Urjashi Bhattacharya | Agronomic Practices | Best Researcher Award

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Assist. Prof. Dr. Urjashi Bhattacharya | Agronomic Practices | Best Researcher Award

The Neotia University | India

Dr. U. Bhattacharya is an agronomy scholar and educator with a doctoral degree specializing in conservation agriculture, climate-smart farming, and integrated nutrient management. Over four years as a university research scholar, she has conducted intensive research on rice–pulse cropping systems, focusing on enhancing ecosystem services (soil, air, and water) in the Gangetic Plains through sustainable agronomic practices. Her M.Sc. work examined the effects of nitrogen levels on a heat-tolerant potato variety, while her Ph.D. thesis explored the management of rice followed by lentil under conservation tillage and varying nutrient doses. She participated in the SRFSI project (in collaboration with ACIAR) in the Eastern Gangetic Plains, gaining experience in resilient farming system intensification. Dr. Bhattacharya is proficient in experiment planning, statistical analysis, instrument handling, and scientific communication, and has presented her research at several national and international seminars on soil health, sustainable agriculture, agrochemicals, climate resilience, and biodiversity. She has published multiple peer-reviewed papers in crop science and agronomy, holds an h-index of 4 with six publications and 294 citations, and has received certificates of excellence in peer review along with a design patent for a portable crop diagnostic spectrometer. Passionate about advancing agricultural education and research, she aspires to excel as a faculty member in plant science academia, inspiring students through innovative teaching and pursuing high-impact interdisciplinary research in sustainable agriculture.

Profiles: Scopus | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Bhattacharya, U., & Sarkar, S. (2018). Conservation agriculture: A climate-smart approach to achieve zero hunger. Current Advances in Agricultural Sciences, 18(2), 78–83.

Bhattacharya, U., Saha, A., & Saha, A. (2019). Response of heat tolerant variety (Kufri Surya) of potato (Solanum tuberosum) under different levels of nitrogen. Current Journal of Applied Science and Technology, 37(1), 1–7.

Bhattacharya, U., Sarkar, S., & Dewanjee, S. (2019). Bio-efficacy evaluation of oxyfluorfen 23.5% EC for controlling weeds in potato crop. Journal of Crop and Weed, 15(3), 201–208.

Maitra, S., Hossain, A., Brestic, M., Skalicky, M., Ondrisik, P., Gitari, H., Brahmachari, K., Shankar, T., Bhadra, P., Palai, J. B., Jena, J., Bhattacharya, U., Duvvada, S. K., Lalichetti, S., & Sairam, M. (2021). Intercropping—A low input agricultural strategy for food and environmental security. Agronomy, 11(2), 1–28.

Bhattacharya, U., Naskar, M. K., Venugopalan, V. K., Sarkar, S., Bandopadhyay, P., Maitra, S., Gaber, A., Alsuhaibani, A. M., & Hossain, A. (2023). Implications of minimum tillage and integrated nutrient management on yield and soil health of rice-lentil cropping system – being a resource conservation technology. Frontiers in Sustainable Food Systems, 7, Article 1225986.

Samuel Agele | Plant Physiology | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Dr. Samuel Agele | Plant Physiology | Best Researcher Award

Federal University of Technology, akure | Nigeria

Professor Samuel Ohikhena Agele is a distinguished academic and researcher in the field of plant environmental physiology and agronomy, currently serving as a Professor and Lead Researcher at the Department of Crop, Soil & Pest Management, Federal University of Technology, Akure, Nigeria. He holds a B.Agric., M.Sc. in Desert Science, Ph.D. in Crop Physiology, and a Postgraduate Certificate in Protected Crops & Irrigation. With over 25 Master’s and 20 Ph.D. theses successfully supervised, his academic leadership is well recognized. Professor Agele has held significant administrative roles, including Head of Department (2013–2016) and Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture at the University of Africa, Toru Orua (2017–2019). His research interests encompass soil-plant-climate interactions, conservation agriculture, ecological restoration, and the domestication of medicinal plant species. He has contributed extensively to literature, authoring numerous journal articles and book chapters. His work has been recognized by various professional associations, including the International Horticultural Science Society and the Soil Science Society of Nigeria. Professor Agele’s research has garnered over 390 citations, reflecting his significant impact in his field. His publication count stands at 34, with a predicted h-index of 13.

