Sara Godena | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Innovative Research Award

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Innovative Research Award

Sara Godena
Institute of Agriculture and Tourism, Croatia

Sara Godena
Affiliation Institute of Agriculture and Tourism
Country Croatia
Scopus ID 36760599700
Documents 36
Citations 388
h-index 11
Subject Area Agricultural and Biological Sciences
Event International Soil Scientist Awards
ORCID 0000-0003-1937-4611

Sara Godena is a researcher affiliated with the Institute of Agriculture and Tourism in Croatia whose documented scholarly activity falls within Agricultural and Biological Sciences. Her research profile includes plant health, olive production, biological control, plant-derived antimicrobial agents, and sustainable approaches to agricultural disease management. Her reported research record comprises 36 documents, 388 citations, and an h-index of 11. [1]

Abstract

Sara Godena’s research portfolio demonstrates a focus on practical agricultural and plant-health challenges, particularly those affecting olive cultivation. Recent studies address olive-associated fungal and bacterial pathogens, essential oils, plant-based agents, olive mill wastewater, pathogen diversity, and varietal susceptibility. These themes connect biological research with environmentally conscious disease-management strategies and contribute to the development of alternatives to conventional chemical control. [2]

Keywords

Olive pathology; plant health; biological control; essential oils; plant-based agents; Botryosphaeriaceae; Pseudomonas savastanoi; olive mill wastewater; sustainable agriculture; agricultural microbiology.

Introduction

Olive production is affected by diverse fungal and bacterial organisms that can influence plant health and productivity. Godena’s recent publications investigate these challenges through pathogen characterization, antimicrobial evaluation, varietal assessment, and exploration of plant-derived or agricultural by-product-based interventions. Such research is relevant to integrated plant disease management and the broader objective of reducing reliance on conventional inputs. [3]

Research Profile

The research profile combines plant pathology, microbiology, agricultural biotechnology, and sustainable crop protection. Published work examines both pathogen biology and potential control measures, creating a research pathway from identification and characterization toward application-oriented disease management.

Research Contributions

  • Assessment of olive-associated Botryosphaeriaceae diversity and pathogenicity in Istria, Croatia. [5]
  • Investigation of plant-based agents and essential oils for antimicrobial and antifungal activity. [3]
  • Evaluation of olive mill wastewater as a potential source of bioactive compounds for plant disease management. [2]

Publications

Selected recent publications include studies in Horticulturae, Agronomy, Agriculture, Plants, and Microorganisms. The 2025 Horticulturae article examines physicochemical characteristics and antifungal activity of olive mill wastewaters against Botryosphaeriaceae, while related studies investigate plant-based growth promoters, green bactericides, essential oils, fungal pathogens, and bacterial disease susceptibility. [2] [3] [4] [5] [6]

Research Impact

The reported 388 citations and h-index of 11 indicate measurable scholarly visibility within the researcher’s indexed publication record. [1] The thematic continuity of the publications also demonstrates relevance to sustainable crop protection, especially where biological activity, plant-derived compounds, and agricultural residues can be evaluated as components of integrated management.

Award Suitability

The documented publication record, citation profile, and research emphasis provide a scholarly basis for consideration for the Innovative Research Award associated with the International Soil Scientist Awards. Particular relevance arises from research connecting agricultural production with plant protection and environmentally oriented approaches to pathogen management. Award consideration should be based on the complete nomination dossier and independent evaluation criteria.

Conclusion

Sara Godena’s research profile reflects sustained engagement with agricultural and biological sciences, with notable emphasis on olive health, plant pathogens, biological activity, and sustainable crop-protection approaches. Her indexed research output and recent publications provide a coherent foundation for academic recognition in innovative agricultural research.

