Hamidreza Balouchi | Agronomy | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr.  Hamidreza Balouchi |  Agronomy | Best Researcher Award

Yasouj university, Iran

Dr. Hamidreza Balouchi (b. 1979, Shiraz, Iran) is a Professor at Yasouj University, specializing in Seed Science and Technology, Crop Physiology, Ecophysiology, and the impact of abiotic stress on crops. He earned his Ph.D. in Agronomy (Crop Physiology) from Tarbiat Modares University in 2008, following earlier degrees from Shiraz and Tarbiat Modares Universities.

Profile:

🎓 Academic Background:

  • Ph.D. in Agronomy (Crop Physiology), Tarbiat Modares University (2008)

  • M.Sc. in Agronomy, Tarbiat Modares University (2003)

  • B.Sc. in Agronomy & Plant Breeding, Shiraz University (2001)

🌱 Research Interests:

  • Seed Science & Technology

  • Crop Physiology & Plant Growth Regulation

  • Ecophysiology & Abiotic Stress (Drought, Salinity, Heavy Metals)

  • Application of Microbial Materials and Phytohormones

🧪 Scientific Contributions & Roles:

  • Director of Research & Graduate Studies, Yasouj University (2020–Present)

  • Editor-in-Chief, Iranian Journal of Seed Research

  • Scientific Committee Member for major Iranian seed conferences (2022–2024)

  • Extensive teaching experience in Agronomy, Botany, and Seed Technology

🏆 Achievements & Awards:

  • 🎓 First Rank in B.Sc., M.Sc., and Ph.D. Entrance Exams in Iran

  • 🎖 Best Selected Student, Shiraz University (2000)

  • 🧑‍🏫 Head of multiple academic and student associations

  • 💼 Leadership roles at Yasouj University including department head and training center director

💻 Technical Skills:

  • Statistical and analysis tools: MSTATC, SAS, R

  • Microsoft Office, Adobe tools

📊 Citation Metrics:

  • Total Citations: 1,911

  • Citations Since 2020: 1,286

  • h-index: 21

  • h-index Since 2020: 17

  • i10-index: 46

  • i10-index Since 2020: 30

Publication Top Notes:

  1. Study of water stress effects in different growth stages on yield and yield components of different rice (Oryza sativa L.) cultivars

  2. Screening wheat parents of mapping population for heat and drought tolerance, detection of wheat genetic variation

  3. Microbial seed coating: An attractive tool for sustainable agriculture

  4. Effect of micronutrients foliar application on grain qualitative characteristics and some physiological traits of bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) under drought stress

  5. Effect of temperature and water potential on Carthamus tinctorius L. seed germination: Quantification of the cardinal temperatures and modeling using hydrothermal time

  6. Growth and nutrient content of Echinacea purpurea as affected by the combination of phosphorus with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungus and Pseudomonas florescent bacterium under water deficit stress

  7. Improving yield, oil content and water productivity of dryland canola by supplementary irrigation and selenium spraying

  8. Improvement of cumin (Cuminum cyminum) seed performance under drought stress by seed coating and biopriming

  9. Improving growth and phenolic compounds of Echinacea purpurea root by integrating biological and chemical resources of phosphorus under water deficit stress

  10. Electromagnetic field impact on annual medics and dodder seed germination

  11. Effect of gibberellic acid, prechilling, sulfuric acid and potassium nitrate on seed germination and dormancy of annual medics

  12. Effect of Chemical (Urea), Organic (Vermicompost) and Biological (Nitroxin) Fertilizers on Quantity and Quality Yield of Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.)

  13. UV radiation, elevated CO2 and water stress effect on growth and photosynthetic characteristics in durum wheat

  14. Study of water stress effects in different growth stages on yield and yield components of different rice (Oryza sativa L.) cultivars (conference paper)

  15. Improve wheat (Triticum aestivum) performance by brassinolide application under different irrigation regimes

  16. Roles of methyl jasmonate in improving growth and yield of two varieties of bread wheat (Triticum aestivum) under different irrigation regimes

  17. Improvement of Echinacea purpurea performance by integration of phosphorus with soil microorganisms under different irrigation regimes

  18. Effect of seed priming on antioxidant enzymes and lipids peroxidation of cell membrane in Black cumin (Nigella sativa) seedling under salinity and drought stress

  19. Efficacy of biological agents and fillers seed coating in improving drought stress in anise

  20. Evaluation of photosynthesis parameters, chlorophyll content and fluorescence of safflower cultivars under saline condition

 

Sinoxolo Magaya | Organic Farming | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Sinoxolo Magaya | Organic Farming | Best Researcher Award

Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam,  Netherlands

Sinoxolo Magaya is a PhD researcher in Environmental Geography at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, focusing on sustainable nutrient management in organic agriculture. Her current thesis explores the potentials and constraints of recycled phosphorus product use across the EU. She holds a cum laude MSc in Geography & Environmental Studies from the University of the Witwatersrand, with prior degrees in Geography and Hydrology.

