Lucas Franco | Precision agriculture | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. Lucas Franco | Precision agriculture | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Lucas Franco, Universidade Federal de São Carlos, Brazil

Lucas is a Senior Developer at iDtrust, specializing in financial solutions with technologies like Java, Python, AWS, and Agile methodologies. He holds a Master’s in Computer Science from UFSCar, focusing on AI-driven drone route optimization for precision agriculture. Lucas also has expertise in automation and data analysis, with experience in the agricultural and industrial sectors. He has worked on projects with Embrapa/Qualcomm and Inselli Engenharia & Ciência Aplicada, contributing to automation and intelligent systems development. Passionate about learning and research, he is skilled in programming, machine learning, and cloud computing. 💻🤖🚁

Publication Profile

Google Scholar

Education and Academic Background

Lucas Franco holds a Master’s degree in Computer Science from UFSCar (2017-2019), where he conducted research on optimizing drone routes for precision agriculture using AI, under the guidance of Prof. Dr. Edilson Kato. He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science from UniSeb (2012-2015) and a degree in Industrial Automation Technology from IFSP (2009-2011). Lucas also completed a technical course in Industrial Automation at CEFET in 2008. His academic background equips him with a strong foundation in computer science, automation, and innovative technology applications. 🚁🤖💡

Professional Experience

Lucas Franco is currently a Senior Developer at iDtrust (2018-present), creating financial solutions using Java, Python, AWS Cloud, and Agile Scrum methodology. From 2016 to 2018, he worked on the Embrapa/Qualcomm project, focusing on drone technology for precision agriculture, image processing, and system configuration. He also taught Digital Circuits at Domênico Technical School (2016). Between 2010-2016, Lucas worked as a Systems Analyst at Inselli Engenharia, conducting research in automation, gas leak detection, embedded systems, software testing, and database management. He also assisted in automation courses at IFSP. 🤖📊💻

Qualifications

Lucas Franco has strong qualifications in Computer Science, proficient in programming languages such as Java, Python, R, MATLAB/SCILAB, C/C++, and Delphi. He has experience with AWS Cloud services, machine learning, data processing, and SQL database management, alongside embedded system development in Linux. In Industrial Automation, he excels in research and development, PLC programming, instrumentation, communication protocols, and bench testing with industrial equipment. Personally, Lucas possesses strong logical reasoning, teamwork skills, interpersonal relationships, and a passion for self-learning, research, and knowledge sharing. He is always eager to contribute and enhance team knowledge. 🤖📚

Research Focus

Lucas dos Santos Franco’s research primarily focuses on drone technology and precision agriculture. His work explores flight path optimization for multirotor Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) using Ant Colony Optimization (ACO), a metaheuristic algorithm, to enhance agricultural applications. This research aims to improve aerial coverage in farming practices, optimizing efficiency and reducing operational costs. Additionally, his expertise in machine learning, data processing, and cloud computing complements his research in automation, especially for systems involving UAVs, remote sensing, and georeferencing. His contributions support technological advancements in agriculture and automation. 🌾🤖📡

Publication Top Notes

Publication: “A method for planning multirotor Unmanned aerial vehicle flight paths to cover areas using the Ant Colony Optimization metaheuristic”
Cited by: ERR Kato, RS Inoue, L dos Santos Franco
Year: 2025
📚🌍

Azadeh Safadoust | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

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Azadeh Safadoust | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Dr Azadeh Safadoust, Bu-Ali Sina University, Iran

Dr. Azadeh Safadoust is a distinguished graduate from Iran University of Medical Sciences, holding a Master of Science in Mental Health, where she focused on domestic violence risk prediction using machine learning and social media analysis. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Kharazmi University, graduating with honors. Dr. Safadoust is actively involved in research, having authored several publications on topics such as intimate partner violence and treatment-resistant obsessive-compulsive disorder. Her commitment to mental health research is complemented by her leadership roles in student organizations. 🌍📊💻

Publication profile

Orcid

Education 

Dr. Safadoust holds a PhD in Soil Science from Bu Ali Sina University (2011), where she focused on the transport of E. coli and bromide through soil columns, under the supervision of Prof. Ali Akbar Mahboubi. Her educational foundation also includes an MSc in Soil Physics (2005) and a BSc in Agriculture-Soil Science (2001), both from Bu Ali Sina University. This strong academic background underpins her research expertise in soil management and environmental impacts.

