Timothy Namo | Sustainable Agriculture | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Dr. Timothy Namo | Sustainable Agriculture | Best Researcher Award

University of Jos | Nigeria

Professor Namo Otsanjugu Aku Timothy is a distinguished scholar in Genetics and Plant Breeding at the University of Jos, Nigeria. With over three decades of academic experience, he has contributed significantly to research, teaching, and mentorship in crop science and biotechnology. Rising from Graduate Assistant to Professor, his journey reflects dedication to advancing plant breeding and cytogenetics in Africa. He has supervised numerous postgraduate theses, published widely in national and international journals, and served on editorial boards. His work emphasizes genetic improvement of crops for food security, making him a recognized authority in plant science and biotechnology.

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Education 

Professor Timothy began his academic journey at the University of Jos, earning a B.Sc. in Botany with honors. He pursued postgraduate training at the same institution, obtaining an M.Sc. in Cytogenetics and Plant Breeding and later completing a Ph.D. in Plant Breeding. His educational foundation reflects a continuous pursuit of excellence in genetics and crop improvement. Supported by national scholarships at both master’s and doctoral levels, he gained expertise in cytogenetics, reproductive biology, and plant breeding methodologies. This strong academic background equipped him with the knowledge and technical proficiency to drive innovative research and contribute to agricultural development in Nigeria.

Professional Experience

Professor Timothy has had an illustrious academic career at the University of Jos, advancing through roles from Graduate Assistant to Professor of Genetics and Plant Breeding. His career spans teaching, research, administration, and leadership. He has served as postgraduate coordinator, external assessor, editorial board member, and Director of the Centre for Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering. He has held visiting and sabbatical appointments in Nigerian universities and has been actively involved in curriculum development, resource verification, and professional training programs. His dedication to mentorship is reflected in the many postgraduate students he has supervised, shaping future leaders in plant sciences.

Awards and Recognition 

Professor Timothy’s contributions have earned him numerous awards and recognitions. He received the Leadership Gold Award for Excellence (2007), African Choice Meritorious Service Award (2008), Distinguished African Gold Award (2009), and several commendations for academic service. He has been recognized for his productivity and contributions to crop science research by international organizations. His commitment to education and national development has been acknowledged through awards such as the Nigerian Merit Gold Award and Distinguished Leadership in National Development Gold Award. He is a Fellow of the International Agency for Standards and Ratings and Senior Fellow of the Institute for Research and Policy Integration in Africa.

Research Skills 

Professor Timothy’s research expertise lies in genetics, cytogenetics, and plant breeding with a focus on crop improvement. He has worked extensively on cassava, sweet potato, maize, pepper, and onions, studying reproductive efficiency, cytomorphology, and yield enhancement. Skilled in cytogenetic analysis, karyotype studies, and biotechnological applications, his work contributes to sustainable food production and genetic resource conservation. He applies advanced breeding techniques and statistical tools in evaluating crop varieties for adaptability and productivity. His collaborations with national and international research organizations highlight his ability to integrate traditional breeding with modern genetic approaches, enhancing agricultural sustainability and food security in Africa.

Publications

Ajayi, J.O., Olosunde, O.M., Fawibe, O.O., Ojewumi, A.W., Mustafa, A.A., & Namo, O.A.T. (2022). “Effect of sowing depth on growth performance of selected members of the family Cucurbitaceae” in Nigerian Journal of Botany.

Turshak, L.G., Chaskda, A.A., Namo, O.A.T., Dawang, S.N., Agyeno, O.E., Da’an, S.A., et al. (2021). “Birds and mammals in some protected and community forests in central Nigeria” in Journal of Research in Forestry, Wildlife and Environment.

Namo, O.A.T., Chukwudum, V.A., & Auwal, Y.A. (2021). “Growth and Yield Responses of Hot Pepper to Nitrogen Fertilisation in Jos-Plateau, Nigeria” in Agricultural and Food Science Journal of Ghana.

Namo, O.A.T., & Egbaji, C.I. (2020). “Karyotype analysis of ten accessions of Hausa potato in Nigeria” in African Crop Science Journal.

Akpensuen, T.T., Amodu, J.T., Tanko, R.J., Abdu, S.B., Namo, O.A.T., Luka, J.S., et al. (2019). “Nutrient intake, digestibility and nitrogen balance of two temperate and two tropical forage legume hays fed to New Zealand white rabbits” in Nigerian Journal of Animal Production.

