Merga Hunde | Medicinal Plants | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. Merga Hunde | Medicinal Plants | Best Researcher Award

Jimma University | Ethiopia

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📘 EDUCATIONAL LEADER AND PROGRAM DEVELOPMENT EXPERT

INTRODUCTION

A results-driven Program Officer with a strong background in policy evaluation, curriculum development, and stakeholder engagement, this professional has demonstrated exceptional skills in enhancing educational quality and driving impactful programmatic outcomes. With over a decade of experience spanning from teaching to administrative leadership, they have played a key role in advancing educational frameworks, securing funding, and optimizing instructional methodologies.

📚 EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS

Their academic journey began with a Diploma in Teaching from Nekemte Teacher Training College in Ethiopia. They later pursued a B.Sc. in Chemistry (2017), an M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction (2020), and an M.Sc. in Inorganic Chemistry (2023) from Wallaga University. Furthering their expertise, they earned a Diploma in Sociology from ALISON, Ireland (2024). This strong academic foundation equipped them with interdisciplinary knowledge essential for strategic education management and policy implementation.

🧪 PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS

With a career spanning more than a decade, they have held various influential roles in education and program administration:

  • Program Officer (2021-2024) at Oromo People Peace, Stability, Strength, and Unity Organization Support: Led policy development initiatives, mobilized significant funding, and enhanced data-driven decision-making for educational projects.
  • Education Program Focal Person (2020-2021) at Development Expertise Center (DEC): Spearheaded educator training workshops, optimized curriculum design, and improved student engagement.
  • School Principal (2019-2021) at Konoji Primary School: Implemented strategic educational initiatives, improved student performance, and led faculty development programs.
  • Vice Principal (2015-2019) at Konoji Primary School: Strengthened curriculum frameworks, facilitated professional training, and enhanced institutional effectiveness.
  • Teacher (2011-2015) at Nole Dire Primary School: Delivered high-quality instruction, integrated technology into the classroom, and fostered critical thinking among students.

🔬 CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS ON Medicinal Plants

Their research and contributions focus on curriculum innovation, policy evaluation, and education technology. Their publications include:

  • “The Utilization of Active Learning Techniques in Ethiopian Primary Schools: Practice and Challenges” – A comprehensive study on the effectiveness of active learning strategies.
  • “Review on Practice and Challenges of ICT Integration as Pedagogical Tools in Ethiopian Primary School Curriculum Implementation” – Analyzing the role of digital tools in education.
  • “Green Synthesis, Characterization, and Antibacterial Evaluation of ZnO and Ag-doped ZnO Nanoparticles Using Ruta Chalepensis Leaf Extract” – A groundbreaking study bridging education and scientific innovation.

🌍 IMPACT AND INFLUENCE

Their impact extends beyond the classroom, as they have:

  • Improved reporting accuracy by 20% in program monitoring systems.
  • Mobilized 650,000 Birr for educational initiatives.
  • Facilitated over 50 training sessions, benefitting 500+ educators and stakeholders.
  • Strengthened strategic partnerships with government and non-profit organizations to expand educational access.

📈 ACADEMIC CITATIONS AND PUBLICATIONS

Their published research contributes to advancing education policy, instructional methodologies, and education technology integration, with citations in respected academic journals.

🏅 HONORS & AWARDS

  • UNICEF Certificate of Training on Prevention of Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (PSEA)
  • UNICEF Certificate in Gender-Based Violence (GBV) Online Course
  • Save the Children International: Quality and Integrated Education in Emergency Training
  • Humanitarian Leadership Academy: Core Humanitarian Standard Certification
  • IRC Introduction to the Measurement Process in Education Programs
  • Post Graduate Diploma in Teaching from Wallaga University

🌐 LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS

Their future contributions aim to:

  • Develop more inclusive and technology-driven education systems.
  • Expand research on education in emergencies and crisis response.
  • Strengthen stakeholder collaboration for sustainable educational reform.

🌠 FINAL NOTE

A dynamic and visionary leader in education, they have demonstrated a deep commitment to capacity development, policy enhancement, and innovative teaching methodologies. Their ability to merge strategic planning with hands-on implementation makes them a transformative figure in the educational landscape.