References

  1. Elsevier. (n.d.). Scopus author details: Sara Godena, Author ID 36760599700. Scopus.
    https://www.scopus.com/pages/authors/36760599700
  2. MDPI. (2025). Integrated Analysis of Olive Mill Wastewaters: Physicochemical Profiling, Antifungal Activity, and Biocontrol Potential Against Botryosphaeriaceae. Horticulturae, 11(7), 819. DOI: 10.3390/horticulturae11070819
  3. MDPI. (2025). Potential of Plant-Based Agents as Next-Generation Plant Growth-Promotors and Green Bactericides Against Pseudomonas savastanoi pv. savastanoi. Agronomy, 15(4), 819. DOI: 10.3390/agronomy15040819
  4. MDPI. (2025). Antifungal Efficacy of Essential Oils and Their Predominant Components Against Olive Fungal Pathogens. Agriculture, 15(3), 340. DOI: 10.3390/agriculture15030340
  5. MDPI. (2024). Diversity and Pathogenicity of Botryosphaeriaceae Species Isolated from Olives in Istria, Croatia, and Evaluation of Varietal Resistance. Plants, 13(13), 1813. DOI: 10.3390/plants13131813
  6. MDPI. (2024). Varietal Susceptibility of Olive to Pseudomonas savastanoi pv. savastanoi and the Antibacterial Potential of Plant-Based Agents. Microorganisms, 12(7), 1301. DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms12071301

Şükrü Beydemir | Biotechnology | Best Researcher Award

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Best Researcher Award

Şükrü Beydemir
Affiliation Anadolu University
Country Turkey
Scopus ID 6603903192
Documents 223
Citations 11,553
h-index 66
Subject Area Biotechnology
Event International Soil Scientist Awards
ORCID 0000-0003-3667-6902

Şükrü Beydemir

Anadolu University, Turkey

Şükrü Beydemir is a Turkish researcher affiliated with Anadolu University whose scholarly work spans biotechnology, enzymology, antioxidant biochemistry, medicinal chemistry, and protein science. His publication record demonstrates sustained contributions to the understanding of antioxidant compounds, enzyme inhibition, carbonic anhydrase research, and bioactive natural products. According to the provided Scopus metrics, his academic profile includes 223 indexed publications, 11,553 citations, and an h-index of 66, reflecting substantial scientific visibility and influence across interdisciplinary biochemical research.[1]

Abstract

This article summarizes the academic achievements of Şükrü Beydemir in the field of biotechnology with emphasis on antioxidant biochemistry, enzyme inhibition, medicinal chemistry, and biochemical pharmacology. His work has contributed to understanding the biological properties of natural compounds, oxidative stress, enzyme regulation, and therapeutic targets through experimental biochemical investigations. The breadth of his publications and citation performance demonstrates continued scientific relevance within biochemical and biomedical research.[1]

Keywords

Biotechnology, Antioxidants, Carbonic Anhydrase, Enzyme Inhibition, Oxidative Stress, Natural Products, Phenolic Compounds, Flavonoids, Medicinal Chemistry, Biochemistry, Drug Design, Protein Science.

Introduction

Biotechnology increasingly integrates biochemical, molecular, and pharmacological approaches to understand disease mechanisms and identify bioactive compounds. Within this context, Şükrü Beydemir has established a substantial body of work addressing antioxidant activity, enzyme kinetics, inhibition mechanisms, and therapeutic applications of naturally occurring molecules. His research has supported advances in both fundamental biochemical knowledge and applied biomedical investigations.[2]

Research Profile

  • Primary research field: Biotechnology and Biochemistry.
  • Specialization in antioxidant mechanisms and oxidative stress.
  • Research on enzyme inhibition and carbonic anhydrase isoenzymes.
  • Studies involving natural phenolic compounds and flavonoids.
  • Extensive international publication and citation record.

