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

 

Renar João Bender | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Dr. Renar João Bender | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul | Brazil

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Early Academic Pursuits 📚

Prof. Dr. Renar João Bender embarked on his academic journey with a Bachelor's degree in Agricultural Engineering from Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS) in 1977. He then pursued a Master's of Science in Agronomy from UFRGS, completing it in 1982. His keen interest in horticulture led him to further his education, obtaining a Ph.D. in Horticultural Sciences with a focus on Postharvest Physiology from the University of Florida in 1996. His doctoral research, under the mentorship of Jeffrey K. Brecht, explored the effects of elevated CO2 in controlled atmosphere storage and mango ripening regulation.

Professional Endeavors 💼

Currently, Prof. Bender is a full professor at the Horticultural Sciences Department of UFRGS, where he has dedicated much of his career to studying postharvest physiology and technology of horticultural crops. His research spans a variety of areas, including fruit and vegetable storage, decay control, and the management of mechanical injuries during postharvest processes. His expertise also extends to alternative postharvest treatments to improve the longevity and quality of horticultural produce.

Contributions and Research Focus 🔬

Prof. Bender’s contributions to the field of postharvest physiology are invaluable, with a particular focus on the storage and preservation of fruits and vegetables. His work addresses critical aspects such as minimizing mechanical damage during harvesting and handling, developing alternative treatments for decay control, and improving the overall shelf life of produce. His research not only enhances the quality of food post-harvest but also contributes significantly to reducing waste and improving food security.

Accolades and Recognition 🏆

Prof. Bender’s outstanding academic and professional work has earned him numerous prestigious awards. Among these, the 2019 O Futuro da Terra in the Innovation and Rural Technology category, awarded by Fapergs - Sistema Farsul - Jornal do Comércio, stands out. He was also recognized with the Mérito Caiense award from the Prefeitura Municipal de São Sebastião do Caí, RS, in 2012. His remarkable work was further acknowledged with several awards from the University of Florida, including the Muriel Rumsey Award and the prestigious Presidential Recognition in 1996.

Impact and Influence 🌍

Prof. Bender’s research and work have had a far-reaching impact on the horticultural industry, particularly in the areas of food preservation and postharvest management. His studies have not only advanced academic knowledge but have also been instrumental in improving the practical handling and storage of fruits and vegetables. As an educator, his mentorship has guided many students, shaping the next generation of experts in agricultural sciences and postharvest technologies.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🌱

Prof. Bender’s legacy is built on his extensive contributions to the science of postharvest physiology and horticulture. His commitment to advancing knowledge in these fields ensures that his work will continue to influence agricultural practices for years to come. With his vast experience and continued research, Prof. Bender is poised to further contribute to the optimization of food production and storage systems, addressing challenges like food waste, sustainability, and global food security.

 

Publications

📄White-button mushroom storage in trays with layerings of chitosan and turmeric

  • Authors: de Oliveira Mariano Pilger, M.L., da Silva, S.B., Radunz, L.L., Bender, R.J.
  • Journal: Packaging Technology and Science
  • Year: 2024

📄Deterministic and probabilistic risk of strawberry consumption with pesticide residues

  • Authors: Berlitz, F., Elias, S.O., Fraga, G.P., Bender, R.J.
  • Journal: Ciencia Rural
  • Year: 2023

📄Ethylene concentrations and temperatures on degreening of bananas from a subtropical area

  • Authors: Paulo, B.K., de Almeida, G.K., Bender, R.J.
  • Journal: Ciencia Rural
  • Year: 2023

📄Inorganic solar filters incorporated to carnauba wax and incidence of citrus black spot on tangerine 

  • Authors: Nascimento, F.V., Valdebenito-Sanhueza, R.M., Bender, R.J.
  • Journal: Pesquisa Agropecuaria Brasileira
  • Year: 2022

📄Yield and quality of gerbera floral stalks in substrate supplemented with different doses of nitrogen and calcium 

  • Authors: Milani, M., Pradella, E.M., Heintze, W., Lopes, S.J., Bender, R.J.
  • Journal: Ornamental Horticulture
  • Year: 2022

 

Zhi Zhou | Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Zhi Zhou | Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

Hunan Agricultural University | China

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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

 

Smruti Ranjan Padhan | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Smruti Ranjan Padhan | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

