Saurabh Shekhar | Fertilizer Production | Best Researcher Award

Dr Saurabh Shekhar | Fertilizer Production | Best Researcher Award

Scientist at  CSIR-NML,  India

Dr. Saurabh Shekhar is a Senior Scientist in the Metal Extraction & Recycling Division at the CSIR-National Metallurgical Laboratory (CSIR-NML), Jamshedpur, India. With over a decade of experience in metallurgical research, he specializes in metal extraction, material synthesis, and waste management.

 

Publication Profile

Education:

  • Ph.D.: Materials and Metallurgical Engineering (CSIR-NML, AcSIR, 2023).
  • M.Tech: Materials and Metallurgical Engineering, specializing in Mineral Processing (CSIR-NML, AcSIR, 2014).
  • B.E.: Chemical Engineering (Haldia Institute of Technology, 2011).

Professional Achievements:

  • Research Funding: Successfully led 34 projects (18 completed, 16 ongoing) with a cumulative budget exceeding ₹10 crore.
  • Publications: Authored 13 SCI-indexed publications and over 10 conference proceedings.
  • Patents: Holder of 13 patents, including 4 granted.
  • Technology Transfer: Successfully transferred one innovative technology.

Awards and Recognition:

  • National Innovation Award (NRDC, 2020): Recognized for technology transfer with a ₹5 lakh prize.
  • S. Banerjee Award (2020): For excellence in in-house projects.
  • Additional Honors: Nine paper and poster awards at prestigious conferences such as NMD, MPT, and MetWaste.

Dr. Saurabh’s groundbreaking contributions to metallurgical science and his focus on sustainable practices make him a leader in his field.

Citation Metrics:

  • Publications: 13 SCI-indexed papers with 171 citations (156 since 2019).
  • h-index: 7 (since 2019: 7)
  • i10-index: 6 (since 2019: 6)
  • Patents: Filed 13 patents, with 4 granted.

Publication Top Note:

  • Physical and chemical characterization and recovery of potash fertilizer from glauconitic clay for agricultural application
    Applied Clay Science, 143, 50-56, 2017. (Citations: 55)
  • Physico-chemical treatment of glauconitic sandstone to recover potash and magnetite
    Journal of Cleaner Production, 147, 681-693, 2017. (Citations: 41)
  • A sustainable process for recovery of potash fertilizer from glauconite through simultaneous production of pigment grade red oxide
    Sustainable Materials and Technologies, 23, e00129, 2020. (Citations: 19)
  • Phosphonomethyl iminodiacetic acid functionalized metal organic framework supported PAN composite beads for selective removal of La(III) from wastewater: Adsorptive study
    Journal of Hazardous Materials, 425, 127802, 2022. (Citations: 18)
  • Valorisation of waste galvanizing dross: Emphasis on recovery of zinc with zero effluent strategy
    Journal of Environmental Management, 256, 109985, 2020. (Citations: 11)
  • Study of process efficiency for high-ash fine coal cleaning in a Kelsey centrifugal jig
    International Journal of Coal Preparation and Utilization, 38(5), 250-259, 2018. (Citations: 11)
  • Extraction of manganese through baking-leaching technique from high iron containing manganese sludge
    Materials Today: Proceedings, 46(3), 1499-1504, 2021. (Citations: 7)
  • Simultaneous extraction of copper and iron from chalcopyrite concentrate via surfactant-assisted chlorination leaching
    Materials Today: Proceedings, 2023. (Citations: 3)
  • Petro-Mineralogical and Geochemical Evaluation of Glauconitic Rocks of the Ukra Member (Bhuj Formation), Kutch Basin, India
    Clays and Clay Minerals, 70(1), 135-153, 2022. (Citations: 3)
  • Recovery of zinc as zinc phosphate and by-products from hydrometallurgical treatment of hot-dip galvanizing (Zn-Al) dross
    Materials Today: Proceedings, 46, 1532-1536, 2021. (Citations: 3)
  • A Clean Process for the Recovery of Potash Fertilizer from Glauconitic Rock via Hydrogen Gas Pre-treatment and Mild Acid Leaching
    JOM, 76(7), 3343-3353, 2024.
  • A clean process for the recovery of iron as value-added product from highly acidic chloride leach solution
    Materials Today: Proceedings, 2023.
  • Emulsion Mediated Low Temperature Pressure Leaching of Base Metals from Mixed Sulfide Minerals Through Enhanced Oxygen Mass Transfer
    Extraction 2018: Proceedings of the First Global Conference on Extractive Metallurgy, 2018.

