Ramin SamieiFard | Soil Science | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Ramin SamieiFard | Soil Science | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Ramin SamieiFard, Pennsylvania State University, United States

Dr. Ramin SamieiFard is a soil scientist with a Ph.D. in Soil Management and Land Resources from the University of Tehran. He is currently a Research Assistant at Penn State University, specializing in soil genesis, remote sensing, and GIS. Dr. SamieiFard has extensive teaching experience at universities in Iran and the US, covering subjects like organic fertilizers and precision agriculture. His research includes geopedology, heavy metal adsorption, and soil quality indicators. An author of numerous publications, he has also presented at international conferences and holds a patent in agricultural technology. πŸŒπŸ“šπŸŒ±

Publication Profile

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Education πŸŽ“

Dr. SamieiFard earned his Ph.D. in Soil Management and Land Resources from the University of Tehran in 2022. He holds an M.Sc. in Soil Science from Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz and a B.Sc. in Soil Science from the University of Tehran.

Professional Experience πŸ’Ό

He has served as a Research Assistant/Associate at Penn State University since 2023 and was an Assistant Professor at Razi University. He also managed organic fertilizer farms at the University of Tehran and Shahid Chamran University.

Teaching Experience πŸ“š

Dr. SamieiFard has lectured at various universities, including Penn State and Razi University, on topics such as Precision Agriculture Technology, Remote Sensing, and GIS in Soil Sciences.

 

Research Focus

Dr. R. Samiei-Fard’s research focuses on soil science and environmental geochemistry, particularly in the context of soil contamination and remediation. His work encompasses the use of spectroscopy, remote sensing, and statistical models to predict and map soil heavy metals and other pollutants. Additionally, he investigates the adsorption properties of minerals like sepiolite for removing heavy metals from multi-ionic solutions and the impacts of soil amendments on fertility and plant growth. Dr. Samiei-Fard’s studies are crucial for understanding soil health, developing sustainable agricultural practices, and mitigating environmental pollution. 🌍πŸ§ͺπŸ“ŠπŸ“‘πŸŒ±

Publication Top Notes

  • Capability of vis-NIR spectroscopy and Landsat 8 spectral data to predict soil heavy metals in polluted agricultural land (Iran) – R Samiei Fard, HR Matinfar, Arabian Journal of Geosciences 9, 1-14, 2016. Cited by: 38 πŸ“ŠπŸŒ
  • Adsorption of Cd, Co, and Zn from multi-ionic solutions onto Iranian sepiolite isotherms – R Samieifard, A Landi, N Pourreza, Central Asian Journal of Environmental Science and Technology Innovation 2, 2021. Cited by: 14 πŸ§ͺβš—οΈ
  • Application of particle size distribution throughout the soil profile as a criterion for recognition of newly developed geoforms in the Southeastern Caspian coast – R Samiei-Fard, A Heidari, M Konyushkova, S Mahmoodi, Catena 203, 105362, 2021. Cited by: 7 πŸ“πŸ“Š
  • Geochemical characteristics of saline soils formed during the recent retreat of the Caspian Sea – A Heidari, R Samiei-Fard, Catena 243, 108208, 2024. 🌊πŸ§ͺ
  • The Effect of Using a Geopedological Approach in Determining Land Quality Indicators, Land Degradation, and Development (Case Study: Caspian Sea Coast) – R Samiei-Fard, A Heidari, PJ Drohan, S Mahmoodi, S Ghatrehsamani, Environments 11 (20), 2024. 🌍πŸ§ͺ
  • Testing the Effect of Biochar and Biochar-Based Organic Amendments on Soil Fertility and Plant Growth: A Greenhouse Study – E Bazilevskaya, M Robbins, R SamieiFard, A Colestock, ASA, CSSA, SSSA International Annual Meeting, 2023. 🌱🌿
  • Assessment of Some Kriging Methods for Mapping the Soil Electrical Conductivity: Case Study of Southeastern Coast of Caspian Sea of Iran – R Samieifard, A Heidari, PJ Drohan, Journal of Global Ecology and Environment 13 (1), 12-21, 2021. πŸ—ΊοΈβš‘
  • Use of Partial Least Squares Regression Model (PLSR) for Providing Organic Carbon Special Distribution Map of Caspian Sea Coastal Soils – M SamieiFard, R., Heidari, A., Mahmoodi, S., Konyushkova, 16th Iranian Soil Sciences Congress, 2019. πŸŒ±πŸ“Š
  • Preparation of the Calcium Carbonate Spatial Distribution Map of Caspian Sea Coastal Soils Using Partial Least Squares Regression Model (PLSR) – M SamieiFard, R., Heidari, A., Mahmoodi, S., Konyushkova, 16th Iranian Soil Sciences Congress, 2019. πŸŒπŸ“Š
  • Assessment of Visible and Near-Infrared Spectroscopy in Estimation of Lead and Nickel Heavy Metals Content in Soil (Case Study: Rey Lands) – RS Fard, H Matinfar, JWSS-Isfahan University of Technology 21 (4), 201-214, 2018. πŸ”¬πŸ“Š

