Uwingabire Solange | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Women Research Award

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Dr. Uwingabire Solange | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Women Research Award

University of Technology and Arts of Byumba | Rwanda

Dr. Uwingabire Solange is a distinguished researcher and academic whose work bridges forest sciences, agroforestry, and soil management with a focus on sustainable bioenergy and agricultural resilience in sub-Saharan Africa. As the General Secretary of the African Organization of Technology in Agriculture (AOTA) and a visiting lecturer at the University of Rwanda, she contributes significantly to advancing agricultural innovation and policy. Her research expertise encompasses agroforestry systems, soil fertility, and biochar technology, emphasizing climate-smart practices and rural development. She has published extensively in reputed journals, including Agronomy, Biofuels, Ambio, and the Rwanda Journal of Agricultural Sciences, contributing to global discussions on bioenergy, soil health, and sustainable farming. Her doctoral work on agroforestry for bioenergy and soil improvement demonstrates her commitment to integrating scientific knowledge with real-world environmental challenges. A member of several professional organizations such as the International Biochar Initiative (IBI), African Forest Forum (AFF), and Organization for Women in Science for the Developing World (OWSD), Dr. Solange actively promotes gender inclusivity and scientific collaboration in environmental research. Her scholarly contributions and leadership underscore her role as a driving force in sustainable land use, forest conservation, and agricultural transformation across Africa.

Profile : Orcid

Featured Publications

Uwingabire, S., Chamshama, S. A. O., Nduwamungu, J., & Nyberg, G. (2024). Gasifier use for cooking and biochar production by smallholder farmers in Rwanda. Biofuels, 1–8.

García-López, N., Uwingabire, S., Bargués-Tobella, A., Sundberg, C., Goodman, R. C., Boman, C., & Nyberg, G. (2024). An integrated agroforestry-bioenergy system for enhanced energy and food security in rural sub-Saharan Africa. Ambio.

Uwingabire, S., Chamshama, S. A. O., Nduwamungu, J., & Nyberg, G. (2024). French bean production as influenced by biochar and biochar blended manure application in two agro-ecological zones of Rwanda. Agronomy, 14(9), 2020.

Uwingabire, S., Nduwamungu, J., Nyberg, G., & Chamshama, S. A. O. (2023). Farmer-managed French bean biochar trials in Rwanda: Effects on yield and soil nutrients. Rwanda Journal of Agricultural Sciences, 3(2), 106–122.

Shingiro, C., Nyagatare, G., Hirwa, H., & Uwingabire, S. (2019). Effect of human urine and compost tea on soil physical and chemical properties: Case study Rubirizi Marshland. Journal of Agricultural Science and Engineering, 5(3), 61–66.

Uwisunzimana, F. X., Naramabuye, F. X., Munyaneza, O., Uwizeyimana, D., & Uwingabire, S. (2017). Effective investigation and computation of the soil erodibility factor in Karubanda watershed using USLE nomograph (K-factor) equation, Southern Province, Rwanda. International Journal of Science and Research, 7(6), 225–236.

Uwingabire, S., Msanya, B. M., Mtakwa, P. W., & Sirikale, S. (2016). Pedological characterization of soils developed on gneissic-granite in the Congo Nile Watershed Divide and Central Plateau zones, Rwanda. International Journal of Current Research (India), 8(9), 39489–39501.

Uwingabire, S., & Turinzwenayo, J. (2016). Spacing effect on macro and micro propagated plantlets, Rwanda. International Journal of Current Research (India), 8(11), 42507–42513.

Uwitonze, P., Msanya, B. M., Mtakwa, P. W., Uwingabire, S., & Sirikare, S. (2016). Pedological characterization of soils developed from volcanic parent materials of Northern Province of Rwanda. Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, 5(6), 225–236.

