Muhammad Ather Nadeem | Agronomy |  Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Muhammad Ather Nadeem | Agronomy |  Best Researcher Award

Professor/Dean | University of Sargodha | Pakistan

Dr. Muhammad Ather Nadeem is a distinguished researcher specializing in Weed Science and Agronomy, with a particular focus on nano herbicides, herbicide resistance, allelopathy, and sustainable fodder production systems. His research explores the interactions between crops and weeds, emphasizing innovative and eco-friendly weed management approaches, plant–plant biochemical interactions, and the optimization of fertilizer and nutrient application for enhanced yield and quality. Serving as a leading academic at the University of Sargodha, Pakistan, Dr. Nadeem has played a vital role in advancing agricultural science through his extensive teaching, research supervision, and collaborative projects aimed at improving productivity and environmental sustainability. His scholarly contributions encompass over a hundred peer-reviewed publications, including highly cited works such as “Pesticides: Impacts on Agriculture Productivity, Environment, and Management Strategies” and “Can Hormesis of Plant-Released Phytotoxins Be Used to Boost and Sustain Crop Production?” which collectively demonstrate his commitment to balancing agricultural efficiency with environmental health. His pioneering studies on the integrated use of microbial and synthetic nitrogen sources, drought tolerance mechanisms, and sustainable fodder production have provided practical insights into mitigating climate change impacts on crop systems. Dr. Nadeem’s expertise extends beyond laboratory research to field-level innovations, influencing regional agricultural practices and policy discussions related to weed management and food security. Recognized for his remarkable academic metrics with over 5,000 citations, an h-index of 43, and an i10-index of 127, his research continues to shape new paradigms in agro-ecosystem management and resource-efficient farming. Through interdisciplinary collaboration and scientific leadership, Dr. Nadeem envisions a future where advanced biotechnological and ecological principles drive resilient and sustainable agriculture. His ongoing work contributes profoundly to global innovation in sustainable crop protection, positioning him as a key figure in the advancement of eco-agronomic research and an advocate for science-led agricultural transformation.

Profiles: Google Scholar | ResearchGate

Featured Publications

1. Ayub, M., Nadeem, M. A., Sharar, M. S., & Mahmood, N. (2002). Response of maize (Zea mays L.) fodder to different levels of nitrogen and phosphorus. Asian Journal of Plant Sciences, 1(4), 352–354.

2. Khan, B. A., Nadeem, M. A., Nawaz, H., Amin, M. M., Abbasi, G. H., Nadeem, M., & Ali, M. (2023). Pesticides: Impacts on agriculture productivity, environment, and management strategies. Emerging Contaminants and Plants: Interactions, Adaptations and Remediation, 219.

3. Ayub, M., Nadeem, M. A., Tanveer, A., & Husnain, A. (2002). Effect of different levels of nitrogen and harvesting times on the growth, yield and quality of sorghum fodder. Asian Journal of Plant Sciences, 1(4), 304–307.

4. Nadeem, M. A., Ahmad, R. A. R., & Ahmad, M. S. (2004). Effects of seed inoculation and different fertilizer levels on the growth and yield of mung bean (Vigna radiata L.). Asian Journal of Plant Sciences, 3(4), 299–303.*

5. Ayub, M., Nadeem, M. A., Tahir, M., Ibrahim, M., & Aslam, M. N. (2009). Effect of nitrogen application and harvesting intervals on forage yield and quality of pearl millet (Pennisetum americanum L.). Pakistan Journal of Life and Social Sciences, 7(2), 185–189.

Clay Sneller | Plant Breeding | Best Researcher Award

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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.*

Dario Gaudioso | Seed Science | Excellence in Innovation Award

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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

Fleming Sena Campos | Livestock Production | Best Academic Researcher Award

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Dr. Fleming Sena Campos | Livestock Production | Best Academic Researcher Award

