Dr. Muhammad Qadir | Biopesticides | Young Scientist Award 

Dr. Muhammad Qadir | Biopesticides | Young Scientist Award 

Postdoctorate | Hunan University | China

Dr. Muhammad Qadir is a distinguished researcher at the Hunan Key Laboratory of Plant Functional Genomics and Developmental Regulation, Hunan University, specializing in Stress Physiology, Plant-Microbe Interactions, and Molecular Biology. His research primarily focuses on understanding how beneficial microbes and endophytes can mitigate heavy metal toxicity, enhance stress tolerance, and improve crop productivity under adverse environmental conditions. Emerging interests in his work include microbial-assisted phytoremediation, hormone-mediated plant resilience, and the molecular mechanisms underlying stress signaling in plants. Dr. Qadir has contributed extensively to the field through his collaborative research on microbial biotechnology, demonstrating how endophytic fungi and rhizobacteria can alleviate metal stress, optimize antioxidant systems, and enhance phytoremediation efficiency in crops like soybean, sunflower, and Brassica species. His seminal works, including studies on Pantoea conspicua, Acinetobacter bouvetii, and Aspergillus niger, have provided vital insights into microbe-driven soil reclamation and sustainable agriculture. As a research scientist, he has held key academic positions within Hunan University, contributing to cross-disciplinary projects bridging microbiology, environmental science, and plant molecular genetics. Among his significant achievements are publications in high-impact journals such as Chemosphere, Environmental Science and Pollution Research, and Agronomy, along with groundbreaking findings on phytohormone-producing microbes that enhance tolerance to heavy metals and drought. His investigations into eco-friendly bio-remediation technologies have influenced the design of sustainable crop management systems and advanced understanding of microbial ecology in agriculture. With over 785 citations, an h-index of 15, and numerous collaborative studies addressing climate resilience and soil health, Dr. Qadir’s scientific influence extends across global agroecological innovation. His vision emphasizes integrating microbial biotechnology into sustainable food systems, aiming to develop resilient crops capable of thriving under environmental stress while maintaining ecological balance. Through his pioneering research, Dr. Qadir continues to contribute significantly to global scientific efforts toward ensuring food security, environmental sustainability, and agricultural innovation in the face of climate challenges.

Featured Publications

  • Zahoor, M., Irshad, M., Rahman, H., Qasim, M., Afridi, S. G., Qadir, M., & Hussain, A. (2017). Alleviation of heavy metal toxicity and phytostimulation of Brassica campestris L. by endophytic Mucor sp. MHR-7. Ecotoxicology and Environmental Safety, 142, 139–149. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ecoenv.2017.04.024

  • Qadir, M., Hussain, A., Hamayun, M., Shah, M., Iqbal, A., & Murad, W. (2020). Phytohormones producing rhizobacterium alleviates chromium toxicity in Helianthus annuus L. by reducing chromate uptake and strengthening antioxidant system. Chemosphere, 258, 127386. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.chemosphere.2020.127386

  • Husna, H., Hussain, A., Shah, M., Hamayun, M., Iqbal, A., & Qadir, M. (2022). Heavy metal tolerant endophytic fungi Aspergillus welwitschiae improves growth, ceasing metal uptake and strengthening antioxidant system in Glycine max L. Environmental Science and Pollution Research, 29(11), 15501–15515. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11356-021-16518-3

  • Hussain, A., Shah, M., Hamayun, M., Iqbal, A., Alataway, A., & Qadir, M. (2023). Phytohormones producing rhizobacteria alleviate heavy metals stress in soybean through multilayered response. Microbiological Research, 266, 127237. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.micres.2023.127237

  • Qadir, M., Hussain, A., Shah, M., Hamayun, M., Iqbal, A., Irshad, M., & Sayyed, A. (2022). Comparative assessment of chromate bioremediation potential of Pantoea conspicua and Aspergillus niger. Journal of Hazardous Materials, 424, 127314. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jhazmat.2022.127314

Clay Sneller | Plant Breeding | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Clay Sneller | Plant Breeding | Best Researcher Award