Profiles: Scopus | Google Scholar 

Featured Publications

Akinseye, F. M., Adam, M., Agele, S. O., Hoffmann, M. P., Traore, P. C. S., & [others]. (2017). Assessing crop model improvements through comparison of sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L. Moench) simulation models: A case study of West African varieties. Field Crops Research, 

Akinseye, F. M., Ajeigbe, H. A., Traore, P. C. S., Agele, S. O., Zemadim, B., & [others]. (2020). Improving sorghum productivity under changing climatic conditions: A modelling approach. Field Crops Research,

Agele, S. O., Iremiren, G. O., & Ojeniyi, S. O. (2000). Effects of tillage and mulching on the growth, development and yield of late-season tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum L.) in the humid south of Nigeria. The Journal of Agricultural Science, 

Lajide, L., Adedire, C. O., Muse, W. A., & Agele, S. O. (1998). Insecticidal activity of powders of some Nigerian plants against the maize weevil (Sitophilus zeamais Motsch.). The Journal of Agricultural Science, 

Agele, S. O., Iremiren, G. O., & Ojeniyi, S. O. (1999). Effects of plant density and mulching on the performance of late-season tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum) in southern Nigeria. The Journal of Agricultural Science, 

Utpol Kumar | Soil Science | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Utpol Kumar | Soil Science | Best Researcher Award

Soil Resource Development Institute | Bangladesh

Dr. Utpol Kumar is a soil scientist with a PhD in Soil Science (Bangladesh Agricultural University, 2022), and earlier MSc (Horticulture, BAU, 2001) and BSc Agriculture (BAU, 1996). He has ~19 years of professional experience with the Soil Resource Development Institute (SRDI), Bangladesh, in roles spanning field-based soil survey & mapping, soil fertility monitoring, fertilizer & soil health card preparation, quality control of fertilizers, and extension/training work for sustainable agriculture. His research interest centers on sustainable and conservation agriculture (including residue retention), integrated nutrient management, soil classification and soil health, land and resource use mapping, and the influence of climatic change on soil fertility. He has authored over 10 international and 6 national peer-reviewed journal articles (among many other publications such as books, bulletins, proceedings), with a current h-index of 4, total citations of 47, and peer-review article count of 6. Awards include selected international trainings (e.g. “Writing for impact” at Murdoch University, agricultural project management in India) and successful projects in food security & soil component work. In conclusion, Dr. Kumar’s work contributes substantially to understanding and improving soil health and sustainable agricultural productivity in the South Asian tropics; his combination of field, laboratory, training and publication work positions him as a capable researcher-practitioner impacting both policy and farmer practice.

Profiles: Scopus | Orcid

Featured Publications

Maniruzzaman, M., Cheng, M., Eiti Mony, A. M., Islam, M. A., Kumar, U., Islam, M. J., Nasreen, S. S., Akhter, S., Jahiruddin, M., & Bell, R. W. (2025). Conservation agriculture increases system yield and improves phosphorus balance in rice-based intensive cropping systems. Soil Use and Management.

Kumar, U., Cheng, M., Islam, M. J., Maniruzzaman, M., Nasreen, S. S., Haque, M. E., Akhter, S., Jahiruddin, M., Bell, R. W., & Jahangir, M. M. R. (2025). Are recommended fertilizer rates able to maintain nutrient balance in soil and optimize crop profit in intensive rice-based crop rotations: Evidence from a 20-year study. Journal of Soil Science and Plant Nutrition.

Kumar, U. (2025, January 2). Are recommended fertilizer rates able to maintain nutrient status and balance in soil and optimize crop profit in intensive rice-based crop rotations: Evidence from a 20-year study [Conference abstract]. In Global Symposium on Soil Information and Data: Measure, Monitor, Manage.

Maniruzzaman, M., Cheng, M., Islam, A., Kumar, U., Islam, J., Nasreen, S. S., Haque, E., Akhter, S., Jahiruddin, M., & Bell, R. (2024). Conservation agriculture increases phosphorus pools and stock in the top 30 cm of soil: A three-year study on a subtropical legume–rice rotation. Soil Use and Management.

Kumar, U., Cheng, M., Islam, M. J., Maniruzzaman, M., Nasreen, S. S., Haque, M. E., Hossain, M. B., Jahiruddin, M., Bell, R. W., & Jahangir, M. M. R. (2024). Retention of crop residue increases crop productivity and maintains positive sulfur balance in intensive rice-based cropping systems. Journal of Soil Science and Plant Nutrition.