Dhaarna | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

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Assist. Prof. Dr. Dhaarna | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

CEPT University | India

Author Profile

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🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

From a young age, Dr. Dhaarna’s educational path reflected both depth and diversity. She began her academic journey at St. Francis Senior Secondary School, Hathras, and continued her secondary education at Delhi Public School, Aligarh, before moving to Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) for her Senior Secondary schooling. She pursued a Bachelor's in Architecture from ZHCET, AMU, where she also served as the Cultural Secretary. Her curiosity for planning led her to CEPT University, Ahmedabad, for a Master’s in Urban and Regional Planning, where she was elected Academic Secretary and awarded a GATE scholarship. She then earned her Ph.D. from IIT Roorkee, focusing on Water-Energy-Food (WEF) Nexus planning for the Bundelkhand region, supported by MHRD and the Newton Bhabha Scholarship.

🏛️ Professional Endeavors

Dr. Dhaarna is currently an Assistant Professor at CEPT University, where she teaches urban planning studios and engages students in foundational and developmental planning frameworks. Previously, she served as an Assistant Professor at NICMAR University, Pune, where she not only taught a wide array of sustainability and planning subjects but also spearheaded the setup of the B-Arch program and led cultural initiatives. Her early career included critical field roles at Urban Management Centre, working on the Government of India’s NAMASTE program, and HCL Foundation’s Project Samuday, focusing on rural WASH and GIS-based development. She also held research roles at IIT Roorkee and interned with Hathras Municipality and Incubis Consultants.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Dhaarna’s core research centers around the Water-Energy-Food Nexus, urban heat islands, policy planning, systems thinking, GIS applications, and sustainable urban-rural development. She uses an interdisciplinary approach to address complex spatial and environmental challenges. Her publications span high-impact journals such as Elsevier’s Information Sciences (Q1), Springer-Nature, Blue-Green Systems (Q1), and Environmental Research, Engineering and Management (Q3). Additionally, she has contributed to several Springer-Nature book chapters on environmental governance and system-based research methodology.

🏅 Accolades and Recognition

Dr. Dhaarna's excellence has been recognized through numerous awards and fellowships. She received the Best Teaching Practices Award at NICMAR University in 2024 and was conferred Individual Honorary Membership by IUCEE in 2025. Her innovative teaching earned her certification from the International Society for Engineering Pedagogy, Austria. During her Ph.D., she won the Best Research Poster Award at IIT Roorkee’s Research Day and was selected for the prestigious Newton Bhabha Ph.D. Placement Programme hosted at the University of the West of England, UK.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Through her teaching, Dr. Dhaarna has influenced future architects and planners to embrace sustainability, equity, and systems-based thinking. Her interdisciplinary lens—blending architecture, policy, and regional planning—has empowered students and researchers alike to address real-world challenges. Her contributions to WASH programs, climate resilience, and urban policy have impacted both grassroots communities and academic spheres.

🌱 Legacy and Future Contributions

With a deep-rooted passion for sustainability, planning, and social equity, Dr. Dhaarna is poised to continue shaping India’s environmental and planning discourse. Her legacy lies not only in academic excellence but also in nurturing creative, ethical, and inclusive minds. Looking ahead, she envisions contributing to global environmental governance, expanding the frontiers of WEF Nexus research, and integrating storytelling and science to foster wider public understanding.

Publications

📄  Water Security Modeling in Low-Income Regions in India: A System Dynamics Approach
Authors: Dhaarna, Anil Kashyap
Journal: Environmental and Sustainability Indicators
Year: July 2025

📄 Matrix representation of the graph model for conflict resolution based on intuitionistic preferences with applications to trans-regional water resource conflicts in the Lancang–Mekong River Basin
Authors: Dayong Wang, Xiaoying Lai, Dhaarna, Xiaowei Wen, Yejun Xu
Journal: Information Sciences
Year: February 2025

📄 A Systematic Review and Trend Analysis of Urban Heat Island
Author: Dhaarna
Journal: NICMAR Journal of Construction Management
Year: 2025

📄 A Descriptive Analysis of Human-Environment Interactions in the Suburban Area of Pune City
Author: Dhaarna
Journal: Environmental Research, Engineering and Management
Year: October 2024