Professor | The Ohio State University | United States

Dr. Clay Sneller is a distinguished researcher and professor at The Ohio State University, specializing in Plant Breeding and Quantitative Genetics. His research primarily focuses on improving genetic diversity, yield stability, and environmental resilience in major crops such as soybean and wheat. He has significantly contributed to understanding the genetic mechanisms underlying yield potential, drought tolerance, and symbiotic nitrogen fixation, offering innovative strategies for sustainable agricultural productivity. Over his extensive career, Dr. Sneller has held key academic roles driving advanced crop improvement programs and mentoring future agricultural scientists. His collaborative research has produced impactful publications on topics like genomic prediction of wheat landraces, the relationship between genetic variance and parental diversity in soybean, and marker-assisted introgression of yield-related quantitative trait loci (QTLs). His pioneering studies, including “Crop transformation and the challenge to increase yield potential” and “Genomic selection for wheat traits and trait stability,” have guided global plant breeding strategies and influenced both policy and practice in agricultural biotechnology. With an h-index of 42 and over 5,800 citations, Dr. Sneller’s scholarly contributions have shaped the scientific understanding of crop genetics and breeding efficiency. His work bridges the gap between molecular genetics and practical agronomy, advancing the development of resilient, high-yield cultivars adapted to climate variability. Driven by a vision to enhance food security through science-led innovation, Dr. Sneller continues to contribute to the global effort toward sustainable crop production, genetic resource conservation, and next-generation breeding technologies that empower farmers and strengthen agricultural systems worldwide

Profile: Google Scholar

Featured Publications

1. Sinclair, T. R., Purcell, L. C., & Sneller, C. H. (2004). Crop transformation and the challenge to increase yield potential. Trends in Plant Science, 9(2), 70–75.

2. Carter, T. E. Jr., Nelson, R. L., Sneller, C. H., & Cui, Z. (2004). Genetic diversity in soybean. In Soybeans: Improvement, Production, and Uses (Vol. 16, pp. 303–416).

3. Sinclair, T. R., Purcell, L. C., King, C. A., Sneller, C. H., Chen, P., & Vadez, V. (2007). Drought tolerance and yield increase of soybean resulting from improved symbiotic N₂ fixation. Field Crops Research, 101(1), 68–71.

4. Sneller, C. H., Kilgore‐Norquest, L., & Dombek, D. (1997). Repeatability of yield stability statistics in soybean. Crop Science, 37(2), 383–390.

5. Crossa, J., Jarquín, D., Franco, J., Pérez-Rodríguez, P., Burgueño, J., & Sneller, C. H. (2016). Genomic prediction of gene bank wheat landraces. G3: Genes, Genomes, Genetics, 6(7), 1819–1834.*

Fariya Abubakari | Soil Science | Women Researcher Award

Dr. Fariya Abubakari | Soil Science | Women Researcher Award

Research Scholar | Murdoch University | Australia

Dr. Fariya Abubakari is a distinguished researcher at Murdoch University, specializing in agriculture, crop science, soil science, and horticulture. Her research primarily focuses on sustainable agricultural practices, food security, and the socio-economic impacts of climate change on farming systems in sub-Saharan Africa. Dr. Abubakari’s emerging research interests include optimizing nitrogen fixation in leguminous crops and enhancing soil conservation techniques to improve smallholder productivity. Throughout her academic career, she has held vital research and teaching roles in agricultural science, where she has contributed extensively to policy-driven studies on soil fertility management, fertilizer subsidy effects, and farmers’ adaptation strategies to climate change. Her influential works, including “Determinants of Household Food Security and Climate Change Impacts on Agriculture in Ghana” and “Strategies for Improving Nodulation and Nitrogen Fixation of Leguminous Crops,” have shaped local and regional agricultural policies promoting climate resilience and sustainable crop production. Dr. Abubakari’s research on soil conservation technologies, fertilizer awareness, and tomato production constraints among rural farmers has offered practical frameworks for improving yields and livelihoods in vulnerable regions. She has also contributed to gender and development studies, notably examining the intersection of women’s empowerment and agricultural sustainability in Ghana. With over 70 citations and a growing research footprint, her work bridges scientific inquiry and real-world agricultural challenges. Her impact vision is to advance sustainable farming systems that ensure food security and environmental protection through innovative soil management, efficient crop production, and inclusive agricultural policies. By integrating scientific evidence with rural development strategies, Dr. Abubakari continues to influence both academic discourse and practical implementation, reinforcing her commitment to improving the resilience of African agriculture against climate and economic pressures while empowering communities toward sustainable livelihoods.