Upendra Sainju | Soil Science Award | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Upendra Sainju | Soil Science Award | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Upendra Sainju, USDA-ARS, Northern Plains Agricultural Research Laboratory, Sidney, MT 59270, United States

Dr. Upendra Sainju is a distinguished Soil Scientist with a Ph.D. in Soil Science from the University of Kentucky (1989). He holds an M.S. from the University of Florida (1982) and a B.S. in Agriculture from the University of Udaipur, India (1973). Dr. Sainju has been a Research Soil Scientist at USDA-ARS-NPARL in Sidney, MT since 2004, progressing from GS-12 to GS-15. His career spans roles as a Research Associate at Fort Valley State University and postdoctoral positions at Washington State University and Rutgers University. His expertise in soil science and agriculture has significantly contributed to the field. πŸŒ±πŸ“š

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🌱 Education

Dr. Upendra Sainju earned his Ph.D. in Soil Science from the University of Kentucky in 1989. He holds an M.S. in Soil Science from the University of Florida (1982) and a B.S. in Agriculture from the University of Udaipur, India (1973).

πŸ“š Professional History

Dr. Sainju has served as a Research Soil Scientist at USDA-ARS-NPARL in Sidney, MT since 2004, advancing from GS-12 to GS-15. His previous roles include Research Associate at Fort Valley State University, and Postdoctoral Associate positions at Washington State University and Rutgers University. He also served as a Visiting Professor at Tribhuvan University, Nepal.

πŸ† Honors and Awards

Dr. Sainju received the USAID scholarships for his studies in India and Florida. He was awarded the Outstanding Scientist Award by Fort Valley State University in 2004. He is a Fellow of both the Soil Science Society of America (2014) and the American Society of Agronomy (2015). His exceptional contributions earned him USDA-ARS Certificate of Merit Awards (2011-2019) and recognition for a keynote presentation in Cape Town, South Africa (2016).

 

Research Focus

Dr. Upendra Sainju’s research primarily focuses on soil science and sustainable agriculture. 🌾 His work explores the effects of tillage, cover crops, and nitrogen fertilization on soil organic carbon and nitrogen. He investigates soil carbon dioxide emissions, soil carbon sequestration, and nitrogen mineralization in various cropping systems. His studies also delve into the impact of cover crops on soil properties, microbial biomass, and overall soil health. 🌱 Dr. Sainju’s research aims to enhance agricultural practices for improved soil management and sustainability, contributing valuable insights to both environmental quality and crop productivity. πŸŒπŸ“ˆ

 

