Parissa Taheri | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Dr. Parissa Taheri | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Ferdowsi University of Mashhad | Iran

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Early Academic Pursuits 📘

Prof. Dr. Parissa Taheri began her academic journey with a Bachelor’s degree in Crop Protection at Ferdowsi University of Mashhad. She pursued her Master’s in Plant Pathology at the same institution, demonstrating a strong foundation in agricultural sciences. Her academic ambitions led her to Ghent University, Belgium, where she earned a Ph.D. in Applied Biological Sciences, specializing in Plant Pathology and Plant Physiology. During her doctoral studies, she also completed advanced scientific training in molecular biology, bioinformatics, and plant-microbe interactions.

Professional Endeavors 🌱

Currently, Prof. Taheri serves as a Professor of Plant Physiology and Plant Pathology at Ferdowsi University of Mashhad. Her leadership extends to prestigious editorial roles, including Editor-in-Chief of "Physiological and Molecular Plant Pathology" and "Iranian Plant Protection Research." She has been instrumental in managing special issues in journals like "Genes" and "Microbiological Research," emphasizing themes such as beneficial microorganisms and plant-protectant modes of action.

Contributions and Research Focus 🔬

Prof. Taheri’s research encompasses plant-microbe interactions, biocontrol agents, and the use of natural products in agriculture. With over 70 high-quality publications and significant citations, her work has advanced understanding in areas such as oxidative stress in plant immunity, endophytic fungi, and innovative approaches to biocontrol. Her studies have a direct impact on enhancing crop protection and promoting sustainable agricultural practices.

Accolades and Recognition 🏆

An internationally recognized figure, Prof. Taheri’s academic influence is reflected in her editorial appointments and leadership in organizations like the International Society for Plant Pathology. Her editorial roles in Elsevier journals and contributions to global forums underscore her dedication to advancing plant science.

Impact and Influence 🌍

Prof. Taheri’s research findings have laid the groundwork for novel strategies in crop disease management, incorporating bio-based and nano-enabled solutions. Her scholarly output, with a notable H-index and thousands of citations, highlights her as a leading expert in her field. She has also fostered collaborations that bridge academic and practical agricultural advancements.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🌟

Looking forward, Prof. Taheri aims to further explore sustainable solutions in agriculture, combining advanced molecular insights with ecological approaches. Her mentorship of young scientists and her editorial leadership ensure her legacy as a transformative figure in plant science will endure, shaping future generations of researchers.

 

Publications

📚 Identification, pathogenicity and cell wall degrading enzymes of Alternaria spp. associated with grape bunch rot in Iran
Authors: Neda Samandari-Najafabadi, Parissa Taheri, and Mojtaba Mamarabadi
Journal: Physiological and Molecular Plant Pathology
Year: 2025

📚 Characterization, pathogenicity, and extracellular enzymes of Fusarium solani f. sp. phaseoli associated with common bean in Khorasan Razavi Province of Iran
Authors: Behnaz Bagherieh, Parissa Taheri
Journal: Journal of Advances in Plant Protection
Year: 2024

📚 Effect of environmental factors and food resources on the antagonistic activity of Acrophialophora jodhpurensis, biocontrol agent of Rhizoctonia solani
Authors: Behnaz Bagherieh, Parissa Taheri
Journal: Mycologia Iranica
Year: 2024

📚 Binucleate Rhizoctonia induced tomato resistance against Rhizoctonia solani via affecting antioxidants and cell wall reinforcement
Authors: Parissa Taheri, Fatemeh Hosseini Zahani, Saeed Tarighi
Journal: Heliyon
Year: 2024

📚 First report of Trichothecium roseum causing pink mould on strawberry fruit in Iran
Authors: Fatemeh Maghsoodi, Parissa Taheri, Saeed Tarighi
Journal: Journal of Phytopathology
Year: 2024

 

Resham Thapa | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Resham Thapa | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

University of Wyoming | United States

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🌱 Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Resham Thapa's academic journey is a testament to his interdisciplinary prowess and commitment to scientific inquiry. Beginning with a Bachelor's in Business Studies (B.B.S.) in 2001 from Tribhuvan University, Nepal, he specialized in Financial Management. His academic evolution included a Master in Business Studies (M.B.S.) in 2005 with a focus on Investment and Financial Analysis, where he investigated the financial performance of commercial banks in Nepal. Dr. Thapa's trajectory shifted to international grounds when he pursued an M.A. in NGO Studies in 2010 at Ajou University, South Korea, leveraging an International Student Scholarship. The culmination of his educational endeavors occurred at the University of Wyoming (UW), USA, where he earned an M.S. in Agricultural Economics (2020), delving into the economic feasibility of coal char in agriculture, and a Ph.D. in Soil Sciences (2023) with a dissertation on the impacts of coal char on plant growth and soil properties.