Profile: Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Dario Gaudioso | Seed Science | Excellence in Innovation Award

Dr. Dario Gaudioso | Seed Science | Excellence in Innovation Award

PhD researcher | Università degli studi di Firenze | Italy

Dr. Dario Gaudioso is a distinguished researcher specializing in molecular plant pathology, with expertise in plant health, quarantine pathogens, and molecular biology. His research primarily focuses on developing rapid, economical, and high-throughput diagnostic strategies for the detection of quarantine plant pathogens, using Curtobacterium flaccumfaciens pv. flaccumfaciens as a model organism. He also explores innovative, eco-friendly biotechnological approaches for sustainable crop protection and microbial interactions in leguminous plants. Currently serving as a PhD researcher at the Department of Agricultural, Food, Environmental and Forestry Science and Technology (DAGRI), University of Florence, Dr. Gaudioso also contributes as a Scientific Communicator and OpenLab Operator, bridging science and public understanding. His prior work as a Research Fellow at the same institution strengthened his contributions to applied plant pathology and diagnostic microbiology. Among his significant scientific outputs are publications such as Isolation of a Novel Microplastic-Degrading Bacterial Strain in Chemosphere (2025), Fly High: Volatile Organic Compounds for the Early Detection of Curtobacterium flaccumfaciens in Agronomy (2025), and Exploiting Bacterial Pigmentation for Non-Destructive Detection of Seed-Borne Pathogens in Sensors (2024). He has also contributed to the book Innovative Detection of the Quarantine Plant Pathogen Curtobacterium flaccumfaciens pv. flaccumfaciens published in Plant Pathology (2022), and to reviews on multidrug transporters in Microorganisms (2024), highlighting his diverse contributions across microbiology and plant science. As an active member of prestigious organizations, including the British Society for Plant Pathology, the Italian Society of Plant Pathology, and the Italian Association for Plant Protection, he continuously engages with the international scientific community. His research outputs integrate molecular diagnostics, sensor technologies, and microbial ecology to advance sustainable agriculture and improve global plant biosecurity frameworks. Through his innovative and interdisciplinary approach, Dr. Gaudioso envisions a future where sustainable diagnostic solutions enable effective management of plant diseases, safeguard agricultural biodiversity, and support resilient food systems. His scientific vision emphasizes strengthening global plant health surveillance, fostering early detection methods that reduce economic losses and environmental impact, and promoting a collaborative framework that bridges science, technology, and sustainability to address emerging agricultural challenges.

Profiles: Google Scholar | Scopus | ORCID | ResearchGate | LinkedIn

Featured Publications

1. Gaudioso, D. (2025). Isolation of a novel microplastic-degrading bacterial strain: A promising agent for low-density polyethylene remediation. Chemosphere. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.chemosphere.2025.144400

2. Gaudioso, D. (2025). On the effectiveness of ozone treatments: A silver bullet for plant health? Agronomy, 15(3), 567. https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15030567

3. Gaudioso, D. (2025). Fly high: Volatile organic compounds for the early detection of the seed-borne pathogen Curtobacterium flaccumfaciens pv. flaccumfaciens. Agronomy, 15(2), 497. https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15020497

4. Gaudioso, D. (2024). Exploiting bacterial pigmentation for non-destructive detection of seed-borne pathogens by using photoacoustic techniques. Sensors, 24(23), 7616. https://doi.org/10.3390/s24237616

5. Gaudioso, D. (2024). Multidrug and toxic compound extrusion transporters: Ubiquitous multifaceted proteins in microbes, plants, and their interactions. Microorganisms, 12(12), 2433. https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms12122433

Cleyton de Almeida Araújo | Sustainable Agriculture | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Cleyton de Almeida Araújo | Sustainable Agriculture | Best Researcher Award