Namo, O.A.T., & Mwanja, Y.P. (2013). “Flowering and seed production patterns of tropical accessions of sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas (L.) Lam.)” in Tropical Agriculture.

Conclusion 

Professor Namo Otsanjugu Aku Timothy stands as a beacon of excellence in plant breeding and genetics. His remarkable academic and research contributions, coupled with his role as a mentor and leader, reflect his commitment to advancing crop science in Africa. With a solid foundation in education, decades of teaching, impactful publications, and numerous awards, he has made lasting contributions to agricultural research and development. His focus on sustainable crop improvement positions him as an influential figure in addressing global food security challenges. His distinguished career exemplifies dedication to science, innovation, and service to humanity through education and research.

Akkamahadevi C | Sustainable Agriculture | Best Researcher Award

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Ms. Akkamahadevi C | Sustainable Agriculture | Best Researcher Award

Presidency University | India

Akkamahadevi C is an accomplished academic and researcher serving as an Assistant Professor in the School of Computer Science and Engineering at Presidency University, Bangalore. With strong expertise in machine learning and deep learning, her research focuses on agricultural applications, particularly in enhancing crop production and sustainability. She has successfully completed projects addressing crop disease prediction using advanced computational frameworks, thereby contributing to the integration of intelligent technologies in agriculture. Alongside teaching, she actively publishes in reputed journals and participates in academic networks. Her career reflects a blend of innovative research, dedicated pedagogy, and a commitment to technological advancement.

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Education

Akkamahadevi C has a strong educational background in Computer Science and Engineering. She holds a Bachelor of Engineering (B.E.) and a Master of Technology (M.Tech) in the same discipline, equipping her with robust technical foundations. She is presently pursuing a Ph.D., where her research explores the applications of machine learning and deep learning in agriculture. Her doctoral work emphasizes intelligent frameworks for agricultural disease prediction and productivity enhancement, combining theoretical knowledge with practical solutions for food security challenges. This academic progression demonstrates her commitment to advancing both her expertise and the transformative potential of computing in multidisciplinary domains.

Professional Experience 

Currently, Akkamahadevi C serves as an Assistant Professor at Presidency University, Bangalore, within the School of Computer Science and Engineering. In this role, she contributes to undergraduate and postgraduate teaching, curriculum development, and academic mentorship. She integrates her research expertise in machine learning and deep learning into her pedagogy, enriching student learning with real-world applications. Beyond teaching, she is engaged in research projects and has successfully completed studies that apply intelligent systems to agricultural problems. Her professional work demonstrates a commitment to bridging academia and industry, fostering innovation, and preparing students for evolving technological landscapes in applied computing.

Awards and Recognition 

Akkamahadevi C has gained recognition for her contributions to machine learning and its applications in agriculture. Her research outputs, published in peer-reviewed and indexed journals, highlight her growing influence in the academic community. She is a member of the International Association of Engineers (IAENG), reflecting her engagement with global professional networks. Her completed project on deep learning frameworks for crop disease prediction has been well received, underscoring the practical impact of her work. Through such contributions, she is being increasingly recognized as a promising researcher in computing and applied intelligence, making her a strong candidate for research awards.

Research Skills

Akkamahadevi C’s research expertise centers on machine learning and deep learning, with a focus on agricultural informatics. She has developed and implemented frameworks that apply deep learning for disease prediction in crops, particularly paddy, to improve agricultural productivity. Her skills extend to designing intelligent algorithms, conducting data-driven experiments, and applying computational models for real-world challenges. Proficient in modern analytical tools, she bridges theoretical innovation with practical impact. Her publications in indexed journals highlight her strong academic writing and analytical skills. These competencies make her an emerging researcher with significant potential to contribute to sustainable agricultural transformation through technology.

Publications

Akkamahadevi, C., & Adaickalam, V. (2025). “An effective deep learning framework for diseases prediction to enrich paddy production” in International Journal of System Assurance Engineering and Management (Scopus Indexed).

Gururaj, H. L., Flammini, F., Shreyas, J., & Akkamahadevi, C. (2025). “Data Science & Exploration in Artificial Intelligence” in A A Balkema (Book Publication).