Research Contributions

Research contributions include investigations into antioxidant capacity, radical scavenging activity, enzyme inhibition, medicinal chemistry, and biochemical characterization of biologically active compounds. Numerous studies have evaluated plant-derived antioxidants, carbonic anhydrase inhibitors, and natural phenolics for their biochemical properties and therapeutic potential. These investigations have become widely cited references within antioxidant and enzymology literature.[3]

Publications

  • Comparison of antioxidant activity of clove (Eugenia caryophylata) buds and lavender (Lavandula stoechas). Food Chemistry, 87(3), 393–400 (2004). Approximately 793 citations. DOI: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2003.12.008.
  • Antioxidant and antiradical properties of selected flavonoids and phenolic compounds. Biochemistry Research International (2017). Approximately 422 citations. DOI: 10.1155/2017/7616791.
  • A Study on the In Vitro Antioxidant Activity of Juniper Fruit Extracts. Analytical Letters, 39(1), 47–65 (2006). DOI: 10.1080/00032710500423524.
  • In vitro antioxidant properties of morphine. Pharmacological Research, 49(1), 59–66 (2004). DOI: 10.1016/S1043-6618(03)00227-4.
  • In Vitro Inhibition of Human Carbonic Anhydrase I and II Isozymes with Natural Phenolic Compounds. Chemical Biology & Drug Design, 77(6), 494–499. DOI: 10.1111/j.1747-0285.2011.01120.x.

Research Impact

The research portfolio demonstrates sustained influence through a large body of peer-reviewed publications and more than eleven thousand citations recorded in Scopus. His work has been referenced extensively in studies involving oxidative stress, antioxidant therapies, enzyme inhibition, medicinal chemistry, and pharmaceutical biotechnology. The citation profile and h-index indicate continuing scholarly recognition across multiple biochemical disciplines.[1]

Award Suitability

Based on the documented publication productivity, citation performance, interdisciplinary research contributions, and sustained influence within biotechnology and biochemical sciences, Şükrü Beydemir demonstrates attributes commonly associated with recognition through international academic awards. His contributions to antioxidant research, enzyme biochemistry, and medicinal chemistry reflect scientific excellence, collaboration, and measurable research impact that align with the objectives of international research recognition programs.[1]

Conclusion

Şükrü Beydemir has established a distinguished academic record characterized by influential biochemical research, extensive publication output, and broad international citation impact. His investigations into antioxidants, enzyme inhibition, and natural bioactive compounds continue to contribute to scientific understanding within biotechnology and related biomedical disciplines, making his scholarly profile representative of sustained research excellence.[1]

References

  1. Elsevier. (n.d.). Scopus Author Details: Şükrü Beydemir, Author ID 6603903192. Scopus.
    https://www.scopus.com/authid/detail.uri?authorId=6603903192
  2. Gülçin, İ., Şat, İ. G., Beydemir, Ş., Elmastaş, M., & Küfrevioğlu, Ö. İ. (2004). Comparison of antioxidant activity of clove (Eugenia caryophylata Thunb) buds and lavender (Lavandula stoechas L.). Food Chemistry, 87(3), 393–400.
    DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.foodchem.2003.12.008
  3. Huyut, Z., Beydemir, Ş., & Gülçin, İ. (2017). Antioxidant and antiradical properties of selected flavonoids and phenolic compounds.
    Biochemistry Research International, Article 7616791.
    DOI: https://doi.org/10.1155/2017/7616791
  4. ORCID. (n.d.). Şükrü Beydemir — ORCID Profile.
    https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3667-6902
  5. ScienceDirect. (n.d.). Şükrü Beydemir – Author Profile.
    https://www.sciencedirect.com/author/6603903192/sukru-beydemir

Workneh Kenea | Agricultural Science | Research Excellence Award

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Research Excellence Award

Workneh Kenea
Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research (EIAR), Ethiopia

Workneh Kenea
Affiliation Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research (EIAR)
Country Ethiopia
Scopus ID 57221618379
Documents 2
Citations 21
h-index 1
Subject Area Agricultural Science and Innovation
Event International Soil Scientist Awards
ORCID 0000-0003-2609-7747

Workneh Kenea is a researcher at the Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research (EIAR), Ethiopia, whose work focuses on sustainable crop production, soil fertility management, fertilizer optimization, and agricultural innovation. His research integrates agronomic experimentation with evidence-based decision-making to improve maize productivity under diverse environmental conditions. Through peer-reviewed publications, he has contributed to the development of practical nutrient management strategies that support sustainable agricultural production and resource-efficient farming systems.[1]