Publication Top Notes

  • Long-term effects of tillage, cover crops, and nitrogen fertilization on organic carbon and nitrogen concentrations in sandy loam soils in Georgia, USA 🌾 – 447 citations, 2002
  • Winter cover crop effects on soil organic carbon and carbohydrate in soil πŸ‚ – 438 citations, 1997
  • Mineral nutrition of tomato πŸ… – 339 citations, 2003
  • Soil carbon dioxide emission and carbon content as affected by irrigation, tillage, cropping system, and nitrogen fertilization 🌍 – 283 citations, 2008
  • Winter cover cropping influence on nitrogen in soil 🌾 – 265 citations, 1997
  • Biculture legume–cereal cover crops for enhanced biomass yield and carbon and nitrogen 🌱 – 263 citations, 2005
  • Winter cover crops for sustainable agricultural systems: influence on soil properties, water quality, and crop yields 🌿 – 260 citations, 1997
  • Nitrogen mineralization and availability of mixed leguminous and non-leguminous cover crop residues in soil 🌾 – 257 citations, 1998
  • Cover crops and nitrogen fertilization effects on soil aggregation and carbon and nitrogen pools 🏞️ – 255 citations, 2003
  • Tillage, crop residue, and nutrient management effects on soil organic carbon in rice-based cropping systems: A review 🍚 – 236 citations, 2017
  • Carbon dioxide flux as affected by tillage and irrigation in soil converted from perennial forages to annual crops 🌱 – 217 citations, 2008
  • Soil carbon and nitrogen sequestration as affected by long-term tillage, cropping systems, and nitrogen fertilizer sources 🌾 – 216 citations, 2008
  • Cover crop root distribution and its effects on soil nitrogen cycling 🌿 – 205 citations, 1998
  • Tillage, cover crop, and kill‐planting date effects on corn yield and soil nitrogen 🌽 – 185 citations, 2001
  • Carbon supply and storage in tilled and nontilled soils as influenced by cover crops and nitrogen fertilization 🌱 – 178 citations, 2006
  • Tillage, cover crops, and nitrogen fertilization effects on soil nitrogen and cotton and sorghum yields 🌾 – 158 citations, 2006
  • Cover crop effect on soil carbon fractions under conservation tillage cotton 🌿 – 153 citations, 2007
  • Cover cropping enhances soil microbial biomass and affects microbial community structure: A meta-analysis 🦠 – 150 citations, 2021
  • North American soil degradation: Processes, practices, and mitigating strategies 🌍 – 150 citations, 2015
  • Regulation of soil CO2 and N2O emissions by cover crops: A meta-analysis 🌾 – 148 citations, 2019

Dr. Abyot Dibaba | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Abyot Dibaba | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Assistant Professor, Debre Berhan University, Ethiopia

Dr. Abyot Dibaba, an esteemed Assistant Professor at Debre Berhan University in Ethiopia, has been honored with the Best Researcher Award in Agricultural and Biological Sciences πŸŽ“πŸŒΏ. His groundbreaking research has significantly advanced the field, particularly in sustainable agriculture and plant biology πŸŒΎπŸ”¬. Dr. Dibaba’s dedication to scientific excellence and innovation has not only enriched academic knowledge but also contributed to practical agricultural solutions, benefiting both local and global communities πŸŒπŸ‘¨β€πŸŒΎ. This prestigious award recognizes his outstanding contributions and commitment to driving forward the frontiers of agricultural science πŸŒ±πŸ†.

Profile

Scopus

Education

Dr. Abyot Dibaba holds a PhD in Plant Ecology and Biodiversity Management from Addis Ababa University (2018), where he researched under advisors Teshome Soromessa and Bikila Workineh. πŸ“š His thesis, “Ecology, Carbon Stock, and Formulation of Allometric Equation for Selected Tree and Shrub Species,” integrates vegetation ecology, carbon sequestration potential of forests, and allometric equation development for trees and shrubs. 🌳 Previously, he earned an MSc in Biology, focusing on dry land biodiversity, with a thesis on the woodland and riverine vegetation of Gololcha district, eastern Ethiopia (2009). 🌾 He also holds a BSc in Biology from Addis Ababa University (2000). πŸŽ“

Awards/Fellowships

Dr. Abyot Dibaba has a rich history of participation in various training programs enhancing his skills and contributions to environmental and ecological studies. πŸ“š From January 22-26, 2018, he earned a certificate in “Introduction to R for Ecology and Conservation” from the Department of Ecology, Environment, and Plant Sciences at Stockholm University. 🌿 In late October 2015, he completed a scientific research paper writing course organized by the International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI). ✍️ Additionally, from July 10-24, 2015, he participated in an open Foris Collect Earth training, contributing to the Global Assessment of Drylands and the Action against Desertification Project organized by the FAO and WRI. 🌍✨

Activities engaged

Dr. Abyot Dibaba led the ex-post evaluation of the Participatory Forest Management in the Belete-Gera forest, a project by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) 🌳. As the team leader, he prepared the final evaluation document πŸ“„. Additionally, he conducted Environmental & Social Impact Assessments (ESIA) for Robera PLC, S&U General Trading PLC, and Sendefa General Business PLC 🏒. Dr. Dibaba also participated in the Environmental Auditing Service for GEQIP for Equity, FDRE Ministry of Education, in 2022 and 2024 🏫. His extensive expertise in environmental assessments and audits underscores his dedication to sustainable development and environmental stewardship 🌍.

