Saliha Ahmad | Soil-Plant | Best Researcher Award

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Ms. Saliha Ahmad | Soil-Plant | Best Researcher Award

Saliha Ahmad | Case Western Reserve University | United States

Dr. Saliha Ahmad, a PhD candidate in Biology at Case Western Reserve University (Cleveland, Ohio), is an emerging researcher specializing in plant–microbe interactions, microbial ecology, and sustainable agriculture. Her scientific contributions focus on unraveling the mechanisms through which beneficial microbes enhance plant tolerance to environmental stress, combining molecular biology, bioinformatics, and field-based ecological approaches. She has co-authored 3 peer-reviewed publications, which have collectively received 125 citations across 123 documents, resulting in an h-index of 3—reflecting her growing impact in microbial and environmental sciences. Dr. Ahmad’s publications in high-quality journals such as Plant and Soil, Frontiers in Plant Science, and Environmental Science and Pollution Research explore microbial detoxification, biosorption, and plant–soil–microbe interactions. She is currently leading an innovative project supported by the Research Foundation of the American Rhododendron Society, aimed at developing microbiome-based bioinoculants (“Yogurt for your Plants”). Her strong command of molecular techniques, sequencing data analysis in R, and experimental design, coupled with awards like the Greer Memorial Conference Award (2024) and Oglebay Research Fund, highlight her excellence and potential as a future leader in sustainable plant–microbiome research.

Profile:  Scopus

Featured Publications

Ali, B., Hafeez, A., Ahmad, S., Javed, M. A., et al. (2022). Bacillus thuringiensis PM25 ameliorates oxidative damage of salinity stress in maize via regulating growth, leaf pigments, antioxidant defense system, and stress-responsive gene expression. Frontiers in Plant Science.

Lakshmikanthan P | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Lakshmikanthan P | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Lakshmikanthan P | Council of Scientific and Industrial Research-Fourth Paradigm Institute | India

Dr. Lakshmikanthan P, Senior Scientist at CSIR-4PI, Bangalore, and Assistant Professor at AcSIR, is a distinguished environmental engineer and researcher with a strong academic and professional background. His research focuses on greenhouse gas measurement, climate change modeling, solid waste management, and sustainability engineering, contributing significantly to environmental forecasting and urban health risk assessment. He has published 25 peer-reviewed journal papers, along with several conference papers, technical articles, and book chapters, reflecting a consistent research output and collaborative engagement in the scientific community. His scholarly influence is underscored by 331 citations received from 291 documents, establishing a solid foundation of academic recognition. With an h-index of 11, Dr. Lakshmikanthan demonstrates both the quality and impact of his scientific contributions, particularly in waste management and landfill engineering. His pioneering work on landfill fire prevention, bioreactor performance, and methane estimation has guided practical advancements in environmental protection. As an active mentor, he supervises multiple Ph.D. and master’s students, nurturing the next generation of environmental researchers. Through his interdisciplinary expertise and impactful publications, Dr. Lakshmikanthan continues to advance sustainable solutions addressing critical challenges in environmental systems.

Profile:  Scopus

Featured Publications

Santhosh, L. G., & Lakshmikanthan, P. (2024, July 14). Quantification of methane emissions from municipal solid waste landfill using Land GEM model.

Riffat Rahim | Soil Science | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Riffat Rahim | Soil Science | Best Researcher Award