Abstract

The Research Excellence Award recognizes sustained scholarly contributions that advance scientific understanding and practical innovation. Workneh Kenea’s research emphasizes sustainable maize production, fertilizer management, and multi-criteria evaluation of agricultural systems. His publications address key challenges in improving crop productivity while balancing environmental sustainability, nutrient-use efficiency, and resilient agricultural practices. These studies contribute evidence supporting improved agronomic recommendations for Ethiopia and comparable agroecological regions.[2][3]

Keywords

Agricultural Science, Sustainable Agriculture, Maize Production, Soil Fertility, Fertilizer Optimization, Crop Management, Nutrient Management, Agricultural Innovation, Multi-Criteria Assessment, Ethiopia.

Introduction

Modern agricultural research increasingly emphasizes sustainable intensification through improved nutrient management, precision agronomy, and resource-efficient production systems. Research undertaken by Workneh Kenea aligns with these priorities by evaluating fertilizer recommendations, crop management practices, and sustainability indicators that support higher productivity while minimizing environmental impacts. His work provides practical knowledge applicable to researchers, extension services, and agricultural producers.[2]

Research Profile

Workneh Kenea is affiliated with the Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research (EIAR). According to the provided scholarly metrics, his research profile includes two indexed publications, twenty-one citations, and an h-index of one. His research interests encompass sustainable crop production, fertilizer recommendation, soil nutrient management, crop productivity, and agricultural innovation. His studies integrate experimental field research with quantitative analytical approaches to improve maize production systems.[1]

Research Contributions

  • Evaluated sustainability of maize production systems using a comprehensive multi-criteria assessment framework integrating agronomic, economic, and environmental indicators.[2]
  • Redesigned and validated fertilizer recommendations for maize under varying plant population densities across major agricultural regions of Ethiopia.[3]
  • Contributed to evidence-based nutrient management strategies aimed at improving fertilizer-use efficiency and crop productivity.[3]
  • Supported sustainable agricultural innovation through applied agronomic research with practical relevance for farming systems and policy development.[2]

Publications

  1. Assessing the Sustainability of Maize Production Under Various Crop Management Practices Using a Multi-Criteria Assessment Approach.
    Sustainability, 2026.
    DOI:
    10.3390/su18126024
  2. Redesigning and Validation of Fertilizer Use in Maize for Variable Plant Densities in Central Rift Valley and Jimma in Ethiopia.
    PLOS ONE, 2024.
    DOI:
    10.1371/journal.pone.0304004

Research Impact

The published research contributes to improved understanding of sustainable maize production and nutrient management within Ethiopian farming systems. By evaluating fertilizer recommendations and sustainability metrics, the studies provide information that can support improved agricultural productivity, efficient resource utilization, and evidence-based agronomic decision-making. These contributions demonstrate the importance of integrating experimental research with sustainability assessment methodologies.[2][3]

Award Suitability

Workneh Kenea’s scholarly contributions demonstrate a commitment to agricultural innovation through applied research addressing sustainable crop production and fertilizer management. His peer-reviewed publications, practical research outcomes, and focus on improving agricultural productivity align with the objectives of the Research Excellence Award, recognizing scientific work that advances sustainable agricultural development through rigorous investigation and practical application.[2][3]

Conclusion

Workneh Kenea has established an emerging research profile focused on sustainable agriculture, nutrient management, and maize production systems. His contributions support evidence-based improvements in fertilizer recommendations and sustainability assessment, reflecting the role of applied agricultural research in addressing food security and environmental stewardship. Collectively, these achievements provide a strong academic foundation for recognition through the Research Excellence Award.