Professor | USEB | Brazil

Dr. Fleming Sena Campos is currently a Visiting Professor at the Universidade Estadual do Sudoeste da Bahia (UESB), Brazil, where he contributes extensively to research and teaching in Animal Science, particularly in ruminant nutrition and forage production. He holds a Ph.D. in Animal Science (Zootechny) from the Federal University of Bahia (UFBA), with a sandwich doctorate at Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, under the supervision of Dr. Karen Ann Beauchemin. He earned his M.Sc. in Zootechny from the Federal University of Paraíba (UFPB) and his B.Sc. in Animal Science from UESB, complemented by a specialization in Ruminant Nutrition from FAZU, Minas Gerais. His research focus encompasses ruminant nutrition, forage conservation, biosaline agriculture, and sustainable livestock systems in semi-arid regions, integrating microbial biotechnology and forage physiology to optimize animal productivity under climate stress. Over the years, Dr. Campos has held key research positions, including as a CNPq Researcher at EMBRAPA Semiárido, a Postdoctoral Fellow at the Federal Rural University of Pernambuco (UFRPE), and a CAPES PNPD Researcher at the Federal University of Maranhão (UFMA). His major contributions involve advancing sustainable feeding systems through biosaline forage production, microbial inoculants for silage improvement, and soil-water management strategies for semi-arid environments. He has coordinated and collaborated on several national research projects addressing biosaline systems, forage integration, and microbial modulation in ruminant nutrition, generating impactful publications and practical innovations for livestock sustainability. His work has been supported by leading Brazilian funding agencies, including CNPq, CAPES, and FAPEMA, and he has been honored with competitive postdoctoral and development research grants recognizing his scientific excellence. Dr. Campos actively serves as a peer reviewer for agricultural journals and participates in collaborative networks linking academia and industry to promote adaptive livestock technologies. His vision is to foster innovation in sustainable animal production by integrating biotechnology, water-efficient agriculture, and ecological principles—empowering farmers in semi-arid regions to build climate-resilient systems that enhance food security, rural livelihoods, and environmental balance. He has 740 citations from 95 publications, with an h-index of 16.

Profiles: Google Scholar | Scopus | ORCID

Featured Publications

1. Borges, E. N., Araújo, C. A., Monteiro, B. S., Silva, A. S., Albuquerque, L. F., Araújo, G. G. L., Campos, F. S., Gois, G. C., Souza, R. C., & Araújo, A. O. (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(2), 1–10.

2. Nascimento, D. B., Magalhães, A. L. R., Teodoro, A. L., Gois, G. C., Santos, K. C., Amaral, T. N. E., Araújo, C. A., Silva, P. B., Severo, F. 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, 66(4), 1–9.

3. Araújo, C. A., de Araújo, G. G. L., de Araújo, K. L. G., de Araújo, J. S., Campos, F. S., Lima, D. O., Gois, G. C., Voltolini, T. V., da Silva, T. G. F., & Magalhães, A. L. R. (2025). Different planting densities improve the nutritional composition of cactus pear in Semi-arid region. Food and Humanity, 5(1), 100616.

4. Pontes, K. S., Oliveira, G. M., Campos, F. S., Moura, C. M. S., Araújo, C. A., Silva, J. A., Silva, T. R. R., Lima, J. S., & Gois, G. C. (2025). Fatores que influenciam a composição centesimal da carne ovina. Observatorio de la Economía Latinoamericana, 23(2), e10076.

5. Zanine, A. M., Neto, T. M., Ferreira, D. J., Santos, E. M., Parente, H. N., Parente, M. O. M., Santos, F. N. S., Campos, F. S., Sousa, F. C. S., Reis, S. S., Olivera-Viciedo, D., & Rodrigues, A. A. (2025). Ecophysiological management using light interception technology with the AccuPar equipment: Quality versus quantity of forage. Agriengineering, 7(3), 224–239.

6. Silva, A. G., Araújo, G. G. L., Campos, F. S., Moraes, S. A., Gois, G. C., Silva, T. S., Emerenciano Neto, J. V., & Voltolini, T. V. (2020). Fermentation profile and nutritional quality of silages composed of cactus pear and maniçoba for goat feeding. Journal of Agricultural Science (Online), 8(1), 1–9.