University of Leipzig | Germany

Dr. Riffat Rahim is an accomplished soil scientist with a strong research portfolio and international experience across Germany, Canada, and Pakistan. She has contributed significantly to soil chemistry, rhizosphere processes, mucilage dynamics, salinity management, and phosphorus behavior in calcareous soils. Her academic journey includes a Ph.D. in Agricultural Sciences from Forschungszentrum Jülich and the University of Bonn, a Master’s and Bachelor’s in Soil Science from Bahauddin Zakariya University. She has authored 4 scientific documents, accumulated 40 citations, and holds an h-index of 4, reflecting the visibility and impact of her publications. Her work spans experimental studies, pore-scale simulations, and field-relevant investigations, with research outputs published and additional manuscripts under review. She has presented at major platforms such as the EGU General Assembly, World Congress of Soil Science, DBG Germany conferences, and international workshops on spectroscopy and bioeconomy. Professionally, she serves as a Postdoctoral Researcher at the University of Rostock and has held roles as a Visiting Scientist, Doctoral Researcher, and Research Assistant in leading institutions. Her technical mastery includes XANES, GC, HPLC, tomography, atomic absorption, and advanced data analysis using Python, R, and Origin. She is multilingual and experienced in laboratory management, project execution, and scientific communication.

Profile:  Scopus

Featured Publications

Nazir, M. J., Hussain, M. M., Albasher, G., Iqbal, B., Khan, K. A., Rahim, R., Li, G., & Du, D. (2024). Glucose input profit soil organic carbon mineralization and nitrogen dynamics in relation to nitrogen-amended soils. Journal of Environmental Management.

Gelase Nkurunziza | Agricultural | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. Gelase Nkurunziza | Agricultural | Best Researcher Award

Makerere University  | Burundi

Gelase Nkurunziza is a dedicated agricultural researcher and plant breeder with strong expertise in maize improvement and biotechnology, currently pursuing a PhD in Plant Breeding and Biotechnology at Makerere University, Uganda, where he has been enrolled since March 2022. He holds an MSc in Plant Breeding and Seed Systems from Makerere University (2017) and a BSc in Agronomy from the University of Burundi (2008). He further enhanced his skills in molecular biology through a competitive ABCF Fellowship at the BecA ILRI Hub in Nairobi, Kenya, in 2018, focusing on molecular breeding in maize. Professionally, Nkurunziza has extensive experience in maize research, beginning his career as a researcher in the maize program at ISABU, Gisozi Research Station, Burundi (2008–2013), before advancing to maize plant breeder and research activity coordinator at ISABU from 2016 to 2018. His work has contributed significantly to maize breeding strategies, addressing challenges in seed systems and improving crop productivity. Proficient in English and French, with good skills in speaking, writing, reading, and understanding, he bridges international research collaborations effectively. With a clear focus on applying plant breeding innovations to enhance food security, Nkurunziza continues to build a career dedicated to advancing sustainable agriculture in Africa.

Profile:  Orcid

Featured Publications

Genome-wide association study of biological nitrogen fixation traits in mini-core cowpea germplasm

Identifying Optimal Lines for Enhanced Symbiotic Performance in a Mini‐Core Collection of Cowpea [Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp]

Genetic and Environmental Effects on Nodulation and Yield Among Selected Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata [L.] Walp) Genotypes in Uganda

Performance and inheritance of yield and maize streak virus disease resistance in white maize and yellow conversions

Stability in performance of normal and nutritionally enhanced highland maize hybrid genotypes in Eastern Africa

Nahla Hemdan | Soil Water | Best Researcher Award

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nahla Hemdan | Soil Water | Best Researcher Award

National Research Center | Egypt 

Dr. Nahla A. Hemdan, an Egyptian researcher specializing in soil and water sciences, irrigation systems, and sustainable agriculture, has significantly contributed to advancing eco-friendly farming practices and soil management strategies. She earned her Ph.D. in Irrigation Systems from Humboldt University of Berlin, Germany, and her M.Sc. in Soil Sciences from Assiut University, Egypt . Her research integrates modern irrigation technologies, soil amendments, and organic–mineral resources to address challenges of salinity, water scarcity, and soil degradation, with practical applications for crops such as olives, jojoba, flax, lupine, and Valencia oranges. She has authored impactful publications, including works on biochar, compost, nano-fertilizers, vermicompost, saline soil reclamation, and AquaCrop modeling, which are widely recognized in international journals such as Water, Future of Food: Journal of Food, Agriculture & Society, and Current Science International. Beyond research, she has actively participated in international internships in China and India, training programs on climate change, molecular modeling, and data analysis, as well as organizing workshops and conferences on sustainable agriculture and water management. Her academic influence is reflected in her h-index of 3, 3 scientific documents, and 13 citations, highlighting her growing impact in the fields of soil fertility, irrigation technology, and sustainable land use.