References

  1. Elsevier. (n.d.). Scopus Author Details: Workneh Kenea, Author ID 57221618379. Scopus.
    https://www.scopus.com/authid/detail.uri?authorId=57221618379
  2. Kenea, W. et al. (2026). Assessing the Sustainability of Maize Production Under Various Crop Management Practices Using a Multi-Criteria Assessment Approach. Sustainability, 18(12), 6024.
    DOI: https://doi.org/10.3390/su18126024
  3. Kenea, W. et al. (2024). Redesigning and Validation of Fertilizer Use in Maize for Variable Plant Densities in Central Rift Valley and Jimma in Ethiopia. PLOS ONE. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0304004
  4. ORCID. (n.d.). ORCID Record for Workneh Kenea.
    https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2609-7747

Kaoqi Lian | Biotechnology | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Kaoqi Lian | Biotechnology | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Kaoqi Lian | Hebei Medical University | China

Prof. Kaoqi Lian is a distinguished researcher specializing in pharmaceutical analysis, clinical chemistry, and separation science, with extensive contributions to understanding drug metabolism, degradation pathways, and clinical metabolomics. Her research focuses on the separation and analysis of in-vivo drugs and the exploration of metabolic mechanisms that influence therapeutic efficacy and safety. With a strong academic background in chemistry and environmental science, Prof. Lian has established a prominent career in public health education and scientific innovation. She has successfully led and participated in multiple projects supported by the National Natural Science Foundation, advancing analytical methodologies and clinical applications in biomedical research. Prof. Lian’s scholarly productivity is reflected in 69 scientific publications that have collectively received 1,044 citations from 1,015 citing documents, demonstrating the global relevance of her research. With an h-index of 19, her scientific influence spans the fields of analytical chemistry, pharmacology, and clinical diagnostics. As a professor at the School of Public Health, Hebei Medical University, and director of the Hebei Health Society, she continues to drive interdisciplinary collaboration, mentor emerging scientists, and enhance the integration of analytical science into healthcare innovation and public health development.

Profile: Scopus

Featured Publications

Lian, K., et al. (2025). Analysis of metabolites and metabolic pathways of troponin activator in rats using UHPLC–MS. Analytical and Bioanalytical Chemistry.

Lian, K., et al. (2025). In-situ synthesis of Fe₃O₄@TFA-TAPA-COF as a novel sorbent coupled with UPLC–MS/MS for the determination of 22 perfluorinated compounds in water and honey. Journal of Food Composition and Analysis.

Lian, K., et al. (2025). Perinatal exposure to polystyrene nanoplastics alters socioemotional behaviors via the microbiota–gut–brain axis in adult offspring mice. Brain, Behavior, and Immunity.

Lian, K., et al. (2025). Prenatal maternal stress induces increased avoidance behavior in adolescent mice offspring.

Xiaobo Zhong | Soil Biology | Distinguished Soil Science Achievement

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Dr. Xiaobo Zhong | Soil Biology | Distinguished Soil Science Achievement

Dr. Xiaobo Zhong | Institut Pasteur | France 

Dr. Xiaobo Zhong is a microbiologist whose research explores the structural and molecular mechanisms that govern bacterial morphogenesis and intercellular interactions. His work focuses on the bacterial cell wall, a multifunctional structure critical for maintaining shape, division, and environmental adaptability. Through advanced techniques such as cryo-electron tomography, he investigates how bacterial cell surface architectures enable microbial communication and phenomena like microbial hitchhiking, where non-motile species utilize motile counterparts for dispersal. His studies have revealed key molecular players in cell wall biosynthesis, including cellulose synthase complexes and stomatin-like proteins that organize membrane microdomains under stress conditions. His research contributions, published in leading journals such as Nature Communications, Trends in Microbiology, and mBio, have expanded understanding of cell envelope biology and stress adaptation in filamentous actinobacteria. His work bridges structural biology, microbiology, and biochemistry, advancing insight into microbial physiology and antibiotic resistance. In addition to research, he has supervised and mentored graduate and undergraduate students and contributed to several international conferences through oral and poster presentations. His ongoing investigations at the Pasteur Institute continue to advance integrative structural cell biology with applications in microbial biotechnology and antibiotic discovery.