Profile:

🎓 Education:

  • PhD in Environmental Geography (2021–Present)
    Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam
    Thesis: Potentials and constraints of recycled phosphorus in EU organic farming

  • MSc Geography & Environmental Studies (Cum Laude) (2019–2021)
    University of Witwatersrand
    Thesis: Indigenous Knowledge in agricultural management

  • BSc Hons Geography (2018–2019)
    University of Witwatersrand

  • BSc Geography & Hydrology (2014–2016)
    University of Zululand

🧠 Research Focus:

  • Recycled phosphorus use in agriculture

  • Indigenous knowledge systems & climate adaptation

  • Urban food systems modeling

  • Nature-based solutions & sustainability transitions

🧪 Skills & Tools:

  • Ethnographic research | Policy analysis | Stakeholder engagement

  • GIS (QGIS & ArcGIS) | R Studio | Atlas.ti | Microsoft Office | Data mining & analytics

🗣️ Conferences & Presentations:

  • 🧾 ReCap Conference, 2024 – Poster on phosphorus distribution in organic farming

  • 🧪 NERM Workshop, 2024 – Fertilizer-based phosphorus research

  • 🎙️ Panelist – Language Policy in Higher Education (Wits Symposium, 2019)

💰 Research Funding:

  • Moses Kotane Institute – R120,000

  • National Research Foundation – R75,000

  • CSIR – R100,000

👩🏽‍🏫 Teaching & Outreach:

  • Guest lectures on GIS, nutrient mapping & environmental science

  • PhD representative (Marie Curie project, 2021–2025)

  • Poster Prize Winner, 2024

  • Golden Key Honour Society Member, 2021

Publication Top Notes:

  • Approaching positionality in research on Indigenous Knowledge Systems

  • Phosphorus removal and use in organic crop farming in the EU

  • Indigenous Knowledge Systems cues essential in agricultural management and tracking seasonality in KwaZulu-Natal and Eastern Cape, South Africa

  • Food systems modelling to evaluate interventions for food and nutrition security in an African urban context

  • Use of recycled phosphorus products in organic farming in EU member states: Theoretically supported but practically restricted

 

Smitha Thomas | Agricultural Microbiology | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Smitha Thomas | Agricultural Microbiology | Best Researcher Award

Research Scholar at St.Teresas College, Ernakulam,  India

Ms. Smitha Thomas is a dedicated research scholar specializing in Agricultural Microbiology at Mahatma Gandhi University, Kerala. Her research focuses on the role of beneficial microbes in enhancing soil fertility and sustainable crop productivity. With a strong academic background and passion for microbial interactions in agroecosystems, she aims to contribute to environmentally friendly agricultural practices.

Profile:

🎓 Academic Background:

  • Ph.D. (Ongoing) in Botany – Agricultural Microbes, Mahatma Gandhi University, Kerala (Coursework Grade: A – 79.3%)

  • M.Phil. in Botany, St. Teresa’s College, Ernakulam – M.G. University (Grade: A – 84.4%)

  • M.Sc. in Botany, M.G. University, Kerala – 66.14%

  • B.Ed. in Natural Science, M.G. University, Kerala – 67%

  • B.Sc. in Botany, M.G. University, Kerala – 75%

🧪 Research Focus:

  • Application of Plant Growth-Promoting Rhizobacteria (PGPR) in Olericulture

  • Biological Control, Molecular Genetics, Plant Tissue Culture, and Medical Drug Designing

🏆 Academic Recognition & Awards:

  • SET Qualified, 2004

  • DCE Aspire Fellowship for Ph.D. (2022–2023), Govt. of Kerala

  • Outstanding Researcher Award, 1st International Agriculture Conference on Natural vs Organic Farming, Gujarat (Dec 2023)

  • Certificate of Excellence in ReviewingJournal of Scientific Research and Reports (2024)

🎤 Oral Presentations:

  • PGPR research presentations at:

    • 7th Asian PGPR Conference, Telangana (2022)