Profiles:  Scopus | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

“Reclamation and Improvement of Saline Soils Using Organo–Mineral Resources, Treated Saline Water, and Drip Irrigation”

Ndy von kluge Paul | Soil Physics | Excellence in Innovation

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Dr. Ndy von kluge Paul | Soil Physics | Excellence in Innovation

University of Yaounde 1 | Cameroon

Dr. Paul Ndy Von Kluge, born on 18 May 1974 in Bibia Lolodorf, Cameroon, is a permanent lecturer and Head of Continuing Education at the University Institute of Wood Technology (IUT Bois de Mbalmayo), University of Yaoundé I. He holds a PhD in Physics with specialization in nonlinear dynamics and complex systems and is also an Engineer in Civil Engineering, combining nearly 15 years of professional expertise in hydroelectric dam construction, civil works, and structural engineering with academic research and teaching. Affiliated with the Laboratory of Mechanics, Materials and Structures at the University of Yaoundé I, his research interests span nonlinear oscillators, stochastic dynamics, seismic control of structures, spatiotemporal chaos, and the mathematical modeling of electromechanical and fluid dynamic systems. He has authored 3 scientific documents, which have collectively been cited 15 times across 14 documents, reflecting an h-index of 3. Beyond his work in Cameroon, he has contributed to academic programs at the University of Bangui in the Central African Republic, demonstrating a regional impact in higher education. His multidisciplinary background bridges physics, mathematics, and engineering applications, particularly in vibration control, geophysics, fluid mechanics, and energy microproduction, positioning him as a versatile scholar and applied researcher.

Profile:  Scopus 

Featured Publications

Fractional dynamical behavior of a new nonlinear smooth and discontinuous (SD) oscillator for vibration energy harvesting with nonlinear magnetic coupling

Shakil Ahmad Zeb | Soil Ecology | Best Scholar Award

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Mr. Shakil Ahmad Zeb | Soil Ecology | Best Scholar Award

Quaid-i-Azam University | Pakistan 

Shakil Ahmad Zeb is an emerging researcher in the field of plant sciences, with a strong academic foundation from Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, and growing scholarly contributions. He has authored 6 research documents, which have collectively received 40 citations by 39 different documents, reflecting the early but promising impact of his work. His research productivity has earned him an h-index of 3, indicating that at least three of his publications have each been cited three or more times. His publications span areas such as phytogeographic classification, riparian vegetation, ecological assessments, angiosperm distribution, ethnobotany, and conservation biology. The diversity of his research—ranging from floristic inventories and bio-cultural diversity to the ecological role of national parks in carbon sequestration—highlights his commitment to both applied and fundamental aspects of ecology and biodiversity. With contributions in high-impact journals and international conferences, he has demonstrated the ability to integrate fieldwork, laboratory analysis, and advanced statistical tools to address pressing ecological challenges. Although still in the early stages of his career, his citation profile and academic trajectory suggest significant potential for advancing research in plant ecology, biodiversity conservation, and environmental sustainability.