ICAR KVK-East Sikkim, ICAR-RC NEH Region | India

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🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Smruti Ranjan Padhan's academic journey reflects a strong foundation in agricultural sciences. He achieved impressive results during his early education, scoring 91.83% in Matriculation from the Board of Secondary Education, Odisha, and 88.17% in Intermediate from the Council of Higher Secondary Education, Odisha, with a focus on Physics, Chemistry, Math, and Biology. This excellence continued into his higher education, where he earned a Bachelor's Degree in Agriculture with an OGPA of 8.63 from Odisha University of Agriculture & Technology (OUAT), Bhubaneswar, followed by a Master’s and Ph.D. in Agronomy from the prestigious Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI), New Delhi, both with an OGPA of 9.15.

🧑‍💼 Professional Endeavors

Dr. Padhan's professional career is marked by both academic and administrative excellence. Currently affiliated with KVK-East Sikkim in Gangtok, Sikkim, he has also contributed significantly as the State Coordinator for Delhi NCT of the All India Agricultural Students Association (AIASA). His leadership role as a life member of the Indian Society of Agronomy (ISA) reflects his deep commitment to advancing agricultural education and research across India.

📚 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Padhan's research primarily focuses on sustainable agriculture, with contributions to conservation agriculture, soil health, and crop productivity. His work has resulted in numerous research publications in high-impact journals such as the European Journal of Agronomy and Frontiers in Sustainable Food Systems. His studies explore topics like nitrogen uptake, weed management, and crop yield in rice-wheat cropping systems, and he has also delved into the role of artificial intelligence in agriculture.

🏆 Accolades and Recognition

Dr. Padhan's academic and research excellence have earned him numerous awards. He received the prestigious ICAR-JRF in Agronomy in 2018 and the ICAR-SRF in 2020. His Master’s thesis earned him the Best M.Sc. Thesis Award in 2022. In recognition of his scientific contributions, he also received the Best Oral Presentation Awards in 2019 and 2022 and the Best Poster Presentation Award in 2020.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Through his research, Dr. Padhan has significantly impacted the agricultural sector, particularly in the areas of agronomic productivity, environmental sustainability, and conservation practices. His work is helping shape more sustainable agricultural methods, optimizing crop yields while maintaining soil health, and reducing the environmental footprint of farming.

🌟 Legacy and Future Contributions

Dr. Smruti Ranjan Padhan's ongoing contributions to agronomy and sustainable farming practices position him as a key influencer in the future of Indian agriculture. His research, leadership roles, and extensive collaboration with fellow researchers ensure that his legacy will continue to inspire innovations in agricultural productivity, soil health, and sustainable practices for years to come.

 

Publications

  • 📄  Bibliometric Trends and Insights into the Potential of Maize (Zea mays) under the Framework of Conservation Agriculture
    Authors: Smruti Ranjan Padhan, Sushmita Saini, Shankar Lal Jat, Sanjay Singh Rathore, Mahesh Kumar Gathala, Radheshyam, Soumya Ranjan Padhan, Salah El-Hendawy, Mohamed A. Mattar
    Journal: Sustainability
    Year: 2024-10-08
  • 📄  On-farm evidence on breaking yield barriers through optimizing wheat cropping system in Indo Gangetic Plain
    Authors: Radheshyam, Shankar Lal Jat, M.L. Jat, C.M. Parihar, H.S. Jat, A.K. Singh, Deepak Bijarniya, Smruti Ranjan Padhan, Praveen V. Kadam, Manish Kumar
    Journal: European Journal of Agronomy
    Year: 2024-09
  • 📘  Finger Millet: A Sustainable Approach for Nutritional Security and its Biofortification
    Authors: Pratikshya Mishra, Smruti Ranjan Padhan
    Book : Millets and Other Potential Crops
    Year: 2024-06-27
  • 📄  Unveiling the potential of plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) in phytoremediation of heavy metal
    Authors: Ritwik Sahoo, Sumit Sow, Shivani Ranjan, Dharminder, Rajan Kumar, Dhirendra Kumar Roy, Sunil Kumar, Amrendra Kumar, Rajeev Kumar Srivastava, Rajendra Prasad et al.
    Journal: Discover Applied Sciences
    Year: 2024-06-13
  • 📄  Vocational opportunities for agricultural migrants in northern India: Insights from grassroots
    Authors: Sushmita Saini, Rajarshi Roy Burman, Rabindra Nath Padaria, Girijesh Singh Mahra, Sitaram Bishnoi, Kaustav Aditya, Nithyashree M. L., Sonali Mallick, Smruti Ranjan Padhan
    Journal: The Indian Journal of Agricultural Sciences
    Year: 2024-05-08