Atikilt Alemayehu | Sustainable Agriculture | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. Atikilt Alemayehu | Sustainable Agriculture | Best Researcher Award

Agricultural research | Ethiopia

Atikilt Abera Alemayehu is a soil and water conservation researcher at the Amhara Agricultural Research Institute (ARARI), Gondar, Ethiopia, with extensive expertise in watershed management, soil erosion control, hydrological modeling, and sustainable land use practices. He earned his M.Sc. in Soil and Water Conservation Engineering from Hawassa University and his B.Sc. in Natural Resources Management from Bahir Dar University. His research addresses critical challenges in soil and water resource management, including sediment yield reduction, carbon sequestration, agroforestry interventions, runoff and moisture measurement, and geospatial modeling using tools such as GIS, RS, SWAT, and InVEST. Atikilt has authored more than 4 scientific documents, published in peer-reviewed journals such as Environmental Challenges, Journal of Soils and Sediments, Journal of Agriculture and Food Research, and Turkish Journal of Agriculture – Food Science and Technology. His academic contributions have earned him over 37 citations, with an h-index of 3. In addition to publishing, he has presented at national and international conferences, trained stakeholders, and coordinated research projects that bridge science and practice. Committed to advancing sustainable agriculture and environmental resilience, his work continues to make significant impacts on soil and water conservation in Ethiopia and beyond.

Profiles: Scopus | Orcid

Featured Publications

Alemayehu, A. A., Desalegn, M., & Hunie, M. (2024). Introduction of a siphon pump for large-scale irrigation in East Belesa district, Ethiopia. International Journal on Food, Agriculture and Natural Resources.

Alemayehu, A. A., Getu, L. A., Addis, H. K., Samuel, T., Ayalew, B., Addis, A., Feyisa, T., Hunie, M., Getu, E., Adane, M., et al. (2024). Spatial assessment of soil resources on different land uses and slope gradient as a planning tool in Ferenjua watershed, Ethiopia. Environmental Challenges.

Alemayehu, A. A., Getu, L. A., Samual, T., Ayalew, B., Addis, H. K., Feyisa, T., Worku, T., Tahir, M., & Getu, E. (2023). Effects of tillage practices and planting techniques on crop yield and soil properties in northwestern lowlands of Ethiopia. Journal of Agriculture and Food Research.

Addis, H. K., Ayalew, B., Gebretsadik, M., Abera, A., Getu, L. A., & Addis, A. K. (2023). Cross-correlation of soil moisture and stone content and their spatial pattern across the different slope aspects and soil depth. Turkish Journal of Agriculture – Food Science and Technology.

Alemayehu, A. A., Muluneh, A., Moges, A., & Kendie, H. (2020). Estimation of sediment yield and effectiveness of level stone bunds to reduce sediment loss in the Gumara-Maksegnit watershed, Nile Basin, Ethiopia. Journal of Soils and Sediments.

ASTRID MERINO SILVERIO | Agronomic Practices | Best Researcher Award

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Mrs. ASTRID MERINO SILVERIO | Agronomic Practices | Best Researcher Award

UNEB CAMPUS III, Brazil

Author Profile

🌟  Suitable for this Best Researcher Award

Mrs. ASTRID MERINO SILVERIO is a distinguished researcher specializing in agronomic practices and sustainable agriculture. With a strong academic background and years of experience in agricultural sciences, they have contributed significantly to enhancing crop productivity and soil health. Their research focuses on optimizing farming techniques, resource-efficient irrigation, and climate-resilient crop management. Over the years, they have collaborated with various institutions, leading multiple research projects aimed at improving agricultural sustainability. Their expertise extends to modern farming technologies, including precision agriculture and soil fertility enhancement. An advocate for eco-friendly farming, they have published extensively in reputed journals and participated in international conferences. Their contributions to agronomy have been recognized with numerous awards and accolades. Currently, they are actively involved in projects that bridge the gap between traditional farming methods and innovative agronomic solutions, ensuring a sustainable future for global agriculture.

