Shivanand Pawar | Soil Science | Best Faculty Award

Dr. Shivanand Pawar | Soil Science | Best Faculty Award

Jain University | India

Dr. Shivanand Pawar’s research demonstrates a strong commitment to advancing sustainable rural development through evidence-based community education interventions. His work focuses on assessing how structured community engagement can drive measurable progress toward Sustainable Development Goals, particularly within rural settings. By designing and implementing a comprehensive Sustainable Rural Community Development Module, he conducted an empirical study involving women, farmers, and youth, applying quantitative interviews, focus group discussions, observational follow-ups, and pre- and post-intervention assessments to examine shifts in awareness, participation, and community-led action. The study generated valuable insights into how targeted education can strengthen human capital, enhance local capacities, and support long-term sustainability outcomes. His intervention model emphasizes participatory learning, social inclusion, and empowerment as core drivers of development, ultimately positioning community education as a transformative tool for rural advancement. The research has resulted in recognized scholarly contributions, including an award-winning paper on human capital and sustainable development. His academic impact is reflected in an h-index of 2, citation count of 22, and an i10-index of 1, indicating growing influence in the field of social work and sustainable development research. These metrics highlight both the relevance and emerging impact of his contributions toward advancing community-centered development practices.

Profile : Orcid

Featured Publications

Pawar, S. (2025). Human capital and stakeholder engagement intervention: A women empowerment pathway to achieve sustainable community development in water, sanitation, and hygiene at Vaijapur Village of Karnataka, India.

Pawar, S. (2023). Influence of decision-making styles and affective styles on academic procrastination among students.

Pawar, S. (2022). Internet gaming disorder among adolescents during COVID-19 pandemic: A case report of Kerala students, India

Pawar, S. (2022). Psychological wellbeing status of Schedule Caste during COVID-19 pandemic of Thiruvallur District of Tamil Nadu, India

Yogendra ND | Soil Science | Editorial Board Member

Dr. Yogendra ND | Soil Science | Editorial Board Member

Dr. Yogendra ND | Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR) | India

Dr. Yogendra N.D. is an accomplished agricultural scientist whose research spans agronomy, soil science, nutrient management, and crop improvement, with a strong focus on rice, millet, sorghum, and maize production systems. His contributions, reflected through 24 published documents, 103 citations, and an h-index of 5, highlight his impactful work on silicon nutrition, soil test–based fertilizer management, seaweed liquid extract applications, nitrogen-use efficiency, and sustainable cropping systems. His studies on real-time nitrogen management using tools like the Leaf Color Chart, along with investigations into silicon sources for enhanced nutrient uptake, have provided valuable insights for improving crop productivity and soil health. He has also conducted significant research on critical micronutrient limits, tillage practices, spentwash utilization, and targeted yield approaches to reduce input costs while maintaining soil fertility. His publications in recognized scientific journals demonstrate his consistent commitment to advancing evidence-based agronomic practices that support sustainable farming. Through his interdisciplinary approach and problem-solving orientation, he continues to contribute to optimized fertilizer use, improved nutrient dynamics, and climate-smart agricultural strategies that strengthen productivity and resource efficiency across diverse cropping systems.

Profile: Scopus 

Featured Publications

Prakhyath, K. M., Yogendra, N. D., Arul Prakash, T., Padalia, R. C., Veeragurunathan, V., Gopalakrishnan, V. A. K., & Ghosh, A. (2025). Seaweed sap from Solieria chordalis enhances growth, yield and essential oil quality in rose-scented geranium (Pelargonium graveolens L’Hér.) varieties. Biochemical Systematics and Ecology.

Prakhyath, K. M., Sharma, P. M., Pragadheesh, V. S., Gopalakrishnan, V. A. K., Veeragurunathan, V., Ghosh, A., & Yogendra, N. D. (2025). Comparative evaluation of formulated and Gracilaria edulis derived seaweed extract in enhancing growth, yield, quality and economics of Artemisia pallens Wall. ex. DC. South African Journal of Botany.