📄 Water, Energy and Food Nexus for Sustainable Development of the Bundelkhand Region
 Authors: Dhaarna, Varuvel Devadas
Book: Sustainable Future Cities
Year: March 2023

Huang Xiaosan | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Huang Xiaosan | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Nanjing Agricultural University | China

Author Profile

Scopus

Early Academic Pursuits 🎓


Dr. Huang Xiaosan's academic journey began at Huazhong Agricultural University, where he earned his bachelor’s degree and a combined master’s-Ph.D. program in Horticulture and Pomology. This solid academic foundation equipped him with the skills to delve deep into plant stress responses, a crucial area of research for improving agricultural productivity and resilience. His time at Huazhong Agricultural University set the stage for his distinguished career in horticultural science, particularly in the development of stress-resistant fruit trees.

Professional Endeavors 💼


Upon joining Nanjing Agricultural University, Dr. Huang steadily advanced through various academic ranks, from Lecturer to Full Professor. His teaching responsibilities span both undergraduate and graduate courses, including Developmental Cell Biology of Fruit Trees and Frontiers in Modern Horticultural Science. Beyond teaching, Dr. Huang has mentored many students through research programs and academic competitions, helping them achieve recognition in prestigious journals and awards, further contributing to the academic ecosystem.

Contributions and Research Focus 🔬


Dr. Huang's research primarily focuses on enhancing fruit tree resistance to environmental stresses. His innovative work integrates DNA methylation, epigenetic regulation, and the study of transcription factors to develop resilient fruit tree cultivars. Leading over 20 significant national and provincial research projects, his findings have been published in renowned journals such as Plant Physiology, Plant Biotechnology Journal, and Plant Cell and Environment. His work has provided valuable insights and practical solutions for sustainable horticulture, especially in challenging environmental conditions.

Accolades and Recognition 🏅


Dr. Huang has been recognized with numerous prestigious awards, including the Jiangsu Excellent Youth Fund and the “Qinglan Project” Outstanding Young Backbone Teacher award. Additionally, his research excellence has earned him several provincial and national science and technology prizes. His contributions to agricultural science have been particularly acknowledged with the Sannong China Agricultural Science and Technology Awards and the Jiangsu Agricultural Technology Extension First Prize, highlighting his role as a leader in the field.

Impact and Influence 🌍


Dr. Huang’s impact extends far beyond his research and teaching roles. He has served as a reviewer for over 60 academic journals and is an active participant in international scientific exchanges. His research has garnered global attention, with his works being cited more than 500 times, underscoring the significance and worldwide relevance of his contributions. His ability to influence and shape the direction of plant molecular biology and agricultural biotechnology is evident in his wide-reaching impact on both the scientific community and the agricultural industry.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🌱


Dr. Huang Xiaosan is not only a leading innovator in plant science but also a mentor shaping the next generation of agricultural scientists. His ongoing research in plant stress response mechanisms, transcriptional regulation, and germplasm enhancement promises to offer critical solutions for food security and climate adaptation. Through his dedication to student development and the continuous pursuit of groundbreaking research, Dr. Huang’s legacy will live on in the future of agricultural biotechnology and sustainability.

Publications

  • 📄 Genome-wide identification of the Phospholipase D (PLD) gene family in Chinese white pear (Pyrus bretschneideri) and the role of PbrPLD2 in drought resistance
    Authors: Lin, Likun; Yuan, Kaili; Huang, Xiaosan; Zhang, Shaoling
    Journal: Plant Science
    Year: 2025

  • 📄 Synergistic Interaction Between PbbZIP88 and PbSRK2E Enhances Drought Resistance in Pear Through Regulation of PbATL18 Expression and Stomatal Closure
    Authors: Lin, Likun; Yuan, Kaili; Qi, Kaijie; Huang, Xiaosan; Zhang, Shaoling
    Journal: Plant, Cell and Environment
    Year: 2025

