Ketema Tulu | Soil | Best Industrial Research Award

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Dr. Ketema Tulu | Soil | Best Industrial Research Award

Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, Ethiopia

📚 Dr. Ketema Tafess Tulu is an Associate Professor specializing in Microbial Genomics, with a strong academic and research background in pharmaceutical and microbial sciences. His work focuses on genomic characterization, microbial diversity, and the application of genomic tools in health and environmental microbiology. He actively contributes to national and international scientific communities through research, publication, and collaboration.

Profile:

🎓 Academic Background:

  • Ph.D. in Microbial Genomics, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (2020)

  • Postgraduate Diploma in Vaccinology, Pasteur Institute, France (2013)

  • M.Sc. in Tropical & Infectious Diseases, Addis Ababa University (2010)

  • Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM), Addis Ababa University (2006)

🎖 Awards & Recognition:

  • The Hong Kong Fellowship Award (2016–2019)

  • Certificate of Outstanding Graduate, Addis Ababa University (2010 & 2006)

  • Vaccinology Scholarship – Pasteur Institute, Paris (2013)

📚 Professional Appointments:

  • Director, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, ASTU (2021–present)

  • Vice Director, Research & Publication, Arsi University (2015–2016)

  • Vice Dean, Research & Community Service, Arsi University (2014–2015)

  • Department Head, Veterinary Sciences, Gondar University (2007–2008)

🔬 Research Projects (Selected):

  • EpiGen-Ethiopia: Co-PI – Scalable pathogen genomic epidemiology (2023–2028)

  • Bioprospecting Streptomyces: PI – Antibiotic-producing bacteria (2022–2025)

  • Metal Nanoparticles & Indigenous Plants: PI – Antimicrobial and antimalarial studies (2022–2023)

  • TB Diagnostic Innovation: Co-PI – Drug-resistant tuberculosis validation (2016–2019)

🧪 Laboratory & Institutional Development:

  • Led establishment of Microbiology & Natural Product Labs at ASTU

  • Chair of capacity building for the EDCF project in collaboration with Seoul National University

  • Coordinated procurement for 12 research labs under ASTU’s Pharmaceutical Science Institute

🌍 Membership & Editorial Roles:

  • Founder & Editor-in-Chief, Journal of Technology and Innovative Knowledge

  • Member of Ethiopian Society of Tropical and Infectious Diseases, Ethiopian Medical Association, and Ethiopian Veterinary Association

Citation:

  • Total Citations: 626 (by 605 documents)

  • Total Documents: 28

  • h-index: 12

Publication Top Notes:

  • Bioprospecting secondary metabolites with antimicrobial properties from soil bacteria in high-temperature ecosystems
    Microbial Cell Factories, 2024-12-19.
    DOI: 10.1186/s12934-024-02589-6

  • Diversity of culturable bacterial isolates and their potential as antimicrobial agents against human pathogens from Afar region, Ethiopia
    Microbiology Spectrum, 2024-11-05.
    DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.01810-24

  • Genetic mechanisms of co-emergence of INH-resistant Mycobacterium tuberculosis strains during the standard course of antituberculosis therapy
    Microbiology Spectrum, 2024-03-11.
    DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.02133-23

  • Evaluation of the effect of therapeutic durations on small ruminant bacterial pneumonia
    BMC Veterinary Research, 2024-02-24.
    DOI: 10.1186/s12917-024-03917-z

  • Isolation and Antimicrobial Resistance Patterns of Bacterial Pathogens from Community-Acquired Pneumonia at Adama Hospital Medical College, Adama, Ethiopia
    Journal of Tropical Medicine, 2024-01.
    DOI: 10.1155/2024/8710163

  • Review on Desirable Microbial Phytases as a Poultry Feed Additive: Their Sources, Production, Enzymatic Evaluation, Market Size, and Regulation
    International Journal of Microbiology, 2024-01.
    DOI: 10.1155/2024/9400374

  • Citric Acid Catalyst-Assisted Bioactive Glass with Hydrogen Peroxide for In Vitro Bioactivity and Biodegradability Using Sol-Gel Method
    International Journal of Biomaterials, 2023-10-27.
    DOI: 10.1155/2023/9911205

  • Spatiotemporal Distribution of Tuberculosis in the Oromia Region of Ethiopia: A Hotspot Analysis
    Tropical Medicine and Infectious Disease, 2023-09.
    DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed8090437

  • Identification of serotypes of Mannheimia haemolytica and Pasteurella multocida from pneumonic cases of sheep and goats and their antimicrobial sensitivity profiles in Borana and Arsi zones, Ethiopia
    Scientific Reports, 2023-06-02.
    DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-36026-2

 

Jean Baptiste Biloa | Soil Fertility | Best Academic Researcher Award

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Mr. Jean Baptiste Biloa |  Soil Fertility | Best Academic Researcher Award

University of Yaoundé 1,  Cameroon

Professional Profile: Jean Baptiste Biloa is an expert in soil sciences with a focus on soil fertility, plant nutrition, and environmental modeling. He has extensive experience in research, teaching, and consulting on international projects, particularly in soil analysis, natural resource management, and geomatic tools.