Soulaimani Aziz | Soil Quality | Soil Quality Improvement Champion

Mr. Soulaimani Aziz | Soil Quality | Soil Quality Improvement Champion

Mr. Soulaimani Aziz | University Mohammed VI Polytechnic | Morocco

Dr. Aziz Soulaimani is a distinguished researcher specializing in soil, water, and plant quality assessment, metrology, and analytical chemistry, with a proven record of advancing laboratory accreditation and quality assurance under ISO/IEC 17025 standards. His expertise focuses on developing and validating physicochemical methods, producing certified reference materials for soil and water analysis, and improving laboratory management systems for environmental and agricultural applications. With 14 scientific publications, his research has earned 277 citations across 273 documents and an h-index of 8, reflecting consistent academic impact and methodological innovation. His scientific contributions span topics such as trace metal dynamics, soil fertility, irrigation water quality, nutrient partitioning, and environmental contamination monitoring. Through collaborative studies with international and regional institutions, he has contributed to the development of sustainable soil and water management strategies, the evaluation of pedotransfer functions, and the creation of eco-friendly analytical approaches. Dr. Soulaimani’s applied research integrates precision measurement, quality control, and environmental monitoring to enhance agricultural productivity and ecological resilience. His leadership in laboratory accreditation projects and scientific training programs has strengthened analytical capacity and promoted best practices in metrology and quality systems, reinforcing his reputation as a leading figure in soil and water analytical sciences.

Profile: Scopus

Featured Publications

Guéablé, Y. K. D., Jemo, M., Soulaimani, A., Hafidi, M., El Gharous, M., & El Mejahed, K. (2024). Sustainable strategy for rehabilitating phosphate mining sites and valorisation of phosphate industry by-products and sludge using pistachio tree (Pistacia atlantica), false pepper (Schinus molle), and eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus) trees. Science of the Total Environment.

Hamed Abdeh Keykha | Soil | Sustainable Soil Practices Award

Dr. Hamed Abdeh Keykha | Soil | Sustainable Soil Practices Award

Dr. Hamed Abdeh Keykha | London South Bank University | United Kingdom

Dr. Hamed Abdeh Keykha’s research focuses on advancing sustainable ground improvement and soil stabilization techniques within the fields of geotechnical and geological engineering. His work integrates innovative biogeochemical approaches such as microbially induced carbonate precipitation (MICP) and CO₂-induced carbonate precipitation (CICP) to enhance soil strength, reduce contamination, and promote carbon sequestration. As a Research Fellow under the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions program at the London South Bank University, he investigates environmentally friendly engineering methods for stabilizing problematic soils and mitigating dust pollution. His academic contributions include more than twenty peer-reviewed journal publications and an international patent on the stabilization of sandy soils and fine dusts through CO₂-induced mineral carbonation. Dr. Keykha’s research bridges the gap between earth resource engineering and environmental sustainability by focusing on soil biocementation, mineral carbonation processes, and geotechnical applications for sustainable construction. His collaborations with international institutions have strengthened global research in ground improvement technologies and green engineering materials. Through his combined academic, industrial, and field experience, he continues to contribute to innovative solutions addressing geotechnical challenges, environmental remediation, and the sustainable utilization of earth resources.

Profile:  Orcid 

Featured Publications

Keykha, H. A., Joshi, S., Mavroulidou, M., Mohamadzadeh Romiani, H., & Asadi, A. (2025). Carbonate mineral formation by microalgae: Precipitation potential and morphological analysis. Minerals, 15(11), 1096.

Mohamadzadeh Romiani, H., Keykha, H. A., Talebi, M., Asadi, A., & Kawasaki, S. (2023). Green soil improvement: Using carbon dioxide to enhance the behaviour of clay. Proceedings of the Institution of Civil Engineers – Ground Improvement.

Keykha, H. A., Zangani, A., Mohamadzadeh Romiani, H., Asadi, A., Kawasaki, S., & Radmanesh, N. (2023). Characterizing microbial and CO₂-induced carbonate minerals: Implications for soil stabilization in sandy environments. Minerals, 13(7), 976.