Conclusion 

In conclusion, Akkamahadevi C exemplifies the integration of academic rigor, innovative research, and practical application in the field of computer science and engineering. Her work on deep learning frameworks for agricultural disease prediction demonstrates her ability to apply cutting-edge technology to address pressing global issues such as food security. As a dedicated teacher and researcher, she contributes both to knowledge dissemination and impactful problem-solving. Her professional memberships, scholarly publications, and research achievements underline her growing reputation in the academic community. She is a highly deserving candidate for recognition under the Best Researcher Award category in sustainable technology-driven solutions.

Kastory Mbunda | Sustainable Agriculture | Young Researcher Award

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Mr. Kastory Mbunda | Sustainable Agriculture | Young Researcher Award

The Mwalimu Nyerere Memorial Academy | Tanzania

Kastory Abel Mbunda is an academic and researcher specializing in gender, community development, and climate change adaptation. He serves as an Assistant Lecturer at The Mwalimu Nyerere Memorial Academy, Tanzania, where he combines teaching, research, and community engagement. His scholarly work focuses on institutional pathways for gender-transformative climate change adaptation, rural livelihoods, and social empowerment initiatives. Mbunda has contributed extensively to policy-relevant studies addressing gender dynamics, food security, and environmental management. His academic journey reflects a strong commitment to linking theory with practice, enabling communities to build resilience against climate change while advancing equitable development at both local and regional levels.

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Education

Kastory Abel Mbunda has pursued a comprehensive academic pathway rooted in community development and climate change studies. He earned his PhD in Climate Change and Sustainable Development from the University of Dar es Salaam, with research centered on institutional pathways to gender-transformative adaptation in Zanzibar. He holds a Master’s degree in Community Development from the Tengeru Institute of Community Development, where his dissertation explored community interventions and nutritional outcomes. His Bachelor’s degree in Community Development also emphasized grassroots perspectives on child nutrition. His foundational studies include advanced secondary and primary education in Tanzania, which shaped his commitment to social transformation.

Professional Experience

Kastory Abel Mbunda is currently an Assistant Lecturer at The Mwalimu Nyerere Memorial Academy, where he lectures on gender, project management, and community development while engaging in research and consultancies. Previously, he served as a Tutorial Assistant at the same institution, supporting teaching and curriculum development. He also worked as a Tutorial Assistant at Tengeru Institute of Community Development. His field experience includes serving as a Community Development Officer at Arumeru District Council, where he trained entrepreneurs, engaged in environmental management, and supported VICOBA initiatives. Additionally, he interned at Voice of Youth Tanzania, empowering youth in life skills and leadership.

Awards and Recognition 

Kastory Abel Mbunda has been recognized for his outstanding academic and research contributions throughout his career. He was awarded Best Researcher in his Master’s degree program in Community Development at Tengeru Institute of Community Development. During his undergraduate studies, he was honored as the Best Finalist in the Bachelor of Community Development program. His earlier academic excellence was also acknowledged when he received recognition as the Best Student at Mzumbe High School. These accolades reflect his consistent commitment to academic excellence, critical thinking, and impactful research, further strengthening his reputation as a scholar dedicated to sustainable development and community empowerment.

Research Skills 

Kastory Abel Mbunda’s research expertise spans gender studies, climate change adaptation, food security, and community development. He applies both qualitative and quantitative methods to investigate social dynamics in rural and urban contexts. His PhD research emphasizes institutional pathways to gender-transformative climate change adaptation, with a focus on local government authorities and civil society organizations. His work explores issues such as household feeding practices, socio-economic empowerment, gender-based violence, and environmental sustainability. Skilled in SPSS, data analysis, and academic writing, he has published widely in peer-reviewed journals. His research strengthens the link between academic inquiry and practical solutions for sustainable livelihoods.

Publications

Mbunda, K.A. (2025). “Unpacking barriers to women maize farmers’ engagement in climate-smart agriculture in rural Tanzania” in Cogent Social Sciences.

Mbunda, K.A., & Ndunguru, F.E. (2025). “Climate Change and Forest Governance: A Qualitative Review of Local Community Engagement in Rural East Africa” in Asian Journal of Research in Agriculture and Forestry .