    • 36th Kerala Science Congress, Kasaragod (2024)

    • RICERCA 2021 National Conference, Alappuzha

    • National Seminar on Miracle Millets, Ernakulam (2023)

🌱 Professional Experience:

  • Over 10 years of teaching experience (2004–2024) as Lecturer in Botany

🌍 Conferences & Training (2020–2024):

  • Attended and presented in 11 Conferences, 4 Oral Presentations, 47 Webinars/Seminars, and 4 Certified Courses

  • Topics include Biotechnology, Natural Farming, Thesis Writing, Molecular Docking, and AI Tools in Research

  • Notable Participation:

    • International Conference on Decarbonizing Agriculture (2023)

    • National Conference on Ethnic Vegetables, Dr. YSRHU (2023)

🧬 Certifications & Courses:

  • Research and Publication Ethics – St. Thomas College & Calicut University

  • Advanced Molecular Docking – SAFI Institute of Advanced Studies

  • AI Tools in Academia – Assumption College, Kerala

  • International Internship on Bioanalytical Techniques – Sacred Heart College & BSN

📝 Peer Reviewer For:

  • Asian Journal of Advances in Agricultural Research

  • Asian Journal of Soil Science and Plant Nutrition

  • Journal of Scientific Research and Reports

Publication Top Notes:

  • Molecular Identification of Plant Growth-Promoting Rhizobacteria and Their Antiphytopathogenic Compounds by LC-MS TOF Analysis
    Preprint published on March 26, 2025
    DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-6083519/v1
    Contributors: Smitha Thomas, Lizzy Mathew

  • Isolation and Molecular Identification of Phosphate Solubilizing Bacteria, Bacillus licheniformis UBPSB-07 Capable of Enhancing Seed Germination in Vigna radiata L.
    Published in: Phytomorphology (Journal Article)
    Author: Smitha Thomas

 

Joyce Abrafi Opoku | Sustainable Agriculture | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Joyce Abrafi Opoku | Sustainable Agriculture | Best Researcher Award

Seventh-day Adventist College of Education, Asokore- Koforidua, Ghana

Joyce Abrafi Opoku is the Director of Professional Development, Research, and International Relations at the Seventh-day Adventist College of Education in Asokore-Koforidua, Ghana. With a research focus on sustainable agriculture and the propagation of difficult-to-propagate plant species, she has contributed significantly to applied agricultural science. Ms. Opoku has authored four publications and participated in additional collaborative research projects. Her dedication has earned her several recognitions, including the “Best Institutional Farmer” award in 2017 and both the “Principal’s Excellence Award” and “Milestone Achievement Award” in 2024. She has served in key academic and administrative roles, including Dean of Students’ Affairs, Head of the Science Department, and Unit Head of Agriculture. A committed member of several professional bodies, including the Horticultural Society of Ghana and the Agricultural Science Teachers’ Association of Ghana, Ms. Opoku continues to advance agricultural education and practice through research and leadership.

Profile:

🧪 Research Focus:

Joyce Abrafi Opoku’s research centers on the use of organic resources for sustainable agriculture and the enhancement of propagation methods for challenging plant species. Her contributions bridge scientific practice and community agriculture.

🏆 Achievements:

  • Best Institutional Farmer Award (2017) – National Farmer’s Day, New Juabeng North Municipality 🚜

  • Principal’s Excellence Award (2024) 🎓

  • Milestone Achievement Award (2024) 🌟

  • Authored four publications and contributed to additional works in progress 📄

🎓 Academic & Administrative Roles:

  • Former Dean of Students’ Affairs

  • Head of the Science Department

  • Unit Head of Agriculture

  • Committee Member – Appointments and Finance, SDA College of Education

🤝 Professional Memberships:

  • Horticultural Society of Ghana 🌼

  • Colleges of Education Teachers’ Association of Ghana (CETAG)

  • Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT)

  • Agricultural Science Teachers’ Association of Ghana (ASTAG)

Publication Top Notes:

  • Effect of Pre-Sowing Treatments on Seed Germination and Seedling Growth of Silver Butterfly Tree (Bauhinia rufescens)
    Current Agriculture Research Journal, 2018-12-28
    DOI: 10.12944/CARJ.6.3.13
    Contributors: J. A. Opoku, J. N. Amissah, M. E. Essilfie, J. C. Norman

  • Seed Germination Percentage and Growth Performance of Caesalpinia pulcherrima as Influenced by Different Pre-Sowing Treatments
    Journal of Forestry, 2018-07-31
    Contributor: Joyce Abrafi Opoku