Keykha, H. A., Mohamadzadeh Romiani, H., Zarei, A., & Asadi, A. (2022). Stabilization of petroleum-contaminated sandy soil using CO₂-induced magnesite precipitation. International Journal of Environmental Research, 16(4), Article 473.

Zhiwei Gao | Soil | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Zhiwei Gao | Soil | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Zhiwei Gao, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, China

Mr. Zhiwei Gao is a PhD candidate at the College of Grassland, Resources and Environment, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, China. His research focuses on soil ecology, particularly the impacts of climate change on soil carbon and nitrogen cycling, soil microbial and nematode communities, and ecological restoration in degraded desert steppe ecosystems. He utilizes advanced tools such as stable isotope tracing, high-throughput sequencing, and bioinformatics. Zhiwei has published multiple peer-reviewed articles and actively contributes to academic conferences in the fields of ecology and environmental science.

Profile

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Summary:

Mr. Zhiwei Gao is an emerging researcher with a strong academic foundation, a progressive research vision, and a publication record that supports his potential as a future leader in soil ecology and environmental restoration. His innovative use of ecological and molecular tools positions him at the forefront of climate-soil interaction research in grassland ecosystems.

🎓 Education

Zhiwei Gao holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Life Sciences from the College of Life Sciences, Tianjin Normal University, completed in 2017. He pursued a Master of Science in Ecology at the same institution from 2018 to 2021, under the supervision of Professors Zhang Guodong and Jia Meiqing. Currently, he is pursuing a PhD in Grassland Science at the College of Grassland, Resources and Environment, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, beginning in September 2022, under the guidance of Professor Han Guodong.

💼Experience

During his master’s studies, Zhiwei focused on using high-throughput sequencing and bioinformatics to explore soil nematode communities as ecological indicators. His research included evaluating ecological reclamation in open-pit mined grasslands and assessing the effects of climate change and human disturbance on desert steppes in Inner Mongolia. In his PhD research, he is investigating the impact of climate change factors such as warming, drying, and nitrogen deposition using long-term field experiments and microcosmic facilities. He applies stable isotope tracing (13C and 15N), genomics, community ecology, and bioinformatics to analyze soil carbon and nitrogen transformation processes, the structure and function of the soil micro-food web, and gene-level mechanisms influencing soil nutrient dynamics.

🔬Research Focus

His core research interests lie in soil ecology, microbial and nematode community dynamics, ecological restoration of degraded lands, and biogeochemical cycling under climate change. He emphasizes integrating molecular biology with ecosystem-level analysis to understand the soil micro-food web and its role in carbon and nitrogen cycling, particularly in desert steppe ecosystems affected by grazing and mining.

🛠️Skills

Zhiwei is proficient in the use of R, SPSS, SigmaPlot, and Origin for the statistical analysis and visualization of high-throughput and metagenomic data. He is competent in reading and interpreting English-language scientific literature, having passed both the College English Test-4 and Test-6. He is experienced in writing and publishing SCI-indexed journal articles and can independently design, analyze, and interpret scientific experiments and data.

🏆Awards

Zhiwei Gao has been honored with four consecutive university-level scholarships. He was named an outstanding student cadre during the academic year 2019–2020 and was recognized as an outstanding Party member of the graduate CPC Party branch in 2020–2021. His academic and leadership roles reflect his dedication and contributions to the scientific and campus community.

📚 Publications

  • Title: Wetland types shape microbial function related to soil phosphorus cycling based on metagenomics analysis
    Authors: Jia Meiqing, Gao Zhiwei, Yidong Wang, et al.
    Year: 2025
    Journal: Journal of Environmental Sciences

  • Title: Eight-year tillage in black soil, effects on soil aggregates, and carbon and nitrogen stock
    Authors: Wang L, Qi S, Gao WF, Gao Zhiwei, et al.
    Year: 2023
    Journal: Scientific Reports

  • Title: Exploring the effects of warming and nitrogen deposition on desert steppe based on soil nematodes
    Authors: Gao Zhiwei, Li XD, Han Guodong, Zhang GG
    Year: 2023
    Journal: Land Degradation and Development