Mville, F., & Mbunda, K.A. (2025). “Enhancing Men’s Participation in Maternal Health Care Services: An Analysis of Socio-Economic Predictors in Arusha City” in East African Journal of Health and Science.

Mbunda, K.A., Ndunguru, F.E., & Utonga, D. (2024). “Factors Influencing Men’s Participation in Seaweed Farming in Zanzibar, Tanzania: An Empirical Analysis Using a Logit Model” in Advanced Research in Economics and Business Strategy Journal.

Ndunguru, F.E., & Mbunda, K.A. (2024). “Men’s Perceptions of Seaweed Farming in Zanzibar, Tanzania: Exploring Gender Dynamics in Coastal Livelihoods” in East African Journal of Arts and Social Sciences.

Mbunda, K.A., & Ndunguru, F.E. (2024). “A gendered perspective on household dietary diversity status in Mbinga District, Tanzania” in Asian Journal of Education and Social Studies.

Mbunda, K.A. (2024). “Saving and Credit Cooperatives Services and Socio-economic Empowerment of Women in Temeke Municipality, Tanzania” in East African Journal of Interdisciplinary Studies.

Nyasingwa, J.K., Mbunda, K.A., & Mhango, S. (2024). “Contribution of the Tanzania Police Gender and Children Desk on the reduction of gender-based violence in Tanzania: A case of Meru District, Arusha, Tanzania” in Asian Research Journal of Arts and Social Sciences.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Kastory Abel Mbunda represents a new generation of African scholars committed to advancing gender equity, climate resilience, and community empowerment. His academic journey and professional engagements highlight a unique ability to integrate research, teaching, and outreach in ways that directly benefit local communities. Recognized for his academic excellence and impactful studies, he continues to influence policy and practice through his scholarly publications and consultancy roles. With strong expertise in climate change adaptation and community development, Mbunda remains a vital contributor to sustainable development discourses in East Africa and beyond, inspiring future researchers and practitioners in the field.

Muhammad Sultan | Sustainable Agriculture | Best Researcher Award

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Muhammad Sultan | Sustainable Agriculture | Best Researcher Award

Bahauddin Zakariya University | Pakistan

Dr. Engr. Muhammad Sultan is an Associate Professor of Agricultural Engineering at Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan, Pakistan. His expertise lies in Energy and Environmental Engineering, focusing on sustainable agricultural technologies. He earned his PhD and Postdoc from Kyushu University, Japan, and another Postdoc from Simon Fraser University, Canada. Dr. Sultan has held fellowships in South Africa and Malaysia and is recognized globally for his contributions. He ranks among the World’s Top 2% Scientists and is currently Pakistan’s top scientist in Agricultural Engineering. His work bridges global collaborations, advanced engineering solutions, and impactful research for sustainable agricultural systems.

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Education

Dr. Sultan holds a PhD in Energy & Environmental Engineering from Kyushu University, Japan, funded by the Japanese MEXT scholarship. He completed two Postdoctoral fellowships—one at Kyushu University (Japan) and another at Simon Fraser University (Canada) under the Canadian Queen Elizabeth Advanced Scholars Program. He earned his M.Sc. (Hons.) and B.Sc. in Agricultural Engineering from the University of Agriculture Faisalabad, Pakistan, both with distinction. His academic journey has been marked by consistent excellence, reflected in multiple research fellowships, scholarships, and top rankings. His educational foundation supports his advanced work in energy-efficient agricultural technologies and environmental engineering systems.

Professional Experience

Dr. Sultan began his academic career in 2009 as a Lecturer at Bahauddin Zakariya University and progressed to Assistant Professor and Associate Professor. He has taught and supervised undergraduate to PhD students while leading funded national and international projects. He has also served as a Research Fellow at the University of South Africa and INTI International University, Malaysia. His professional experiences include consultancy roles and research appointments in Canada and Japan. Over the years, he has delivered keynote talks, chaired technical sessions, and served as an editor for global journals, contributing significantly to engineering education and applied research worldwide.

Awards and Recognition

Dr. Sultan has received over 30 national and international awards. He has been recognized by Stanford University and Elsevier as one of the World’s Top 2% Scientists (2023, 2024). The AD Scientific Index ranks him as the No.1 Agricultural Engineering Scientist in Pakistan. He is placed among the top 0.3% of global scholars in Agricultural Engineering and holds the 15th position globally in the field according to ScholarGPS. His contributions have been acknowledged through editorial roles, keynote talks, and invitations to international research panels. His research achievements continue to elevate Pakistan’s academic presence on the global stage.