Work Experience

Dr. Abyot Dibaba’s professional journey showcases a deep commitment to education and research in biology 🌿. From 2000 to 2009, he dedicated himself to teaching high school biology across Ethiopia 🏫. In 2009, he joined Debre Berhan University as a Lecturer in the Department of Biology, contributing significantly to teaching, research, and consultancy πŸ“šπŸ”¬. Since June 2018, he has served as an Assistant Professor in Plant Ecology and Biodiversity Management, continuing his work in education, research, and consultancy πŸŒ±πŸ‘¨β€πŸ«. His extensive experience underscores his passion for advancing biological sciences and education 🌍✨.

Research Interest

Dr. Abyot Dibaba is a distinguished expert in environmental science, focusing on 🌿carbon sequestration, biodiversity, plant and landscape ecology, and ecosystem services. His work in restoration ecology aims to heal damaged ecosystems. He leverages advanced 🌍Remote Sensing (RS) and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to enhance ecological studies. Dr. Dibaba’s research also extends to integrated watershed management and tackling reservoir sedimentation, vital for sustainable water resources. His holistic approach blends technology and ecology, promoting environmental health and sustainability, ensuring a resilient future for our planet. 🌱

Publications Top Notes

Plant Community Analysis Along Environmental Gradients in Moist Afromontane Forest of Gerba Dima, South-western Ethiopia

Woody Species Diversity, Vegetation Structure, and Regeneration Status of the Moist Afromontane Forest of Agama in Southwestern Ethiopia

Carbon Stock of the Various Carbon Pools in Gerba-Dima Moist Afromontane Forest, South-western Ethiopia

Dan Dong | Wetland Soil Biogeochemistry Award | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Dan Dong | Wetland Soil Biogeochemistry Award | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Dan Dong, McGill University, Canada

Dan Dong is a dedicated Ph.D. candidate at McGill University, specializing in Physical Geography. With a B.S. from Beijing Normal University, Dan’s research focuses on wetland ecosystems, including nutrient dynamics and microbial activities. Their work has been published in prestigious journals like Restoration Ecology and Environmental Pollution. Dan has contributed to projects assessing the impact of acid rain on leaf traits and wetland carbon sequestration potential. As a teaching assistant, they’ve imparted knowledge in wetland and statistical courses, demonstrating a passion for education. Awarded the NSERC Stipend and recognized as an Outstanding Undergraduate, Dan excels academically and aspires to contribute significantly to environmental research. πŸŒ±πŸ”¬

 

Publication ProfileΒ 

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Education Background

Dan Dong embarked on their academic journey at Beijing Normal University, where they earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Geographical Science from the School of Natural Resource. πŸŽ“ Their passion for exploring the Earth’s physical landscapes led them to pursue a Ph.D. in Physical Geography at McGill University, commencing in September 2018. 🌍 Within McGill’s Department of Geography, nestled in the Faculty of Science, Dan has been honing their expertise in understanding the intricate dynamics of our planet’s geographical features. Through their academic pursuits spanning two esteemed institutions, Dan is poised to make significant contributions to the field of geography and environmental science. 🌱

 

work experience

During their tenure at McGill University, Dan Dong has been actively engaged in on-campus work, serving as a teaching assistant for both a wetland course and a statistics course focused on R programming. πŸ“Š Their dedication to education extends beyond the classroom as they’ve contributed to academia by reviewing three manuscripts for Soil Biology and Biogeochemistry, a testament to their expertise and commitment to advancing scientific research. Introduced by Prof. Joann Whalen, these experiences have allowed Dan to cultivate a multifaceted skill set, combining teaching, statistical analysis, and scholarly review to enrich both their own academic journey and that of their peers. 🌟

 

Awards & Honors

Dan Dong’s academic excellence has been consistently recognized through prestigious scholarships, awards, and honors. Since 2018, they’ve been the recipient of the NSERC Stipend, highlighting their commitment to scientific research. πŸŽ“ During their undergraduate years at Beijing Normal University, Dan stood out as one of the “Outstanding Undergraduates in BNU,” representing their faculty with distinction. πŸ† Their achievements include securing the Top Prize in Academic endeavors and being awarded a National Scholarship. 🌟 Additionally, their prowess extended beyond academics, as evidenced by their Second Prize win in the “Future Teacher Competition,” showcasing their dedication to education and leadership potential in shaping future generations. πŸ…

 

Research Focus

Dan Dong’s research focuses on the intricate interactions within terrestrial ecosystems, particularly in the context of environmental stressors and ecosystem restoration. 🌱 Their studies delve into topics such as litter decomposition, nutrient dynamics, and the impacts of acid rain on leaf photosynthetic rates in terrestrial plants. Through their contributions to journals like Restoration Ecology and Environmental Pollution, Dan sheds light on critical aspects of ecosystem health and resilience in the face of environmental challenges. Their dedication to understanding and mitigating the effects of such stressors underscores their commitment to environmental science and conservation. 🌍