  • Title: Soil bacterial community is more sensitive than fungal community to nitrogen supplementation and climate warming in Inner Mongolian desert steppe
    Authors: Jia Meiqing, Gao Zhiwei, Han Guodong, et al.
    Year: 2022
    Journal: Journal of Soils and Sediments

  • Title: Exploring the optimal grazing intensity in desert steppe based on soil nematode community and function
    Authors: Gao Zhiwei, Zhang GG, Jia Meiqing, Li XD
    Year: 2022
    Journal: Land Degradation and Development

  • Title: Soil nematode communities and functions: Ecological package restoration responses in damaged desert steppe open-pit mining ecosystems
    Authors: Gao Zhiwei, Zhang GG, Jia Meiqing, Han Guodong
    Year: 2022
    Journal: Land Degradation and Development

Conclusion:

Mr. Zhiwei Gao stands out as a promising young scientist whose research aligns well with the goals of the Best Researcher Award. His scientific rigor, publication excellence, and dedication to ecological problem-solving make him a commendable nominee. With continued development in global collaboration and interdisciplinary outreach, he is poised to make significant contributions to environmental science at both national and international levels.

Hossein Bashari | Soil | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Hossein Bashari | Soil | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Hossein Bashari, Isfahan University Of Technology, Iran

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Hossein Bashari is a faculty member at the Natural Resources Department, Isfahan University of Technology, Iran. He specializes in rangeland and desert ecosystem management, with a strong focus on ecological modeling, Bayesian Belief Networks, and decision support systems for sustainable land use. Dr. Bashari earned his PhD from the University of Queensland, Australia, and has led numerous research projects on rangeland functionality, climate impact modeling, and habitat conservation. With a distinguished record of scientific publications and graduate supervision, he is recognized for advancing interdisciplinary approaches to natural resource management in arid and semi-arid environments.

Profile

Scopus

Summary:

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Hossein Bashari is a seasoned researcher with a strong academic foundation, interdisciplinary expertise, and a significant portfolio of published work in environmental and natural resource management. His unique focus on decision-support tools and ecological modeling for arid and semi-arid ecosystems addresses pressing environmental challenges. His teaching, supervision, and research leadership further reinforce his contribution to science and education.

🎓 Education

Dr. Hossein Bashari holds a PhD in Natural Resource Management from the University of Queensland, Australia, awarded in 2006. He earned his MSc in Range Management from Tehran University in 1998 and his BSc in Range Management and Watershed from Gorgan University in 1996. His doctoral research focused on developing processes and tools to support adaptive management in complex rangeland systems, while his master’s thesis investigated forage quality and its comparison with livestock feed requirements in different rangeland conditions.

💼Experience

Dr. Bashari is an Assistant Professor at the Natural Resources Faculty of Isfahan University of Technology, Iran. He has extensive academic and field experience in rangeland and desert ecosystem analysis, modeling, and management. He has supervised numerous graduate students and has actively participated in national and international conferences, presenting work on ecological modeling, land use change, and environmental impacts. His academic career is complemented by field research on plant ecology, soil analysis, habitat modeling, and the development of decision support systems.

🔬Research Focus

Dr. Bashari’s research primarily explores the application of Bayesian Belief Networks in natural resources and wildlife management. He focuses on modeling rangeland and desert ecosystems, developing diagnostic and predictive decision support systems, and assessing environmental changes using remote sensing and spatial analysis. His work integrates theoretical modeling with applied conservation and land use planning, particularly under conditions of climate change and ecological uncertainty.

🛠️Skills

Dr. Bashari possesses advanced expertise in ecological modeling, remote sensing, and the development of decision support tools using Bayesian Belief Networks. He is skilled in ecosystem function analysis, land condition assessment, GIS, and landscape function analysis. His academic strengths include designing and teaching courses on rangeland ecosystems, desert ecosystems, and plant identification. He demonstrates strong capabilities in research design, data analysis, interdisciplinary collaboration, and academic supervision.

🏆Awards

He received a scholarship from Iran’s Ministry of Science, Research and Technology for his PhD studies. He was awarded first place in the national MSc entrance examination for Range Management in 1997 and earned second runner-up for best student paper/poster at the 2006 Cutting Edge Conference hosted by the Australian Rangeland Society.

