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

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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)