Aleksandar Simic | Crop production | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Aleksandar Simic | Crop production | Best Researcher Award

PhD at Faculty of Agriculture, University of Belgrade, Serbia

Prof. Aleksandar Simic is a full professor at the University of Belgrade, Faculty of Agriculture, specializing in Grassland Management, Pasture Ecology, and Site-Specific Agriculture. With a PhD in Biotechnology (2008) and extensive experience since 1996, he has contributed to key areas in agriculture and ecological research. Prof. Simic’s international collaboration includes postdoctoral studies in Turkey and courses in the USA. His recent projects focus on sustainable agriculture practices, including precision fertilization and use of natural zeolites. He is fluent in English and a member of professional organizations like the Forage Society of Serbia. 🌍📚

Publication Profile

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Educational Background 🎓

Prof. Aleksandar Simic holds a PhD in Biotechnology (2008) from the University of Belgrade, Serbia, where he also completed his Master of Science in Biotechnology (2002) and earned a Bachelor of Science in Agronomy (1995). His academic journey at this esteemed institution has shaped his expertise in agriculture and biotechnology. Prof. Simic’s education forms the foundation for his extensive research in grassland management and ecological agriculture, making him a key figure in the academic community. 🌿📚

Professional Experience 💼

Prof. Aleksandar Simic has had a distinguished career in academia, primarily at the University of Belgrade’s Faculty of Agriculture. He has served as a Full-Time Professor in the Crop Production Department since 2020. Prior to this, he held the position of Associate Professor (2015) and Assistant Professor (2009) at the same department. His academic journey began in 1996 as a Scientific Assistant, followed by roles as a Teaching Assistant (1999-2002) and Assistant (2002-2009), contributing significantly to agricultural research and education. 🌾👨‍🏫

Field of Interests 🌿

Prof. Aleksandar Simic’s research spans a variety of critical areas within agriculture and ecology. His focus includes Grassland Management, emphasizing ecological principles for sustainable production, conservation, and environmental protection. He also specializes in Pasture Research Techniques, applying quantitative and qualitative methods for vegetation studies. His work in Site-Specific Agriculture explores spatial analysis and georeferenced data management for soil and crop management. Additionally, his expertise extends to Pasture Ecology, examining plant-soil-animal interactions and environmental influences. Lastly, he is involved in Grassland Management Planning, developing strategies to maximize grassland productivity. 🌾📊🌱

Research Focus Areas 🌾📊

Prof. Aleksandar Simic’s research is centered on agricultural productivity, grassland management, and crop yield optimization. His work explores the impact of nitrogen fertilization on wheat, maize, and soybean yields, focusing on fertilizer efficiency and environmental conditions. He also investigates pasture ecology through studies on Italian ryegrass, alfalfa, and other grass species, analyzing seed germination, protein content, and forage quality under various fertilization regimes. Additionally, Prof. Simic conducts research on site-specific agriculture, assessing spatial data for better crop management, and emphasizes the sustainable management of grasslands and forage systems. 🌱💧

Publication Top Notes

  • Nitrogen fertilizer influence on wheat yield and use efficiency under different environmental conditions 🌾 – 131 citations, 2015
  • Seed germination and seedling vigour of italian ryegrass, cocksfoot and timothy following harvest and storage 🌱 – 61 citations, 2011
  • Genotype and Year Effect on Grain Yield and Nutritive Values of Maize (Zea mays L.) 🌽 – 54 citations, 2011
  • Effect of foliar fertilization on soybean grain yield 🌿 – 42 citations, 2015
  • Changes in lignin structure with maturation of alfalfa leaf and stem in relation to ruminants nutrition 🌱 – 40 citations, 2012
  • Impact of seeding rate and interrow spacing on Italian ryegrass for seed in the first harvest year 🌾 – 40 citations, 2009
  • Effect of nitrogen fertilization and undersowing on yield and quality of Cynosuretum cristati-type meadows in hilly-mountainous grasslands in Serbia 🌾 – 33 citations, 2005
  • Performances of some cool season turfgrass species in mediterranean environment: I. Lolium perenne L., Festuca arundinacea Schreb., Poa pratensis L. 🌱 – 32 citations, 2010
  • The rainfall use efficiency and soybean grain yield under rainfed conditions in Vojvodina 🌧️ – 27 citations, 2017
  • The effect of crop density on yield of forage maize 🌽 – 26 citations, 2015
  • Changes of crude protein content in Italian ryegrass influenced by spring nitrogen application 🌿 – 26 citations, 2009
Conclusion

Prof. Aleksandar Simic is highly deserving of the Research for Best Researcher Award. His deep academic background, ongoing research in sustainable agriculture, impactful publications, and international collaborations position him as a leading figure in his field. His work directly aligns with the goals of advancing agricultural sustainability and ecological management, making him an excellent candidate for this prestigious recognition.