Teaching and Supervising Experience 

Since 2011, Dr. Safadoust has served as an Assistant Professor at Bu Ali Sina University, where she teaches various undergraduate and graduate courses related to soil science. Her roles include supervising PhD and master’s theses on advanced topics such as the transport of contaminants through soil and the effects of soil amendments on soil properties. This demonstrates her commitment to fostering the next generation of researchers and her expertise in complex soil science issues. 

Research Contributions 

Dr. Safadoust has authored numerous publications, including journal articles and book chapters, that highlight her research on soil physics, contaminant transport, and soil management practices. Notable publications include: 

  • “Bacterial filtration rates in repacked and weathered soil columns” (2011) in Geoderma. 
  • “Effect of regenerated soil structure on unsaturated transport of Escherichia coli and bromide” (2012) in Journal of Hydrology. 
  • “Least limiting water range as affected by soil texture and cropping system” (2014) in Agricultural Water Management. 

These publications reflect her contributions to understanding the dynamics of soil health and water management, which are crucial for sustainable agricultural practices. 

Publication top notes

Comparison of three models describing bromide transport affected by different soil structure types

Long-term cultivation and landscape position effects on aggregate size and organic carbon fractionation on surface soil properties in semi-arid region of Iran

Temperature effect on the transport of bromide and E. coli NAR in saturated soils

Bromide and lithium transport in soils under long-term cultivation of alfalfa and wheat

Least limiting water range as affected by soil texture and cropping system

Conclusion 

Dr. Azadeh Safadoust’s blend of educational credentials, teaching experience, and significant research contributions make her an exceptional candidate for the Research for Best Researcher Award. Her work not only advances academic knowledge in soil science but also has practical implications for agricultural sustainability and environmental management. 

Girish B.P | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Research and Development Excellence Award

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 Dr. Girish B.P | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Research and Development Excellence Award

DST-INSPIRE Faculty,  Acharya N.G. Ranga Agricultural University, India.

Dr. B.P. Girish is an esteemed researcher at the Regional Agricultural Research Institute, ANGRAU, with a Ph.D. in Biotechnology from Sri Venkateswara University. He has received numerous accolades, including the DST-INSPIRE Faculty Project, showcasing his significant contributions to agricultural and environmental research. His expertise encompasses RNA-Seq analysis, proteomics, and various biochemical techniques, leading to impactful publications in reputable journals. A life member of several scientific societies, Dr. Girish’s work emphasizes innovative approaches to biotechnology and environmental sustainability, making him a suitable candidate for the Research for Research and Development Excellence Award.

Profile :

Google Scholar

Education Background :

Dr. B.P. Girish, a distinguished DST-INSPIRE Faculty at the Regional Agricultural Research Institute, ANGRAU, has an impressive academic background in Biotechnology. He completed his Ph.D. at Sri Venkateswara University with a high grade, indicating a strong foundation in research methodologies and theoretical knowledge. His education, culminating in a Ph.D., showcases his commitment to advancing the field of biotechnology, particularly in agricultural research.

Professional Experience :

Dr. B.P. Girish has established a robust professional trajectory in the field of biotechnology and agricultural research. Currently serving as a DST-INSPIRE Faculty at the Regional Agricultural Research Institute, ANGRAU in Tirupati, he has been instrumental in leading research initiatives since October 2020. Prior to this role, he was a Research Associate at Prof. P. S. Reddy’s laboratory at Sri Venkateswara University, where he contributed significantly to various projects from January 2019 to September 2020. Dr. Girish also held a DBT Research Associateship at the Indian Institute of Science in Bangalore during 2018, and prior to that, he garnered experience as a CSIR Senior Research Fellow and Junior Research Fellow in various esteemed laboratories. His extensive background in cutting-edge research methodologies, combined with his academic involvement, has positioned him as a prominent figure in advancing agricultural biotechnological applications.

Research Skills and Innovations :

Dr. Girish possesses a diverse skill set, encompassing advanced techniques such as RNA-Seq analysis and proteomic studies. His expertise in cutting-edge technologies positions him as a leader in research and development within biotechnology. His innovative approach to problem-solving and ability to apply complex methodologies to real-world agricultural challenges underline his suitability for this award.

Awards and Achievements :

Dr. Girish’s accolades, including the DST-INSPIRE Faculty Project, showcase his ability to secure funding for high-impact research initiatives. His numerous awards for oral and poster presentations indicate not only recognition from peers but also his capacity to communicate complex ideas effectively. This ability is crucial for the dissemination of research findings and fostering collaboration.

Conclusion

In summary, Dr. B.P. Girish embodies the qualities essential for the Research for Research and Development Excellence Award. His impressive educational background, extensive research experience, active professional engagement, diverse skill set, notable achievements, and impactful publications collectively underscore his excellence in research and development. Dr. Girish’s commitment to advancing the field of biotechnology positions him as a deserving candidate for this prestigious recognition.