 

Jean Baptiste Biloa | Soil Fertility | Best Academic Researcher Award

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

Weiping Liu | Environmental Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr.  Weiping Liu | Environmental Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Zhejiang Shuren University, China

Prof. Weiping Liu is a distinguished environmental scientist and chemist currently serving as Dean of the Interdisciplinary Research Academy at Zhejiang Shuren University, China. He earned his B.S. and M.S. degrees in Chemistry and Environmental Science from Zhejiang University and a Ph.D. in Environmental Science from Tokyo University of Agriculture, Japan. His academic career spans over four decades, including prominent roles at Zhejiang University and Zhejiang University of Technology.

Profile:

Education:

  • B.S. in Chemistry, Zhejiang University, China (1982)

  • M.S. in Environmental Science, Zhejiang University, China (1989)

  • Ph.D. in Environmental Science, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Japan (2007)

Professional Experience:

  • Dean, Interdisciplinary Research Academy, Zhejiang Shuren University (2020–present)

  • Dean, College of Environmental and Resource Sciences, Zhejiang University (2009–2018)

  • Director, Institute of Environmental Health, Zhejiang University (2018–2021)

  • Distinguished Professor, Zhejiang University (2009–2024)

  • Director, Research Center of Environmental Sciences, Zhejiang University of Technology (2005–2009)

  • Visiting Scientist/Professor at institutions in Italy, USA, and Japan (1990–2007)

  • Various academic roles at Zhejiang University, rising from Teaching Assistant to Professor (1982–2005)

Research Focus:

Environmental Science, Environmental Health, Agricultural Chemistry, and Resource Sciences.

Honors and Awards:

  • Fellow, American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS), USA (2012)

  • Chemist Award of the Year, American Chemical Society (ACS), USA (2003)

  • National Science Fund for Distinguished Young Scholars, China (2002)

  • Outstanding Young Scientist Award, China (1990)

  • Outstanding Scientist in Environmental Science, National EPA, China (1995)

  • JSPS Senior Fellowship, Japan (1999)

  • Multiple distinguished teaching and contribution awards in China.

International Experience:

  • Visiting roles at the University of California, Riverside (USA), University of Sassari (Italy), Kyushu University (Japan), and others.

Citations:

  • Total Citations: 33,859

  • Citations Since 2020: 15,356

  • h-index: 97

  • h-index Since 2020: 63

  • i10-index: 506

  • i10-index Since 2020: 368

Publication Top Notes:

  1. Weakly Coordinating Directing Groups for Ruthenium (II)‐Catalyzed C H Activation
    S De Sarkar, W Liu, SI Kozhushkov, L Ackermann
    Advanced Synthesis & Catalysis, 356 (7), 1461-1479, 775 (2014)

  2. Enantioselectivity in Environmental Safety of Current Chiral Insecticides
    W Liu, J Gan, D Schlenk, WA Jury
    Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 102 (3), 701-706, 601 (2005)

  3. Manganese-Catalyzed C–H Activation
    W Liu, L Ackermann
    Acs Catalysis, 6 (6), 3743-3752, 580 (2016)

  4. Oxidative Stress Response and Gene Expression with Atrazine Exposure in Adult Female Zebrafish (Danio rerio)
    Y Jin, X Zhang, L Shu, L Chen, L Sun, H Qian, W Liu, Z Fu
    Chemosphere, 78 (7), 846-852, 502 (2010)

  5. Fast and Highly Efficient Removal of Dyes under Alkaline Conditions Using Magnetic Chitosan-Fe (III) Hydrogel
    C Shen, Y Shen, Y Wen, H Wang, W Liu
    Water Research, 45 (16), 5200-5210, 357 (2011)

  6. Oxidative Removal of Bisphenol A by Manganese Dioxide: Efficacy, Products, and Pathways
    K Lin, W Liu, J Gan
    Environmental Science & Technology, 43 (10), 3860-3864, 352 (2009)

  7. Fe-g-C3N4/Graphitized Mesoporous Carbon Composite as an Effective Fenton-Like Catalyst in a Wide pH Range
    J Ma, Q Yang, Y Wen, W Liu
    Applied Catalysis B: Environmental, 201, 232-240, 321 (2017)

  8. Status of Metal Accumulation in Farmland Soils Across China: From Distribution to Risk Assessment
    L Niu, F Yang, C Xu, H Yang, W Liu
    Environmental Pollution, 176, 55-62, 319 (2013)