  • 📄 PbERF2-like interacts with PbNPR1 while enhancing the resistance of pear to Alternaria alternata
    Authors: Qiao, Qinghai; Su, Zhiyuan; Wang, Xin; Huang, Xiaosan; Zhang, Shaoling
    Journal: Scientia Horticulturae
    Year: 2024

  • 📄 PbGBF3 enhances salt response in pear by upregulating PbAPL2 and PbSDH1 and reducing ABA-mediated salt sensitivity
    Authors: Dong, Huizheng; Chen, Qiming; Fu, Yifei; Zhang, Shaoling; Huang, Xiaosan
    Journal: Plant Journal
    Year: 2024

  • 📄 Pyrus betulaefolia ERF3 interacts with HsfC1a to coordinately regulate aquaporin PIP1;4 and NCED4 for drought tolerance
    Authors: Zhang, Feng; Pan, Zhijian; Han, Chengyang; Zhang, Shaoling; Huang, Xiaosan
    Journal: Horticulture Research
    Year: 2024

 

Raju Lal Bhardwaj | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Dr. Raju Lal Bhardwaj | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Agriculture University, Jodhpur | India

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🎓Early Academic Pursuits

Prof. Dr. Raju Lal Bhardwaj's academic journey began with his graduation in Agriculture from RAU, Bikaner in 1998, achieving a remarkable 71.21%. His passion for horticulture led him to pursue an M.Sc. in Horticulture from MPUAT, Udaipur in 2001 with a 3.87/4.00 CGPA. Continuing his academic excellence, he completed his Ph.D. in Post-Harvest Technology (PHT) in 2005 from RAU, Bikaner with a 7.56/10 CGPA. Later, he earned an MBA in HRD from IGNOU, New Delhi in 2009.

💼Professional Endeavors

Prof. Bhardwaj’s professional career spans various roles, where he demonstrated leadership and teaching expertise. Currently, he holds the position of Dean at AU, Jodhpur and is the HOD of Horticulture at COA, Sumerpur. He served as Dean (Acting) for over 2 years and has held managerial and teaching positions in several esteemed institutions such as AU, Jodhpur, and MPUAT, Udaipur. His work includes research, teaching, extension, and leadership across multiple agricultural and horticultural domains.

🔬Contributions and Research Focus

Prof. Bhardwaj’s research primarily focuses on Horticulture, Post-Harvest Technology, and Agricultural Extension. His work has contributed significantly to the development of horticultural practices, agriculture research, and extension services. With over 13 research papers in high-impact journals, his research aims to promote agricultural productivity, improve horticultural practices, and address post-harvest challenges. His leadership in interdisciplinary collaborations further strengthens the agriculture and horticulture sectors.

🏆Accolades and Recognition

Prof. Bhardwaj’s exceptional contributions have earned him numerous awards and honors, such as the Best KVK Team Award (2011), Bharat Jyoti Award (2014), and Distinguished Scientist Award (2017). He has received multiple Best Paper and Best Oral Presentation Awards at international and national conferences. His Young Scientist Award (2016) and Best Scientist Award (2019) reflect his commitment to scientific excellence and innovation.

🌍Impact and Influence

Prof. Bhardwaj has had a profound impact on the agricultural and horticultural sectors, inspiring researchers and students alike. His leadership and pioneering research have contributed to global agricultural development, enhancing the lives of farmers and stakeholders in the agricultural industry. His research outputs, coupled with his efforts in extension services, have significantly influenced policy and practice in horticultural research and education.

🔮Legacy and Future Contributions

Prof. Bhardwaj’s legacy is firmly established through his groundbreaking research, teaching excellence, and international recognition. His continued contributions to innovative research and interdisciplinary collaborations will undoubtedly shape the future of horticultural sciences and agricultural research. His passion for teaching and mentorship ensures that his influence will continue to inspire generations of agricultural scientists and researchers for years to come.