Profile:

Academic Background:

  • 2019: PhD in Agro-pedology (defense pending), University of Yaoundé 1

  • 2015: Master’s in Earth Sciences, University of Yaoundé 1

  • 2014: Bachelor’s in Earth Sciences, University of Yaoundé 1

Certifications:

  • 2021: Certificate in Environmental Technology

  • 2020: Certificate of Appreciation – Inspire Hackathon Innovation Award

  • 2019: Certificate in Open Data Management for Agriculture, Nutrition, and Land (GODAN/FAO)

  • 2019: Certificate in Global Access to Agricultural Research (AGORA) – Research for Life

  • 2019: Certificate in Agricultural Data Management, Sharing, and Services for Agricultural Development (FAO)

Professional Experience:

  • 2023 – 2024: Soil Resources Expert, Soil, Water, and Climate Project (ProSEC), German Federal Institute for Geosciences and Natural Resources (BGR)

  • 2022 – 2023: Temporary Lecturer, University of Ebolowa, ENSET, and ISABEE

  • 2016 – 2023: Consultant and Student, International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA)

  • 2018 – 2023: Consultant, GEOLAB SOLUTION & KOM

Technical Skills:

  • Environmental Modeling: Hydrus 1D, SWAT, AquaCrop

  • Mapping: Global Mapper, Surfer, Google Earth

  • Data Analysis: XLSTAT, R, JMP SAS, JAMOVI, ODK, Kobo Collect

  • Soil Management: Soil classification (WRB, CPCS, Soil Taxonomy, FAO)

  • Mineral Prospecting: Artisanal and semi-mechanized techniques, GPS usage

Scientific Publications:

  • “Influence of cocoa farm age, slope, and shade rate on cocoa soil fertility” (2025)

  • “Soil organic carbon and nutrient content across agricultural systems in the forest-savannah transition zone of Cameroon” (2025)

  • “Soil carbon and nutrient (NPK) content in tropical shifting cultivation systems under indigenous agricultural management practices: a review” (2025)

  • “Bioassay as a proxy for soil fertility and quality diagnosis in cocoa agroforestry systems” (2025)

  • “Variability of soil organic carbon and nutrient content across land uses and agriculturally induced land use changes in the forest-savannah transition zone of Cameroon” (2024)

Professional Affiliations:

  • President, Cameroonian Association for Soil Studies (ACES)

  • Member, GODAN (Global Open Data for Agriculture and Nutrition)

  • Member, APS2 (Association for the Protection of Soil and Subsoil)

  • Member, Research4Life and the Global Soil Partnership (GSP)

  • Member, European Sustainable Phosphorus Platform (ESPP)

Publication:

  • Influence of cocoa farm age and slope, and shade rate on cocoa soils fertility

Karina Cavalieri Polizeli | Soil Science Award | Women Researcher Award

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Assoc Prof Dr Karina Cavalieri Polizeli | Soil Science Award | Women Researcher Award

Assoc Prof Dr KARINA CAVALIERI-POLIZELI , UNIVERSIDADE FEDERAL DO PARANÁ, Brazil

Karina Maria Vieira Cavalieri Polizeli is a prominent Brazilian soil scientist and Professor at the Federal University of Paraná (UFPR). With a background in Agronomy, she specializes in soil physics, management, and conservation. Her impactful research contributes significantly to understanding soil quality and compactness. As a dedicated educator and researcher, Karina has held various roles in academia and has actively collaborated with institutions both in Brazil and internationally. She has been instrumental in advancing soil science through her research and publications.

Publication Profile

Scopus

Education

Karina Maria Vieira Cavalieri Polizeli earned her Bachelor’s (2002), Master’s (2004), and Doctorate (2007) degrees in Agronomy from the State University of Maringá (UEM) and the University of São Paulo (USP). Her doctoral research focused on soil compaction and physical quality, with a period at the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU). Her academic journey has been marked by significant contributions to soil science, including postdoctoral studies and specialized courses in soil quality and management.

Experience

Karina has extensive experience in academia and research, serving as a Professor at UFPR since 2011, where she teaches and conducts research in soil science. She has also worked at the State University of Maringá and the State University of Mato Grosso do Sul. Her expertise includes managing and conserving soil, with notable roles at the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences during her doctoral studies. Additionally, Karina contributes to various research organizations and has been involved in international collaborations.

Awards and Honors

Karina Maria Vieira Cavalieri Polizeli’s distinguished career in soil science has earned her recognition and awards. She holds a Productivity Grant from CNPq and has received accolades for her research contributions, including serving as a member of the Brazilian Soil Health Partnership. Her involvement in prestigious research projects and academic committees highlights her significant impact on the field of soil science.