Profiles:  Scopus | Orcid

Featured Publications

“Mushrooms as a Source of Better Food and Health in Northern Pakistan”

Irina Kumukova | Biology | Best Researcher Award

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Assist. Prof. Dr. Irina Kumukova | Biology | Best Researcher Award

Ministry of Health of Russian Federation | Russia

Dr. Irina Kumukova, PhD, is a distinguished researcher specializing in haematology and blood transfusion, with a strong academic and professional record in transfusiology and pediatric hematology. She has authored 16 scientific documents indexed in Scopus, which together have received 42 citations across 29 documents, demonstrating both her scholarly productivity and the growing impact of her research. Her h-index of 4 reflects a meaningful contribution to advancing knowledge in transfusion medicine, extracorporeal photopheresis, and pathogen reduction strategies. Dr. Kumukova’s publications include pioneering clinical studies such as standard extracorporeal photopheresis for graft-versus-host disease treatment, innovative approaches to pathogen-reduced red blood cell suspensions, and novel methods addressing transfusion safety in children with oncological and hematological disorders. In addition, she has co-authored influential work on granulocyte transfusion, photopheresis case studies, and pathogen inactivation methods, which have shaped new perspectives in transfusion practice. Her role as Associate Professor and Head of the Transfusion Department underscores her leadership in bridging research with clinical practice. Furthermore, her patent on low-volume extracorporeal photochemotherapy exemplifies her ability to translate scientific innovation into applied medical solutions. Collectively, her academic achievements, clinical leadership, and consistent research productivity establish Dr. Kumukova as a promising contributor to the global scientific community.

Profile:  Scopus 

Featured Publications

“Transfusions of pathogen-reduced components of donor blood to recipients of allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation”

Fangyuan Shen | Soil-Plant | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Fangyuan Shen | Soil-Plant | Best Researcher Award

Xi’an University of Technology | China

Dr. Fangyuan Shen, Ph.D., is a distinguished researcher at Xi’an University of Technology specializing in agricultural water-saving irrigation technology, soil microbiology, and efficient utilization of water and soil resources. His pioneering work has focused on the challenges of sediment-laden water in the Yellow River Basin, where he developed and applied muddy water film hole irrigation technology to enhance agricultural productivity in semi-arid regions. Supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China. Dr. Shen has contributed significantly to sustainable water and soil management practices. He has published extensively in leading international journals, including Plant and Soil and Scientia Horticulturae, advancing global understanding of water-soil-plant interactions. His research contributions have been recognized with strong academic impact, reflected in an h-index of 12, more than 45 peer-reviewed documents, and over 620 citations across Scopus and Web of Science databases. In addition to his scholarly publications, Dr. Shen actively engages in collaborative projects that bridge science and practical agricultural applications, providing technical support to local farmers and policymakers. His dedication to innovation and excellence continues to drive forward the field of agricultural water management, ensuring sustainable solutions to global food and water security challenges.

Profiles:  Scopus | Orcid

Featured Publications

  • Long-term impacts of stand density on soil fungal and bacterial communities for targeted cultivation of large-diameter Larix olgensis

  • Effects of thinning on absorptive root functional traits of Pinus koraiensis

Lutfi Pirlak | Agriculture | Soil and Sustainable Development

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Dr. Lutfi Pirlak | Agriculture | Soil and Sustainable Development

Lutfi Pirlak | Selcuk University | Turkey

Prof. Lütfi Pırlak is a Professor of Horticulture at Selcuk University, Turkey. His research focuses on fruit growing, breeding, and sustainable horticultural practices, with particular expertise in plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria, soil–plant interactions, and crop resilience under calcareous and saline conditions. He has published extensively in international journals and contributed to advancing environmentally friendly approaches that enhance plant nutrition, yield, and soil health. Prof. Pırlak is recognized for his role in integrating soil microbiology with horticulture to support sustainable agricultural development.

Profile

Orcid

Summary

Prof. Pırlak’s academic journey reflects decades of dedication to fruit growing and breeding, with a strong focus on soil–plant–microbe interactions. His expertise in PGPR, soil stress mitigation, and sustainable horticulture has produced innovative approaches to overcome calcareous soils, salinity, and nutrient deficiencies. His work not only contributes to scientific advancement but also supports sustainable agricultural practices that balance productivity with ecological stewardship.