Research Skill

Dr. Sultan specializes in energy and environmental systems for agricultural applications. His work includes HVAC technologies, adsorption cooling, desiccant air-conditioning, Maisotsenko cycles, energy recovery ventilators, atmospheric water harvesting, and water desalination. He has led and completed several UK and Pakistan-funded research projects and has collaborated globally. With over 200 peer-reviewed articles, 20 books, and 24 book chapters, his research is widely cited (7400+ citations, h-index: 45). He serves as an editor and reviewer for high-impact journals. His interdisciplinary approach addresses energy efficiency, climate adaptation, and sustainable agriculture, making him a leading voice in applied agricultural engineering.

Publications

Sajjad, U., Bibi, F., Hussain, I., Abbas, N., Sultan, M., Muhammad Asfahan, H., Aleem, M., & Yan, W.-M. (2025). Machine learning enabled assessment of the vacuum freeze-drying of the kiwifruit.

Sultan, M., Rezzoug, A., & Aleem, M. (2025). Thermodynamic evaluation of advanced adsorbents for thermally-driven atmospheric water harvesting system in diverse climatic conditions.

Abbas, F., Sultan, M., Shahzad, M. W., Farooq, M., Raza, H. M. U., Mahmood, M. H., Sajjad, U., & Zhang, Z. (2025). Comprehensive Review on Evaporative Cooling and Desiccant Dehumidification Technologies for Agricultural Greenhouses.

Riaz, M., Mahmood, M. H., Ashraf, M. N., Sultan, M., Sajjad, U., Riaz, F., Farooq, M., & Zhang, Z. (2025). Experimental study of an air-conditioned tractor cabin using CFD analysis for primary and secondary tillage operations in Pakistan.

Asfahan, H. M., Sultan, M., & Li, X. (2025). Radiative cooling enhanced performance of adsorption desalination–cooling system.

Sajjad, U., Mehdi, S., Hussain, I., Rehman, T., Sultan, M., Rashidi, M. M., & Yan, W.-M. (2025). Physics driven interpretable deep learning-based insights into boiling crisis of smooth and roughened surfaces.

Conclusion

Dr. Engr. Muhammad Sultan exemplifies research excellence and leadership in Agricultural and Environmental Engineering. With prestigious international qualifications and top-tier global rankings, he contributes significantly to advancing sustainable technologies in agriculture. His mentorship, editorial roles, and project leadership reflect a commitment to academic and societal impact. He actively engages in cross-border collaborations and maintains a prolific research output. Dr. Sultan’s career trajectory, from national recognition to global prominence, positions him as a valuable asset to the scientific community. His future potential lies in shaping climate-resilient agricultural systems and influencing global sustainability policies through innovative engineering research.

Wen-Hsin Chung | Plant Pathology | Sustainable Agriculture Innovation Award

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Prof. Wen-Hsin Chung | Plant Pathology | Sustainable Agriculture Innovation Award

National Chung Hsing University | Taiwan

Author Profile

Scopus
Orcid ID

🌟  Suitable for this Sustainable Agriculture Innovation Award

Wen-Hsin Chung, Ph.D., is an expert in plant pathology, focusing on biological control techniques like seed treatment with microorganisms. His research, which addresses seed-borne diseases such as Fusarium oxysporum, directly contributes to sustainable agricultural practices. With over 25 years of professional experience in the field, he is highly suitable for this award. His leadership roles, such as Director of the Agricultural Extension Center and Chair of the Master Program for Plant Medicine, underscore his impact in education and extension services related to sustainable farming.

🎓 Education 

Wen-Hsin Chung earned his Ph.D. in Agricultural Sciences from Tsukuba University, Japan (2000–2004), where his research on plant diseases laid the foundation for his future work. He also holds an M.S. and B.S. in Plant Pathology from National Chung Hsing University, Taiwan. His academic journey reflects a dedication to advancing plant disease research and agricultural sustainability.

