Sarika Wandre | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Women Research Award

Published on 25/07/202530/07/2025 by Book of Award

Dr. Sarika Wandre | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Women Research Award

D. Y. Patil Agriculture & Technical University | India

Author Profile

Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Sarika Wandre's academic journey began with exceptional achievements in her early education, securing distinctions in both SSC and HSC . She pursued her B.Tech in Agricultural Engineering from Mahatma Phule Agricultural University. Her academic curiosity led her to Junagadh Agricultural University, where she earned her M.Tech and Ph.D. in Soil and Water Engineering, both with distinction. Her research, especially during her doctoral studies, focused on simulating hydrologic responses to climate change using the SWAT model—an area of high relevance in today's changing climate.

Professional Endeavors

With over 9 years of cumulative professional experience, Dr. Wandre has held academic and research positions at multiple esteemed institutions. Currently, she serves as an Assistant Professor at D. Y. Patil Agriculture & Technical University, Kolhapur. Previously, she contributed her expertise at Dadasaheb Patil College of Agriculture and College of Agriculture, Sonai. She also played a pivotal research role in the Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana projects at Dr. BSKKV, Dapoli, and worked as a Senior Research Fellow at NAU, Gujarat. Her progression from research associate to senior academician underscores a career driven by dedication and scholarly advancement.

Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Wandre's primary research interests lie in hydrological modeling, climate change impacts, soil and water conservation, remote sensing, GIS applications, and precision agriculture. Her doctoral and M.Tech projects emphasized innovative approaches to watershed and river basin analysis. She has authored over 22 peer-reviewed research papers and contributed to 11 book chapters covering vital topics such as carbon sequestration, water conservation structures, precision farming, and robotics in agriculture. Her publications span reputed national and international journals with significant impact factors, reflecting her active research output.

Accolades and Recognition

Dr. Wandre has consistently been recognized for her scholarly merit. She is a qualified ASRB-NET holder, a testament to her academic rigor. Her book “Simulating the Hydrologic Response on Climate Change Using SWAT Model” published by Lambert Academic Publishing, Germany, stands as a key academic resource in climate modeling. Her insightful contributions to seminars, symposia, and radio broadcasts further demonstrate her outreach and commitment to agricultural education and innovation.

Impact and Influence

Beyond the classroom, Dr. Wandre has made a remarkable impact in the agricultural community. Through her radio talks on Akashvani Ahmednagar, she has educated farmers about irrigation, mechanization, and women's participation in agri-tech. Her popular articles in journals like Indian Farmer, Kisan World, and Reader Shelf make technical knowledge accessible to wider audiences. Her work has directly influenced practices in precision irrigation, sustainable farming, and soil-water conservation, thereby contributing to food and water security in semi-arid regions of India.Legacy and Future Contributions

With a solid foundation in engineering, climate science, and GIS-based analytics, Dr. Sarika Wandre is poised to be a future thought leader in sustainable agriculture. Her expertise aligns perfectly with India’s growing need for climate-resilient agricultural strategies. As she continues to mentor students, collaborate on interdisciplinary projects, and publish influential work, her legacy will inspire the next generation of agri-scientists and environmental engineers.

Publications

Estimation of Crop Evapotranspiration of Wheat Using Remote Sensing & GIS Based Crop Coefficient
Authors: Sonali Sanap, Mangal Patil, Sarika Wandre, Pradip Dalavi
Journal: Asian Journal of Advances in Agricultural Research
Year: 2025

Quantitative analysis of morphometric parameters for prioritization of Warana river basin using remote sensing and GIS
Authors: Saurabhkumar Gadakh, Sarika S. Wandre, Mangal A. Patil, Anantraj Jadhav, Vinayak Shinde, Jayant Ghatge, K. Prathapan
Journal: Journal of Agriculture and Ecology
Year: 2024

Integrating Remote Sensing and GIS for LULC Studies in the Panchganga River Basin
Authors: Ratan Mane, Mangal Patil, Sarika Wandre, Pradip Dalavi
Journal: Journal of Geography, Environment and Earth Science International
Year: 2024

An Integrated Approach to Exploring the Warana River Basin Using Thematic Maps
Authors: Saurabhkumar Gadakh, Sarika S. Wandre, J.S. Ghatge, V.B. Shinde
Journal: IOSR Journal of Agriculture and Veterinary Science
Year: 2023