Professor | UNIVASF | Brazil

Dr. Cleyton de Almeida Araújo is a distinguished researcher and academic specializing in Animal Science, with an emphasis on ruminant nutrition, forage management, and sustainable livestock production systems. His research primarily focuses on optimizing feed efficiency, improving forage quality, and developing eco-friendly livestock management practices that reduce greenhouse gas emissions while enhancing animal productivity in semiarid regions. As an Adjunct Professor at the Federal University of the São Francisco Valley (UNIVASF), he plays a vital role in advancing experimental studies on silage fermentation, mineral balance in animal nutrition, and biosaline agriculture. Over the years, Dr. Araújo has authored numerous scientific articles in high-impact journals, contributing significantly to understanding forage preservation, carbohydrate fractionation, and the nutritional dynamics of alternative feed resources such as cactus pear and cassava shoots. His collaborative works have also examined the interplay between animal nutrition and environmental sustainability, highlighting innovative strategies for resource-limited ecosystems. Beyond his academic achievements, he has contributed to the scientific community through applied research that supports livestock farmers and policymakers in developing climate-resilient agricultural systems. His findings on feed substitution and silage improvement have practical implications for animal welfare, soil health, and rural livelihoods. Dr. Araújo’s scientific vision is rooted in bridging advanced nutritional science with sustainable production methods, fostering innovations that balance productivity with environmental stewardship. Through his continued research and mentorship, he aims to strengthen the resilience of tropical livestock systems, contributing to global efforts in food security, ecological conservation, and rural development. He has 78 citations from 26 publications, with an h-index of 5.

Profiles: Scopus | ORCID

Featured Publications

1. Araújo, C. A., Lima, R. S., Oliveira, G. F., Nascimento, D. B., Campos, F. S., Gois, G. C., Silva, T. G. F., Magalhães, A. L. R., & Araújo, G. G. L. (2025). Carbohydrate fractionation and nitrogen compounds, mineral status, and gas production in arboreal cotton and cactus silages. Arquivo Brasileiro de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, 77(1). https://doi.org/10.1590/1678-4162-13274

2. Pereira, P. H. B., Oliveira, J. S., Guerra, R. R., Conceição, Â. I. da, Magalhães, A. L. R., Silva, D. K. de A., Bispo, S. V., Dias, G. G., Araújo, C. de A., & Valença, R. de L., et al. (2025). Forage cactus as a substitute for corn as an energy source in the finishing of feedlot lambs. Tropical Animal Health and Production, 57(6). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11250-025-04502-8

3. Nascimento, D. B. do, Magalhães, A. L. R., Teodoro, A. L., Gois, G. C., Santos, K. C. dos, Amaral, T. N. E. de, Araújo, C. A. de, Silva, P. B. da, Severo, M. F. de S., & Campos, F. S. (2025). Chemical composition, mineral profile, carbohydrate fractionation, dry matter digestibility and in vitro gas production of Furcraea foetida (L.) Haw at different phenological stages. New Zealand Journal of Agricultural Research, 68(2). https://doi.org/10.1080/00288233.2023.2260770

4. Borges, E. N., Araújo, C. A. de, Monteiro, B. S., Silva, A. S., Albuquerque, L. de F., Araújo, G. G. L. de, Campos, F. S., Gois, G. C., Souza, R. C. de, & Araújo, A. O. de. (2025). Buffel grass pre-dried as a modulator of the fermentation, nutritional and aerobic stability profile of cactus pear silage. New Zealand Journal of Agricultural Research, 68(1). https://doi.org/10.1080/00288233.2023.2212173

5. Silva, C. de S., Miranda, A. S. de, Novaes, J. J. da S., Araújo, C. A. de, Macedo, A. de, Araújo, J. S. de, Lima, D. O., Neto, J. V. E., Gois, G. C., & Araújo, G. G. L. de, et al. (2024). Fermentation profile, nutritional value and aerobic stability of mixed elephant grass and butterfly pea silages. Ciência Animal Brasileira, 25, e76994e. https://doi.org/10.1590/1809-6891v25e-76994e

Nicoletta De Vietro | Food Security | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Nicoletta De Vietro | Food Security | Best Researcher Award