 💼  Professional Experience

Dr. Chung has served as a Professor and Associate Professor at the Department of Plant Pathology, National Chung Hsing University, Taiwan, since 2005. His leadership as Director of Agricultural Products Approval and Certification Center and the Agricultural Extension Center demonstrates his commitment to integrating plant pathology with practical agricultural solutions. His work in seed treatment and disease control has shaped innovative approaches to sustainable agriculture.

🏅 Awards and Recognition 

Dr. Chung has received several academic awards, including honors from the Taiwan Plant Pathology Society and the Chinese Sustainable Agriculture Association. His contributions to plant pathology have been recognized both nationally and internationally. As a co-chair at the Asia Mycological Congress 2017, his leadership in the field is widely acknowledged.

🌍Research skills On Plant Pathology

Dr. Chung’s research focuses on biological control, specifically using microorganisms for seed treatment to control diseases and promote growth. His expertise in seed-borne diseases, such as Fusarium oxysporum and Alternaria spp., plays a crucial role in sustainable agricultural practices. His diverse skills in microbiology, plant disease management, and extension services make him a leading researcher in the field.

📖Publications

Evaluation of Luffa Rootstocks to Improve Resistance in Bitter Gourd (Momordica charantia L.) Against Fusarium Wilt

  • Authors: Ahmed Namisy, Shu-Yun Chen, Benjapon Sritongkam, Jintana Unartngam, Chinnapan Thanarut, Wen-Hsin Chung

  • Journal: Plants

  • Year: 2025

Diversity and Characteristics of Fusarium solani Species Complex (FSSC) Isolates Causing Collar Rot and Fruit Rot of Passion Fruit in Taiwan

  • Authors: Pei-Hsin Lo, Jin-Hsing Huang, Chia-Chih Chang, Ahmed Namisy, Chi-Yu Chen, Wen-Hsin Chung

  • Journal: Plant Disease

  • Year: 2025

Alleviating Continuous Cropping Obstacles in Celery Using Engineered Biochar: Insights into Chemical and Microbiological Aspects

  • Authors: Chia-Chia Lin, Ya-Hui Chuang, Fo-Ting Shen, Wen-Hsin Chung, Chi-Yu Chen, Yu-Ting Liu, Yi-Cheng Hsieh, Yu-Min Tzou, Shih-Hao Jien

  • Journal: Agronomy

  • Year: 2024

Histopathology and Quantification of Green Fluorescent Protein-tagged Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. luffae Isolate in Resistant and Susceptible Luffa Germplasm

  • Authors: Ahmed Namisy, Shu-Yun Chen, Jin-Hsing Huang, Jintana Unartngam, Chinnapan Thanarut, Wen-Hsin Chung, Giuseppe Ianiri

  • Journal: Microbiology Spectrum

  • Year: 2024

Endophytic Fungal Diversity in Cirsium kawakamii from Taiwan

  • Authors: Yi-Jeng Chen, Hui-Juan Chen, Wen-Hsin Chung

  • Journal: Journal of Fungi

  • Year: 2023

 

Abhishek Walia | Sustainable Agriculture |Best Researcher Award

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Assist. Prof. Dr. Abhishek Walia | Sustainable Agriculture |Best Researcher Award

CSK Himachal Pradesh Agricultural University, Palampur. HP | India

Author Profile

Scopus
Orcid ID

🌟  Suitable for this Best Researcher Award

We proudly nominate Dr. Abhishek Walia for the esteemed Best Researcher Award in Sustainable Agriculture. His groundbreaking work in microbiology and sustainable farming practices exemplifies innovation and dedication to advancing agricultural sciences.​

  • Original research with practical applications
  • Academic leadership and mentorship
  • Recognition by peers nationally and internationally
  • Consistent publication and editorial work
  • Contribution to sustainable development goals

🎓 Education 

Dr. Abhishek Walia earned his Ph.D. in Microbiology from Dr. YS Parmar University of Horticulture & Forestry, Nauni-Solan, HP, India. His doctoral research focused on the production, purification, and characterization of cellulase-free xylanase from Cellulosimicrobium cellulans using solid-state fermentation of apple pomace, aiming to enhance pulp biobleaching processes. This work not only contributed to the field of industrial microbiology but also aligned with sustainable agricultural practices by utilizing agro-industrial waste. Dr. Walia’s academic journey is marked by a commitment to integrating microbiological research with practical applications in agriculture, emphasizing eco-friendly and sustainable solutions.​