  9. Action Mechanisms of Acetolactate Synthase-Inhibiting Herbicides
    Q Zhou, W Liu, Y Zhang, KK Liu
    Pesticide Biochemistry and Physiology, 89 (2), 89-96, 316 (2007)

  10. Status of Phthalate Esters Contamination in Agricultural Soils Across China and Associated Health Risks
    L Niu, Y Xu, C Xu, L Yun, W Liu
    Environmental Pollution, 195, 16-23, 304 (2014)

  11. Combined Effect of Copper and Cadmium on Chlorella vulgaris Growth and Photosynthesis-Related Gene Transcription
    H Qian, J Li, L Sun, W Chen, GD Sheng, W Liu, Z Fu
    Aquatic Toxicology, 94 (1), 56-61, 303 (2009)

  12. Effects of Copper Sulfate, Hydrogen Peroxide and N-Phenyl-2-Naphthylamine on Oxidative Stress and the Expression of Genes Involved in Photosynthesis and Microcystin Disposition in
    H Qian, S Yu, Z Sun, X Xie, W Liu, Z Fu
    Aquatic Toxicology, 99 (3), 405-412, 263 (2010)

  13. Enantioselectivity in Environmental Risk Assessment of Modern Chiral Pesticides
    J Ye, M Zhao, J Liu, W Liu
    Environmental Pollution, 158 (7), 2371-2383, 259 (2010)

  14. Cypermethrin Has the Potential to Induce Hepatic Oxidative Stress, DNA Damage and Apoptosis in Adult Zebrafish (Danio rerio)
    Y Jin, S Zheng, Y Pu, L Shu, L Sun, W Liu, Z Fu
    Chemosphere, 82 (3), 398-404, 249 (2011)

  15. Allelochemical Stress Causes Oxidative Damage and Inhibition of Photosynthesis in Chlorella vulgaris
    H Qian, X Xu, W Chen, H Jiang, Y Jin, W Liu, Z Fu
    Chemosphere, 75 (3), 368-375, 241 (2009)

  16. Particle Size-Specific Distributions and Preliminary Exposure Assessments of Organophosphate Flame Retardants in Office Air Particulate Matter
    F Yang, J Ding, W Huang, W Xie, W Liu
    Environmental Science & Technology, 48 (1), 63-70, 234 (2014)

  17. Distribution and Persistence of Pyrethroids in Runoff Sediments
    J Gan, SJ Lee, WP Liu, DL Haver, JN Kabashima
    Journal of Environmental Quality, 34 (3), 836-841, 225 (2005)

  18. Effect of Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals on the Transcription of Genes Related to the Innate Immune System in the Early Developmental Stage of Zebrafish (Danio rerio)
    Y Jin, R Chen, W Liu, Z Fu
    Fish & Shellfish Immunology, 28 (5-6), 854-861, 221 (2010)

  19. Enhanced Photocatalytic Activity of Supported TiO2: Dispersing Effect of SiO2
    Y Xu, W Zheng, W Liu
    Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology A: Chemistry, 122 (1), 57-60, 202 (1999)

  20. Cobalt Complexes as an Emerging Class of Catalysts for Homogeneous Hydrogenations
    W Liu, B Sahoo, K Junge, M Beller
    Accounts of Chemical Research, 51 (8), 1858-1869, 200 (2018)

 

Rahma Ines Zoghlami | Soil Systems | Best Researcher Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Rahma Ines  Zoghlami | Soil Systems | Best Researcher Award

Assistant Professor at  National Institute for Agricultural Research, Tunisia

Dr. Rahma Inès Zoghlami is a dedicated agricultural researcher and project manager specializing in sustainable agriculture, food security, climate change, and disaster risk assessment. She holds a Doctorate in Agricultural Sciences and currently serves as an Assistant Professor in Soil Sciences at the National Institute of Agricultural Research in Tunis.

Profile:

🧑‍🏫 Professional Skills:

  • Leadership: Proven ability to manage and guide research teams.

  • Grant Writing & Fundraising: Skilled in securing funds for agricultural initiatives.

  • International Collaboration: Extensive experience in managing global research projects.

  • Project Management: Successful execution of initiatives like CambiFarm and ISFERALDA.

  • Research Methodologies: Proficient in both qualitative and quantitative research methods.

  • Data Analysis: Expertise in using statistical tools for insightful decision-making.