Nicoletta De Vietro | Food Security | Best Researcher Award

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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

Mohsin Tanveer | Agroecology | Best Researcher Award

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mohsin Tanveer | Agroecology | Best Researcher Award

Associate Professor | Xinjiang Institute of Ecology and Geography | China

Dr. Mohsin Tanveer is an Associate Professor (Research) at the Xinjiang Institute of Ecology and Geography, Chinese Academy of Sciences, China, where he advances research in plant molecular physiology and sustainable agriculture. He earned his Ph.D. in Agriculture from the University of Tasmania, Australia, focusing on tissue-specific reactive oxygen species signaling and ionic homeostasis in quinoa and spinach under salinity stress, following M.Sc. (Hons) and B.Sc. (Hons) degrees in Agronomy from the University of Agriculture Faisalabad, Pakistan. His key research interests include molecular biology and climate change, nutrient metabolism, abiotic stress tolerance, and halophyte physiology, supported by several international projects under young talent programs. Dr. Tanveer has an extensive publication record with high-impact contributions to The Crop Journal, Plant Physiology and Biochemistry, Trends in Plant Science, and Journal of Plant Growth Regulation, alongside co-editing books with Springer on topics such as mineral biofortification and stress tolerance in plants. His scientific impact has been recognized globally, being ranked among the top 2% of scientists by Stanford University and Elsevier since 2021 and listed among Australia’s top 40 rising stars in agricultural research. Over the course of his career, he has received multiple honors, including the University of Tasmania HDR Scholarship and international research fellowships. Beyond his research, he actively contributes to academic publishing as an editorial board member for leading journals including Plant Growth Regulation, BMC Plant Biology, Frontiers in Agronomy, Frontiers in Plant Science, Antioxidants, Biology, and Agriculture-MDPI. His work bridges plant physiology, molecular biology, and agronomy, with a strong focus on advancing food security and crop resilience under changing climatic conditions, establishing him as a leading figure in plant stress biology and sustainable agriculture research. He has 8671 citations from 104 publications, with an h-index of 47.

Profiles: Google Scholar | ORCID | Scopus
Featured Publications 

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sinan Demir | Precision Farming | Best Researcher Award 

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sinan Demir | Precision Farming | Best Researcher Award 

Assistant Professor | Isparta University of Applied Sciences | Turkey

Dr. Sinan Demir is an Assistant Professor at Isparta University of Applied Sciences, within the Faculty of Agriculture, specializing in Soil Science and Plant Nutrition. He earned his PhD from Isparta University of Applied Sciences in 2021, focusing on the use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) for monitoring oil rose (Rosa damascena mill.) gardens and developing yield prediction models. Prior to that, he completed a Master’s degree at Suleyman Demirel University, where he researched high-resolution satellite imagery applications for detecting poppy (Papaver somniferum) cultivation areas. His academic and research pursuits concentrate on digital agriculture, remote sensing, hyperspectral imaging, geographic information systems (GIS), and machine learning applications in agriculture. Dr. Demir has made significant contributions through publications in prestigious journals such as Environment, Development and Sustainability; Natural Hazards; Remote Sensing Applications: Society and Environment; and Trees, Forests and People. His work includes advanced studies on erosion assessment using Google Earth Engine, yield prediction through UAV multispectral imagery, and digital mapping of burn severity. He has authored several book chapters, notably on machine learning algorithms and remote sensing applications in agriculture. Dr. Demir actively participates in national and international research projects, including TUBITAK-supported initiatives focusing on hyperspectral data applications in agriculture and soil property classification using machine learning techniques. His editorial responsibilities include serving as an editor for the journal "Veri Bilimi". In addition to his research, Dr. Demir plays an important role in shaping future agricultural scientists by teaching courses such as Remote Sensing and GIS, Digital Agriculture, Hyperspectral Imaging Techniques, and Integration of UAV Data in Geographic Systems at undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral levels. His contributions have been recognized through competitive scholarships like the TÜBİTAK Doctoral Scholarship Program, and he has held multiple jury memberships for thesis evaluations. Dr. Demir’s commitment to advancing sustainable agricultural practices and innovative research methodologies positions him as a notable researcher in his field.