📑 NOTABLE PUBLICATIONS 

Review on practice and challenges of ICT integration as pedagogical tools in Ethiopian primary school curriculum implementation
  • Authors: Merga Hunde Gonfa, Asnake Lealem Birhanu, Kemal Mohammed Gendo
  • Journal: Discover Education
  • Year: 2024
The utilization of active learning techniques in Ethiopian primary schools: Practice and challenges
  • Authors: Merga Hunde, Melka Hika
  • Journal: Journal of Science
  • Year: 2023

 

Takwa Wannassi | Plant-Animal Interactions | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Takwa Wannassi | Plant-Animal Interactions | Best Researcher Award

Regional Center Of Research Agricultural Sidi Bouzid | Tunisia

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TAKWA WANNASSI: A LEADING RESEARCHER IN PLANT PROTECTION AND SOIL MICROBIOMES 🌿

INTRODUCTION

Takwa Wannassi is a distinguished postdoctoral researcher specializing in plant growth-promoting bacteria (PGPR) and soil microbiomes. With a strong foundation in plant protection and environmental sciences, her work aims to enhance plant growth and combat diseases through innovative microbial interactions. Based in Tunisia, she has gained extensive experience in molecular biology, pest management, and genomics, contributing significantly to agricultural sustainability.

📚 EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS

Takwa Wannassi’s academic journey began with a strong focus on biological sciences. She earned her Secondary Education Certificate in Experimental Science from Houcine Bouzaiene High School, Gafsa, Tunisia, before advancing to the Higher Institute of Applied Sciences and Technology of Gabes for her preparatory cycle in Biology and Geology. She later pursued an Engineer Degree in Horticulture with a specialization in Plant Protection at the Higher Institute of Agronomic Sciences of Chott Mariem (ISA-CM), University of Sousse. Her academic dedication culminated in a Ph.D. in Plant Protection and Environment from the same institution.

🧪 PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS

Takwa Wannassi has held several prestigious research positions, including:

  • Postdoctoral Fellow at CRRA Sidi Bouzid (2025): Conducting metagenomic analysis and supervising student research as part of the REVINE Project.
  • Postdoctoral Fellow at ISA-CM (2023): Working on the ASTER Prima project, screening endosymbiont bacteria in invasive pests.
  • Development Engineer at the Technical Center of Dates (2022-2023): Implementing Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategies and monitoring crop damage.
  • Responsible for the Insectarium at ISA-CM (2022-2023): Managing insect colonies and research operations in entomology laboratories.

🔬 CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS ON agricultural 

Takwa Wannassi’s research primarily revolves around plant-microbe interactions, emphasizing:

  • Screening PGPR for plant growth and disease protection.
  • Metagenomic analysis of soil microbiomes.
  • Identification and characterization of bacteria and fungi linked to plant health.
  • Sustainable agricultural solutions using microbial interventions. Her expertise extends to DNA extraction, PCR, bioinformatics, and microbial genomics, making her a crucial contributor to agricultural research.

🌍 IMPACT AND INFLUENCE

Her contributions to plant protection and microbiome research have advanced sustainable agriculture practices, aiding in disease management and soil health restoration. Her work in invasive pest control has significant implications for food security and crop resilience in Tunisia and beyond.

📈 ACADEMIC CITATIONS AND PUBLICATIONS

Takwa Wannassi has authored numerous impactful research papers, including:

  • “Emergence of the apricot seed wasp Eurytoma samsonowi as an economic pest of apricots in Tunisia” (Phytoparasitica Journal)
  • “Insights on the bioecology of the invasive apricot seed wasp Eurytoma samsonowi in Tunisia” (Biologia Journal)
  • “The cotton mealybug Phenacoccus solenopsis Tinsley is spreading in North Africa: first report in Tunisia” (Oriental Insects Journal)
  • “Prevalence of Wolbachia infection in field natural population of the apricot seed wasp” (International Microbiology Journal)
  • “Exploration of bacterial composition and diversity within the apricot seed wasp Eurytoma samsonowi by 16S rRNA Illumina sequencing” (Symbiosis Journal)

🏅 HONORS & AWARDS

  • Best Poster Award (TJASSST 2019)
  • Research Award, University of Victoria, Canada (2019)
  • Mitacs Globalink Research Award, Acadia University, Canada (2021)
  • Best Oral Communication Award, 13th Arab Plant Protection Conference (2022)

🌐 LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS

Looking ahead, Takwa Wannassi aims to: Expand international collaborations in microbial genomics and plant-microbe interactions. Contribute to the development of eco-friendly biofertilizers and biopesticides. Continue mentoring young researchers and students in agricultural biotechnology.

🌠 FINAL NOTE

Takwa Wannassi remains committed to advancing plant protection research and sustainable agricultural practices. Her relentless pursuit of knowledge and scientific innovation positions her as a key figure in microbiome studies and plant health improvement.