  • Stakeholder Engagement: Effective collaboration with government and NGOs in Tunisia.

🌍 Key Projects & Contributions:

🌱 CambiFarm Project (PRIMA)

As the Coordinator, Rahma led the integration of biochar, biogas, and cyanobacteria fertigation technologies to develop smart circular farming systems. This project aimed to foster sustainable agriculture through innovative technologies.

🌾 Tunisian Agricultural Project (OAMS)

Rahma coordinated this project focusing on the use of biochar and chipped ramial wood as fertilizers for barley cultivation to combat erosion and enhance soil productivity.

🌱 ICARDA Agroecology Initiative

Rahma served as an invited expert in the Agroecology project, contributing to sustainable food system resilience and equity through transdisciplinary research.

🌴 ISFERALDA Project (PRIMA)

As an invited expert, Rahma contributed to the development of organic amendments using date palm residues, improving soil fertility through composting and pyrolysis.

🏆 Awards & Recognition:

  • Recognized for leadership in sustainable agriculture and food security initiatives.

  • Expert in managing international research collaborations and impactful agricultural projects.

Publication Top Notes:

  • Addressing Soil Fertility Challenges in Arid Agriculture: A Two-Year Evaluation of Combined Soil Organic Amendments Under Saline Irrigation
    Soil Systems | February 2025 | Author
    DOI: 10.3390/soilsystems9010016

  • Using Date Palm Residues to Improve Soil Properties: The Case of Compost and Biochar
    Soil Systems | June 2024 | Author
    DOI: 10.3390/soilsystems8030069

  • Assessment of Earthworm Viability and Soil Health after Two Years of Raw and Composted De-Inking Paper Sludge Amendment
    Agriculture | February 2023 | Author
    DOI: 10.3390/agriculture13030547

  • Soil Physicochemical Changes as Modulated by Treated Wastewater after Medium-and Long-Term Irrigations: A Case Study from Tunisia
    Agriculture | December 2022 | Author
    DOI: 10.3390/agriculture12122139

  • Evaluation of Composted Organic Wastes and Farmyard Manure for Improving Fertility of Poor Sandy Soils in Arid Regions
    Agriculture (Switzerland) | 2021 | Author
    DOI: 10.3390/agriculture11050415

  • Variation of Soil Properties with Sampling Depth in Two Different Light-Textured Soils after Repeated Applications of Urban Sewage Sludge
    Journal of Environmental Management | 2021 | Author
    DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2021.113355

  • Short-Term Effects of Biosolid Application on Two Mediterranean Agricultural Soils and Durum Wheat Yield
    Agronomy | April 2021 | Author
    DOI: 10.3390/agronomy11040709

  • Carbon Mineralization, Biological Indicators, and Phytotoxicity to Assess the Impact of Urban Sewage Sludge on Two Light-Textured Soils in a Microcosm
    Journal of Environmental Quality | 2020 | Author
    DOI: 10.1002/jeq2.20011

  • Impact of Urban Sewage Sludge on Soil Physico-Chemical Properties and Phytotoxicity as Influenced by Soil Texture and Reuse Conditions
    Journal of Environmental Quality | 2020 | Author
    DOI: 10.1002/jeq2.20093

 

 

Yogita Patil | Agricultural Microbiology | Best Researcher Award

Ms.Yogita Patil | Agricultural Microbiology | Best Researcher Award

Research Student at H. V. Desai College Pune, Maharashtra, India

Ms. Yogita M. Patil is an experienced academician and researcher in the field of Microbiology with over 14 years of teaching and research experience. She is currently working as an Assistant Professor at P.D.E.A’s Waghire College, Saswad, Pune, and serves as a Senior Research Fellow under SARTHI-CSMNRF since 2022.

Profile:

🎓 Academic Background:

  • Ph.D. (Pursuing) – Savitribai Phule Pune University
    Research Topic: Techno-economic feasibility assessment of novel health-promoting probiotics from natural sources

  • M.Phil. in Microbiology – North Maharashtra University (Grade A)
    Dissertation: An Insight in the Methods to Establish Culture as Probiotic

  • M.Sc. & B.Sc. in Microbiology – North Maharashtra University

  • Qualified SET & ICAR-NET (Microbiology)

🧪 Research & Publications:

Ms. Patil has contributed to applied microbiological research, particularly in:

  • Probiotics & Gut Health

  • Soil Microbiology

  • Environmental Microbiology

📄 Notable Publications:

  • Improving the Gut Microbiota with Probiotics and FMTJ. Pure & Applied Microbiology (2021)