📚 Publications

Title: Developing habitat suitability models for the endangered plant species Kelussia odoratissima Mozaffarian using management data: Application of Bayesian belief network
Year: 2025
Journal: Environmental Challenges (Open Access)


Title: Extracted of polysaccharides from the roots of Eremurus persicus bioss plant / polyvinyl alcohol: Design and characterization of cellular scaffold for cell culture applications
Year: 2025
Journal: International Journal of Biological Macromolecules


Title: Prioritizing the Risk of Multiple Invasive Species in the Semiarid Rangelands of Iran: An Ecological Approach to Multicriteria Decision-Making
Year: 2025
Journal: Ecology and Evolution (Open Access)

Conclusion:

Dr. Hossein Bashari is highly suitable for the Best Researcher Award, particularly in domains related to environmental science, ecosystem modeling, and sustainable land management. His research is scientifically robust, methodologically advanced, and practically impactful. With minor enhancements in international collaboration and updated outputs, he stands out as a strong, well-rounded contender for this prestigious recognition.

Jianxia Yang | Soil Ecology | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Jianxia Yang | Soil Ecology | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Jianxia Yang, Qinghai Normal University, China

Ms. Jianxia Yang is a Lecturer at the College of Geographical Sciences, Qinghai Normal University, China. Her research specializes in environmental remote sensing and Geographic Information Systems (GIS), with a focus on vegetation monitoring, soil salinization, and ecological change analysis. She has published in SCI-indexed journals and is committed to advancing sustainable environmental management through innovative geospatial techniques.

Profile

Scopus

Summary:

Ms. Jianxia Yang exhibits strong potential as an emerging environmental scientist with expertise in GIS and remote sensing. Her work is timely, methodologically advanced, and addresses key ecological concerns. She brings academic integrity and innovation to her field and shows clear promise for future leadership in environmental geoscience research.

🎓 Education

Jianxia Yang has developed a strong academic foundation in the fields of environmental sciences and geoinformatics. Her educational background supports her expertise in environmental remote sensing and Geographic Information Systems (GIS), enabling her to approach complex environmental issues with a scientific and technical perspective.

💼Experience

She currently holds the position of Lecturer at the College of Geographical Sciences, Qinghai Normal University. In this role, she engages in both teaching and research activities. Her professional experience includes the application of remote sensing and GIS technologies to monitor vegetation, assess soil salinization, and analyze ecological patterns over time and space.

🔬Research Focus

Her research is centered on environmental remote sensing and GIS applications. She has contributed to innovations in monitoring vegetation and soil salinization, investigating temporal and spatial environmental changes, and exploring the coordinated development of soil and vegetation ecosystems.

🛠️Skills

She is proficient in environmental remote sensing, GIS analysis, ecological data interpretation, and spatial modeling. Her work involves advanced techniques for detecting environmental changes and evaluating the interrelationships between soil and vegetation systems.

🏆Awards

While specific honors are not listed in the nomination form, Jianxia Yang’s publication record in SCI-indexed journals signifies recognition of her research contributions and academic excellence within her field.

📚 Publications

Title: Applicability analysis of weakly supervised semantic segmentation for identifying salinized soil boundaries
Year: 2025
Authors: Jianxia Yang, Jun Zhao, Xufeng Mao, Yuan Zhang, Feipeng Hu
Journal: Journal of Arid Environments

Conclusion:

Ms. Jianxia Yang is a suitable and competitive candidate for the Best Researcher Award, particularly given the quality and relevance of her work. While further expansion in publication volume, international exposure, and measurable citation metrics could enhance her profile, her current contributions and potential for impactful future research make her a deserving nominee.