Profiles: Google Scholar | ORCID | Scopus

Featured Publications

1.Alaboz, P., Dengiz, O., Demir, S., & Şenol, H. (2021). Digital mapping of soil erodibility factors based on decision tree using geostatistical approaches in terrestrial ecosystem. Catena.
Cited: 60 times

2. Şenol, H., Alaboz, P., Demir, S., & Dengiz, O. (2020). Computational intelligence applied to soil quality index using GIS and geostatistical approaches in semiarid ecosystem. Arabian Journal of Geosciences.
Cited: 50 times

3. Demir, S., & Dursun, I. (2024). Assessment of pre-and post-fire erosion using the RUSLE equation in a watershed affected by the forest fire on Google Earth Engine: the study of Manavgat River Basin. Natural Hazards.
Cited: 28 times

4. Alaboz, P., Demir, S., & Dengiz, O. (2021). Assessment of various pedotransfer functions for the prediction of the dry bulk density of cultivated soils in a semiarid environment. Communications in Soil Science and Plant Analysis.
Cited: 25 times

5. Alaboz, P., Demir, S., & Dengiz, O. (2020). Determination of spatial distribution of soil moisture constant using different interpolation model case study, Isparta Atabey Plain. Journal of Tekirdag Agricultural Faculty.
Cited: 23 times

 

Prof. Sue Walker | Agrometeorology | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Sue Walker | Agrometeorology | Best Researcher Award

Principal Researcher Agromet | ARC-NRE & UFS | South Africa

Prof. Sue Walker is an Affiliated Emeritus Professor of Agrometeorology at the University of the Free State and a Principal Specialist Researcher in Agrometeorology at the Agricultural Research Council, South Africa. She holds a Ph.D. in Plant Physiology from the University of California, Davis, and advanced diplomas in Project Management and Innovation & Design Thinking. Prof. Walker’s research focuses on the development of climate services for agricultural systems, climate-smart agriculture, crop-climate modeling, and adaptation strategies for smallholder farmers in semi-arid regions. She has authored over 131 peer-reviewed scientific articles and 40 book chapters, contributing significantly to areas like water-energy-food nexus, crop modeling, and the application of seasonal forecasts in agriculture. Her work includes notable projects such as the “Climate-Wise Women” initiative and the “Rain for Africa” project. Prof. Walker has received several prestigious awards, including a Fulbright Scholarship, a South African National Research Foundation B3-rating, a fellowship with the South African Society of Crop Production, and the Bram Fischer Oxford-South Africa Award. She has served as Chair of the World Meteorological Organization's OPAG on Agrometeorological Services and as a representative to WMO-CAgM and ICID Working Groups. Additionally, she serves on the Editorial Committee of the South African Journal of Plant and Soil. Her work emphasizes participatory rural appraisal methods, decision support tools for farmers, and the integration of climate services into agricultural development strategies. With extensive global experience from over 54 countries, she remains a leading expert in building resilience against climate variability in the agricultural sector. She has 3039 citations from 2600 documents across 115 publications, with an h-index of 30.

Profiles:  Google Scholar | ORCID | Scopus

Publications 

1. Kumssa, D. B., Joy, E. J. M., Ander, E. L., Watts, M. J., Young, S. D., Walker, S., ... (2015). Dietary calcium and zinc deficiency risks are decreasing but remain prevalent. Scientific Reports, 5(1), 10974.

2. Tsubo, M., Walker, S., & Ogindo, H. O. (2005). A simulation model of cereal–legume intercropping systems for semi-arid regions: I. Model development. Field Crops Research, 93(1), 10–22.

3. Tsubo, M., Walker, S., & Mukhala, E. (2001). Comparisons of radiation use efficiency of mono-/inter-cropping systems with different row orientations. Field Crops Research, 71(1), 17–29.

4. Gandure, S., Walker, S., & Botha, J. J. (2013). Farmers' perceptions of adaptation to climate change and water stress in a South African rural community. Environmental Development, 5, 39–53.

5. Tesfaye, K., Walker, S., & Tsubo, M. (2006). Radiation interception and radiation use efficiency of three grain legumes under water deficit conditions in a semi-arid environment. European Journal of Agronomy, 25(1), 60–70.