 

Publications

📄Increasing Productivity and Recovering Nutritional, Organoleptic, and Nutraceutical Qualities of Major Vegetable Crops for Better Dietetics

Journal: Foods
Year: 2025
Contributors: Raju Lal Bhardwaj, Latika Vyas, Mahendra Prakash Verma, Suresh Chand Meena, Anirudha Chattopadhyay, Neeraj Kumar Meena, Dan Singh Jakhar, Sita Ram Kumawat

📄Red-Wattled Lapwing (Vanellus indicus): A Traditional Rain Forecaster for Tribal Farmers of Southwestern Rajasthan

Journal: Weather, Climate, and Society
Year: 2024
Contributors: R. L. Bhardwaj, M. P. Verma, L. Vyas, Anita Sharma, D. S. Jakhar, Kapil Choudhary, Jaideep Meena

📄An Alarming Decline in the Nutritional Quality of Foods: The Biggest Challenge for Future Generations’ Health

Journal: Foods
Year: 2024
Contributors: Raju Bhardwaj, Aabha Parashar, Hanuman Prasad Parewa, Latika Vyas

📄An Alarming Decline in the Nutritional Quality of Foods: The Biggest Challenge for Future Generations’ Health

Journal: MDPI (Review)
Year: 2024
Contributors: Raju Bhardwaj

 

Fu Linlin | Agriculture | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Fu Linlin | Agriculture | Best Researcher Award

Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences | China

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Early Academic Pursuits 📘

Dr. Fu Linlin's academic journey has been marked by a strong foundation in agricultural science, cooperative economy, and green economy. Her studies laid the groundwork for a prolific career focused on driving sustainable agricultural practices and innovations. A commitment to research excellence from the outset led Dr. Fu to explore the intricate relationships between resource utilization, economic viability, and environmental sustainability in agricultural contexts, providing her with the expertise that has shaped her later research and professional contributions.

Professional Endeavors 🌐

Currently, Dr. Fu holds the position of Deputy Director of the Agricultural Technology and Economics Research Office at Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, where she spearheads various research initiatives. She also serves as the Assistant Director of the China Agricultural Cooperative Organization Research Center, showcasing her leadership in advancing agricultural cooperatives. Dr. Fu’s career includes collaborations with esteemed institutions such as the National Natural Science Foundation of China and Zhejiang University. Her extensive involvement in agricultural consultancy and industry projects underscores her dedication to the real-world application of her research.

Contributions and Research Focus 🔬

Dr. Fu's research primarily revolves around agricultural industrial organization, resource efficiency, and rural industry integration. Her impactful studies address critical questions, such as how cooperatives affect small-scale farming households and the role of resource utilization in sustainable agricultural development. Dr. Fu has led or participated in over 70 scientific projects, including significant national and provincial initiatives. Her published work, including over 40 research papers in prestigious journals like Issues in Agricultural Economy and China Land Sciences, delves into innovative methods for evaluating sustainable development and cooperative models in agriculture, contributing substantially to the field.

Accolades and Recognition 🏅

Dr. Fu has garnered a range of accolades for her innovative contributions to agricultural science. She was recognized as a Zhijiang Young Social Science Scholar in 2023 and honored as a Science and Technology Innovation Pacesetter by the Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences. Additionally, her research on agricultural sustainable development and poverty alleviation has earned multiple awards, such as the Science and Technology Achievement Award and the Outstanding Achievement Award of Universities. These honors highlight her significant role in advancing sustainable agriculture and cooperative economics.

Impact and Influence 🌍

Through her academic work and applied research, Dr. Fu has made a lasting impact on agricultural sustainability and cooperative economies. Her contributions extend beyond academia to influence policy development, rural economies, and resource management strategies in China. Dr. Fu's expertise has not only informed local agricultural practices but has also provided a model for integrating sustainable practices into broader economic systems, thereby fostering environmental stewardship and rural development.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🚀

Dr. Fu Linlin’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and cooperative growth sets a strong foundation for her legacy. As she continues to explore the interplay between agriculture, economy, and sustainability, her research and leadership are expected to drive impactful advancements in agricultural policies and practices. Dr. Fu’s ongoing work promises to contribute to a greener, more cooperative, and economically viable future for agriculture, inspiring both current and future generations in the field of sustainable agricultural sciences.