Huan Zhang | Soil | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Huan Zhang | Soil | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Huan Zhang, Nanjing Normal University, China

Prof. Dr. Huan Zhang is an Associate Professor at the School of Marine Science and Engineering, Nanjing Normal University, China. He holds a Ph.D. in Physical Geography from Nanjing University and specializes in soil organic matter cycling, carbon sequestration, and land use change impacts. His research integrates multi-omics analysis, machine learning, and stable isotope techniques to investigate soil quality evolution and microbial regulation. With numerous publications in high-impact journals, he has significantly contributed to soil science. He was honored with the “Doctor of Entrepreneurship and Innovation” talent project in Jiangsu Province. His work advances sustainable soil management and ecosystem stability.

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Scopus

Summary:

Prof. Dr. Huan Zhang’s research on soil carbon dynamics, microbial interactions, and land use change demonstrates outstanding scientific contributions. His work is methodologically innovative, well-published, and highly relevant to contemporary environmental issues. His interdisciplinary approach, combined with strong technical expertise, makes him a competitive candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

🎓 Education

Huan Zhang holds a Ph.D. in Physical Geography from Nanjing University, a Master’s degree in Soil Science from Nanjing Agricultural University, and a Bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Resources and Environments from Hebei Normal University of Science & Technology. His academic background has provided him with a strong foundation in soil science, environmental sustainability, and geographical studies.

💼Experience

Currently serving as an Associate Professor at the School of Marine Science and Engineering, Nanjing Normal University, Huan Zhang has previously worked as a Lecturer at the same institution. Before that, he was a Research Assistant at the School of Geography and Marine Sciences, Nanjing University. His professional journey has been dedicated to soil research, with a focus on soil quality evolution and organic matter cycling.

🔬Research Focus

Huan Zhang’s research primarily revolves around the mechanisms driving soil organic matter change. His work involves constructing soil time series to analyze the evolution of soil quality under varying land use intensities, employing machine learning for precise simulation of soil processes, and investigating microscale organic carbon turnover in environments affected by human activities. His studies contribute to understanding soil carbon storage, ecosystem stability, and the broader implications of land use on soil sustainability.

🛠️Skills

Huan Zhang possesses expertise in soil organic matter cycling, land use change impact assessment, and carbon sequestration mechanisms. His technical skills include machine learning applications for soil process modeling, multi-omics analysis for microbial community assessment, and stable isotope techniques for organic carbon studies. He is proficient in quantitative research methodologies and has a deep understanding of soil-microbe interactions.

🏆Awards

He was recognized under the “Doctor of Entrepreneurship and Innovation” talent project in Jiangsu Province in 2018, receiving a grant for his contributions to innovative soil science research.

📚 Publications

Title: Carbon dynamics and pathways in soil density fractions across different land-use types over 3000 years: Insights from 13C natural abundance.
Authors: Xu, M., Jiao, H., Zhang, Y., Zhang, H., & Gao, C.
Year: 2025
Journal: Catena

Title: Stoichiometry of carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus in soil: Impacts of soil development and land use across the catchment scale.
Authors: Su, B., Gao, C., Zhang, H., Zhang, Y., & Jiao, H.
Year: 2025
Journal: Catena

Title: Bacterial and fungal diversity, community composition, functional groups, and co-occurrence network succession in dryland and paddy soils along a 3000-year chronosequence.
Authors: Jiao, H., Xu, M., Ji, J., Zhang, H., & Gao, C.
Year: 2025
Journal: Catena

Conclusion:

 Prof. Dr. Huan Zhang is well-suited for the Best Researcher Award. While further strengthening international collaborations and research leadership roles could enhance his profile, his existing work already makes a significant impact in soil science and environmental research. He is a strong contender for this recognition.

Bernard Omomoh | Soil Science | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Bernard Omomoh | Soil Science | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Bernard Omomoh, Federal University of Technology, Nigeria

Bernard Omomoh is a researcher in Forestry and Wood Technology at the Federal University of Technology, Akure, Nigeria. His work focuses on forest ecology, biodiversity conservation, invasive species management, and ecosystem restoration. With extensive experience in plant taxonomy, herbarium management, and soil seed bank studies, he has contributed to multiple international research collaborations. He has received grants from institutions like Florida International University and IDEA WILD. Bernard is skilled in data analysis, ecological assessments, and forest measurement techniques, making significant contributions to sustainable forest management and conservation in Nigeria.