 

Labidi Oumayma | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

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Ms. Labidi Oumayma | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Private College and High School Les Pilote, Bizerte | Tunisia

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Early Academic Pursuits 🎓

Ms. Labidi Oumayma's academic journey began with a Bachelor of Mathematical Science in 2010 from El KRIB High School, followed by her pursuit of a National Diploma in Applied License in Biotechnology from the Institute Superior of Biotechnology of Béja in 2013. She later earned her Master’s Degree in Research in Biological Sciences in 2015 from the Faculty of Sciences of Bizerte. Her early academic interests were firmly rooted in plant biotechnology and physiology, reflecting her passion for scientific exploration and plant studies.

Professional Endeavors 💼

Ms. Labidi’s professional career is distinguished by her teaching roles, including her position as a lecturer in Plant Physiology at the Faculty of Sciences, Bizerte. She has also served as a teacher of Life and Earth Sciences at various private and public institutions. Her expertise in plant physiology, mineral nutrition, and physiological responses to environmental stresses has been a cornerstone of her academic and teaching career.

Contributions and Research Focus 🔬

Ms. Labidi’s research has focused on the physiological and biochemical traits of plants, especially in response to heavy metal stress. Her work on the hyperaccumulation abilities of Casuarina glauca and the physiological responses of Cucurbita pepo under cadmium stress has significantly contributed to our understanding of metal tolerance in plants. Her expertise in seed dormancy, plant transpiration, and antioxidant enzyme activity reflects her deep involvement in plant cellular and molecular physiology.

Accolades and Recognition 🏆

Ms. Labidi’s research achievements have been widely recognized. She has received honors at various stages of her academic career, including Very Good Honors for her Applied License in Biotechnology and Highest Honors for her Doctorate in Biological Sciences. Her scientific contributions, particularly her publications in high-impact journals, have earned her a notable place in the scientific community.

Impact and Influence 🌍

Ms. Labidi’s work extends beyond academic publications; she has influenced her students, peers, and the scientific community with her innovative research on plant physiology. Her studies on the antioxidant responses of plants to metal toxicity have practical implications for agriculture and environmental sustainability, making her a valuable contributor to global research in plant sciences.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🌱

Ms. Labidi is poised to continue making strides in the field of plant biotechnology and physiology. Her future work promises to deepen our understanding of plant responses to environmental stressors, contributing to more resilient agricultural systems. Her dedication to both research and teaching ensures that her legacy will inspire future generations of scientists.

 

Publications

📄 Impact of Nickel Toxicity on Growth, Fruit Quality, and Antioxidant Response in Zucchini Squash (Cucurbita pepo L.)

 Journal: Plants
Year: 2024
Authors: Labidi Oumayma, Rim Kouki, Saida Hidouri, Hana Bouzahouane, Isabel Caçador, Rosa Maria Perez-Clemente, Noomene Sleimi

📄 Involvement of Abscisic Acid and Jasmonic Acid Biosynthesis-related Genes in Cucurbita pepo L. Tolerance to Trace Metal Stress

Journal: Water, Air, & Soil Pollution
Year: 2023
Authors: Oumayma Labidi, Rim Kouki, Rosa Maria Perez-Clemente, Aurelio Gomez-Cadenas, Noomene Sleimi, Vicente Vives-Peris

📄 Traits Physiologiques, Biochimiques et Déterminisme Génétique de la Tolérance au Contrainte Métallique (Cd, Ni) chez la Courgette (Cucurbita pepo)

Dissertation/Thesis
Year: 2022
Author: Labidi Oumayma

📄 Assessing Growth, Antioxidant Enzymes, and Phytohormone Regulation in Cucurbita pepo under Cadmium Stress

Journal: Food Science & Nutrition
Year: 2021
Authors: Oumayma Labidi, Vicente Vives-Peris, Aurelio Gómez-Cadenas, Rosa M. Pérez-Clemente, Noomene Sleimi