 

Publications

📄 The Impact of Digitalization on Agricultural Green Development: Evidence from China’s Provinces
✍️ Authors: Linlin Fu, Jiajun Min, Cheng Luo, Xiaohong Mao, Ziqi Liu
📘 Journal: Sustainability
📅 Year: 2024

📄  Determinants and Impact of Solar Irrigation Facility (SIF) Adoption: A Case Study in Northern Bangladesh
✍️ Authors: Faruque-As-Sunny, Linlin Fu, Md. Sadique Rahman, Zuhui Huang
📘 Journal: Energies
📅 Year: 2022

 

Uwingabire Solange | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Uwingabire Solange | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Sokoine University of Agriculture |Rwanda

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🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Uwingabire Solange embarked on her academic journey with a Bachelor’s in Soil Science and Environment Management in 2012. Her early education laid a strong foundation in environmental studies, particularly focused on soil science. Driven by her passion, she continued to pursue a Master’s degree in Soil Sciences and Land Management in 2016. Her dedication culminated in a PhD in Forest Sciences in 2024, with her research focused on sustainable bioenergy and soil fertility within Rwanda's agroecological zones.

💼 Professional Endeavors

Dr. Uwingabire’s career began as a young professional in Rwanda’s MINAGRI-KWAMP watershed initiative in 2014, then expanded to include roles such as a GIS trainer at the Rwanda Institute of Management and a senior technical advisor for B&S Europe. Between 2017 and 2020, she served as a research assistant in a laboratory specializing in soil and plant sciences, further honing her expertise in agroforestry. Her current work as a PhD researcher investigates agroforestry solutions to improve soil fertility and bioenergy sustainability in Rwanda, directly impacting local agricultural practices.

📚 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Uwingabire’s research has produced numerous publications focused on soil health, biochar applications, and agroforestry. Her recent work explores how biochar and biochar-blended manure influence French bean yields and soil nutrients, highlighting the positive impacts on soil and agricultural productivity. Additionally, her studies on smallholder biochar use for cooking and bioenergy systems reflect her commitment to integrating sustainable practices within sub-Saharan agricultural systems, helping secure food and energy resources in rural communities.

🏆 Accolades and Recognition

Throughout her career, Dr. Uwingabire has gained acknowledgment from international academic and scientific organizations. She has presented her research at prominent conferences, including the DevRes 2024 in Sweden and the NM-AIST International Scientific Conference. Her memberships with esteemed bodies such as the International Biochar Initiative and the African Forest Forum further recognize her leadership and dedication to advancing forestry and soil sciences in Rwanda and beyond.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Dr. Uwingabire’s work has made a significant impact on soil science and agroforestry practices in Rwanda, particularly through her studies on biochar and sustainable land management. Her expertise has shaped important projects, including environmental assessments and soil management consultations for tea production. As a member of the Rwanda Women in Science Forum and the International Society of Tropical Foresters, she inspires fellow scientists, especially women, and promotes sustainable practices within the scientific community.

🌱 Legacy and Future Contributions

With her continued dedication to research and sustainable land management, Dr. Uwingabire is set to further influence agroforestry, bioenergy, and environmental management. Her ongoing contributions to soil health and sustainable farming practices will likely leave a lasting legacy, strengthening food security and environmental resilience in Rwanda and similar regions in Africa. Dr. Uwingabire remains a beacon of scientific innovation, committed to advancing sustainable solutions for the challenges facing rural communities in sub-Saharan Africa.