Remote sensing and GIS-based site selection for effective soil and water conservation measures in the Warana river basin
Authors: Saurabhkumar Gadakh, Sarika S. Wandre, Mangal A. Patil, Pradip Dalavi
Journal: The Pharma Innovation Journal
Year: 2023

Resham Thapa | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Published on 20/11/202420/11/2024 by Book of Award

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

Ademir de Oliveira Ferreira | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Published on 18/11/202418/11/2024 by Book of Award

Prof. Ademir de Oliveira Ferreira | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Federal Rural University of Pernambuco | Brazil

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🌟 Early Academic Pursuits

Prof. Ademir de Oliveira Ferreira embarked on a distinguished academic journey marked by a solid foundation in agronomy and soil science. His early studies began at the University of Ponta Grossa, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Agronomy (2006) and a Master’s degree in the same field (2009). His pursuit of excellence led him to the Federal University of Santa Maria, where he completed a Ph.D. in Soil Science (2014). Further deepening his expertise, Prof. Ferreira undertook a postdoctoral fellowship at the University of Ponta Grossa in 2017, focusing on the dynamics of organic matter in soil systems. Alongside these achievements, he also received teacher training in professional education, reflecting his commitment to academic mentorship.

🌍 Professional Endeavors

Prof. Ferreira’s career spans impactful teaching and research roles across multiple prestigious institutions. Since 2018, he has been an Assistant Professor at the Federal Rural University of Pernambuco, contributing to the advancement of soil management and conservation. Earlier, he served as a professor at the University of Northern Paraná (2016–2018) and as a researcher at the University of Ponta Grossa (2014–2017). His academic engagements have included a stint as a Visiting Scholar at Kansas State University, collaborating with globally renowned soil scientist Charles W. Rice. His teaching repertoire extends from foundational soil science to advanced topics like carbon sequestration and conservation agriculture.

📚 Contributions and Research Focus

Prof. Ferreira’s research has significantly advanced the understanding of soil conservation, carbon sequestration, and organic matter dynamics. A pioneer in no-till systems since 2002, he has explored innovative approaches to managing soil fertility and enhancing carbon storage. His studies on cropping systems and nutrient cycling have yielded transformative insights into long-term soil health. Prof. Ferreira’s work delves deep into mechanisms such as the stabilization and migration of carbon in soils, using cutting-edge techniques to evaluate environmental and management impacts on carbon storage. His research has culminated in numerous publications in leading journals like Soil & Tillage Research, Environmental Pollution, and Land Degradation & Development, emphasizing the global relevance of his contributions.

🏆 Accolades and Recognition

Prof. Ferreira's outstanding contributions have been acknowledged with numerous awards, including the prestigious Maria Menezes Research Award in Agricultural Sciences (2018) and multiple honors as a Top Peer Reviewer in ecology and environmental sciences (2018). He has been celebrated as a “Honored Professor” by students of agronomy and agricultural engineering at the Federal Rural University of Pernambuco and holds a certificate for excellence in reviewing from journals like Ecological Indicators and Agriculture, Ecosystems & Environment. His lifetime achievements also include being named an honorary citizen by the Municipal Chamber of Castro, Brazil, in 2015.

🌱 Impact and Influence

Prof. Ferreira’s influence extends beyond research and teaching. As a leader of research groups affiliated with CNPq, he has spearheaded studies on soil conservation, precision agriculture, and digital techniques in farming. His editorial contributions include roles as Co-Editor-in-Chief and editorial board member for numerous international journals, ensuring the dissemination of cutting-edge research in soil science. A dedicated mentor, he inspires the next generation of scientists with his innovative methodologies and commitment to sustainable agriculture.

🏅 Legacy and Future Contributions

Prof. Ademir de Oliveira Ferreira’s legacy is one of profound dedication to advancing soil science and conservation. His pioneering research on no-till systems has provided a roadmap for sustainable agricultural practices globally. Looking ahead, his continued exploration of carbon sequestration and soil organic matter dynamics promises to unlock new solutions to environmental challenges, ensuring sustainable food production in the face of climate change. Prof. Ferreira's enduring contributions will undoubtedly shape the future of agronomy and environmental stewardship.

