Suitable for this Best Researcher Award
Dr. Muhammad Awais Piracha stands as a distinguished nominee for the Best Researcher Award in Soil Science, recognized for his pioneering work in biogeochemistry and phytoremediation of heavy metal-contaminated soils. His research contributions, particularly on arsenic and cadmium dynamics and their interaction with organic amendments such as compost, FYM, and biochar, have delivered impactful solutions for sustainable agriculture and environmental health. His international collaboration at Texas A&M University under HEC’s IRSIP program further exemplifies his commitment to global scientific engagement. With 18 published articles, a book chapter, multiple conference presentations, and a solid academic presence, Dr. Piracha’s work continues to influence both academic and applied soil science sectors. His strong leadership, mentorship, and outreach activities make him an outstanding candidate whose work aligns with the global goals of food security, soil health, and environmental restoration.
Education
Dr. Muhammad Awais Piracha earned his Ph.D. in Soil Science (2020) from the University of Sargodha, where he focused on arsenic biogeochemistry and phytoremediation in contaminated soils. Prior to this, he completed an M.Sc. (Hons.) in Soil Science (2013) and a B.Sc. (Hons.) in Agriculture (Soil Science) (2011) from the University of Agriculture, Faisalabad. His academic training was shaped by extensive laboratory work, soil-plant interaction studies, and sustainable soil management practices. During his Ph.D., he was awarded the International Research Support Initiative Program (IRSIP), which allowed him to undertake advanced research as a Visiting Scholar at Texas A&M University, USA. This international exposure broadened his understanding of global soil science methodologies and enhanced his capabilities in experimental design, data interpretation, and research publication. His education blends theoretical depth and practical training, making him a role model in modern soil science education and research.
Professional Experience
Dr. Piracha currently serves as Assistant Professor at the Department of Soil & Environmental Sciences, University of Sargodha. His academic journey includes progressive roles, starting as an Internee at AARI Faisalabad (2011), then moving to various research and lab positions, including Chemist at Alpha Seed Corporation, Scientific Officer at D.G. Khan Soil Lab, and Assistant Research Officer at PQCL Bahawalpur. His global academic stint includes a Visiting Research Scholar position at Texas A&M University, where he collaborated on soil remediation research. He also served as Visiting Lecturer from 2018 to 2021, teaching core soil science courses. With his current faculty position, Dr. Piracha actively mentors students and leads applied research in environmental soil science. His practical experience spans field diagnostics, lab analytics, and policy-oriented reporting, equipping him with a holistic view of soil health, food security, and climate-resilient agriculture.
Awards and Recognition
Dr. Muhammad Awais Piracha has been consistently acknowledged for his academic brilliance and societal impact. He was honored with the prestigious Agricultural Youth Leadership Award in 2019 by the National Agricultural Youth Commission, Pakistan, for his innovative research contributions to sustainable soil practices. His competitive selection for the HEC Pakistan IRSIP Scholarship is a testament to his potential and dedication, allowing him to conduct international research at Texas A&M University. He has also been invited as a guest speaker and active participant in international conferences and seminars, both in Pakistan and abroad, highlighting his growing reputation as an expert in soil remediation. Dr. Piracha’s work has been featured in highly cited journals and he has presented at over 10 scientific forums, cementing his influence in the academic and research community. These recognitions underline his vision, leadership, and commitment to solving real-world problems in soil and environmental science.
Dr. Piracha’s research expertise lies in soil biology, biogeochemistry, and phytoremediation with an emphasis on arsenic and cadmium toxicity in agricultural systems. He specializes in the remediation of heavy metal-contaminated soils using sustainable organic amendments like biochar, compost, and FYM. His studies have significantly contributed to understanding the interaction of salinity, boron toxicity, and plant physiology under abiotic stress, creating pathways for improved crop yield and soil rehabilitation. Equipped with advanced laboratory techniques and statistical tools, he designs experiments that bridge academic knowledge and practical application. His collaboration with Texas A&M enhanced his international visibility and provided him access to state-of-the-art tools and methodologies. With a record of publishing in indexed journals and presenting in scientific congresses, Dr. Piracha’s research continues to impact policy, curriculum design, and sustainable agriculture practices. He embodies the vision of soil science for environmental recovery, food security, and global health.
Publications
Optimization of nitrogen regulates the ionic homeostasis, potassium efficiency, and proline content to improve the growth, yield, and quality of maize under salinity stress
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Authors: SA Javed, MT Jaffar, SM Shahzad, M Ashraf, MA Piracha, A Mukhtar
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Journal: Environmental and Experimental Botany
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Year: 2024
Arsenic fractionation and its impact on physiological behavior of sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) in three texturally different soils under alkaline calcareous conditions
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Authors: MA Piracha, M Ashraf, A Niaz
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Journal: Environmental Science and Pollution Research
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Year: 2019
Alteration in soil arsenic dynamics and toxicity to sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) in response to phosphorus in different textured soils
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Authors: MA Piracha, M Ashraf, SM Shahzad, M Imtiaz, MS Arif, MS Rizwan, A Aziz, S Tu, G Albasher, S Alkahtani
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Journal: Chemosphere
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Year: 2022