  • Soil Beneficial Bacteria Studies in Saswad & Ketkawale Regions (2017)

👩‍🏫 Professional Experience:

  • 🌟 14+ years of teaching and research experience

  • Assistant Professor (Microbiology) at P.D.E.A.’s Waghire College, Saswad – 8 years

  • Former lecturer at MJ College Jalgaon and Dnyansarita Institute

  • Currently a Senior Research Fellow (SARTHI CSMNRF) since 2022

🏆 Awards & Recognitions:

  • 🥈 Multiple Second Prizes in National & International Poster Competitions (2006–2022)

  • 🥉 Third Prize – International Conference on Microbiology & Environmental Sciences (2021)

  • 🎯 Participant – Avishkar University Research Competition, SPPU Pune (2022)

💻 Skills:

  • Proficient in microbiology lab techniques and basic computer applications (MS-CIT certified)

  • Multilingual: Fluent in English, Hindi, and Marathi

Publication:

  • Improving the Gut Microbiota with Probiotics and Faecal Microbiota Transplantation
    Yogita M. Patil, Rajashree B. Patwardhan, Pragati S. Abhyankar
    Journal of Pure and Applied Microbiology, Vol. 15, No. 3, pp.

Latif Ahmad Peer | Plant Science | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Latif Ahmad Peer  | Plant Science | Best Researcher Award

Associate Professor at University of Kashmir, India

Dr. Latif Ahmad Peer is an Associate Professor in the Department of Botany at the University of Kashmir, specializing in plant morphogenesis and climate-smart agriculture. He earned his Ph.D. in Botany in 2022 with research focused on morphogenetic assessment in Zea mays L., contributing to sustainable agricultural practices. With over two decades of academic and teaching experience, Dr. Peer has served in various roles, progressing from Lecturer to Associate Professor since 2007.

Profile:

🎓 Academic Journey:

Dr. Latif Ahmad Peer earned his Ph.D. in Botany from the University of Kashmir in 2022, with a thesis titled “Morphogenetic assessment in Zea mays L. with reference to climate smart agriculture.” He also holds a Master’s degree in Botany (2003) and a Bachelor’s in Biology and Chemistry (2001).

👨‍🏫 Academic Roles & Experience:

With over 20 years of teaching and research experience, Dr. Peer currently serves as an Associate Professor in the Department of Botany, University of Kashmir. He has previously worked as a Lecturer and Assistant Professor, contributing significantly to both undergraduate and postgraduate education.

🔬 Research Focus:

His research interests center around climate-smart agriculture, morphogenetic plant analysis, and the adaptation of Zea mays L. (maize) to environmental stress, with an emphasis on improving crop resilience and sustainability.

🏛️ University Service & Leadership:

Dr. Peer plays an active role in the university’s academic and administrative activities:

  • Academic & Career Counsellor

  • Member of UG/PG Boards of Studies

  • Incharge of the Computer Lab & Department Auditorium

  • Member of Research and Admission Committees

🌱 Impact & Vision:

Dedicated to sustainable agricultural development and botanical innovation, Dr. Peer’s work contributes to environmentally adaptive farming practices in the Himalayan region and beyond.

Publication Top Notes:

  • Floral Induction Pathways: Decision Making and Determination in Plants to Flower – A Comprehensive Review

  • High Temperature Triggered Plant Responses From Whole Plant to Cellular Level

  • Potential Antioxidant Activity of Some Mushrooms Growing in Kashmir Valley

  • Traditional Uses, Phytochemistry, Pharmacology, and Toxicology of the Genus Artemisia L. (Asteraceae): A High-Value Medicinal Plant

  • Phenolic Content, Antioxidant and Allelopathic Potential of Artemisia brevifolia Wall. ex DC. Across the Elevations of Western Himalayan Region of Ladakh

  • Phytochemistry, Pharmacological Activities, and Ethnomedicinal Importance of the Highly Valuable Endangered Plant, Podophyllum hexandrum: A Comprehensive Review

  • Rhizosphere Mycobiome Diversity of Medicinal Plants: A Review

  • Genetic, Molecular and Physiological Crosstalk During Drought Tolerance in Maize (Zea mays): Pathways to Resilient Agriculture

  • Repurposing of Plant-Based Antiviral Molecules for the Treatment of COVID-19

  • Drought Stress-Induced Impact on Morpho-Physiological Traits in Maize Landraces of Kashmir