 💼  Professional Experience

Dr. Walia currently serves as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Microbiology at the College of Basic Sciences, CSK Himachal Pradesh Agricultural University, Palampur, HP, India, with over five years of experience. Previously, he held the position of Assistant Professor and Head of the Department of Microbiology at DAV University, Jalandhar, Punjab, for four and a half years. His professional journey also includes roles at Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar, and the Forensic Science Laboratory in Delhi. Throughout his career, Dr. Walia has demonstrated a strong commitment to teaching and research, guiding numerous M.Sc. students in their dissertations and contributing significantly to the field of microbiology with a focus on sustainable agricultural practices.​

🏅 Awards and Recognition 

  • Best Publication Award (2012): Recognized by the Society for Advancement of Human and Nature for his publication on optimizing cellulase-free xylanase production.​

  • Gold Medal in Ph.D. (Microbiology): Awarded by Himotkarsh Sahitya Sanskriti Avam Jan-Kalyan Parishad, Una, for securing the top position in his doctoral program.​

  • Appreciation Letter (2023): Received from the Hon’ble Vice Chancellor on University Foundation Day for outstanding contributions to the university.​

  • Scholarships/Fellowships:

    • Swami Vivekanand Scholarship under the National Scholarship Scheme, Govt. of Himachal Pradesh.​

    • Merit Scholarship during M.Sc. under the University Merit Scholarship Scheme.​

    • INSPIRE Fellowship (JRF and SRF) from the Department of Science and Technology, Govt. of India, under the Assured Opportunity for Research Career (AORC) scheme.

🌍Research skills On Agriculture

Dr. Walia’s research expertise encompasses microbial genetics, industrial and environmental microbiology, and the application of microbial processes in sustainable agriculture. His doctoral work on xylanase production from agro-industrial waste highlights his ability to integrate microbiological research with environmental sustainability. He has guided over twenty M.Sc. students, fostering a new generation of researchers in the field. Dr. Walia’s involvement in various workshops and training programs, such as those on bioinformatics and molecular biology techniques, further demonstrates his commitment to continuous learning and application of interdisciplinary approaches in research. His editorial roles in several scientific journals and active participation in reviewing research articles underscore his dedication to advancing scientific knowledge and promoting sustainable practices in agriculture.​

📖Publications

Molecular characterization of gut cellulolytic bacteria isolated from different ecotypes of Brahmina coriacea (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae) grubs in North‐Western Himalaya

  • Authors: Suresh Kumar Mahala, Ravinder Singh Chandel, Kuldeep Singh Verma, Karthik Ramappa, Abhishek Walia

  • Journal: Acta Zoologica

  • Year: 2025

Carbon negative biofuels: a step ahead of carbon neutrality

  • Authors: Tarun Sharma, Prakram Singh Chauhan, Maulik Patel, Akashdeep Singh, Manmeet Kaur, Garima Chauhan, Bharat Bhushan Rana, Naveen Kumar, Abhishek Walia

  • Journal: Biofuels

  • Year: 2025

The First Report on Opportunistic Human Pathogenic Bacteria Staphylococcus haemolyticus Isolated from Brahmina coriacea (Scarabaeidae: Coleoptera) in the North-Western Himalayas

  • Authors: Suresh Kumar Mahala, Karthik Ramappa, R. S. Chandel, K. S. Verma, Abhishek Walia

  • Journal: Current Biotechnology

  • Year: 2024

Biotechnology for sustainable materials: innovating today for a greener tomorrow

  • Authors: Shashi Kant Bhatia, Saurabh Bhatia, Maria Eugenia Inda-Webb, Konstantina Kourmentza, Tae Seok Moon, Vijai Singh, Vishal Ahuja, Jingbo Li, Sanjeet Mehariya, Abhishek Walia et al.

  • Journal: Biotechnology for Sustainable Materials

  • Year: 2024

Insights into Cow Dung-Based Bioformulations for Sustainable Plant Health and Disease Management in Organic and Natural Farming System: a Review

  • Authors: Shweta Sagar, Arjun Singh, Jyoti Bala, Rakesh Chauhan, Rameshwar Kumar, Ravi Kant Bhatia, Abhishek Walia

  • Journal: Journal of Soil Science and Plant Nutrition

  • Year: 2024