Publication Top Notes :

  • Aflatoxin B1-induced reproductive toxicity in male rats: possible mechanism of action – C Supriya, BP Girish, PS Reddy – International Journal of Toxicology 33 (3), 155-161 🧪 82 citations (2014)
  • Induction of ecdysteroidogenesis, methyl farnesoate synthesis and expression of ecdysteroid receptor and retinoid X receptor in the hepatopancreas and ovary of the giant mud crab – RPS Girish, BP, Swetha CH – General and Comparative Endocrinology 42 🦀 (2015)
  • Hepatopancreas but not ovary is the site of vitellogenin synthesis in female freshwater crab, Oziothelphusa senex senex – BP Girish, CH Swetha, PS Reddy – Biochemical and Biophysical Research Communications 447 (2), 323-327 🦐 35 citations (2014)
  • Expression of RXR, EcR, E75 and VtG mRNA levels in the hepatopancreas and ovary of the freshwater edible crab, Oziothelphusa senex senex (Fabricius, 1798) – BP Girish, CH Swetha, PS Reddy – The Science of Nature 102, 1-10 🦀 33 citations (2015)
  • Reproductive and paternal mediated developmental toxicity of benzo (a) pyrene in adult male Wistar rats – KP Reddy, BP Girish, PS Reddy – Toxicology Research 4 (2), 223-232 🧪 25 citations (2015)
  • Alleviative effect of resveratrol on polyvinyl chloride-induced reproductive toxicity in male Wistar rats – D Archana, C Supriya, BP Girish, B Kishori, PS Reddy – Food and Chemical Toxicology 116, 173-181 🍇 24 citations (2018)
  • Forskolin ameliorates mancozeb-induced testicular and epididymal toxicity in Wistar rats by reducing oxidative toxicity and by stimulating steroidogenesis – BP Girish, PS Reddy – Journal of Biochemical and Molecular Toxicology 32 (2), e22026 🍃 24 citations (2018)
  • Restraint stress exacerbates alcohol-induced reproductive toxicity in male rats – PH Priya, BP Girish, PS Reddy – Alcohol 48 (8), 781-786 🍷 24 citations (2014)
  • Elucidation of the role of estradiol and progesterone in regulating reproduction in the edible crab, Oziothelphusa senex senex – BPGPSR, CH Swetha – RSC Advances 6 (30), 24959-24967 🦀 22 citations (2016)
  • Serotonin induces ecdysteroidogenesis and methyl farnesoate synthesis in the mud crab, Scylla serrata – BP Girish, CH Swetha, PS Reddy – Biochemical and Biophysical Research Communications 490 (4), 1340-1345 🦀 19 citations (2017)
  • Effects of maternal exposure to aflatoxin B1 during pregnancy on fertility output of dams and developmental, behavioral and reproductive consequences in female offspring – CH Supriya, B Akhila, K Pratap Reddy, BP Girish, P Sreenivasula Reddy – Toxicology Mechanisms and Methods 26 (3), 202-210 🧪 19 citations (2016)
  • Targeting the tumor microenvironment of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma using nano-phytomedicines – BP Girish, B Dariya, M Mannarapu, GP Nagaraju, GSR Raju – Seminars in Cancer Biology 86, 1155-1162 💊 16 citations (2022)
  • Evidence for retinoic acid involvement in the regulation of vitellogenesis in the freshwater edible crab, Oziotelphusa senex senex – BP Girish, CH Swetha, M Srilatha, M Hemalatha, PS Reddy – Comparative Biochemistry and Physiology Part A: Molecular & Integrative Physiology 15 citations (2018)
  • Reproductive cycle and fecundity in natural population of edible freshwater crab, Oziothelphusa senex senex (Fabricius, 1798) (Decapoda: Brachyura) – CH Swetha, BP Girish, PS Reddy – 11 citations (2015)
  • Protective effect of speman on cisplatin-induced testicular and epididymal toxicity in mice – SB Sainath, T Sowbhagyamma, P Madhu, KP Reddy, BP Girish, … – International Journal of Green Pharmacy (IJGP) 5 (4) 🌱 10 citations (2011)
  • Induction of vitellogenesis, methyl farnesoate synthesis and ecdysteroidogenesis in two edible crabs by arachidonic acid and prostaglandins – CH Swetha, BP Girish, M Hemalatha, PS Reddy – Journal of Experimental Biology 223 (3), jeb212381 🦀 9 citations (2020)
  • Arsenic aggravated reproductive toxicity in male rats exposed to lead during the perinatal period – AK Sai Siva Ram, K Pratap Reddy, BP Girish, C Supriya, … – Toxicology Research 7 (6), 1191-1204 🧪 8 citations (2018)
  • Particulate Nanoscale Silica Induced Novel Morphological and Biochemical Stimulus Effects in Chilli (Capsicum annuum L.) – LP T. N. V. K. V. Prasad, G. C. Satisha, A. R. Nirmal Kumar, M. Swethasree … – ACS Agricultural Science and Technology 2 (3), 555-563 🌶️ 7 citations (2022)
  • Resveratrol: biology, metabolism, and detrimental role on the tumor microenvironment of colorectal cancer – B Dariya, BP Girish, N Merchant, M Srilatha, GP Nagaraju – Nutrition Reviews 82 (10), 1420-1436 🍇 5 citations (2024)
  • Nanoparticulate Silica Internalization and Its Effect on the Growth and Yield of Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) – T Prasad, M Swethasree, GC Satisha, AR Nirmal Kumar, P Sudhakar, … – Environmental Science & Technology 57 (14), 5881-5890 🥜 5 citations (2023)

