Yang Liu | Plant Ecology | Best Researcher Award

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Ms. Yang Liu | Plant Ecology | Best Researcher Award

Sichuan Agriculture University | China

Liu Yang is a professor at Sichuan Agricultural University (SCAU), where she serves as Deputy Director of the Carbon Sequestration Research Centre within the College of Forestry. She holds a doctoral degree and has established a strong research agenda focusing on ecosystem ecology, soil biology, biogeochemistry, vegetation restoration and climate-change impacts in forest and grassland systems. Since joining the faculty at SCAU, she has led multiple national and provincial research programmes on alpine treeline litter-decomposition, soil microbial enzyme dynamics under warming, and ecological restoration of degraded terrain. Her work on forest-floor litter chemistry and soil microbial community responses has appeared in leading journals, and her record includes more than 114 peer-reviewed articles, over 1755 citations and an h-index of approximately 24. She has been honoured with provincial-level awards for technological progress and holds several utility-model patents addressing field-based warming simulation and nutrient-addition experiments. Committed to advancing the science and application of ecosystem restoration in southwestern China, she engages in international collaboration, graduate education and policy-relevant science. Her research contributes to understanding how forest and grassland ecosystems respond to global change and how restoration strategies can enhance resilience and carbon sequestration.

Profiles: Scopus | Orcid

Featured Publications

Li, Q., Chen, Y., Xu, L., Cui, X., Xu, H., Wang, L., You, C., Tian, X., He, X., & Liu, Y. (2025). Loss of plant functional group mediates microbial community assembly in litter decomposition of alpine fir forest. Global Ecology and Conservation.

Li, C., Liu, L., Wu, Z., Wang, W., Wang, S., He, X., Cui, X., Xiao, J., & Liu, Y. (2025). Millipede (Spirobolus walker) prefers feeding on a high-quality litter from a companion species when combined with Masson pine litter. Pedobiologia.

Lei, L., Zeng, J., Liu, Q., Luo, L., Ma, Z., Chen, Y., & Liu, Y. (2024). Effects of soil fauna on the home-field advantage of litter total phenol and condensed tannin decomposition. Forests.

Wang, L., Zhou, Y., Chen, Y., Xu, Z., Zhang, J., & Liu, Y. (2023). Home-field advantage and ability alter labile and recalcitrant litter carbon decomposition in an alpine forest ecotone. Plant and Soil.

Wu, A., You, C., Yin, R., Xu, Z., Zhang, L., Liu, Y., Li, H., Wang, L., Xu, L., Xu, H., et al. (2023). Forest gaps slow the humification process of fir (Abies faxoniana Rehder & E.H. Wilson) twig litter during eight years of decomposition in an alpine forest. Forests.

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.

Hossein Motamedi | Plant-Rhizosphere Interactions | Innovative Plant Microbiology Award

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Prof. Hossein Motamedi | Plant-Rhizosphere Interactions | Innovative Plant Microbiology Award

Shahid Chamran university of Ahvaz | Iran

Author Profile

Scopus
Orcid ID
Google Scholar

👨‍🔬 Summary

Professor Hossein Motamedi is a seasoned microbiologist at Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz, Iran, with a specialization in applied and industrial microbiology. Since joining the academic staff in 2006, he has made significant contributions to sustainable agriculture and environmental bioremediation. With an h-index of 36 and over 200 publications, he has been recognized four times as a top researcher at his university.

🎓 Education

Though specific degrees are not listed, Prof. Motamedi holds qualifications in microbiology that support his role as a professor and active researcher at Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz.

🧑‍🏫 Professional Experience

Prof. Motamedi has served as an academic staff member at Shahid Chamran University since 2006. He has led eight major research projects and has supervised/advised over 100 MSc and PhD theses. He also holds editorial roles, including with the Jundishapur Journal of Microbiology.

📚 Academic Citations

Google Scholar: h-index 36, i10-index 104
Publications: 201 research papers
Books (ISBNs): 9786001410611, 9786007304396
Patents: 2 national patents

🛠️ Technical Skills

  • Microbial biofertilizer development

  • Soil and waste bioremediation

  • Nanobiofertilizer formulation

  • Biorefinery of agricultural/industrial waste

🧑‍🏫 Teaching Experience

Over 18 years of academic service, guiding numerous postgraduate students in microbiology, sustainable agriculture, and biotechnology.