📑NOTABLE PUBLICATIONS 

Exploration of bacterial composition and diversity within the apricot seed wasp Eurytoma samsonowi (Hymenoptera: Eurytomidae) by 16S rRNA Illumina sequencing
  • Authors: Takwa Wannassi, Chahnez Naccache, Brahim Chermiti, and Maha Mezghani Khemakhem
  • Journal: Symbiosis
  • Year: 2025
Prevalence of Wolbachia infection in field natural population of the apricot seed wasp Eurytoma samsonowi (Hymenoptera: Eurytomidae)
  • Authors: Takwa Wannassi, Ahmed Sayadi, Khaled Abbes, Salma Djebbi, Chahnez Naccache, Maha Mezghani Khemakhem, and Brahim Chermiti
  • Journal: International Microbiology
  • Year: 2024
The cotton mealybug Phenacoccus solenopsis Tinsley (Hemiptera: Pseudococcidae) is spreading in North Africa: first report in Tunisia
  • Authors: Khaled Abbes, Ahlem Harbi, Takwa Wanassi, Michele Ricupero, Gaetana Mazzeo, Agatino Russo, Antonio Biondi, Lucia Zappalà, and Brahim Chermiti
  • Journal: Oriental Insects
  • Year: 2023
Insights on the bioecology of the invasive apricot seed wasp Eurytoma samsonowi (Hymenoptera: Eurytomidae) in Tunisia
  • Authors: Takwa Wannassi, Khaled Abbes, Ahlem Harbi, and Brahim Chermiti
  • Journal: Biologia
  • Year: 2023
Emergence of the apricot seed wasp Eurytoma samsonowi Vassiliev (Hymenoptera: Eurytomidae) as an economic pest of apricots in Tunisia
  • Authors: Takwa Wannassi, Ahlem Harbi, Khaled Abbes, Mohamed Elimem, Gérard Delvare, and Brahim Chermiti
  • Journal: Phytoparasitica
  • Year: 2022

 

Fasih Bintang Ilhami | Plant Biotechnology | Best Innovation Award

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Assist. Prof. Dr. Fasih Bintang Ilhami | Plant Biotechnology | Best Innovation Award

Universitas Negeri Surabaya | Indonesia

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DR. FASIH BINTANG ILHAMI: PIONEER IN BIOMEDICAL NANOTECHNOLOGY ✨

📚 EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS

Dr. Fasih Bintang Ilhami’s journey into the world of biomedical research began with a strong foundation in engineering and science. He earned his Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) from the National Taiwan University of Science and Technology, Taiwan (2017–2020), focusing on innovative nanomaterials and supramolecular chemistry. Before that, he completed his Master of Engineering (M.T.) in Biomedical Engineering from Airlangga University, Surabaya, Indonesia (2014–2016), graduating with a Cum Laude GPA.

🧪 PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS

Dr. Ilhami has held notable positions in academia and research:

  • Post-Doctoral Research Fellow, Institute of Atomic and Molecular Science, Academia Sinica, Taiwan (2022).
  • Post-Doctoral Research Fellow, Graduate Institute of Applied Science and Technology, National Taiwan University of Science and Technology (2021).
  • Lecturer, Department of Natural Science, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Science, Universitas Negeri Surabaya, Indonesia (2022–Present).

🔬 CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS ON PLANT BIOTECHNOLOGY

Dr. Ilhami’s work encompasses cutting-edge biomedical and nanotechnology fields:

  • Development of biomaterials and regenerative medicine for tissue engineering.
  • Advancing supramolecular chemistry and nanotechnology in targeted drug delivery systems.
  • Innovating bio-imaging solutions for cancer therapy and antibacterial applications.

🌍 IMPACT AND INFLUENCE

Dr. Ilhami has revolutionized drug delivery systems with targeted nanotechnology, combining scientific rigor and creativity. His focus on eco-friendly and efficient biomedical applications demonstrates his commitment to societal well-being.

📈 ACADEMIC CITATIONS AND PUBLICATIONS

With over 19 impactful publications in prestigious journals, Dr. Ilhami has contributed significantly to biomedical science, including:

  • Biomacromolecules (2024) – Zinc Oxide/Carbon Materials for selective chemotherapy.
  • Heliyon (2024) – Nanocomposites for antibacterial treatments.
  • Materials Today Advances (2023) – CO2-responsive systems for cancer therapy.

🏅 HONORS & AWARDS

Dr. Ilhami’s groundbreaking work has earned him numerous accolades:

  • Best Young Lecturer, Universitas Negeri Surabaya (2023).
  • Front Cover Selection, Biomacromolecules (2023).
  • Excellent Youth Award, National Taiwan University of Science and Technology (2019).