Prof. Dr. Jehangir Bhadha | Soil Sustainability | Best Researcher Award 

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Prof. Dr. Jehangir Bhadha | Soil Sustainability | Best Researcher Award 

Associate Professor | University of Florida | United States

Dr. Jehangir H. Bhadha is an Associate Professor at the University of Florida’s Everglades Research and Education Center within the Soil, Water, & Ecosystem Sciences Department, with affiliate roles in Agricultural & Biological Engineering, Interdisciplinary Ecology, the Water Institute, and the Center for Sustainable and Organic Food Systems. He holds a Ph.D. in Soil and Water Science and an M.S. in Geological Sciences from the University of Florida, alongside an MSc in Geology and a BS (Honors) in Mineralogy from the University of Bombay, India. Dr. Bhadha’s key research focuses on water quality, soil sustainability, sustainable agriculture, and nutrient management, specifically developing and testing innovative best management practices (BMPs) to reduce phosphorus pollution and enhance soil health in subtropical agroecosystems. His prolific publication record includes contributions to high-impact journals such as Frontiers in Soil Science, Journal of Environmental Management, PLOS ONE, and HortScience, reflecting interdisciplinary work on phosphorus management, biochar use, and organic matter dynamics. His work has received national and international recognition, including the George Barley Water Prize for phosphorus removal solutions, the Epsilon Sigma Phi Visionary Leadership Award, and multiple service awards from Epsilon Sigma Phi and the University of Florida. In addition to research, Dr. Bhadha serves on editorial boards of journals like Discover Soil Journal, Frontiers in Environmental Sciences, and PLOS ONE, actively contributing to advancing scientific communication in soil and environmental sciences. His commitment to sustainability and applied research continues to influence agricultural practices and environmental policy, aiming for practical solutions that balance productivity with ecological stewardship.

Profiles: Google Scholar | ORCID

Publications

1. Bhadha, J. H., Capasso, J. M., Khatiwada, R., Swanson, S., & LaBorde, C. (2017). Raising soil organic matter content to improve water holding capacity. University of Florida IFAS EDIS, Publication# SL447.

2. Alvarez-Campos, O., Lang, T. A., Bhadha, J. H., McCray, M. J., Glaz, B., & Daroub, S. H. (2018). Biochar and mill ash improve yields of sugarcane on a sand soil in Florida. Agriculture, Ecosystems & Environment, 253, 112–130.

3. Zhang, Z., Wang, J. J., Lyu, X., Jiang, M., Bhadha, J. H., & Wright, A. (2019). Impacts of land use change on soil organic matter chemistry in the Everglades, Florida—a characterization with pyrolysis-gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. Geoderma, 338, 393–400.

4. Bhadha, J. H., Harris, W. G., & Jawitz, J. W. (2010). Soil phosphorus release and storage capacity from an impacted subtropical wetland. Soil Science Society of America Journal, 74(5), 1816–1825.

5. Bhadha, J. H., Daroub, S. H., & Lang, T. A. (2012). Effect of kinetic control, soil: solution ratio, electrolyte cation, and others, on equilibrium phosphorus concentration. Geoderma, 173, 209–214.

Mr. Asamoah Zadok | Agribusiness |   SustainableAg Leadership Award

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Mr. Asamoah Zadok | Agribusiness | SustainableAg Leadership Award

Research Assistant at Lincoln University of Missouri | United States

Asamoah Oppong Zadok is a dedicated Research Assistant and Extension Associate at Lincoln University of Missouri, USA, specializing in sustainable agriculture and agribusiness. His expertise bridges the gap between academia and industry, focusing on agricultural policy, local food systems, and livestock production. Asamoah actively contributes to research and extension activities that promote sustainable farming practices and market-driven solutions. His interdisciplinary background integrates research, auditing, and teaching, enabling him to address complex agricultural challenges. His contributions support both policy development and practical applications in agribusiness, making him a key player in advancing resilient and sustainable agricultural systems.

Professional Profiles

Google Scholar | ORCID

Education

Asamoah Oppong Zadok earned a Master of Science in Sustainable Agriculture from Lincoln University, USA, following a Bachelor of Science in Agribusiness from the University of Cape Coast . His academic foundation reflects a deep commitment to sustainable development within agriculture, emphasizing both theoretical and practical approaches. He specialized in consumer demand analysis, local food systems, and sustainable livestock management. His education equipped him with critical analytical skills and a holistic understanding of agribusiness operations, preparing him for the challenges of research and industry applications. His strong academic background serves as the cornerstone for his professional achievements and innovative research work.