Researcher | University of Bari "Aldo Moro" | Italy

Dr. Nicoletta De Vietro is a Researcher in Analytical Chemistry at the Department of Biosciences, Biotechnologies and Environment (D.B.B.A.) of the University of Bari “Aldo Moro,” where she is also a member of the Interdepartmental Center for Risk Analysis and Management in Health and Environmental Emergencies (C.I.R.S.A.). She holds a Ph.D. in Environmental Science, with advanced specialization in chromatographic and analytical techniques. Her primary research focuses on gas chromatography, high-performance liquid chromatography, and mass spectrometry for the characterization of biological, environmental, and food matrices, while her emerging interests explore innovative material development through non-equilibrium plasma processes for applications in packaging, biomedicine, and surface engineering. Over her academic career, she has held teaching and research roles in analytical chemistry, contributing to cutting-edge experimental methods that integrate chromatographic analysis with solid-phase microextraction (SPME) and surface modification techniques such as deposition, grafting, and etching in cold plasmas. Dr. De Vietro has authored multiple peer-reviewed publications, reviews, and patents, advancing both fundamental analytical methods and their industrial applications, particularly in environmental monitoring and food safety. Her contributions include novel methodological approaches for trace analysis and material functionalization, with implications for health risk assessment and sustainable technologies. She has been recognized through competitive research grants and has served as guest editor and peer reviewer for several leading scientific journals. Actively engaged in the international scientific community, she contributes to editorial boards, evaluates manuscripts for high-impact journals, and collaborates in interdisciplinary research networks. Through her research, Dr. De Vietro aims to bridge analytical innovation with real-world challenges, enhancing scientific understanding of complex matrices while supporting industry and regulatory bodies in improving environmental quality, public health, and technological advancement. She has 975 citations from 48 publications, with an h-index of 17.

Profiles: Scopus | ORCID

Featured Publications

1.  Cometa, S., Bonifacio, M. A., Bellissimo, A., Pinto, L., Petrella, A., De Vietro, N., Iannaccone, G., Baruzzi, F., & De Giglio, E. (2022). A green approach to develop zeolite–thymol antimicrobial composites: Analytical characterization and antimicrobial activity evaluation. Heliyon, 8(9), e09551. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.heliyon.2022.e09551

2. Aresta, A., De Santis, S., Carocci, A., Barbarossa, A., Ragusa, A., De Vietro, N., Clodoveo, M. L., Corbo, F., & Zambonin, C. (2021). Determination of commercial animal and vegetable milks’ lipid profile and its correlation with cell viability and antioxidant activity on human intestinal Caco-2 cells. Molecules, 26(18), 5645. https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules26185645

3. Aresta, A. M., De Vietro, N., Clodoveo, M. L., Amirante, R., Corbo, F., Schena, F. P., & Zambonin, C. (2021). Determination of hydroxytyrosol and tyrosol in human urine after intake of extra virgin olive oil produced with an ultrasounds-based technology. Journal of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Analysis, 206, 114204. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jpba.2021.114204

4. De Vietro, N., Aresta, A. M., Picciariello, A., Rotelli, M. T., & Zambonin, C. (2021). Determination of VOCs in surgical resected tissues from colorectal cancer patients by solid phase microextraction coupled to gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. Applied Sciences, 11(15), 6910. https://doi.org/10.3390/app11156910

5. Mongioví, C., Lacalamita, D., Morin-Crini, N., Gabrion, X., Ivanovska, A., Sala, F., Placet, V., Rizzi, V., Gubitosa, J., Mesto, E., De Vietro, N., Crini, G., & Cosma, P. (2021). Use of chènevotte, a valuable co-product of industrial hemp fiber, as adsorbent for pollutant removal. Part I: Chemical, microscopic, spectroscopic and thermogravimetric characterization of raw and modified samples. Molecules, 26(15), 4574. https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules26154574

Aarthi R | Plant Pathology | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Aarthi R | Plant Pathology | Best Researcher Award