 

Publications

📄 French Bean Production as Influenced by Biochar and Biochar Blended Manure Application in Two Agro-Ecological Zones of Rwanda

  • Authors: Uwingabire, S.; Chamshama, S.A.O.; Nduwamungu, J.; Nyberg, G.
  • Journal: Agronomy
  • Year: 2024

📄 Gasifier Use for Cooking and Biochar Production by Smallholder Farmers in Rwanda

  • Authors: Uwingabire, S.; Chamshama, S. A. O.; Nyberg, G.; Nduwamungu, J.
  • Journal: Biofuels
  • Year: 2024

 

 

Patrick Duncan | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Lifetime Achievement Award

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Dr. Patrick Duncan | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Lifetime Achievement Award

France’s National Centre for Scientific Research | United Kingdom

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Early Academic Pursuits 🎓

Dr. Patrick Duncan's academic journey began with a degree in Zoology from Oxford University, completed in 1970. This foundational training led him to Nairobi University, where he pursued a Ph.D. focusing on the ecology of the antelope Damaliscus lunatus in the Serengeti and Lamu-Garissa District. His early studies in Africa laid the groundwork for his lifelong passion for understanding and conserving ecosystems, particularly herbivore-plant interactions and ungulate behavior.

Professional Endeavors 🌱

In 1985, Dr. Duncan took on the role of director at the Station Biologique de la Tour du Valat in the Camargue, France, where he worked until 1990. Afterward, he joined the CNRS (France’s National Centre for Scientific Research) as a Directeur de recherche, progressing to a DR1 position and later becoming an Emeritus Research Director from 2013 to 2018. His professional path includes significant administrative roles, such as directing the CNRS Chizé Laboratory from 1999 to 2006, and serving as Biodiversity Officer at the Ministère de la Recherche (2007-2010). During this period, he contributed to the negotiations leading up to the UN's decision to create the IPBES (Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services).

Contributions and Research Focus 🔬

Dr. Duncan’s research is centered on herbivore-plant interactions and the sustainable management of diverse ecosystems in Europe and Africa. His work spans the conservation and sustainable use of forests, wetlands, and savannas. His specific interests include exploring resource acquisition's impact on ungulate ecology and behavior, with studies focusing on species such as horses, zebras, and the European roe deer. With over 150 published works, including books, papers, and book chapters, his research has significantly contributed to the scientific understanding of these topics. His editorial involvement with the MDPI Journal Animals further demonstrates his commitment to disseminating ecological knowledge.

Accolades and Recognition 🏆

In recognition of his outstanding contributions, Dr. Duncan was awarded the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 2001. In 2018, he received the Ordre du Mérite Agricole, a prestigious honor that highlights his service to agriculture and environmental conservation. His leadership roles also include chairing the IUCN Equid Specialist Group from 1990 to 2000, where he led the first IUCN Equid Action Plan.

Impact and Influence 🌎

Dr. Duncan’s influence extends beyond his research, as he played a pivotal role in establishing the Fondation pour la Recherche sur la Biodiversité (FRB) in 2008. He served as its president from 2011 to 2014 and continues to impact biodiversity conservation as a member of various Scientific Councils, such as the Tour du Valat and the French Global Environment Facility (GEF). His advisory work for France’s Ministère de la Transition Ecologique et Sociale includes leading the Comité d'Experts pour la Gestion Adaptative, which provides guidance on hunting vulnerable bird species.

Legacy and Future Contributions 📜

As an emeritus researcher, Dr. Duncan continues to influence the fields of ecology and conservation. He has mentored numerous students, supervising over eight postdoctoral researchers, 20 doctoral candidates, and various other postgraduate students. His commitment to education includes organizing field courses in the Camargue and Chizé and serving on the Executive of the Tropical Biology Association. Dr. Duncan’s enduring legacy is not only marked by his scientific contributions but also by his dedication to training the next generation of ecologists, ensuring that his work in biodiversity conservation and ecosystem sustainability will continue to inspire and inform future researchers.