 

 

Birkneh Dosegnaw | Plant breeding | Research and Development Excellence Award

Mr. Birkneh Dosegnaw | Plant breeding | Research and Development Excellence Award

Associate researcher, Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research, Ethiopia

Birkneh Kuru Dosegnaw is an Associate Researcher at the Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research (Pawe Agricultural Research Center) in Ethiopia. His expertise lies in plant breeding, focusing on sorghum, finger millet, maize, and tef. Birkneh holds an MSc in Plant Breeding and Genetics from Debre Markos University and a BSc in Plant Science from Wollo University. He has contributed significantly to research in genotype-environment interactions and yield stability, with publications in prestigious journals. His skills include data analysis, project coordination, and scientific writing. Birkneh is passionate about sustainable agricultural development and breeding for disease resistance. 🌾📊📚

Publication Profile

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Professional Experience 🌾

Birkneh Kuru Dosegnaw has a robust career in agricultural research, particularly in plant breeding. He is currently an Associate Researcher at the Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research (Pawe Agricultural Research Center), working on sorghum, finger millet, maize, and tef breeding programs since September 2024. Previously, Birkneh worked as an Associate Researcher for sorghum and finger millet breeding (2022–2024) and as Assistant Researcher I and II from 2018 to 2021. He began his career as a Junior Researcher in 2016 and later worked as a Junior Expert in field crop production and irrigation agronomy in 2015-2016. 🌱🔬

Education & Training 🎓

Birkneh Kuru Dosegnaw holds a Master’s degree (MSc) in Plant Breeding and Genetics from Debre Markos University, Ethiopia (2019-2021). His studies covered subjects like Agricultural Statistics, Plant Breeding Methods, Population Genetics, Crop Agronomy, Seed Science, and Evolutionary Biology. Prior to that, he earned a Bachelor’s degree (BSc) in Plant Science from Wollo University (2012-2014), where he focused on research methods, genetics, plant breeding, crop production, and seed technology. These educational foundations have equipped him with a solid understanding of plant science and breeding for agricultural advancement. 🌿📚

Research Focus

Birkneh Kuru Dosegnaw’s research primarily focuses on plant breeding and crop genetics with an emphasis on improving the yield stability and genotype-environment interactions of finger millet. His recent work, published in Field Crops Research, investigates the performance of finger millet genotypes under varying environmental conditions using statistical analysis methods like AMMI, GGE, and MTSI. His studies contribute to enhancing crop resilience and sustainability in humid lowland areas of Ethiopia. Through his work, he aims to optimize crop productivity and develop varieties that perform well across diverse environments. 🌱📊

 

Publication Top Notes

Genotype X environment interaction and yield stability of finger millet (Eleusine Coracana L.) genotypes based on AMMI, GGE and MTSI analysis in humid lowland areas of Ethiopia

 

 

 

Poliana Mendes de Souza | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Excellence in Innovation

Poliana Mendes de Souza | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Excellence in Innovation

Prof Dr Poliana Mendes de Souza, UM6P, Morocco

Prof. Dr. Poliana Mendes de Souza is a distinguished expert in food science and technology, with a postdoctoral focus on nitrate reduction in processed meat products. Her innovative Ph.D. research on non-thermal preservation techniques for liquid egg products showcases her commitment to food safety 🥚. She has received multiple awards for her contributions to food technology and authored several publications, establishing her as a thought leader 📚. Actively involved in significant research projects and collaborations with esteemed institutions like the USDA, Prof. Mendes de Souza is also a dedicated educator and mentor, shaping future innovators in her field 🎓. Her leadership in organizing national and international congresses further underscores her impact on advancing food technology 🌍.

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Education

Prof. Dr. Poliana Mendes de Souza is a highly accomplished food scientist with extensive education in food technology and engineering. She completed her Ph.D. at Universidad Politécnica de Valencia, focusing on non-thermal preservation techniques for liquid egg products 🥚. Her postdoctoral research at Universidade Federal de Lavras emphasized reducing nitrates in processed meats. With a Master’s in Food Engineering from Universidade Estadual de Campinas and advanced studies in agricultural engineering, she has contributed significantly to food safety and preservation 🌱. Prof. Mendes de Souza’s expertise includes innovative packaging solutions for minced meat and bioprospection of natural products, showcasing her commitment to advancing the field 📦.

