdi Merbah, Ouargla. Prior to this, he obtained his Master of Science degree in Soil Sciences and an Engineer's diploma in Agronomic Sciences with a specialization in Saharian Agriculture. His education was shaped at University Kasdi Merbah, where he also achieved his Baccalaureate in Science. He further pursued his Habilitation in Agricultural Sciences at the University Kasdi Merbah marking his recognition as an expert capable of supervising doctoral research and contributing significant scientific advancements in his domain.

Professional Experience

Adil Mihoub’s professional journey has been predominantly within the Scientific and Technical Research Center for Arid Areas (CRSTRA) in Algeria. He began his career in 2011 as an Engineer at the Institute of Technical Development of Saharan Agriculture (ITDAS), focusing on advancing agricultural practices in desert regions. By 2013, he became a Researcher and Laboratory Manager at CRSTRA, managing key projects related to soil reclamation. He progressively rose to Head of the Research Team in 2018, Associate Professor in 2021, and eventually Research Director in 2024. His roles emphasize leadership in research strategy, project development, and fostering scientific innovations in arid environments.

Research Interest

Dr. Mihoub’s research interests lie in sustainable agriculture and soil fertility enhancement in arid and semi-arid regions. He specializes in soil quality evaluation, land suitability mapping through GIS and machine learning, and soil salinity prediction using remote sensing technologies. A significant focus of his work includes investigating the role of biochar and beneficial microorganisms in improving phosphorus availability and crop productivity. His work advances the management of phosphorus in calcareous soils and develops sustainable fertilization strategies. Through these research pursuits, he addresses challenges related to desertification, food security, and the resilience of agroecosystems to climate change and salinity stress.

Awards and Honor

Throughout his distinguished career, Adil Mihoub has earned recognition for his outstanding contributions to agricultural science and environmental management. His extensive publication record reflects the high quality and impact of his research in scientific journals. He is a Review Editor for Frontiers in Plant Science and collaborates with international institutions such as COMSATS University Islamabad and the University of Ferrara. His work has been cited extensively, contributing significantly to the advancement of sustainable soil and water management practices in fragile ecological regions.

Research Skill

Dr. Mihoub demonstrates a diverse set of research skills critical for addressing contemporary agricultural challenges. His expertise includes experimental research design, advanced data analysis, and project management. He is proficient in the use of GIS applications for land suitability analysis and soil salinity mapping, as well as statistical software for environmental data interpretation. His ability to integrate remote sensing with machine learning techniques allows for innovative solutions in predicting soil properties. Furthermore, he has hands-on experience in laboratory methods for soil and plant nutrient analysis, and expertise in developing biochar-based fertilization strategies and assessing the role of microorganisms in improving soil health.

Publications

Adil Mihoub has authored over 70 scientific publications, with 52 indexed in Scopus. His work appears in respected journals such as Frontiers in Plant Science, Soil Use and Management, Journal of Soil Science and Plant Nutrition, and Scientific Reports. His research addresses soil fertility, phosphorus management, biochar applications, and the impact of organic amendments on crop productivity. Notable publications include studies on the use of low molecular weight organic acids to improve phosphorus availability, the development of land suitability models for cereals using GIS, and the effect of microbial inoculants on soil health under salinity stress. His prolific output demonstrates a consistent focus on applied agricultural solutions.

Jamal, A., Saeed, M. F., Mihoub, A., Hopkins, B. G., Ahmad, I., & Naeem, A. (2023). Integrated use of phosphorus fertilizer and farmyard manure improves wheat productivity by improving soil quality and P availability in calcareous soil under subhumid conditions. Frontiers in Plant Science, 14, 1034421.

Mihoub, A., Amin, A. E. E. A. Z., Motaghian, H. R., Saeed, M. F., & Naeem, A. (2022). Citric acid (CA)–modified biochar improved available phosphorus concentration and its half-life in a P-fertilized calcareous sandy soil. Journal of Soil Science and Plant Nutrition, 22(1), 465–474.

Amin, A. E. E. A. Z., & Mihoub, A. (2021). Effect of sulfur-enriched biochar in combination with sulfur-oxidizing bacterium (Thiobacillus Spp.) on release and distribution of phosphorus in high calcareous P-fixing soils. Journal of Soil Science and Plant Nutrition.

Ahmad, I., Munsif, F., Mihoub, A., Jamal, A., Saeed, M. F., Babar, S., & Fawad, M. (2022). Beneficial effect of melatonin on growth and chlorophyll content in wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) grown under salt stress conditions. Gesunde Pflanzen, 74(4), 997–1009.

Mihoub, A., Daddi Bouhoun, M., Naeem, A., & Saker, M. L. (2017). Low-molecular weight organic acids improve plant availability of phosphorus in different textured calcareous soils. Archives of Agronomy and Soil Science, 63(7), 1023–1034.

Conclusion

Dr. Adil Mihoub has established himself as a leading researcher in soil science and sustainable agriculture. His multifaceted expertise bridges agronomy, machine learning, geospatial analysis, and environmental chemistry. With a strong publication record and a broad range of research projects, he has significantly contributed to combating desertification and enhancing the resilience of agroecosystems in arid regions. As Research Director at CRSTRA, his leadership continues to drive innovative solutions for soil quality improvement and resource-efficient farming practices. His work not only supports scientific advancement but also promotes practical approaches to ensuring food security in fragile environments.