🌐 LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS

Dr. Ilhami’s work in regenerative medicine and nanotechnology will undoubtedly shape the future of personalized medicine and sustainable healthcare. He remains a beacon for aspiring researchers worldwide.

🌠 FINAL NOTE

Dr. Ilhami’s work in regenerative medicine and nanotechnology will undoubtedly shape the future of personalized medicine and sustainable healthcare. He remains a beacon for aspiring researchers worldwide.

📑 NOTABLE PUBLICATIONS 

Exploring perspective of impact ranking university trend in five universities in East Java Indonesia
  • Authors: Ilhami, F.B., Khasanah, M., Suprapto, N., Widodo, B.S.
  • Journal: Social Sciences and Humanities Open
  • Year: 2025
Potential of a CO2-Responsive supramolecular drug-carrier system as a safer and more effective treatment for cancer
  • Authors: Bayle, E.A., Ilhami, F.B., Chen, J.-K., Cheng, C.-C.
  • Journal: Materials Today Bio
  • Year: 2024
Exploring the Bioelectricity of Fruits as Sources for Sustainable and Renewable Energy
  • Authors: Ilhami, F.B., Cahyani, A.R., Azizah, D.A., Risma, M.W., Ullum, I.T.N.H.
  • Journal: Bioelectricity
  • Year: 2024
Zinc Oxide/Carbon Material-Embedded Supramolecular Drug Delivery System with Photoswitching Properties for Highly Selective and Effective Chemotherapy
  • Authors: Ilhami, F.B., Munasir, N., Gultom, N.S., Cheng, C.-C.
  • Journal: ACS Applied Bio Materials
  • Year: 2024
Developing zinc oxide and peanut shell-derived carbon star-shaped composite materials for effective photo-antibacterial treatment
  • Authors: Ilhami, F.B., Fitriana, Mozef, T., Kuo, D.-H., Gultom, N.S.
  • Journal: Heliyon
  • Year: 2024
Performance parameters of standard salt concentration sensitivity and linearity in Refractometers and Genesys 30 Spectrometer UV-Vis
  • Authors: Budiyanto, M., Purnomo, A.R., Ilhami, F.B., Indana, S., Prawoto, B.P.
  • Journal: E3S Web of Conferences
  • Year: 2024

 

 

Yishu Peng | Plant Biochemistry | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Yishu Peng | Plant Biochemistry | Best Researcher Award

Guizhou University | China

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🌟 YISHU PENG: A VISIONARY IN ENVIRONMENTAL GEOCHEMISTRY AND TEA SCIENCE 

📚 EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS

Dr. Yishu Peng embarked on her academic journey with a Bachelor’s degree in Soil and Water Conservation from Gansu Agricultural University in 2011. Her growing interest in environmental sciences led her to pursue a Master’s degree in Environmental Science from Guizhou University, focusing on karst geological resources and environment. Driven by her passion for sustainable agricultural practices, she completed a Doctorate in Geochemistry at Guizhou University in 2018, delving deeper into soil science and its implications for environmental sustainability.

🧪 PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS

Since 2019, Dr. Peng has served as a Lecturer and Director of the Teaching and Research Office at Guizhou University’s College of Tea Science. With over a decade of experience in academia, she has contributed significantly to advancing geochemical research. Her expertise spans soil science, environmental pollution, and toxicology, with a special emphasis on crop nutrition and food safety in tea plants.

🔬 CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS ON PLANT BIOCHEMISTRY

Dr. Peng’s research sheds light on the geochemical processes influencing crop elements, focusing on the interactions between soil environmental factors and plant nutrition. Her groundbreaking work on tea plants has demonstrated their ability to enrich beneficial elements like zinc while tolerating or excluding toxic heavy metals such as arsenic and cadmium. This innovative research ensures safer agricultural practices and enhances food safety.

🌍 IMPACT AND INFLUENCE

Dr. Peng’s contributions have a profound impact on sustainable agricultural development. Her work helps mitigate environmental pollution while enhancing the nutritional value of crops. Through her research, she addresses critical global challenges, bridging gaps between environmental sustainability and agricultural productivity.

📈 ACADEMIC CITATIONS AND PUBLICATIONS

Dr. Peng has an impressive citation index of 387, highlighting the global recognition of her research. She has authored 12 scientific articles in reputable journals and published 2 books with ISBN credentials. Her research outputs, covering areas like soil science, toxicology, and food safety, serve as essential references for peers worldwide.