Rutwik Bardapurkar | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

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Rutwik Bardapurkar | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Dr Rutwik Bardapurkar, Tel Aviv University, India

Dr. Rutwik Bardapurkar appears to be a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award based on his extensive research experience, significant contributions to the field of genetics and epigenetics, and his achievements and skills. Here’s a detailed overview of his qualifications and contributions:

Publication profile

Orcid

Research Areas/Interests:

Dr. Bardapurkar’s research focuses on Genetics, Epigenetics, Behavior, and Ecology, with a specific interest in the interactions between host plants and insect herbivores through microRNAs.

Education:

  • Ph.D., Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER), Pune, 2017–2024
    • Title: Cross-kingdom affairs: Can microRNAs of host plants regulate genes of their insect herbivores?
  • M.Sc., Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER), Pune, 2015–2017
  • B.Sc. in Botany, MES Abasaheb Garware College, Savitribai Phule Pune University, India, 2012–2015

Awards:

  • DBT-CTEP Travel Award, Dept. of Biotechnology, Gov. of India (Jan 2023)
  • IISER Pune Senior Research Fellowship (Aug 2018 – Aug 2021)
  • IISER Pune Junior Research Fellowship (Aug 2016 – Aug 2018)
  • 1st Position in B.Sc., Department of Botany, MES Abasaheb Garware College (2015)

Research Skills:

  • Techniques: Virus-Induced Gene Silencing (VIGS), miRNA overexpression and silencing, RNAi, Gene cloning, microRNA-target prediction, Protein structural analysis, LC-MS, HPLC, GC-MS, Fluorescence microscopy.
  • Softwares/Tools: PAST, Chimera, GraphPad, Discovery Studio, MiRanda, RNA22, RNAhybrid, RNAfold, Python, Blender.

Workshops/Conferences:

  • Presented at multiple international and national conferences, including the 79th Katzir Conference and Max Planck Kick-off Workshop.
  • Selected to deliver a talk at the 5th National Post Doc Symposium.

Publications

  1. “Trophic microRNA: Post-transcriptional regulation of target genes and larval development impairment in Plutella xylostella upon precursor and mature microRNA ingestion” (2024)
    • Journal: Insect Molecular Biology
    • Contributions: Experimental planning, data analysis, paper writing.
  2. “Trophic microRNA: Precursor and mature microRNA ingestion downregulates the target transcripts and hampers larval development in Plutella xylostella” (2023)
    • Journal: bioRxiv
    • Contributions: Experimental planning, data analysis, paper writing.
  3. “Photographic documentation of Brown Palm Civet Paradoxurus jerdoni in Maharashtra, India, north of its known range” (2013)
    • Journal: Small Carnivore Conservation
    • Contributions: Observations, paper writing.

Teaching and Mentorship

  • Served as a teaching assistant for undergraduate courses at IISER, Pune.
  • Trained several undergraduate and master’s students.

Work Experience and Internships

  • Volunteered for various projects related to ecological impact, plant census, and seed size optimization.
  • Interned in multiple research labs focusing on diverse topics including epigenetic inheritance and non-enzymatic ribonucleotide oligomerization.

Relevant Skills and Interests

  • Advanced knowledge in computational biology, biostatistics, and various research techniques.
  • Interests in Indian classical music, painting, and languages (Spanish).