Research Focus

Karina’s research focuses on soil physical quality, compaction, and conservation. She investigates the effects of different soil management practices on soil structure and functionality, aiming to enhance soil health and agricultural sustainability. Her work includes analyzing soil quality indicators, the impact of tillage systems, and the role of soil in environmental conservation. This research supports improved soil management strategies and contributes to sustainable agricultural practices.

Publication Top Notes

Conservative Farming Systems and Their Effects on Soil Organic Carbon and Structural Quality 🌱

Cassava Yield and Soil Physical Properties Under Different Tillage Systems in Paraná, Southern Brazil 🌾

Soil Structural Quality and Relationships With Root Properties in Single and Integrated Farming Systems 🌍

Macrofauna Communities and Their Relationship With Soil Structural Quality in Different Land Use Systems 🐞

Assessment of Soil Physical Quality and Water Flow Regulation Under Straw Removal Management in Sugarcane Production Fields 💧

Impact of Self-Propelled Sprayer Traffic on Ferralsol Physical Properties in Southern Brazil 🚜

 

Nadezda Verkhovtseva | Soil Pollution | Best Researcher Award

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Prof Dr Nadezda Verkhovtseva |  Soil Pollution |  Best Researcher Award

professor at MSU (Moscow State University named after M.V. Lomonosov,  Russia

Dr. N. Verkhovtseva is a distinguished Professor at the Department of Agrochemistry and Plant Biochemistry, Lomonosov Moscow State University (MSU). She pursued her studies in Agrochemistry at MSU, where she also earned her Ph.D. in 1975. Dr. Verkhovtseva has had a notable academic journey, having taught at Yaroslavl State University before joining the esteemed research group led by Kondrat’eva at MSU. In 1994, she obtained her Doctor of Science degree in Microbiology and subsequently secured the position of Professor at MSU’s Faculty of Soil Science. Her prolific career includes the publication of over 180 articles in both Russian and international journals. Dr. Verkhovtseva’s research contributions have earned her a significant citation index, with 46 citations in Web of Science, 57 in Scopus, and 984 in Science Index. She has authored eight books, holds one patent, and serves as the executive editor of the journal Problems of Agrochemistry and Ecology. Her professional memberships include the Soil Science Society. Dr. Verkhovtseva’s expertise and dedication have significantly advanced the fields of agrochemistry and plant biochemistry.

Profile

 

🎓 Academic and Professional Background:

Dr. N. Verkhovtseva studied Agrochemistry at Lomonosov Moscow State University (MSU), Russia. After graduation, she entered the graduate school of the same university and received her PhD in Agrochemistry in 1975. She then taught at Yaroslavl State University, Yaroslavl, Russia, before joining the research academic group of Kondrat’eva at MSU. In 1994, she received her Doctor of Science degree in Microbiology from MSU and became a professor in the Department of Agrochemistry and Plant Biochemistry, Faculty of Soil Science. She has published over 180 articles in both Russian and international journals.

🔬 Research and Innovations:

  • Citation Index: Web of Science: 46, Scopus: 57, Science index: 984
  • Books Published (ISBN): Eight
  • Patents: One published/under process
  • Journals Published (SCI, Scopus, etc.): 180

 

📚 Areas of Research:

  • Agrochemistry
  • Plant Biochemistry
  • Microbiology

 

🧪 Research Focus: Soil Pollution

Dr. Verkhovtseva’s research primarily focuses on soil pollution, investigating the impacts of contaminants on soil health and plant biochemistry. Her work aims to develop effective strategies for mitigating soil pollution and enhancing soil remediation techniques. Her contributions in this area have been instrumental in understanding the complex interactions between pollutants and soil ecosystems.

Publication Top Notes:

1. Effect of an Equal Dose of Polymetallic Pollution on the Microbiological Characteristics of Two Soils with Different Organic Carbon Contents

2. Metabolomic Analysis of Rhizosphere Soil Fertility in Maize (Zea mays) at Milking Stage

3. Physical-Tomographic Characteristics and Structure of Bacterial Community of the Agrophysical System “Germinating Roots—Pore Space of Soils” (Physical Model Experiment)

4. Structure of the Soil Pore Space in the Seedling Bed Before the Seedling Stage: Studies Using the Microtomography Method

5. X-ray Computed Tomography of the Structure of Roots and Dynamics of Soil Biota in the Early Growth Stages of Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.)

6. Aggregate Formation in a Kaolinite Suspension during Microbiological Modification of Clay Surface

7. Physical and Microbiological Aspects of the Soil Seed Bed in the Early Formation of the Barley Root System (Hordeum vulgare L.): Tomographic Studies

8. The Effect of Ericoid Mycorrhizal and Ectomycorrhizal Plants on Soil Properties of Grass Meadow in Tundra of the Khibiny Mountains

9. Formation of Microaggregates in Kaolinite Suspension Inoculated by Bacillus velezensis (SEM-investigations)

10. Chemodiagnostic by Lipid Analysis of the Microbial Community Structure in Trace Metal Polluted Urban Soil