 

Recent Publication

📄  Population limitation of a non‐ruminant in a nutrient‐poor ecosystem—predation rather than food

  • Authors: Patrick Duncan, Marion Valeix, Andrew J. Loveridge, Sophie Grange, Florian Barnier, Hlengisizwe Ncube, Stéphanie Périquet, Camille Vitet, Zeke Davidson, Moreangels Mbizah, Daphine Madhlamoto, Hervé Fritz, Simon Chamaillé‐Jammes
  • Journal: African Journal of Ecology
  • Year: 2024

 

Soumaila Gansonre | Economics, Econometrics and Finance | Best Researcher Award

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Assist Prof Dr. Soumaila Gansonre | Economics, Econometrics and Finance | Best Researcher Award

Université Joseph Ki-Zerbo | Burkina Faso

Author Profile

Scopus

Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Soumaila Gansonre's academic journey began with a strong foundation in economics at Université Thomas Sankara, where he earned his B.A. in Macroeconomics and Development Planning in 2010. He continued at the same institution to complete his M.Phil in Applied Macroeconomics in 2012. Driven by a passion for agricultural and development economics, he pursued his Ph.D. in Applied Agricultural Economics and Policy at the University of Ghana, graduating in 2017. His dissertation, which focused on sustainability and development within agricultural sectors, laid the groundwork for his future research endeavors.

Professional Endeavors

After completing his Ph.D., Dr. Gansonre joined Cornell University as a fellow in the Structural Transformation of African Agriculture and Rural Spaces (STAARS) program, a position he held from May 2018 to May 2019. This role involved conducting advanced research on agricultural economics and rural development. Concurrently, he worked as an independent consultant at the Charles H. Dyson School of Applied Economics and Management. Since June 2019, Dr. Gansonre has been serving as an Assistant Professor of Agricultural Economics at the Centre Universitaire de Ziniaré, Université Joseph Ki-Zerbo in Burkina Faso.

Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Gansonre's research interests are deeply rooted in development economics, with a particular focus on applied agricultural economics and policy. His studies often address the impacts of environmental and economic variables on agricultural households and rural communities. Notable publications include his analysis of rainfall variability on rural welfare in Niger and his examination of managerial practices on the performance of SMEs in Burkina Faso. His work is characterized by a strong quantitative approach, utilizing tools like Stata, Matlab, and Eviews for data analysis.

Accolades and Recognition

Dr. Gansonre has received numerous fellowships, grants, and awards in recognition of his contributions to agricultural economics. In 2022, he was awarded a Project Development Grant by the Agricultural Technology Adoption Initiative (ATAI) to study contract farming compliance in Burkina Faso. He also secured a significant research grant from the Center for Economic Policy Research (CEPR) in 2020 to analyze the impact of COVID-19 relief measures on SME employment. His scholarly excellence is further evidenced by his postdoctoral fellowship at Cornell University and various exploratory research grants from prestigious institutions.

Impact and Influence

Dr. Gansonre's work has significantly influenced the field of development economics, particularly in the context of West Africa. His research on non-farm employment and market constraints has provided valuable insights into the economic behaviors and challenges faced by rural households and smallholder farmers. His findings have been published in high-impact journals such as Agricultural Economics and the International Journal of the Economics of Business, contributing to the broader academic discourse on sustainable development and agricultural policy.

Legacy and Future Contributions

As Dr. Gansonre continues his academic and research career, he is poised to further advance our understanding of development economics through innovative research and applied policy analysis. His future projects include assessing the potential of livestock in poverty reduction and evaluating rural infrastructure's impact on food insecurity in the Sahel. Through his teaching at Université Joseph Ki-Zerbo, he is also shaping the next generation of economists, imparting critical analytical skills and a deep understanding of economic development principles.

Notable Publications

Rainfall variability and welfare of agricultural households: Evidence from rural Niger 2024

Sustainability and Wealth of Rural Households: Measurement and Inequality Analysis 2022 (2)

Managerial practices and the performance of small and medium-sized enterprises: Evidence from Burkina Faso 2023

Product market competition and management quality among small and medium-sized enterprises: Evidence from Burkina Faso 2022 (2)
Welfare impacts of non-farm employment in semi-arid areas: evidence from Burkina Faso 2021 (4)