Publications

📄 Why no-till system sequesters more carbon and is more resilient and productive with contrasting fertilization regimes in a highly weathered soil?
Authors: de Oliveira Ferreira, A., de Moraes Sá, J.C., Lal, R., ... Tomaz, A.R., da Silva, W.R.
Journal: Soil and Tillage Research
Year: 2024

📄 Carbon pools and microbial indicators in vineyard soils under organic and conventional fertilization in the São Francisco Valley, in a semi-arid tropical climate
Authors: Fracetto, F.J.C., de Oliveira Ferreira, A., Silva, W.R.D., ... Araújo, V.L.V.P.D., Fracetto, G.G.M.
Journal: Journal of Environmental Management
Year: 2024

📄 Can natural undisturbed revegetation restore soil organic carbon to levels under native climax vegetation under tropical semiarid climate?
Authors: Tomaz, A.R., de Oliveira Ferreira, A., Lal, R., ... Freire, M.B.G.D.S., Nunes, E.O.D.S.
Journal: Land Degradation and Development
Year: 2024

📄 Relationship of Microbial and Fertility Attributes to Organic Carbon Accumulation in a Subtropical Weathered Soil Impacted by a Long-Term Tillage Chronosequence
Authors: de Moraes Sá, J.C., Tivet, F., Dick, W., ... Tomaz, A.R., da Silva, W.R.
Journal: Journal of Soil Science and Plant Nutrition
Year: 2024

📚 Soil Organic Carbon Restoration as the Key Driver to Promote Soil Health in No-till Systems of the Tropics
Authors: de Moraes Sá, J.C., Amado, T.J.C., de Oliveira Ferreira, A., Lal, R.
Book Title: Soil Health Series: Volume 3 Soil Health and Sustainable Agriculture in Brazil
Year: 2024

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

Published on 12/10/202412/10/2024 by Book of Award

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

Dr. Li Yang | Environmental Science | Young Scientist Award

Published on 04/01/202404/01/2024 by Book of Award

Dr. Li Yang | Environmental Science | Young Scientist Award

Key Laboratory of the Evaluation and Monitoring of Southwest Land Resources, Ministry of Education, Sichuan Normal University | China

Author Profile

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Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Li Yang embarked on an academic journey marked by a strong focus on environmental sciences. Having obtained a Ph.D. from the College of Architecture and Environment at Sichuan University in 2022, Dr. Yang's academic foundation laid the groundwork for specialized research in environmental remediation and safe plant cultivation.

Professional Endeavors

As an assistant researcher at the Key Laboratory of the Evaluation and Monitoring of Southwest Land Resources, Ministry of Education, situated at Sichuan Normal University in Chengdu, China, Dr. Yang actively engages in cutting-edge research. Their position underscores a commitment to evaluating and monitoring land resources, particularly in addressing heavy metal pollution in soil and promoting the safe cultivation of medicinal plants.

Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Yang's current research is centered around the crucial areas of remediating heavy metal pollution in soil and ensuring the safe cultivation of medicinal plants. This specialized focus highlights a dedication to addressing environmental challenges and promoting sustainable agricultural practices.

Accolades and Recognition

While specific accolades and recognition details may not be provided, Dr. Yang's contributions and commitment to research in the domains of environmental remediation and safe plant cultivation likely contribute to their growing recognition within the academic and scientific community.

Impact and Influence

Dr. Yang's work in addressing heavy metal pollution in soil and promoting safe planting practices holds significant potential for impact. By mitigating environmental hazards and ensuring the safety of cultivated medicinal plants, their research can influence agricultural practices and contribute to environmental sustainability.

Legacy and Future Contributions

Dr. Yang's legacy may be defined by their contributions to the understanding and implementation of remediation strategies for heavy metal pollution in soil. Their ongoing research in promoting the safe cultivation of medicinal plants is poised to contribute to sustainable agricultural practices. Their future contributions may extend to shaping policies and methodologies aimed at environmental remediation and safe agricultural practices, leaving a lasting impact on environmental and agricultural sciences.

Notable Publications

Differential responses of polysaccharides and antioxidant enzymes in alleviating cadmium toxicity of tuber traditional Chinese medicinal materials 2022 (6)