🏅 HONORS & AWARDS

Dr. Peng has been recognized for her outstanding contributions to geochemistry and environmental science. Her dedication has earned her multiple accolades and positions her as a nominee for the Best Researcher Award.

🌐 LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS

As a leader in her field, Dr. Peng’s legacy lies in her innovative approaches to environmental challenges. Her future contributions will likely pave the way for more resilient agricultural practices and groundbreaking advancements in geochemical research.

🌠 FINAL NOTE

Dr. Yishu Peng exemplifies dedication, innovation, and leadership in geochemistry and environmental science. Her pioneering work inspires future generations, setting a benchmark for research excellence.

📑 NOTABLE PUBLICATIONS 

“Distribution and Interactive Effects of Heavy Metals in Soil-Maize (Zea Mays L.) System in the Mercury Mining Area, Southwestern China”

  • Authors: Ni, Xinran; Yang, Ruidong; Xu, Yiyuan; Peng, Yishu; Zhang, Jian; Long, Jie; Yan, Huiqin
  • Journal: Bulletin of Environmental Contamination and Toxicology
  • Year: 2022

” Distribution of Mineral Elements in the Soil and in Tea Plants (Camellia Sinensis)”

  • Authors: Peng, Yishu; Jin, Tao; Yang, Ruidong; Chen, Rong; Wang, Jianxu
  • Journal: Journal of Elementology
  • Year: 2022

“Potentially Toxic Metal(loid) Distribution and Migration in the Bottom Weathering Profile of Indigenous Zinc Smelting Slag Pile in Clastic Rock Region”

  • Authors: Peng, Yishu; Yang, Ruidong; Jin, Tao; Chen, Jun; Zhang, Jian
  • Journal: PeerJ
  • Year: 2021

” Distribution, Accumulation, and Potential Risks of Heavy Metals in Soil and Tea Leaves from Geologically Different Plantations”

  • Authors: Zhang, Jian; Yang, Ruidong; Li, Yuncong C.; Peng, Yishu; Wen, Xuefeng; Ni, Xinran
  • Journal: Ecotoxicology and Environmental Safety
  • Year: 2020

 “Use of Mineral Multi-Elemental Analysis to Authenticate Geographical Origin of Different Cultivars of Tea in Guizhou, China”

  • Authors: Zhang, Jian; Yang, Ruidong; Li, Yuncong C.; Wen, Xuefeng; Peng, Yishu; Ni, Xinran
  • Journal: Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture
  • Year: 2020

“Geographical Origin Discrimination of Pepper (Capsicum Annuum L.) Based on Multi-Elemental Concentrations Combined with Chemometrics”

  • Authors: Zhang, Jian; Yang, Ruidong; Chen, Rong; Li, Yuncong C.; Peng, Yishu; Wen, Xuefeng
  • Journal: Food Science and Biotechnology
  • Year: 2019

“Accumulation of Heavy Metals in Tea Leaves and Potential Health Risk Assessment: A Case Study from Puan County, Guizhou Province, China”

  • Authors: Zhang, J.; Yang, R.; Chen, R.; Peng, Y.; Wen, X.; Gao, L.
  • Journal: International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health
  • Year: 2018

 “Distribution and Transfer of Potentially Toxic Metal(loid)s in Juncus Effusus from the Indigenous Zinc Smelting Area, Northwest Region of Guizhou Province, China”

  • Authors: Not explicitly listed in detail
  • Journal: Ecotoxicology and Environmental Safety
  • Year: 2018

” Multielemental Analysis Associated with Chemometric Techniques for Geographical Origin Discrimination of Tea Leaves (Camelia Sinensis) in Guizhou Province, SW China”

  • Authors: Zhang, Jian; Yang, Ruidong; Chen, Rong; Li, Yuncong C.; Peng, Yishu; Liu, Chunlin
  • Journal: Molecules
  • Year: 2018

 “Risk Assessment for Potentially Toxic Metal(loid)s in Potatoes in the Indigenous Zinc Smelting Area of Northwestern Guizhou Province, China”

  • Authors: Yishu Peng; Ruidong Yang; Tao Jin; Jun Chen; Jian Zhang
  • Journal: Food and Chemical Toxicology
  • Year: 2018

 “Analysis of Heavy Metals in Pseudostellaria Heterophylla in Baiyi Country of Wudang District”

  • Authors: Peng, Y.; Chen, R.; Yang, R.
  • Journal: Journal of Geochemical Exploration
  • Year: 2017