Education

Prof. Lütfi Pırlak obtained his Bachelor degree in Agricultural Engineering from Atatürk University, Faculty of Agriculture, Department of Horticulture in Erzurum, Turkey. He continued his academic journey with a Master of Science in Horticulture at the Natural and Applied Science Institute of Atatürk University, where he gained specialized knowledge in horticultural sciences. He later completed his Doctorate in Fruit Growing and Breeding at the same institution, demonstrating advanced expertise in plant production and genetic improvement.

Experience

Prof. Pırlak began his academic career as a Research Assistant at Atatürk University, where he focused on fruit growing and breeding. He then served as Assistant Professor and later as Associate Professor in the Department of Horticulture. His professional growth continued when he was promoted to Professor at Selcuk University, Faculty of Agriculture, Department of Horticulture in Konya, Turkey, where he has been actively contributing to teaching, research, and academic leadership. His extensive career reflects a strong commitment to advancing horticultural science and fruit crop improvement.

Research Focus

His research primarily emphasizes fruit growing and breeding with a special focus on plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria and their effects on plant nutrition, growth, yield, and stress tolerance. He has investigated the interactions between soil conditions, microorganisms, and fruit crops such as apple, blackberry, strawberry, cherry, and citrus. His work contributes to sustainable horticultural practices, genetic improvement of fruit species, and innovative approaches in overcoming soil-related challenges such as salinity and calcareous conditions.

Skills

He possesses advanced communication and organizational skills, with high proficiency in English at a professional level. He is competent in computer applications, especially Microsoft Office programs, and has working knowledge of HTML. His skills extend to research design, data analysis, academic writing, and effective collaboration in multidisciplinary teams.

Awards

Prof. Pırlak has an outstanding publication record in internationally refereed journals, reflecting his significant scientific contributions. While specific awards are not detailed in the CV, his research achievements and academic recognition highlight his influence in horticultural sciences.

Publications

Effects of Some Plant Growth-Promoting Rhizobacteria (PGPR) on Growth and Nutrition of Apple Cv. “Braeburn” under High Lime Soil Condition
Authors: Ipek, Muzaffer; Arikan, Seyma; Esitken, Ahmet; Pirlak, Lutfi; Turan, Metin; Donmez, Mesude Figen
Journal: Communications in Soil Science and Plant Analysis (2021)


Influence of Bacterial Inoculation on Growth and Plant Nutrition of Peach Grafted in Different Rootstocks in Calcareous Soil
Authors: Ipek, Muzaffer; Arikan, Seyma; Esitken, Ahmet; Pirlak, Lutfi; Donmez, Mesude Figen; Turan, Metin
Journal: Sains Malaysiana (2021)


Effects of Bacteria and IBA on the Rooting of Citrange Citrus Rootstocks Cuttings
Authors: Pirlak, Lutfi; Cinar, Mustafa
Journal: Alinteri Journal of Agriculture Sciences (2020)


Plant Growth Promoting Rhizobacteria Mitigate Deleterious Combined Effects of Salinity and Lime in Soil in Strawberry Plants
Authors: Arikan, Seyma; Ipek, Muzaffer; Esitken, Ahmet; Pirlak, Lutfi; Donmez, Mesude Figen; Turan, Metin
Journal: Journal of Plant Nutrition (2020)


Phenological, Morphological and Molecular Characterization of Some Promising Walnut (Juglans regia L.) Genotypes in Konya
Authors: Ipek, Muzaffer; Arikan, Seyma; Pirlak, Lutfi; Esitken, Ahmet
Journal: Erwerbs-Obstbau (2019)

Conclusion

Considering his extensive research on soil biology, plant nutrition, and sustainable crop production systems, Prof. Lütfi Pırlak is highly suitable for recognition in the field of Soil and Sustainable Development. His strengths lie in his innovative use of beneficial microbes for soil health, his application of sustainable strategies in horticulture, and his commitment to advancing environmentally friendly agricultural solutions. With further integration of broader crop systems and socio-environmental perspectives, his work can provide even greater contributions toward global sustainable development goals.