Ricardo Luna Murillo | Crop Production | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. Ricardo Luna Murillo | Crop Production | Best Researcher Award

Researcher at Technical University of Cotopaxi | Ecuador

Ricardo Augusto Luna Murillo is an accomplished academic and researcher in the field of agricultural sciences, with a specialization in microbiology and livestock production. Over the course of his career, he has contributed significantly to teaching, research, and consultancy, focusing on sustainable livestock management, organic agriculture, and innovative agronomic practices. His experience spans universities, research institutions, and consultancy roles, where he has worked on multidisciplinary projects, published numerous scientific papers, and participated in international conferences. Through his academic and professional efforts, he has strengthened agricultural knowledge in Ecuador and beyond, promoting scientific innovation and sustainability in rural development.

Professional Profiles

Google Scholar | ORCID | Scopus

Education

Ricardo Augusto Luna Murillo pursued his undergraduate studies in Animal Science, earning a degree as an Agricultural Engineer specializing in Zootechnics. He later advanced his knowledge with a Diploma in Microbiology and subsequently a Master’s degree in Advanced Microbiology with an Industrial focus. Complementing his academic foundation, he received international certification in project formulation, evaluation, and management, which broadened his expertise in planning and implementing research-based projects. His continuous participation in specialized courses on biotechnology, livestock production, and sustainable farming has enriched his scientific background, allowing him to integrate theory with practical innovations in agriculture and microbiology.

Professional Experience

With a professional career spanning decades, Ricardo Augusto Luna Murillo has served in diverse academic, technical, and consultancy roles. He has been a professor and researcher at multiple institutions, including the Universidad Técnica Estatal de Quevedo, Universidad Agraria del Ecuador, and Universidad Técnica de Cotopaxi. His teaching has covered areas such as microbiology, animal nutrition, and pasture management, while his research projects have focused on sustainable livestock production and organic agriculture. Beyond academia, he has worked as a technical consultant, advising on agricultural investment and scientific projects. His leadership in research units and scientific committees reflects his strong commitment to advancing knowledge and innovation.

Research Interests

Ricardo Augusto Luna Murillo’s research interests are centered on sustainable livestock production, animal nutrition, microbiology, and organic agriculture. He has dedicated much of his career to studying the nutritional value of tropical forages, the use of biofertilizers and organic amendments, and the role of rhizobacteria in promoting crop growth. His interests also extend to silvopastoral systems, integrated farming practices, and the application of biotechnology in agriculture. By exploring the intersection of animal science and microbiology, his research aims to improve productivity while maintaining environmental sustainability, contributing to food security and rural development in Ecuador and the wider Latin American region.

Awards and Honors

Throughout his career, Ricardo Augusto Luna Murillo has been recognized for his outstanding academic and research contributions. He has received honors for his role as a dedicated tutor, professor, and researcher in various institutions. His scientific leadership has been acknowledged at national and international congresses, where he has been commended for advancing agricultural innovation and sustainability. He has been accredited by Ecuador’s national higher education authority as a categorized researcher, underscoring his valuable contributions to scientific knowledge. These distinctions reflect his dedication to education, research, and the dissemination of innovative practices that benefit both academia and the agricultural sector.

Research Skills

Ricardo Augusto Luna Murillo possesses a diverse range of research skills developed through years of academic and professional engagement. He is adept at designing, planning, and executing research projects, often leading multidisciplinary teams across agricultural and microbiological studies. His expertise includes animal nutrition analysis, forage evaluation, microbiological techniques, and the application of biofertilizers in crop production. Additionally, he has experience in statistical analysis, technical writing, and scientific publication. His skills extend to organizing scientific events, mentoring young researchers, and contributing as a peer reviewer for academic journals, which highlights his ability to promote high-quality, impactful scientific work.

Publications

A prolific author, Ricardo Augusto Luna Murillo has published numerous articles in indexed journals, conference proceedings, and scientific books. His publications span topics such as animal nutrition, organic fertilization, pasture and forage evaluation, microbiology, and sustainable crop production. His research findings have been disseminated in national and international journals, contributing to advancements in agricultural science. Notably, he has explored the effects of enzymes, biofertilizers, and organic amendments on animal and crop productivity. His academic output demonstrates his commitment to producing practical knowledge that supports sustainable agricultural systems, reinforcing his reputation as a respected researcher and academic leader in his field.

Avellaneda-Cevallos, J. H., Cedeño-Cedeño, T. A., Suárez-Chiquito, A., Montañez-Valdez, O., Cepeda-Cantos, C. D., Luna-Murillo, R., Espinoza-Guerra, I., Quintana, J., & Casanova-Ferrín, L. (2007). Effect of palm kernel meal plus urea on finishing of Brown Swiss young bulls. Journal of Animal Science, 85(Suppl. 1), 96.

Avellaneda-Cevallos, J. H., Quintana-Zamora, G., Espinoza-Torrico, F., Montañez-Valdez, O., Espinoza-Guerra, I., Luna-Murillo, R., González-Muñoz, S., & Tuárez-Cobeña, J. (2007). Effect of an exogenous fibrolytic enzyme on in vivo digestibility of king grass hay. Journal of Animal Science, 85(Suppl. 1), 337.

Avellaneda-Cevallos, J. H., Montanez-Valdez, O. D., Romero-Garaicoa, D., Luna-Murillo, R., Bravo-Loor, J., & Pena-Galeas, M. (2011). Effect of exogenous fibrolytic enzymes on dry matter in situ digestibility of two Brachiaria grasses. Journal of Animal Science, 89(Suppl. E. 1), 387.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Ricardo Augusto Luna Murillo stands as a distinguished figure in the fields of microbiology, zootechnics, and sustainable agriculture. His professional journey reflects a balance between teaching, research, and consultancy, with a strong focus on innovation and sustainability. Through his contributions to scientific literature, leadership in research projects, and participation in international congresses, he has become a reference point for agricultural development in Ecuador. His commitment to fostering young researchers and promoting environmentally responsible practices ensures his work continues to have a meaningful impact on academia, agricultural producers, and broader rural communities across the region.