PhD scholar | Central Rice Research Institute | India

Aarthi is currently pursuing her postgraduate studies as a PG Scholar in Plant Pathology at Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, where she focuses on advanced plant–microbe interactions. She holds a strong academic background in agricultural sciences, with specialized training in plant pathology, microbial biotechnology, and biocontrol strategies. Her primary research interests center on the exploration and application of endophytic microorganisms for the biological control of soilborne plant pathogens, alongside the development of sustainable disease management techniques. Emerging interests include molecular mechanisms underlying host–pathogen interactions and the integration of microbial metabolites into crop protection frameworks. Professionally, Aarthi has gained valuable academic research experience through her role at Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, contributing to multiple laboratory and field-based studies on crop disease mitigation. Among her key scientific contributions, Aarthi has led investigations into the antifungal properties of endophytes against Rhizoctonia bataticola, revealing novel metabolite profiles and plant defense responses that offer potential for eco-friendly alternatives to chemical fungicides. Additionally, her work on isolating and characterizing saline-tolerant endophytes for the management of groundnut root rot has provided promising insights for agriculture in saline-prone regions, supporting both crop resilience and sustainable farming practices. Her research has resulted in peer-reviewed publications in reputed journals such as Physiological and Molecular Plant Pathology and Plant Science Today. Aarthi has been an active participant in scientific dissemination, engaging in peer review, conference presentations, and contributing to the academic community through institutional projects. She is affiliated with Tamil Nadu Agricultural University’s research network and participates in broader academic and scientific societies related to plant pathology and agricultural innovation. Her vision is to harness microbial biodiversity to develop sustainable, scalable plant disease management solutions that can reduce chemical inputs, enhance crop productivity, and support global food security in the face of climate change.

Profiles: Scopus | ORCID

Featured Publications

1. Aarthi. (2025). Biocontrol potential of endophytes against Rhizoctonia bataticola: Antifungal activity, metabolite profiling, and plant defense mechanisms. Physiological and Molecular Plant Pathology, 103(7), Article 102734. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pmpp.2025.102734

2. Aarthi. (2024). Isolation, identification, characterization and in vitro assay of saline tolerant endophytes against groundnut root rot caused by Rhizoctonia bataticola (Taub.) Butler. Plant Science Today, 11(4), 4882. https://doi.org/10.14719/pst.4882

Hesham Ghazzawy | Sustainable Agriculture | Excellence in Research Award

Prof. Dr. Hesham Ghazzawy | Sustainable Agriculture | Excellence in Research Award

Head of the Biotechnology Program | King Faisal University | Saudi Arabia

Prof. Dr. Hesham Sayed Tawfik Ghazzawy is a Professor at the Central Laboratory for Date Palm Research and Development under the Agricultural Research Center (ARC) in Egypt and serves concurrently at the Date Palm Research Center of Excellence (DPRC), King Faisal University, Saudi Arabia. He earned his Ph.D. in Pomology from Banha University in 2010 after completing his M.Sc. and B.Sc. in Pomology and Horticulture, respectively, at Cairo University. His research focuses on biotechnology, date palm physiology, crop improvement, somatic embryogenesis, and tissue culture innovations, with additional interests in sustainable horticulture, plant stress tolerance, and agricultural by-product utilization. Over a three-decade career, he has held progressive academic and research positions including Research Assistant, Associate Professor, and Consultant to international organizations such as FAO, AOAD, and ACSAD. His major contributions include advancements in in vitro propagation of date palm, improvements in fruit quality enhancement techniques, and innovations in agricultural biotechnology demonstrated through patents such as nanocomponent-based tissue culture media and color-changing food storage wrappers. He has also contributed to strategic projects in Saudi Arabia addressing crop resilience, waste recycling, biochar production, and postharvest technologies. Prof. Ghazzawy has received competitive research grants from agencies such as King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST) and the Date Palm Research Center of Excellence, reflecting his leadership in applied plant science. He serves on editorial boards for journals such as Advances in Agricultural Technology & Plant Sciences and the Sumerianz Journal of Agriculture and Veterinary, and actively reviews manuscripts for MDPI journals, the International Journal of Plant & Soil Science, and other agricultural and biotechnology publications. His professional affiliations include the Scientific Society for Flowers and Ornamental Plants and the International Association for Plant Biotechnology, underscoring his engagement in global scientific networks. With a prolific publication record spanning plant genetics, crop physiology, postharvest sciences, and climate-resilient agronomy, his work has informed both academic research and agricultural policy. His vision focuses on strengthening food security, modernizing sustainable crop production systems, and advancing plant biotechnology to support industry, environmental resilience, and global agricultural innovation. He has 595 citations from 42 publications, with an h-index of 13.