Awards & Honors

Prof. Dr. Poliana Mendes de Souza has received numerous accolades for her outstanding contributions to food science and technology. In 2023, she was honored for the best work in food technology at the II Simpósio Online Sulamericano de Tecnologia, Engenharia e Ciência de Alimentos for her research on papaya seed flour 🍃. She also garnered recognition at the IV Congresso Brasileiro Interdisciplinar em Ciência e Tecnologia. Earlier achievements include multiple honorific mentions for studies on gamma irradiation and pasteurization in 2020 🥛. In 2017, she won the JEA Cookies competition and received awards for her innovative work on probiotics and UV-C processing 🌟, showcasing her commitment to advancing food safety and quality.

Plenary Lectures

Prof. Dr. Poliana Mendes de Souza has made significant contributions to interdisciplinary science and technology through her engaging presentations at various online conferences. Notably, she delivered the opening keynote at the III Congresso Brasileiro Interdisciplinar em Ciência e Tecnologia in 2022, discussing the historical and current perspectives of interdisciplinary degrees in C&T 🌐. Her work on short-wave ultraviolet applications for food processing and preservation has been showcased at international events, including the 2nd Science International Conference and the I Congreso Euroamericano de Procesos y Productos Alimentarios 🍳. Her presentations reflect her expertise in food microbiology and non-thermal preservation techniques, emphasizing her commitment to advancing food safety and technology 🍽️.

Research Focus

Prof. Dr. Poliana Mendes de Souza’s research primarily focuses on innovative food preservation technologies, particularly utilizing ultraviolet (UV-C) light and radiation methods to enhance food safety and quality. Her work explores the physicochemical properties of liquid egg products and fresh beverages, evaluating the effectiveness of UV-C treatments against harmful pathogens like Salmonella. Additionally, she investigates the impact of these technologies on the nutritional quality of food items, consumer acceptance, and the safety of cured meats using gamma radiation. Her contributions significantly advance the field of food science and technology, promoting safer and healthier food products. 🍳🌟🔬

Publication Profile

Modified sodium caseinate films as releasing carriers of lysozyme

Effects of the decontamination of a fresh tiger nuts’ milk beverage (horchata) with short wave ultraviolet treatments (UV-C) on quality attributes

Effects of UV-C on physicochemical quality attributes and Salmonella enteritidis inactivation in liquid egg products

Effects of radiation technologies on food nutritional quality

Rheological properties and protein quality of UV-C processed liquid egg products

Influence of temperature on the inactivation kinetics of Salmonella Enteritidis by the application of UV-C technology in soymilk

Microbiological efficacy in liquid egg products of a UV-C treatment in a coiled reactor

Conclusion

Prof. Dr. Poliana Mendes de Souza’s combination of innovative research, recognized contributions to food technology, and leadership in academic and professional settings makes her an excellent candidate for the Research for Excellence in Innovation initiative.

Poliana Mendes de Souza | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Most Cited Paper Award

Poliana Mendes de Souza | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Most Cited Paper Award

Prof Dr Poliana Mendes de Souza, UM6P, Morocco

Prof. Dr. Poliana Mendes de Souza, she appears to be a strong candidate for the Most Cited Paper Award. Here are several reasons supporting this opinion:

Publication Profile

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Research Focus

Prof. Dr. Mendes de Souza has focused on significant topics within Food Science and Technology, including non-thermal preservation processes and emerging technologies in food. This area of research is not only relevant but also gaining traction due to increasing consumer interest in food safety and sustainability.

Publication Record

Her doctoral dissertation and various publications address critical issues like the effects of ultraviolet treatments on food preservation and the reduction of nitrates in processed meat products. Such research is likely to attract citations due to its relevance in the food industry and its implications for health.

International Collaboration

Her experience as a visiting researcher and professor in various institutions worldwide, such as Tecnológico de Monterrey and Universidade de Cordoba, suggests she has a broad network and influences in international research communities. This can enhance the visibility and citation of her work.

Editorial and Organizational Roles

Prof. Dr. Mendes de Souza serves on the editorial boards of reputable journals and organizes significant scientific events, indicating her engagement with the research community and her efforts to promote scholarly work. These roles often lead to increased recognition and citation of her research.

Awards and Honors

The recognition she has received at various congresses and symposia highlights her impactful contributions to the field, which is often correlated with higher citation rates.

Teaching and Mentoring

Her positions across several academic programs demonstrate her commitment to education and mentoring, which often results in collaborative research and increased citation opportunities through her students’ future work.