🌟 Professional Endeavors

Dr. Thapa has cultivated a career enriched with research, teaching, and professional collaborations. As a Research Professional at UW's School of Energy Resources (2023–present), he focuses on enhancing soil health and sustainable crop production through innovative soil amendments like coal char and biochar. His role involves designing field experiments, conducting lab analyses, and publishing findings in peer-reviewed journals. Previously, as a Graduate Research Assistant at UW (2015–2023), he spearheaded collaborative projects to address soil nutrient issues and crop yield optimization. His contributions ranged from experimental designs to statistical data analysis using R programming. Earlier in Nepal, he served as a Lecturer in management studies and a Social Mobilization Expert for renewable energy projects, showcasing his adaptability across disciplines.

🌍 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Thapa’s research centers on soil health and sustainable agriculture, particularly through the use of coal-derived soil amendments. His groundbreaking work has explored the effects of coal char and biochar on plant growth, soil water retention, and crop yield, making significant strides in agroecology. His skills span soil microbial analysis, field research, and economic risk analysis, positioning him as a thought leader in soil amendment innovation. He also contributed to earlier projects like Municipal Solid Waste Management (2005–2007), blending environmental science and statistical sampling to optimize waste management systems.

🏆 Accolades and Recognition

Dr. Thapa has garnered numerous awards for his contributions to science and academia. Notable achievements include:

  • 1st Place in the Wyoming Energy Future Symposium Poster Competition (2022).
  • Travel grants to present his research at prestigious international conferences.
  • Academic scholarships from Ajou University and Tribhuvan University for exceptional performance.

He was also awarded the Eldon and Josephine Johnston Family Graduate Fellowship for his outstanding contributions to agricultural research.

🌾 Impact and Influence

Dr. Thapa’s work has profound implications for global agricultural sustainability. His research on coal char and biochar as soil amendments addresses critical challenges in soil degradation, water retention, and crop productivity, especially in semi-arid regions. His publications in reputable journals and conference presentations have advanced the scientific discourse, influencing both academic and agricultural communities. Moreover, his teaching experience in Nepal has inspired future generations, while his collaborative research endeavors at UW have strengthened ties between academia and industry.

🌟 Legacy and Future Contributions

As a trailblazer in soil amendment research, Dr. Thapa's legacy lies in his multidisciplinary approach and dedication to practical solutions for agricultural challenges. His provisional patent on coal char for soil health and crop yield enhancement exemplifies his innovative mindset. Looking forward, Dr. Thapa aims to expand his research to address global food security, environmental conservation, and sustainable agriculture. His efforts will continue to inspire scientists and policymakers alike, fostering a greener and more sustainable future.

 

Publications

  • 📜 Enhancing Corn Yield and Soil Quality in Irrigated Semiarid Region with Coal Char and Biochar Amendments
    Authors: Thapa, R.B.; Budhathoki, S.; Shilpakar, S.; Panday, D.; Alsunuse, B.; Tang, S.X; Stahl, P.D.
    Journal: Soils
    Year: 2024
  • 📜 Mycorrhizal Fungal Inoculum Potential in Crop Rotation Soil With Different Levels of Irrigation
    Authors: Bouzeriba T. B. Alsunuse, Nasruddeen Al-Awwal, Samir Budhathoki, Resham B. Thapa, Michael Baidoo, Faraj Zaid & Peter D. Stahl
    Journal: Journal of Agricultural Science (JAS)
    Year: 2023
  • 📜 Use of Stratified Cluster Sampling for Efficient Estimation of Solid Waste Generation at Household Level
    Authors: Mohan B. Dangi, Michael A. Urynowicz, Kenneth G. Gerow, and Resham B. Thapa
    Journal: Waste Management & Research
    Year: 2008
  • 📜 An Assessment of Plant Growth and Soil Properties Using Coal Char and Biochar as a Soil Amendment
    Authors: Thapa, R.B.; Coupal, R.H.; Dangi, M.B.; Stahl, P.D.
    Journal: Agronomy
    Year: 2024
  • 📜 Initial Greenhouse Observations on Use of Coal Char as a Soil Amendment: Influences on Plant Growth and Soil Water Holding Capacity
    Authors: Thapa, R.B.; Tang, S.X.; Stahl, P.D.
    Journal: Journal of Dryland Agriculture (JODA)
    Year: 2023

 

Zhi Zhou | Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Zhi Zhou | Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

Hunan Agricultural University | China

Author Profile

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Orcid

Early Academic Pursuits 🎓

Prof. Zhi Zhou's academic journey began with a Bachelor’s degree in Applied Chemistry from Hunan Agricultural University in 2005, followed by a Master’s and then a Ph.D. in Applied Chemistry from Central South University in 2012. His passion for chemistry and its application in agriculture became a driving force behind his future research endeavors.

Professional Endeavors 💼

Prof. Zhou’s career spans significant roles in both academia and industry. After completing his studies, he worked as a Quality Engineer at Hunan Electronic Information Industry Group and then conducted postdoctoral research in the Netherlands and China. In 2014, he joined Hunan Agricultural University, where he quickly progressed through academic ranks to become a professor and the dean of the College of Excellent Engineers.

Contributions and Research Focus 🔬

Prof. Zhou's research is dedicated to solving agricultural production challenges through interdisciplinary methods combining chemistry and materials science. His research areas include:

  • Luminescent Materials: Prof. Zhou has developed new fluorescent materials for agricultural applications, especially for plant growth.
  • Biochar Applications: His studies in biochar production and modification have shown promise in environmental management and soil remediation.
  • Tea Growth and Processing: He has investigated the impact of light on tea tree growth and quality during processing.
  • Smart Agriculture: Prof. Zhou's team explores advancements in agricultural robotics and automation.