Profiles: Google Scholar | Scopus | ORCID

Featured Publications

1. Shabir, M. A., Khan, A. Z., Shabir, A., Jameel, I., Li, D., Al-Khayri, J. M., Ismail, M. M., Ghazzawy, H. S., Al-Mssallem, M. Q., & Almaghasla, M. I. (2025). Long term co-application of composted poultry manure and inorganic fertilizers promoted the soil fertility and productivity of maize-maize cropping system. Polish Journal of Environmental Studies. https://doi.org/10.15244/pjoes/202201

2. Alqahtani, N. K., Ghazzawy, H. S., Mathew, R. T., Alkhamis, Y. A., Alngada, R. S., Eissa, M. E. H., Abelnour, S. A., Ghanem, S. F., Almutairi, L. A., & Hemdan, E. (2025). Enhancing reproductive capacity in hybrid red tilapia via dietary administration of date palm pollen. Aquaculture Reports. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.aqrep.2025.102670

3. Kamara, M. M., Safhi, F. A., Al Aboud, N. M., Aljabri, M., Alharbi, S. A., Ghazzawy, H. S., Alshaharni, M. O., Fayad, E., Felemban, W. F., Abd El-Moneim, D., Hassanin, A. A., Ben Abdelmalek, I., Ali, A. M., & Mansour, E. (2024). Genetic diversity and combining ability of developed maize lines for arid conditions. Phyton – International Journal of Experimental Botany. https://doi.org/10.32604/Phyton-2024.058628

4. Elazazi, A. M. E., Awad, E.-S. A. M., Dahdoh, S. M., Hussein, A. S., Radwan, E. M. A., Hussein, E. M. E., Saeed, H. H. M., Ghazzawy, H. S., Abdelkader, M. F. M., Mahmoud, M. H., Gouda, M. M., Li, X., Abdein, M. A., & Qaoud, E.-S. M. (2024). Comprehensive evaluation of mineral and bio phosphorus fertilization on orange tree productivity. Heliyon, 10(21). https://doi.org/10.1016/j.aqrep.2025.102670

5. Mallik, S., Paria, B., Firdous, S. M., Ghazzawy, H. S., Alqahtani, N. K., He, Y., & Li, X. (2024). The positive implication of natural antioxidants on oxidative stress-mediated diabetes mellitus complications. Journal of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, 22(4), 100424.

Xiufeng Xing | Agri Policy | Best Scholar Award

Dr. Xiufeng Xing | Agri Policy | Best Scholar Award

Master's Supervisor | Qingdao University of Technology | China

Dr. Xiufeng Xing currently serves as a faculty member at Qingdao University of Technology, China, specializing in population, resources, and environmental economics with an additional academic interest in higher education studies. She holds advanced degrees in economics and has developed a strong interdisciplinary foundation that enables her to bridge socio-economic analysis with sustainable development policy. Her research primarily explores inclusive growth, environmental responsibility, and the economics of education, while her emerging interests focus on global energy market fluctuations and the socio-economic impacts of crises such as pandemics and geopolitical conflicts. Over the course of her academic career, Dr. Xing has published more than 40 peer-reviewed research papers addressing pressing issues such as the evaluation of shared prosperity in developing regions, the effects of COVID-19 and the Ukraine conflict on global oil and natural gas prices, and comparative analyses of hybrid versus traditional teaching models in higher education settings. Complementing her journal contributions, she is also the author of four scholarly books—Inclusive Growth, Corporate Environmental Responsibility, The Marketization of Urban Water Industry, and The Marketization of Domestic Service—which collectively reflect her commitment to equitable economic policy and sustainable industrial practice. Alongside her research, she has taken on key teaching responsibilities, delivering courses in environmental economics, macroeconomics, and microeconomics, where she is recognized for integrating real-world case studies into economic theory instruction. Dr. Xing has contributed to strategic policy discussions through her evidence-based evaluations of water industry reform, corporate accountability frameworks, and social service market mechanisms. She has been acknowledged through competitive research grants and institutional commendations for her leadership in advancing sustainability-focused economic analytics. Beyond authorship, she actively serves as a peer reviewer for academic journals in the domains of development economics and environmental policy and maintains membership in several professional economic and educational societies, where she contributes to collaborative research initiatives and scholarly evaluation panels. Her growing influence in the academic sphere is reflected in her role in shaping curricula and advising on macroeconomic planning within institutional and regional contexts. Driven by a vision to promote equitable prosperity through data-driven policymaking, Dr. Xiufeng Xing strives to advance frameworks that balance economic growth with social inclusion and ecological responsibility. Her work not only informs scholarly dialogue but also supports governments, industries, and educational institutions in making informed decisions that align long-term economic resilience with public welfare.