Publication Top Notes

Modified sodium caseinate films as releasing carriers of lysozyme

Effects of the decontamination of a fresh tiger nuts’ milk beverage (horchata) with short wave ultraviolet treatments (UV-C) on quality attributes

Effects of UV-C on physicochemical quality attributes and Salmonella enteritidis inactivation in liquid egg products

Effects of radiation technologies on food nutritional quality

Rheological properties and protein quality of UV-C processed liquid egg products

Functional properties and nutritional composition of liquid egg products treated in a coiled tube UV-C reactor

Consumer acceptance of UV-C treated liquid egg products and preparations with UV-C treated eggs

Influence of temperature on the inactivation kinetics of Salmonella Enteritidis by the application of UV-C technology in soymilk

conclusion

Prof. Dr. Poliana Mendes de Souza’s comprehensive academic background, impactful research focus, and active participation in the scientific community position her well for recognition through a Most Cited Paper Award.

Pablo Barbieri | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Outstanding Scientist Award

Pablo Barbieri | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Outstanding Scientist Award

Dr. Pablo Barbieri is an exceptional researcher in the field of soil fertility, crop nutrition, and nutrient management, making him a strong candidate for the Research for Outstanding Scientist Award. His academic and research career has centered on optimizing soil fertility and crop yields through effective nutrient management, particularly nitrogen. Below is a detailed overview of his qualifications and key contributions:

Publication profile

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Academic Background

  • Doctorate in Agricultural Sciences (2008): Thesis on nitrogen utilization efficiency in maize under direct seeding, showcasing his focus on sustainable agricultural practices.
  • Postgraduate specialization in Plant Production (2000): Focus on crop and soil fertility further establishes his expertise in nutrient management.

Research Contributions

  1. Yield Responses and Radiation Interception
    His work on yield responses to narrow row spacing highlights how increasing radiation interception can enhance crop productivity, emphasizing his innovative approaches to improving agricultural practices.
    Agronomy Journal, 2002
  2. Soil Organic Carbon Determination
    The comparison of methods for determining soil organic carbon underscores his contribution to enhancing soil health assessment methodologies.
    Ciencia del Suelo, 2014
  3. Maize Water-Use Efficiency
    Dr. Barbieri’s study on maize evapotranspiration and water-use efficiency under different nitrogen supplies is vital in addressing challenges of water scarcity in agriculture.
    Field Crops Research, 2015
  4. Nitrogen Mineralization and Soil Testing
    His research on the reliability of nitrogen testing in maize further demonstrates his contribution to optimizing fertilization practices, ensuring efficient nutrient use.
    Agronomy Journal, 2008

Innovative Research Impact

  • Dr. Barbieri’s research focuses on optimizing nitrogen use efficiency, improving water-use efficiency, and enhancing soil fertility, which are critical for sustainable agriculture. His contributions help improve crop yields while minimizing environmental impact, aligning with the award’s recognition of impactful scientific advancements.

Contributions to Knowledge & Practice

  • Optimizing nitrogen use efficiency: His research has contributed to more effective fertilizer application, reducing environmental impacts while maximizing crop yields.
  • Sustainable agricultural practices: Through his involvement with various research institutes like CONICET and IPADS BALCARCE, Dr. Barbieri has pioneered strategies to enhance sustainable crop production.

Publication top notes

Yield responses to narrow rows depend on increased radiation interception

Comparación de métodos para determinar carbono orgánico en suelo

Maize water use efficiency and evapotranspiration response to N supply under contrasting soil water availability

Maize evapotranspiration and water‐use efficiency in response to row spacing

Contribution of anaerobically mineralized nitrogen to the reliability of planting or presidedress soil nitrogen test in maize

¿ Cuál es el estado de la fertilidad de los suelos argentinos?

Optimizing fertilizer nitrogen use efficiency by intensively managed spring wheat in humid regions: Effect of split application

Improving resource productivity at a crop sequence level

Dosis óptima económica de nitrógeno en maíz bajo siembra directa en el sudeste bonaerense

Conclusion

Dr. Barbieri’s extensive research in soil fertility, nutrient management, and his highly cited publications make him a strong contender for the Research for Outstanding Scientist Award. His work has had a notable impact on both academic research and practical agricultural methods, particularly in optimizing resource use in crop systems. His contributions align perfectly with the award’s focus on groundbreaking scientific achievements.

Zohreh Hamidi-Esfahani | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Zohreh Hamidi-Esfahani | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Faculty member at Department of Food Science and Technology, Faculty of Agriculture, Tarbiat Modares University, Iran

Zohreh Hamidi-Esfahani is a distinguished academic in the Department of Food Science and Technology at Tarbiat Modares University in Tehran, Iran. With a B.Sc. in Chemical Engineering (Food Technology) and a Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering (Biotechnology), she has held various academic positions, rising to the rank of Professor in 2021. Her research interests include biotechnology in food industries, solid-state fermentation, and the production of microbial enzymes and probiotic foods. An active member of several scientific societies, she has contributed significantly to the field through her extensive publication record, including numerous journal articles focused on food science and biotechnology. Additionally, she serves as a referee for several reputable journals, underscoring her expertise and commitment to advancing research in her field.