  • Phytochemistry, Biological Properties, Economic and Ecological Importance of Taraxacum officinale: A Review

  • Genetic Diversity Analysis in Maize Landraces Under Temperate Ecology

  • Phytochemistry, Biological Activity and Medicinal Importance of Urtica dioica: A Review

  • Self-Incompatibility Patterns and Signal Transduction

  • Medicinal Plants of the Himalayan Tral Region of Kashmir, India: An Ethnobotanical Study of Their Diversity, Use Patterns, and Health Implications

  • Maize Characterization: From Genotyping to High-Throughput Phenotyping

  • Effect of Plant Growth Promoting Bacillus Species on the Growth of Blue Pine Seedlings

  • Cowpea Wild Relatives for Cowpea Sustainability Through Introgression Breeding

  • Harnessing Phytohormone Dynamics to Fortify Crop Resilience Against Drought: A Comprehensive Review

  • Comprehensive Morphological Characterization of Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.) Genotypes for Enhanced Breeding Programs in Jammu and Kashmir

 

Avtar Singh Bimbraw | Conservation Agriculture | Excellence in Research

Dr. Avtar Singh Bimbraw | Conservation Agriculture | Excellence in Research

Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, Punjab, India

Dr. Avtar Singh Bimbraw served as a Senior Agronomist at the Punjab Agricultural University, contributing significantly to the field of agronomy through research, teaching, and extension activities. With a distinguished career spanning several decades, he played a pivotal role in advancing sustainable agricultural practices in Punjab. His expertise and dedication have left a lasting impact on the agrarian community and academic fraternity alike.

Profile:

🎓 Academic Qualifications:

  • Ph.D. in Agronomy, PAU, Ludhiana (1985) – OGPA 3.28/4.00

  • M.Sc. Dairying (Forage Production), NDRI, Karnal (1980) – 68.29%

  • B.Sc. Agriculture (Hons.), PAU, Ludhiana (1977) – OGPA 2.52/4.00

  • Matriculation, Punjab School Education Board (1970) – 61.1%

🛠️ Additional Training (India, 1–14 days):

Participated in 8 specialized trainings, including:

  • Seed production technologies

  • Agroforestry evaluation

  • Sugarcane seed certification

  • Global Positioning System (GPS) applications in agriculture

📅 Service Record at PAU:

  • Joined University Service: November 29, 1985 (Senior Research Fellow)

  • Assistant Professor: 1986–1992

  • Agronomist: 1992–2000

  • Senior Agronomist: 2000–2014

🏛️ Administrative Experience:

  • Director, RRS, Kheri (1992–1998)

  • Section Head, Forage Section (2001–2011)

  • Section Head, Tillage Schemes (2005–2008)

  • Section Head, Conservation Agriculture (2009 onward)

👨‍🏫 Teaching Contributions:

  • Taught diverse undergraduate and postgraduate agronomy courses (e.g., Agron.101, 201, 424, 521, 530, 603)

  • Supervised 7 M.Sc. and 2 Ph.D. students

  • Conducted practical courses under “Earn While You Learn” scheme

  • Served as external examiner for 5 universities

  • Participated in selection committees for various state and national appointments

🔬 Research Highlights:

  • Led multiple projects (8 total), with significant outcomes including:

    • Inclusion of Dill (Anethum graveolens L.) in Punjab’s Rabi Package of Practices

    • Intercropping systems with sugarcane (moong, mash, cabbage, mentha)

    • Direct Seeded Rice and Zero/No-Tillage cultivation technologies

    • Evaluation of varieties: sugarcane, cotton, gram, berseem, moong

    • Nutrient management and sowing window studies for legumes and cereals

🌱 Seed Production Achievements (1992–2001):

  • Produced and certified ~29,565 quintals of quality seeds (e.g., sugarcane, wheat, maize, pulses)

  • Strengthened farm infrastructure for seed production (e.g., seed grader, tractors)

  • Contributed significantly to PAU’s farm income and seed supply chain

📢 Extension & Outreach:

  • Participated in Kisan Melas, Divas, field days, camps, and radio/TV talks

  • Acted as resource person in refresher courses, summer schools, and district-level workshops

  • Regularly disseminated improved crop production technologies to farming communities

🏆 Notable Recognitions:

  • Subject Expert, Commonwealth Scholarship/Fellowship selection panel (2013)

  • Member, selection committees for various agricultural appointments and programs

Publication:

  • Response of Fodder Maize to Different Levels of Nitrogen Under Various Establishment Methods