 

Publication Top NotesΒ 

Litter decomposition and nutrient dynamics of four macrophytes in intact, restored and constructed freshwater marshes of Canada

David Clay | Soil Science Award | Best Researcher Award

Prof Dr. David Clay | Soil Science Award | Best Researcher Award

Prof Dr. David Clay, South Dakota State University, United States

🌱 David Edward Clay, Distinguished Professor of Plant Science and holder of the SD Corn Endowed Chair in Precision Farming at South Dakota State University, is a leading expert in soil science and precision agriculture. With a Ph.D. in Soil Biogeochemistry, his research spans over 300 papers and numerous awards, including two ASA Precision Agriculture Systems Impact Awards. Clay’s work focuses on sustainable agricultural practices, including phytoremediation and carbon sequestration. As a prolific author and editor, he contributes significantly to agronomy literature. His dedication to advancing agricultural knowledge and training future generations is evident through his extensive teaching and leadership roles. 🌾

Publication Profile:

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Education:

πŸŽ“ David Edward Clay’s academic journey began with a B.S. in Soil Science and Natural Resources from the University of Wisconsin in 1976. He furthered his studies with an M.S. in Soil Fertility from the University of Idaho in 1984, exploring nitrogen’s impact on strawberry production. Clay then pursued a Ph.D. in Soil Biogeochemistry at the University of Minnesota, St. Paul, focusing on the intricate relationships between nitrogen, tillage, residue management, and corn production. His post-doctoral research at the university’s Water Quality Center from 1988 to 1990 deepened his expertise. Clay’s commitment to continuous growth is evident in his completion of leadership training in 2010. 🌱

 

Awards:

πŸ† Throughout his illustrious career, David Edward Clay has amassed a collection of prestigious awards and accolades, affirming his dedication to excellence in agricultural research and education. From the Ag/Biol College Deans Award for Research Excellence in 1994 to the USDA-ARS Collaboration Award in 2006, Clay’s contributions have been consistently recognized. Notably, his promotion to Distinguished Professor in 2019 and selection as the SD Corn Endowed Chair in Precision Farming in 2022 underscore his significant impact on the field. Awards such as the PrecisionAG Award of Excellence and ASA Precision Agriculture Systems Impact Award further highlight Clay’s pioneering work in precision agriculture. 🌾

 

Research Focus:

πŸ”¬ David Edward Clay’s research focus primarily revolves around soil science, precision agriculture, and environmental sustainability. With a keen interest in soil properties and their interactions with agricultural practices, he explores topics such as nutrient management, soil health, and water stress responses in crops. Clay’s work delves into the application of innovative technologies like remote sensing and GIS in agriculture, aiming to enhance productivity while minimizing environmental impact. His expertise in soil-electrical conductivity and its correlation with soil properties underscores his commitment to advancing precision farming techniques. Through interdisciplinary approaches, Clay contributes significantly to optimizing agricultural systems for sustainable food production. 🌱

 

Publication Top Notes:

Relating apparent electrical conductivity to soil properties across the north-central USA 🌱 (2005) – Cited by 511
πŸ“š Phosphorus sorption and availability from biochars and soil/biochar mixtures 🌱 (2014) – Cited by 425
πŸ“š Cover crop and soil quality interactions in agroecosystems 🌱 (1998) – Cited by 337
πŸ“š Nitrate sorption and desorption in biochars from fast pyrolysis 🌱 (2013) – Cited by 252
πŸ“š Ammonia volatilization from urea as influenced by soil temperature, soil water content, and nitrification and hydrolysis inhibitors 🌱 (1990) – Cited by 201
πŸ“š Molecular characterization of biochars and their influence on microbiological properties of soil 🌱 (2014) – Cited by 177
πŸ“š Using soil electrical conductivity to improve nutrient management 🌱 (2003) – Cited by 162
πŸ“š Characterizing water and nitrogen stress in corn using remote sensing 🌱 (2006) – Cited by 159
πŸ“š Sewage sludge organic matter and soil properties 🌱 (1986) – Cited by 152
πŸ“š Do synergistic relationships between nitrogen and water influence the ability of corn to use nitrogen derived from fertilizer and soil? 🌱 (2008) – Cited by 140