Publication profile

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Educational Background

Zohreh Hamidi-Esfahani holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemical Engineering with a specialization in Food Technology from the University of Tehran, completed in 1989. She pursued her Master of Science in Food Science and Technology at Tarbiat Modares University, graduating in 1991. Further advancing her academic credentials, she earned a Doctor of Philosophy in Chemical Engineering with a focus on Biotechnology from Tarbiat Modares University in 2003. This strong educational foundation in food science and biotechnology has equipped her with the knowledge and skills necessary for her research and teaching career in the field of food science and technology.

Teaching and Research Experience

Zohreh Hamidi-Esfahani has extensive academic experience, having served as an instructor at Tarbiat Modares University since 1993, where she progressed from Assistant Professor to Professor by 2021. Her research interests encompass various aspects of biotechnology and engineering in food industries, including solid-state fermentation, microbial enzyme production, and the application of novel technologies in food processing. She has authored numerous publications in reputable journals, contributing significantly to the fields of food science and biotechnology. Her role as a referee for several scientific journals demonstrates her active engagement in the academic community, while her memberships in various scientific societies highlight her commitment to advancing research in food technology and agricultural engineering.

Publication Top Notes

Conclusion

Zohreh Hamidi-Esfahani stands out as a deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award due to her extensive academic background, diverse research interests, and significant contributions to food science and technology. Her work has advanced our understanding of critical areas in the field and has the potential to influence both academia and industry. By addressing areas for improvement, she can further enhance her impact and foster a collaborative research environment. Recognizing her with this award would not only honor her contributions but also encourage continued excellence in the field of food science and technology.

Diljeet Kaur | Agronomy | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Diljeet Kaur | Agronomy | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Diljeet Kaur, Indian Council of Agricultural Research-Agricultural Technology Application and Research Institute (ICAR-ATARI), Zone-I, Ludhiana, India

Dr. Diljeet Kaur appears to be a strong candidate for the Research for Best Researcher Award based on several key factors:

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Scopus

Education

Dr. Kaur holds a Ph.D. in Agronomy (2024) from Punjab Agricultural University, where she achieved an impressive OCPA of 8.51/10.0 (85.1%). She completed her M.Sc. in Agronomy (2019) with a notable OCPA of 8.78/10.0 (87.8%) and a B.Sc. in Agriculture (Honours) (2017) with an OCPA of 8.55/10.0 (85.5%). Her academic performance reflects a strong foundation in agronomy.

Academic Achievements

Dr. Kaur has received several accolades, including the University Merit Scholarship and University Merit Certificates for both her M.Sc. and B.Sc. degrees. She has also qualified the National Eligibility Test conducted by the Agricultural Scientists Recruitment Board (ASRB), highlighting her expertise and recognition in her field.

Skills

Dr. Kaur possesses a range of essential skills:

Time Management: Effective in organizing, prioritizing, and planning.

Communication: Proficient in verbal and written communication, presentation, and active listening.

Work Ethics and Integrity: Demonstrates responsibility, discipline, and professionalism.

Adaptability: Skilled in self-management, optimism, and analysis.

Leadership: Experienced in management, mentorship, and cultural intelligence.

Attention to Detail: Known for critical observation and introspection.

Technical Skills

She is adept at data analysis and interpretation, with experience using statistical software (R and CPCS1) and advanced agronomy techniques. Her technical proficiency extends to various instruments, including canopy analyzers, SPAD chlorophyll meters, and atomic absorption spectrometers.

Trainings/Courses

Dr. Kaur has participated in several relevant training programs and courses:

Practical Crop Production: One-year experience.

Rural Agricultural Work Experience (RAWE): Two months of training.

Industrial Training: One month at IFFCO, Punjab, India.

Fertilizer Orientation Course: Conducted by the Fertilizer Association of India.

Green Revolution Global Certificate Program: Online course supported by the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change.

Agronomic Research for Food Security and Environmental Stewardship: Short course by the Indian Society of Agronomy.

Hands-on Training on Statistical Analysis: Organized by the Indian Society of Agronomy.

Conclusion

Dr. Kaur’s academic credentials, achievements, skill set, and training make her a well-qualified and deserving candidate for the Research for Best Researcher Award.