Professional Experience

Asamoah Oppong Zadok has developed a rich professional career, combining research and industry expertise. At Lincoln University, he serves as a Research Assistant supporting USDA-funded projects, focusing on consumer demand and small ruminant production. He is engaged in fieldwork, data collection, and policy analysis to support sustainability goals. His industry role includes serving as an Auditor for Control Union Certifications, where he ensured compliance with sustainable agricultural standards for companies such as Olam Atsource Plus and Rainforest Alliance. His combined experience in academic research and industry auditing enables him to offer comprehensive solutions bridging compliance, research, and practical implementation of sustainable agriculture practices.

Research Interest

Asamoah Oppong Zadok’s research interests center on consumer demand, food choice behavior, and the sustainability of local food systems. He is particularly focused on how state-sponsored marketing programs influence local agricultural markets, with the Missouri case study being a notable example. His work includes investigating the pre-weaning performance of Katahdin × East Friesian crossbred lambs and promoting organic oyster mushroom production through student-led projects. His research contributes to understanding the intersection of agricultural policy, market structures, and sustainability, aiming to optimize the viability and resilience of farming systems. Collaborative projects with international researchers further broaden his perspective on global agricultural challenges.

Award and Honor

Asamoah Oppong Zadok's research and professional efforts have garnered recognition for contributions to agricultural sustainability, policy development, and innovative farming practices. He actively participates in interdisciplinary collaborations and serves on editorial boards and academic committees, strengthening the global research community. His dedication to promoting sustainable agriculture has earned him a reputation as a forward-thinking and impactful researcher. These honors reflect not only his individual achievements but also his commitment to fostering resilient agricultural systems that benefit farmers, consumers, and policymakers alike.

Research Skill

Asamoah Oppong Zadok is proficient in a range of research methodologies and technical skills central to agricultural science. His expertise includes field experiments, data analysis, policy assessment, and consumer demand modeling. He is adept at conducting audits based on internationally recognized sustainability standards and applying quantitative methods to assess livestock performance and market interventions. His skills extend to research writing and publication, demonstrated by contributions to high-impact journals and conference presentations. Furthermore, he collaborates effectively with interdisciplinary teams, utilizing software tools and statistical techniques to generate actionable insights for sustainable agricultural development and policy improvements. His skill set ensures robust and impactful research outputs.

Publications

Asamoah Oppong Zadok has contributed to multiple peer-reviewed journals including the International Journal of Science and Research Archive, World Journal of Agricultural Research, and the Journal of the Indonesian Tropical Animal Agriculture. His work explores consumer behavior in food choice, the effectiveness of local food marketing channels, and livestock production sustainability. He collaborates internationally, co-authoring papers with researchers from Ghana, Algeria, and Mexico. His publications serve as a significant contribution to the academic field, helping bridge research, policy, and industry practice. His efforts not only support sustainable agricultural development but also influence policymaking by providing empirical evidence on market dynamics and agricultural sustainability.

Title: Student-led agribusiness innovation: Organic oyster mushroom production and marketing in Cape Coast, Ghana
Year: 2025

Title: Purchasing Behavior of Fruits and Vegetables among International Students at University of Tlemcen, Algeria: Preferences, Income Effects, and Budget Constraints
Year: 2025

Title: Pre-weaning performance and growth curve in F1 Katahdin x East Friesian crossbred lambs
Year: 2025

Conclusion

Asamoah Oppong Zadok represents a new generation of agricultural scientists dedicated to sustainability, innovation, and practical application. His comprehensive experience in research, industry auditing, and policy analysis uniquely positions him to impact agricultural development positively. By collaborating with global experts and contributing to scientific literature, he has expanded the knowledge base on local food systems and livestock sustainability. His work exemplifies the integration of research into real-world solutions, helping to build resilient agricultural systems that are both economically viable and environmentally sustainable. His continued dedication ensures the advancement of sustainable agriculture practices for future generations.