 

Chitranjan Sharma | Soil Science and Fertility Management | Best Researcher Award

Chitranjan Sharma | Soil Science and Fertility Management | Best Researcher Award

Dr Chitranjan Sharma, Amity University Uttar Pradesh, Noida, India, India

Dr.  Dr Chitranjan Sharma is an accomplished academic with a strong background in agriculture and soil science. Holding a B.Sc. in Agriculture (1997) and an M.Sc. in Ag Chemistry & Soil Science (1999) from SSJMU Kanpur and the University of Allahabad, respectively, he earned a Gold Medal and distinction throughout his studies. He completed his D.Phil. in Science (2005), focusing on phytoremediation. Dr. [Name] has taught at various institutions, including the University of Allahabad and Amity University. Currently, he is an Assistant Professor and Program Leader at Amity University, specializing in soil science and crop production. 🧑‍🏫🌾👩‍🔬📘

Publication Profile

Google Scholar

Education

With an extensive academic background, the individual began with a First Division (69.89%) in Natural and Social Sciences from Bihar School Examination Board in 1990. They continued excelling, securing First Division in I.Sc. Agriculture (66.60%) from UP Board in 1993. In 1997, they completed a B.Sc. in Agriculture from SSJMU Kanpur with 72.37%, focusing on Math, Statistics, Soil Conservation, and more. Earning an M.Sc. in Agricultural Chemistry and Soil Science from the University of Allahabad in 1999, they were a Gold Medalist (75.09%). In 2005, they completed a D.Phil. in Science, focusing on heavy metals and phytoremediation. 🌿📘🥇

Teaching Experience

Currently serving as a faculty member at Amity University Uttar Pradesh, Noida since February 2020, the individual previously taught at the University of Allahabad, Prayagraj (2003-2007). There, they educated MSc (Ag) students in subjects like Agricultural Chemistry, Plant Biochemistry, Soil Fertility, and Soil Microbiology 🌾📚. Over time, they have continued interacting with MSc and research scholars at the Sheila Dhar Institute of Soil Science. Currently, they teach courses including Fundamentals of Soil Science, Crop Ecology, Advances in Soil Fertility, and Agronomy of Kharif Crops to graduate and postgraduate students 🌱🎓. Their expertise shapes future agronomists and soil scientists.

Research focus

Chitranjan Kumar’s research primarily focuses on soil science, environmental restoration, and bioremediation. His work includes studying heavy metals in soil, their management, and environmental restoration through bioremediation techniques. He also explores microbial synthesis of nanoparticles, particularly gold, and the use of organic inputs and bacterial inoculations to improve soil health and crop production. His studies contribute to sustainable agriculture, focusing on soil detoxification and enhancing soil quality. This interdisciplinary research is vital for environmental conservation and agricultural productivity. 🌱🧬🧪🌍🍅

Publication Top Notes

Biotechnological advances in bioremediation of heavy metals contaminated ecosystems: an overview with special reference to phytoremediation

Production of Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) by Bacillus Strain Isolated from Waste Water and Its Biochemical CharacterizationIntegrated micro-biochemical approach for phytoremediation of cadmium and zinc contaminated soils

Integrated micro-biochemical approach for phytoremediation of cadmium and lead contaminated soils using Gladiolus grandiflorus L cut flower

Hyperaccumulator oilcake manure as an alternative for chelate-induced phytoremediation of heavy metals contaminated alluvial soils

Phytoaccumulation, Interaction, Toxicity and Remediation of Cadmium from Helianthus annuus L. (sunflower)

Conclusion

Dr. Sharma’s innovative research, extensive publications, and leadership in academia make him a strong contender for the Best Researcher Award.

 

Rubab Sarfraz | Fertility Management | Women Researcher Award

Dr Rubab Sarfraz |  Fertility Management |  Women Researcher Award

Senior Researcher at  Gyeongsang National University, South Korea

Dr. Rubab Sarfraz is a dedicated researcher specializing in soil fertility, plant nutrition, and the modulation of microbial communities through organic amendments. Currently serving as a Research Professor at Gyeongsang National University in Jinju, South Korea, Dr. Sarfraz aims to develop cost-effective and eco-friendly approaches to enhance nutrient utilization efficiency and maximize crop yields using advanced technologies.

Profile:

Professional Background:

Research Professor at Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, South Korea (Since September 2023) Assistant Professor (IPFP) at the University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan (February 2022 – August 2023)

Education:

Ph.D. in Agricultural Resources and Environment from Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, China (2015 – 2020). Her dissertation focused on the effects of spent mushroom substrate biochar and phosphorus-solubilizing bacteria on phosphorus availability and microbial communities in acidic soils. Master of Philosophy in Agriculture from the University of Agriculture Faisalabad, Pakistan (2013 – 2015). Her thesis examined the use of biochar to enhance nitrogen use efficiency in maize. Bachelor of Agriculture from the University of Agriculture Faisalabad, Pakistan (2009 – 2013).

Research Contributions:

Dr. Sarfraz has published extensively in reputable journals. Her notable works include studies on carbon dioxide emissions from soil, the impact of biochar and phosphorus-solubilizing bacteria on soil health, and biochar-mediated remediation of contaminants. She has also explored the integration of organic amendments to improve nutrient uptake and crop yields..