Accolades and Recognition 🏆

Prof. Zhou's achievements are widely recognized. He was awarded the Changsha 3635 Talent Introduction Program (2014), Hunan Province Hundred Talents Program (2017), and Shennong Youth Talent by the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs (2022). He has won prestigious awards, including:

  • The 2019 Hunan Science and Technology Progress Award, Second Prize
  • The 2022 Young Scientist Award from the China Environmental Society
  • Multiple Teaching Achievement Awards from Hunan Agricultural University

Impact and Influence 🌍

With over 5,700 citations and an H-index of 39, Prof. Zhou’s publications have had a broad impact on the scientific community, especially in China. His team has published 176 SCI papers and received numerous patents, pushing the boundaries of agricultural chemistry and materials science.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🌱

Prof. Zhou’s establishment of the "Agricultural Chemical Materials Interdisciplinary Laboratory" and his leadership of the "Hunan Agricultural University Interdisciplinary Research Institute" reflect his dedication to advancing agricultural innovation. As he mentors future scientists and develops solutions for sustainable agriculture, his legacy is bound to leave a lasting impact on agricultural science.

 

Publications 

📄 Biochar rich in amino ligand for copper selective recollection in wastewater
Authors: Li, S.-K., Wen, Y.-J., Wang, Y.-F., ... Zhou, Z., Zhou, N.
Journal: Separation and Purification Technology
Year: 2025

📄 N-doped carbon carriers loaded with NiX (X = Fe, Co, Cu): Catalytic synergistic pyrolysis of herbal residues and polypropylene to generate three-phase products and carbon nanotubes
Authors: Chen, Z., Xie, Y., Yi, C., ... Zhou, Z., Luo, W.
Journal: Fuel
Year: 2025

📄 Enhanced biofilm-dependent biogas upgrading from waste activated sludge fermentation liquor in microbial electrolysis cells
Authors: Li, L., Su, L., Gao, J., ... Zhou, Y., Dai, X.
Journal: Water Research
Year: 2025

📄 In-situ and ex-situ selective catalysis of biochar-based catalysts for the production of high-quality bio-oil and H₂-rich gas from tobacco stem
Authors: Tang, X., Li, X.Y., He, Q.F., ... Luo, W., Zhou, Z.
Journal: Journal of Environmental Chemical Engineering
Year: 2024

📄 Zero-thermal-quenching broadband yellow-emitting Bi³⁺-activated phosphors based on metal to metal charge transfer
Authors: Chen, K., Gao, P., Zhang, Z., ... Zhou, Z., Xia, M.
Journal: Journal of Alloys and Compounds
Year: 2024

 

Ayomide Afolabi | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Editorial Board Member

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Mr. Ayomide Afolabi | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Editorial Board Member

Jovah Farm | Nigeria

Author Profile 

Scopus

Early Academic Pursuits

Ayomide Afolabi, born on March 28, 1996, is a Nigerian advocate of Climate-Smart Agriculture, demonstrating dedication and efficiency in his academic and professional journey. He believes in the sustainability of Climate-Smart Agriculture for enhancing agricultural productivity and achieving food security.

Professional Endeavors

Ayomide has been actively involved in the agriculture sector, managing and producing various crops such as Cucumbers, Kales, Watermelons, Bell peppers, and Tomatoes. His expertise spans open-field and controlled-environment cultivation, seedling management, pest control, and the formulation of nutritional guidelines. Additionally, he engages in sustainable practices, incorporating Gliricidia sepium and Tithonia diversifolia for soil improvement.

Contributions and Research Focus

With a background in Plant Physiology and Crop Production, Ayomide's academic journey at the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, reflects his commitment to understanding the effects of integrated nutrient management on lowland rice varieties. His work extends beyond conventional farming, embracing hydroponics, aquaculture, and cutting-edge technologies like nano-biotechnological products.

Accolades and Recognition

Ayomide's dedication and academic excellence have been acknowledged with honors like the Senate annual prize for first-class honors graduating students at the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta.

Impact and Influence

Ayomide's impact extends to the global community through initiatives such as the ICTforAg conference and his involvement in advocacy programs like the Zero Food Waste Initiative. He actively contributes to reducing food waste and promoting sustainable agricultural practices.

Legacy and Future Contributions

Ayomide envisions a legacy of promoting sustainable agriculture and addressing global food security challenges. His multifaceted expertise, from traditional farming to cutting-edge technologies, positions him as a catalyst for positive change in the agricultural landscape. In the future, Ayomide aims to continue his impactful contributions, advancing agriculture with a focus on innovation and sustainability.

Notable Publications

Response of lowland rice varieties to integrated nutrient management in a derived Savannah agro-ecology 2023

Nanoscience and technology as a pivot for sustainable agriculture and its One Health approach awareness 2023

The Application of Microbial Inoculants as a Green Tool towards Achieving Sustainable Agriculture 2023