Conclusion

Dr. Bardapurkar’s research, combined with his robust academic background, awards, and experience, makes him a standout candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His work in microRNA interactions and contributions to both plant and insect genetics demonstrate significant impact and innovation in his field.

Publication top nores

Trophic microRNA: Post-transcriptional regulation of target genes and larval development impairment in Plutella xylostella upon precursor and mature microRNA ingestion

Filiz Öktüren Asri | Soil Science and Plant Nutrition | Best Researcher Award

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Filiz Öktüren Asri | Soil Science and Plant Nutrition | Best Researcher Award

BATEM of Akdeniz University, Turkey

Dr. Filiz Öktüren Asri is an Associate Professor with a robust background in soil science. Educated at Akdeniz University, she has a distinguished career in research and agricultural engineering. Her expertise spans soil health, fertilization practices, and environmental risk assessments. At Batı Akdeniz Agricultural Research Institute, she leads with a focus on enhancing soil and plant productivity through innovative research. 🌾🔬📖

Publication profile :

Orcid

Education : 🌟📚

  • Undergraduate Degree: Akdeniz University, Soil Department (2002) 🌿
  • Master’s Degree: Akdeniz University, Soil Department (2004) 🎓
  • PhD: Akdeniz University, Soil Department (2009) 🎓🔬
  • Associate Professorship: Achieved in 2024 📈👩‍🏫

Professional Experience :🌱🔧

  • Research Assistant
    • Akdeniz University Soil Department (2005-2007) 🎓🔬
  • Engineer
    • Batı Akdeniz Agricultural Research Institute Directorate (2007-2018) 🌾🔧
  • Head of Department
    • Batı Akdeniz Agricultural Research Institute Directorate (2018-present) 🌾👩‍🔬

Research Interests :

  • Soil Fertility and Health
  • Effects of Organic and Conventional Fertilizers
  • Heavy Metal Contamination and Risk Assessment
  • Plant Growth and Yield Optimization
  • Soil Property Improvement

Publication Top Notes

  • Özkan, C.F., Demirtaş, E.I., Öktüren Asri, F., Arı, N., 2018. Relationships between petiole sap nitrate nitrogen and plant and soil nitrogen values in greenhouse cucumber cultivation. Derim, 35(2): 209-215.
  • Güven, D., Arı, N., Eryılmaz, Z., Özkan, C.F., Öktüren Asri, F., Demirtaş, E.I., Çelikyurt, M.A., 2018. Effect on yield in navel orange of different levels of nitrogen applied with a drip irrigation system in Washington. Turkish Journal of Agriculture and Natural Sciences, 5(4): 440-446.
  • Öktüren Asri, F., Demirtaş, E.I., Arı, N., 2016. Effects of foliar applied humic acid on plant nutritional status, yield, and quality in open tomato cultivation. Mediterranean Agricultural Sciences, 29(1): 21-25.
  • Demirtaş, E.I., Arı, N., Özkan, C.F., Öktüren Asri, F., 2016. Effects of urban solid waste compost use on the efficiency, quality, and heavy metal pollution in tomato cultivation. Derim Magazine, 33(1): 144-158.
  • Öktüren Asri, F., Demirtaş, E.I., Güven, D., Özkan, C.F., Arı, N., 2016. Determination of the fertility status of greenhouse soils where carnation is grown in Kepez District, Antalya Province. Ege University Faculty of Agriculture.
  • Alagöz, Z., Öktüren, F., Yılmaz, E., 2006. Determination of some fertility properties of soils in greenhouse growing cloves in the Antalya Region. Akdeniz University Agriculture Faculty Journal, 19(1): 123-129.
  • Alagöz, Z., Yılmaz, E., Öktüren, F., 2006. Some physical and chemical effects of organic material addition on soil properties. Akdeniz University Faculty of Agriculture Journal, 19(2): 245-254.
  • Yılmaz, E., Alagöz, Z., Öktüren, F., 2008. Effect of different organic materials on soil aggregates. Akdeniz University Faculty of Agriculture Journal, 21(2): 213-222.
  • Öktüren Asri, F., Demirtaş, E.I., Arı, N., Arpacıoğlu, E.A., Özkan, C.F., 2010. Determination of the quality of irrigation water used in greenhouses in Antalya-Serik Region. Mediterranean University Faculty of Agriculture Journal, 23(2): 145-150.
  • Öktüren Asri, F., Sönmez, S., 2009. Determination of nutritional status and irrigation water quality of tomato plants grown in soilless culture system in Antalya Region. Akdeniz University Faculty of Agriculture Journal, 22(2): 191-200.