 Education

Mrs. ASTRID MERINO SILVERIO holds a Ph.D. in Agronomic Sciences, specializing in sustainable farming and crop management. They earned their doctoral degree from UNEB CAMPUS III, where their research focused on innovative agronomic techniques to enhance soil fertility and water efficiency. Prior to this, they completed an MSc in Agricultural Sciences, with a thesis on the impact of conservation tillage on crop yield. Their academic journey began with a Bachelor’s degree in Agronomy from UNEB CAMPUS III, where they developed a strong foundation in soil science, plant physiology, and agroecology. Throughout their education, they actively participated in research projects and collaborated with renowned scientists. Their dedication to agricultural advancement has led them to pursue postdoctoral research in climate-smart farming techniques. They have also attended specialized training programs in precision agriculture, organic farming, and sustainable land management, equipping them with cutting-edge skills to address global agricultural challenges.

  Professional Experience

Mrs. ASTRID MERINO SILVERIO has an extensive career in agronomic research and sustainable farming practices. They have worked as a Senior Research Scientist at UNEB CAMPUS III, focusing on optimizing crop management strategies to enhance productivity and soil health. Previously, they served as an Agronomy Consultant, advising farmers on best practices for sustainable agriculture. Their expertise includes precision farming, agroecology, and integrated pest management. Over the years, they have been involved in government and private sector projects, implementing climate-smart agriculture initiatives. As a university lecturer, they have mentored students and contributed to curriculum development in agronomic sciences. Their collaborations with international organizations have led to groundbreaking research in sustainable irrigation techniques and soil conservation. Currently, they are leading a multi-institutional project aimed at developing resilient cropping systems to combat climate change. Their hands-on approach and innovative strategies have made a significant impact on modern agronomic practices.

 Awards and Recognition 

Mrs. ASTRID MERINO SILVERIO has received numerous awards for their outstanding contributions to agronomy and sustainable agriculture. They were honored with the Best Agronomic Research Award for their groundbreaking work in soil conservation and climate-resilient farming. Additionally, they received the Sustainable Farming Excellence Award for their contributions to precision agriculture and resource-efficient irrigation techniques. Their efforts in organic farming innovations earned them the Green Agriculture Innovation Prize. They have also been recognized internationally, receiving the Global Agronomy Leadership Award for their role in developing sustainable cropping systems. In academia, they were awarded the Distinguished Researcher in Agriculture Award for their exceptional publications and mentorship. Their work has been featured in prestigious agricultural journals, and they are frequently invited as a keynote speaker at international conferences. Their recognition underscores their commitment to advancing agronomic practices and ensuring a sustainable future for global agriculture.

Research skills On Agronomic Practices

Mrs. ASTRID MERINO SILVERIO is an expert in agronomic research, specializing in sustainable crop production, precision agriculture, and soil health management. Their research skills encompass advanced data analysis, field experimentation, and innovative farming techniques. They have extensive experience in soil fertility assessment, nutrient management, and integrated pest control strategies. Their expertise in remote sensing and GIS applications for agriculture allows them to analyze crop patterns and improve land-use efficiency. They are proficient in statistical modeling and predictive analysis, helping optimize agricultural inputs and maximize yield. Additionally, they excel in climate-resilient agriculture, developing strategies to mitigate environmental stress on crops. Their research extends to organic farming, agroecology, and conservation agriculture, ensuring sustainable food production. Their ability to collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and integrate scientific advancements into practical agronomic solutions makes them a key contributor to modern agricultural research and development.

Publications

The Use of Pesticides and Health Risk Assessment of Riparian Farmers in Northeastern Brazil: An Artificial Intelligence-based Analysis
  • Authors: Astrid Merino Silverio, Maristela Casé Costa Cunha, Wbaneide Martins de Andrade, Patricia Barros Pinheiro, Rafael Jorge do Prado, Luane dos Santos Simplício
  • Journal: Human Ecology
  • Year: 2025
The Health Care Management of Farmers Who Use Pesticides in Northeast Brazil: Use of Pesticides and the Care Management
  • Authors: Astrid Merino Silverio, Maristela Casé Costa Cunha, Márlon Vinícius Gama Almeida
  • Journal: BMC Health Services Research
  • Year: 2023
Relationships of Perception of Health Risks by Use of Pesticides: A Man-Environment Look
  • Authors: Astrid Merino Silverio, Maristela Casé Costa Cunha, Wbaneide Martins de Andrade, Luane dos Santos Simplício
  • Journal: Environmental Monitoring and Assessment
  • Year: 2023