Profile

Scopus

Summary:

Mr. Bernard Omomoh is a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award, given his expertise in forestry, biodiversity conservation, and ecosystem restoration. His extensive publication record, international collaborations, and field research experience make him a distinguished researcher in his field.

🎓 Education

Omomoh Bernard Eromosele holds a Higher National Diploma from the Federal College of Forestry, Ibadan, where he studied the effects of different provenances on Thaumatococcus daniellii. He obtained a Postgraduate Diploma from the Federal University of Technology, Akure, investigating altitudinal influences on plant diversity. His Master of Technology from the same university focused on species diversity and soil seed banks in different land-use types. He earned a Bachelor of Science from the Federal University, Oye-Ekiti, where he studied the impact of invasive species on native plant diversity. Additionally, he completed a certificate in Tropical Botany at Florida International University, gaining expertise in tropical plant taxonomy and laboratory techniques.

💼Experience

Omomoh is a researcher and laboratory technologist in Forestry and Wood Technology at the Federal University of Technology, Akure. His work includes supervising research on tree crop cultivation, nursery practices, and seed technology. He has significant teaching experience in silviculture, forest soil science, and plant taxonomy. Previously, he worked as a field and laboratory assistant at Obafemi Awolowo University, gaining expertise in plant identification and herbarium management. He also completed an internship at the University of Ibadan Botanical Garden. As a research assistant at the Centre for Research and Development, he has contributed to field experiments, plant identification, and grant-funded research.

🔬Research Focus

Omomoh’s research covers forest ecology, biodiversity conservation, invasive species management, soil seed banks, and ecosystem restoration. His work examines how land-use changes impact plant diversity and regeneration potential. He collaborates internationally on plant systematics, species adaptation, and conservation strategies, particularly in Nigeria’s forest ecosystems.

🛠️Skills

Omomoh is proficient in data science and statistical analysis, using R, ANOVA, regression, and data visualization tools like ggplot, Prism, and Origin. He has expertise in plant identification, forest measurement, and herbarium management. His technical skills include operating tree measurement instruments such as altimeters, clinometers, and GPS devices.

🏆Awards

He has received multiple research grants, including a $4,000 scholarship from Florida International University for tropical botany studies and a $1,500 IDEA WILD grant for research equipment. He was also awarded funding from Botanic Gardens Conservation International and the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture for conservation projects.

Publications

  • Soil seed bank dynamics of two invasive alien plants in Nigeria: Implications for ecosystem restoration. AoB PLANTS.
  • Authors: Akomolafe, G. F., Rusly, R. R., & Omomoh, B. E.
  • Year: 2024

Conclusion:

 Mr. Bernard Omomoh is highly suitable for the Best Researcher Award due to his significant research contributions in forestry, biodiversity conservation, and ecological restoration. His innovative studies on invasive species, extensive publication record, and international collaborations highlight his impact in the field. Additionally, his expertise in species diversity, soil seed banks, and ecological restoration further strengthens his candidacy. While his work is already influential, enhancing policy engagement and public outreach could further amplify his research impact and visibility.

Suleiman Usman | Soil Science | Soil Biodiversity Conservation Award

 Dr. Suleiman Usman | Soil Science | Soil Biodiversity Conservation Award

Dr. Suleiman Usman, Department of Soil Science, Federal University Dutse, Nigeria

Dr. Suleiman Usman is a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Soil Science, Federal University Dutse, Nigeria. He holds a PhD in Soil Science (Soil and Water Resources Management) from Nasarawa State University Keffi and a PhD in Soil and Environment from the University of Greenwich, UK. His research focuses on soil fertility, soil amendments, sustainable agriculture, and land management. With extensive academic and research experience, he has contributed significantly to soil health improvement and agricultural productivity in Nigeria. Dr. Usman has published widely, supervised numerous students, and participated in global research initiatives.

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Summary:

Dr. Suleiman Usman is a dedicated soil scientist whose research contributes significantly to soil biodiversity conservation. His expertise in soil fertility, conservation practices, and sustainable agriculture, combined with his strong academic and research profile, makes him a competitive candidate for this award. Minor improvements in biodiversity-focused studies and international engagement could further enhance his credentials.