Profile: ORCID

Featured Publications 

1. Xing, X., & Wang, Y. (2025). The evaluation of shared prosperity: A case from China. Sustainability, 17(2), 621. https://doi.org/10.3390/su17020621

2. Xing, X., Cong, Y., Wang, Y., & Wang, X. (2023). The impact of COVID-19 and war in Ukraine on energy prices of oil and natural gas. Sustainability, 15(19), 14208. https://doi.org/10.3390/su151914208

3. Xing, X., & Saghaian, S. (2022). Learning outcomes of a hybrid online virtual classroom and in-person traditional classroom during the COVID-19 pandemic. Sustainability, 14(9), 5263. https://doi.org/10.3390/su14095263

4. Xing, X. (2020). Spillovers of urban road infrastructure investment and operation: A case study using synthetic control methods. Business, Management and Economics Research, 6(10), 100–110.*

5. Xing, X. (2019, June). Does university class size matter? Evidence from course micro data. In Proceedings of the Education and Economics Conference 2019.

Noah Adamtey | Soil Fertility Management | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Noah Adamtey | Soil Fertility Management | Best Researcher Award

Senior Researcher | International Water Management Institute | Ghana

Dr. Noah Adamtey is a distinguished Agronomist and Environmental Scientist, currently serving as Senior Researcher in Resource Recovery and Agri-food Systems at the International Water Management Institute (IWMI), Ghana. He earned his BSc in Agricultural Science and MPhil in Environmental Science from the University of Ghana, followed by a PhD in Environmental Science from the University of Ghana in collaboration with IWMI and Eawag-Sandec, Switzerland, and later pursued a Habilitation at the University of Giessen, Germany, focusing on resource recovery and use efficiency in farming systems. With over two decades of expertise, Dr. Adamtey’s research spans agroecology, bio-circular economy, soil fertility, nutrient cycling, sustainable water use, and climate-resilient agricultural systems. He has led and collaborated on several international projects, including long-term farming systems comparison trials across Africa, Asia, and Latin America, significantly advancing knowledge on organic versus conventional agriculture. His extensive publication record includes impactful articles in Applied Soil Ecology, Frontiers in Sustainable Food Systems, and Global Environmental Change, as well as contributions to book chapters, training manuals, and technical guides. Dr. Adamtey’s research has been recognized with prestigious awards such as the 2025 IWMI Board of Governors Award, the 2021 Louis Malassis International Scientific Award for Agroecology, and the 2019 Swiss Forum for International Agricultural Research Award. Beyond research, he contributes to academia as a lecturer at the University of Giessen and University of Hohenheim, Germany, and has been instrumental in curriculum development for agricultural institutions in Africa. He is also an active reviewer for leading journals, including Nutrient Cycling in Agroecosystems, Agronomy Journal, and Sustainability. Through his scientific leadership, teaching, and international collaborations, Dr. Adamtey continues to influence sustainable agriculture, environmental stewardship, and food security worldwide

Profile: Google Scholar 

Featured Publications 

1. Adamtey, N., Musyoka, M. W., Zundel, C., Cobo, J. G., Karanja, E., Fiaboe, K. K. M., ... (2016). Productivity, profitability and partial nutrient balance in maize-based conventional and organic farming systems in Kenya. Agriculture, Ecosystems & Environment.

2. Adamtey, N., Cofie, O., Ofosu-Budu, K. G., Ofosu-Anim, J., Laryea, K. B., & Forster, D. (2010). Effect of N-enriched co-compost on transpiration efficiency and water-use efficiency of maize (Zea mays L.) under controlled irrigation. Agricultural Water Management.

3. Adamtey, N., Cofie, O., Ofosu-Budu, G. K., Danso, S. K. A., & Forster, D. (2009). Production and storage of N-enriched co-compost. Waste Management.

4. Neither, W., Schneidewind, U., Armengot, L., Adamtey, N., Schneider, M., ... (2017). Spatial-temporal soil moisture dynamics under different cocoa production systems. Catena.

5. Atandi, J. G., Haukeland, S., Kariuki, G. M., Coyne, D. L., Karanja, E. N., ... (2017). Organic farming provides improved management of plant parasitic nematodes in maize and bean cropping systems. Agriculture, Ecosystems & Environment.