🔬 Research Interests

  • Applied and industrial microbiology

  • Microbial biofertilizers (e.g., for Narcissus tazetta, sugarcane, alfalfa)

  • Soil bioremediation and environmental microbiology

  • Nanotechnology in agriculture

  • Agricultural waste valorization

📖Publications

Fabrication of zein nanofibrous scaffold containing Scrophularia striata extract for biomedical application
  • Authors: Yasin Salahshour, Saadat Rastegarzadeh, Hossein Motamedi, Elham Hoveizi
    Journal: Journal of Biological Engineering
    Year: 2025
Design, synthesis, structural characterization, and biological evaluation of dimeric mercury(II) complexes of phosphorus ylides with terminal azide ligands
  • Authors: Sepideh Samiee, Habib Rashedi, Valiollah Nobakht, Hossein Motamedi, Robert William Gable
    Journal: Journal of Molecular Structure
    Year: 2025
Integrated biorefinery process for dual production of fermentable sugars and functional humic acids from lignocellulose
  • Authors: Mi Zhou, Rui Zhai, Xiaoyu Xie, Hossein Motamedi, Mingjie Jin
    Journal: International Journal of Biological Macromolecules
    Year: 2025
Comparative study of CaFe₂O₄ with nanocomposites CaFe₂O₄@SiO₂ and the effect of silica shell thickness on their physical and magnetic properties
  • Authors: E. Mohammadzadeh Shobegar, Seyed Ebrahim Mousavi Ghahfarokhi, Hossein Motamedi
    Journal: Journal of Science: Advanced Materials and Devices
    Year: 2025
Chitosan/alginate hydrogel adorned with nanoemulsions for potential wound healing: Fabrication, characterization, and biocompatibility evaluation
  • Authors: Peyman Salehi, Fariba Heidarizadeh, Hossein Motamedi, Pooyan Makvandi
    Journal: Alexandria Engineering Journal
    Year: 2025

 

Rattan Lal | Soil Science | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Rattan Lal | Soil Science | Best Researcher Award

The Ohio State University | United States

Author Profile

Scopus

🎓 Education

Dr. Lal earned his B.Sc. in Agriculture (1963) from PAU, India, followed by an M.Sc. in Soils (1965) from IARI, New Delhi. He completed his Ph.D. in Soils (1968) at The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA. He has received multiple honorary doctorates from globally recognized institutions, underscoring his academic impact.

💼 Professional Experience

Dr. Lal has served in numerous high-impact roles, including Director of the Carbon Management and Sequestration Center (OSU), Chair of the Scientific Advisory Board for the U.S. Department of Defense (2023–2024), and Member of the Board for International Food and Agricultural Development (BIFAD, 2022–2025). He has held academic and research positions across continents—India, Australia, Nigeria, Germany, and the USA. He is also affiliated with institutions such as the UNCCD, IUSS, and IFDC and continues to influence global soil and environmental policy through advisory roles.

🏛️ Academic and Scientific Citations

Dr. Lal has been Editor-in-Chief of Advances in Soil Science, Encyclopedia of Soil Science, and Soil & Tillage Research. He has authored or co-authored thousands of scientific papers and reports, contributing to major IPCC assessments and global initiatives like “4 per Thousand.” His citation metrics place him among the top-ranked agricultural scientists globally.

🧪 Technical Skills

Expertise in soil physics, carbon sequestration, climate change mitigation, sustainable land management, agroecology, and nutrient cycling. He is proficient in both field and lab-based methodologies, modeling carbon fluxes, and advising on large-scale environmental assessments.

🎓 Teaching Experience

A lifelong educator, Dr. Lal has taught soil science at The Ohio State University since 1989, mentoring countless graduate students and researchers worldwide. He has served as an Adjunct Professor at several institutions, including the Indian Agricultural Research Institute and the University of Iceland, influencing agricultural education across borders.

🔬 Research Interests

Dr. Lal’s research spans soil health, soil carbon dynamics, climate change adaptation and mitigation, food security, ecosystem restoration, and sustainable agriculture. His interdisciplinary approach connects soil science with climate resilience, human health, and global development.

📖Publications

INTEGRATION OF COMPOST WITH MINERAL NPK FERTILIZERS FOR IMPROVING WHEAT YIELD AND SOIL HEALTH

  • Authors: Abdul A. Basir, Sikandar S. Iqbal, Muhammad M. Adnan, Zeki Z. Erden, Ayman El A.E. Sabagh

  • Journal: Pakistan Journal of Botany

  • Year: 2025

No-till systems restore soil organic carbon stock in Brazilian biomes and contribute to the climate solution

  • Authors: João Carlos De Moraes J.C.D.M. Sá, Rattan A. R.A. Lal, Klaus E. K.E. Lorenz, Daniel Ruiz Potma D.R.P. Gonçalves, Jeankleber J. Bortoluzzi

  • Journal: Science of the Total Environment

  • Year: 2025

Soil organic carbon stock for carbon credit in smallholder farms

  • Authors: Toru T. Nakajima, Fune F. Mizumoto, Mei M. Akiyama, Carla C. Gavilán, Rattan A. R.A. Lal

  • Journal: Agrosystems, Geosciences and Environment

  • Year: 2025

Restoring Soil Organic Matter Content for Managing Soil Health in Africa’s Agroecoregions

  • Author: Rattan A. R.A. Lal

  • Journal: Egyptian Journal of Soil Science

  • Year: 2025

Effects of biochar and cover crops on physical properties of two soils in Ohio

  • Authors: Sandhya S. Karki, Raj Kumar R.K. Shrestha, Rattan A. R.A. Lal, Klaus E. K.E. Lorenz, Laura E. L.E. Lindsey

  • Journal: Soil Science Society of America Journal

  • Year: 2025

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