 

🎓 Education

Dr. Suleiman Usman obtained a B.Agric in Soil/Crop Science from Usmanu Danfodiyo University Sokoto, Nigeria (1999–2004). He pursued an MSc in Natural Resource (Plant Health and Protection) at the University of Greenwich, London, United Kingdom (2006–2007). He earned a PhD in Soil and Environment from the same institution (2009–2014) and later completed a PhD in Soil Science (Soil and Water Resources Management) at Nasarawa State University Keffi, Nigeria (2023/2024). Additionally, he has completed various certification programs, including Research Methodology from the University of Pretoria, South Africa, and Environmental Security and Sustaining Peace from institutions such as the UN Environment Programme and Columbia University.

💼Experience

Dr. Usman has extensive academic and research experience. He served as a Research Assistant at the Natural Resources Institute, University of Greenwich, from 2011 to 2014. Since 2015, he has been a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Soil Science, Faculty of Agriculture, at Federal University Dutse (FUD), Nigeria. He was also a Research Fellow with the Centre for Agricultural Research and Extension Services (CARES) at FUD from 2017 to 2018. He has held multiple administrative roles, including Level Coordinator (2017–2023) and Examination Officer (2022–2024). He has supervised over 15 students and taught several courses related to soil science and plant health.

🔬Research Focus

Dr. Usman’s research focuses on soil fertility, soil amendments, sustainable agriculture, and land management. He investigates soil degradation, organic material application, pesticide impacts, climate change effects on soil, and advanced soil conservation techniques. His work contributes significantly to improving soil health and agricultural productivity, particularly in Nigeria’s dryland and agroecological systems.

Awards

Dr. Usman has received multiple recognitions, including a Certificate of Merit from the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) in Nigeria. He has obtained numerous professional certifications from institutions such as FAO, the UN, and CTA. He has also participated in high-level research conferences and workshops globally. His research has been widely cited, with over 800 citations on Google Scholar and a ResearchGate RI score of 242.4.

Skills

Dr. Usman possesses expertise in soil fertility management, land use planning, soil and water resource management, organic amendments, and climate change adaptation. His technical skills include soil survey, geophysical soil assessment, environmental impact evaluation, and sustainable agricultural practices. He is proficient in research methodology, scientific writing, and digital research tools.

Publications

  • Determinants of access to agricultural credit among crop farmers in a farming community of Nasarawa State, Nigeria

    • Authors: KI Etonihu, SA Rahman, S Usman
    • Journal: Journal of Development and Agricultural Economics
    • Year: 2013

 

  • Incidence of liver fluke infections (Fasciola gigantica and Dicrocoelium hospes) in ruminants in northern Nigeria

    • Authors: TW Schillhorn van Veen, DO Folaranmi, S Usman, T Ishaya
    • Journal: Tropical Animal Health and Production
    • Year: 1980

 

  • Folk medicines of the lower Benue valley of Nigeria

    • Authors: JO Igoli, TA Tor-Anyiin, SS Usman, HOA Oluma, NP Igoli
    • Journal: Recent Progress in Medicinal Plants
    • Year: 2002

 

  • Corporate attributes and share value of listed pharmaceutical firms in Nigeria

    • Authors: M Abba, S Usman
    • Journal: Journal of Arts, Science & Commerce
    • Year: 2016

 

  • Analysis of resource-use efficiency in dry season vegetable production in Jere, Borno State, Nigeria

    • Authors: M Goni, ASS Umar, S Usman
    • Journal:
    • Year: 2013

 

  • Roles of soil biota and biodiversity in soil environment–A concise communication

    • Authors: S Usman, Y Muhammad, A Chiroman
    • Journal: Eurasian Journal of Soil Science
    • Year: 2016

 

Conclusion:

 Dr. Suleiman Usman is a strong contender for the Research for Soil Biodiversity Conservation Award. His expertise, research impact, and commitment to soil conservation align well with the award’s objectives. Strengthening collaborations and biodiversity-focused research could elevate his standing in global soil biodiversity conservation efforts.