Skills and Expertise:

  • Conducting field and laboratory experiments
  • Analyzing soil physical and chemical properties
  • Measuring soil enzyme activities
  • Preparing and characterizing biochar
  • Characterizing root systems and crop phenotypes
  • DNA extraction and PCR techniques
  • Operating advanced laboratory instruments

Awards and Recognitions:

Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University Scholarship for Ph.D. studies National Faculty Development Program by the Higher Education Commission, Pakistan Approved Master/PhD Supervisor by the Higher Education Commission, Pakistan

Research Focus: Fertility Management

Soil Fertility and Nutrient Dynamics: Organic Amendments: Investigating the use of biochar and other organic materials to improve soil fertility. Her research explores how biochar, derived from various organic sources such as spent mushroom substrates, can enhance nutrient retention and availability in soils. Microbial Communities: Studying the interaction between organic amendments and soil microbial communities. She aims to understand how these amendments influence microbial activity, which in turn affects nutrient cycling and soil health. Phosphorus Availability: Phosphorus Solubilizing Bacteria (PSB): Evaluating the role of PSB in enhancing phosphorus availability in acidic soils. Her research includes the integration of biochar with PSB to increase phosphorus uptake by plants. Biochar Impact: Assessing the effects of biochar particle sizes and properties on phosphorus dynamics in various soil types. Nitrogen Use Efficiency (NUE): Biochar and Nitrogen Fertilizers: Investigating the synergistic effects of combining biochar with nitrogen fertilizers to improve NUE in crops like maize. This research is aimed at reducing nitrogen losses and enhancing crop yield. Remediation of Contaminated Soils: Emerging Contaminants: Utilizing biochar and nanomaterials to remediate soils contaminated with petroleum hydrocarbons and other pollutants. Her studies focus on how these amendments can reduce the bioavailability and toxicity of contaminants. Soil Enzyme Activities: Impact of Amendments: Measuring the effects of various soil amendments on enzyme activities, which are critical indicators of soil health and fertility. Enzyme activities such as cellulase, urease, and acid phosphatase are monitored to understand soil biochemical changes. Sustainable Agricultural Practices: Eco-friendly Approaches: Developing cost-effective and environmentally sustainable methods for managing soil fertility. Her work emphasizes minimizing chemical fertilizer use and promoting organic alternatives to enhance soil health and crop productivity. Crop Phenotyping: Characterizing root systems and crop phenotypes to link soil management practices with plant growth responses and yield outcomes.

Citations:

 

  • Total Citations: 423
  • Citations Since 2019: 412
  • h-index: 11
  • i10-index: 11

Publication Top Notes:

  1. Role of Biochar and Plant Growth Promoting Rhizobacteria to Enhance Soil Carbon Sequestration—A Review
    • Authors: R. Sarfraz, A. Hussain, A. Sabir, I. Ben Fekih, A. Ditta, S. Xing
    • Journal: Environmental Monitoring and Assessment
    • Year: 2019
    • Citations: 93
  2. Impact of Integrated Application of Biochar and Nitrogen Fertilizers on Maize Growth and Nitrogen Recovery in Alkaline Calcareous Soil
    • Authors: R. Sarfraz, A. Shakoor, M. Abdullah, A. Arooj, A. Hussain, S. Xing
    • Journal: Soil Science and Plant Nutrition
    • Year: 2017
    • Citations: 82
  3. Short Term Effects of Biochar with Different Particle Sizes on Phosphorous Availability and Microbial Communities
    • Authors: R. Sarfraz, W. Yang, S. Wang, B. Zhou, S. Xing
    • Journal: Chemosphere
    • Year: 2020
    • Citations: 54
  4. Dissolved Organic Nitrogen Distribution in Differently Fertilized Paddy Soil Profiles: Implications for its Potential Loss
    • Authors: S. Nie, L. Zhao, X. Lei, R. Sarfraz, S. Xing
    • Journal: Agriculture, Ecosystems & Environment
    • Year: 2018
    • Citations: 44
  5. Assessment of Physicochemical and Nutritional Characteristics of Waste Mushroom Substrate Biochar under Various Pyrolysis Temperatures and Times
    • Authors: R. Sarfraz, S. Li, W. Yang, B. Zhou, S. Xing
    • Journal: Sustainability
    • Year: 2019
    • Citations: 37
  6. Silicon-Mediated Improvement in Tolerance of Economically Important Crops under Drought Stress
    • Authors: Z. Pang, M. Tayyab, W. Islam, M.W.K. Tarin, R. Sarfaraz, H. Naveed, S. Zaman
    • Journal: Applied Ecology & Environmental Research
    • Year: 2019
    • Citations: 22
  7. Integrated Application of Organic Amendments with Alcaligenes sp. AZ9 Improves Nutrient Uptake and Yield of Maize (Zea mays)
    • Authors: A. Hussain, M. Ahmad, M.Z. Mumtaz, S. Ali, R. Sarfraz, M. Naveed, M. Jamil
    • Journal: Journal of Plant Growth Regulation
    • Year: 2020
    • Citations: 21
  8. Effects of Bamboo Biochar Amendment on the Growth and Physiological Characteristics of Fokienia Hodginsii
    • Authors: M.W.K. Tarin, L. Fan, M. Tayyab, R. Sarfraz, L. Chen, T. He, J. Rong, Y. Zheng
    • Journal: Applied Ecology & Environmental Research
    • Year: 2018
    • Citations: 20