Profile:  Orcid 

Featured Publications

Zhong, X., & Claessen, D. (2025). Cellulose biosynthesis and function in Streptomyces. Trends in Microbiology.

Zhong, X., Baur, S. S. M., Ongenae, V. M. A., Guerrero Egido, G., Shitut, S., Du, C., Vijgenboom, E., van Wezel, G. P., Carrion Bravo, V., Briegel, A., & Claessen, D. (2025). The stomatin-like protein StlP organizes membrane microdomains to govern polar growth in filamentous actinobacteria under hyperosmotic stress. Nature Communications.

Zhong, X., Nicolardi, S., Ouyang, R., Wuhrer, M., Du, C., van Wezel, G. P., Vijgenboom, E., Briegel, A., & Claessen, D. (2024). CslA and GlxA from Streptomyces lividans form a functional cellulose synthase complex. Applied and Environmental Microbiology, 90(4), e02087-23.

Gabriele Rodine Ngassa Tchoumi | Biotechnology | Women Researcher Award

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Ms. Gabriele Rodine Ngassa Tchoumi | Biotechnology | Women Researcher Award

Ms. Gabriele Rodine Ngassa Tchoumi | University of Dschang | Cameroon

Gabrièle Rodine Ngassa Tchoumi is an emerging agricultural scientist and engineer dedicated to advancing sustainable and organic farming practices in sub-Saharan Africa. Her research and professional focus center on improving soil fertility, crop production, and natural plant protection strategies to enhance agricultural productivity while preserving ecosystem health. She has contributed to studies on the use of black soldier fly frass as an eco-friendly biofertilizer, demonstrating its potential to improve soil quality and crop yield sustainably. With experience in agribusiness, vocational training, and crop management, she integrates theory and practice to empower young farmers and promote environmentally responsible agricultural entrepreneurship. Her expertise spans data analysis, project planning, and sustainable development, reinforced by international training from institutions such as the United Nations Institute for Training and Research, the European Union, and the International Labour Organization. She has actively participated in scientific conferences addressing phytopathology, biosciences, and climate-resilient farming, underscoring her commitment to research-driven agricultural innovation. Through her work, she advocates for education, sustainability, and innovation as cornerstones of agricultural transformation, contributing meaningfully to food security and environmental resilience in developing regions.

Profile:  Orcid 

Featured Publications

Dzepe, D., Mbenda, T. K., Ngassa, G., Mube, H., Chia, S. Y., Aoudou, Y., & Djouaka, R. (2022). Application of Black Soldier Fly frass, Hermetia illucens (Diptera: Stratiomyidae) as sustainable organic fertilizer for lettuce, Lactuca sativa production. Open Journal of Applied Sciences.

Ibrahim Ahmad | Agricultural Science | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Ibrahim Ahmad | Agricultural Science | Best Researcher Award

Ibrahim Ahmad | Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture | Australia 

Ibrahim Ahmad is a veterinary scientist and Ph.D. researcher in Agriculture (Animal Science) at the University of Tasmania, specialising in sustainable livestock production and enteric methane mitigation. With a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine, a Master’s in Veterinary Medicine by research, and ongoing doctoral work focused on anti-methanogenic feed additives using Asparagopsis seaweed, he brings over a decade of progressive experience in veterinary practice, meat inspection, animal welfare, biosecurity, zoonotic disease control, ruminant nutrition and livestock systems research. His published body of work spans tuberculosis in livestock, zoonotic diseases, methane reduction strategies, and ruminant microbiome responses, with 14 peer-reviewed documents, 73 citations, and an h-index of 6, reflecting both productivity and research influence across animal health and agricultural science. He has presented at international conferences, contributed as a reviewer to multiple journals, and maintains active research networks across Australia, Nigeria, Malaysia, and beyond. His current doctoral research, backed by major scholarships such as the Tasmania Graduate Research Scholarship and Tim Healey Memorial Scholarship, aims to improve climate-smart livestock systems with scalable on-farm solutions for methane reduction without compromising productivity or welfare. His academic memberships and international collaborations further consolidate his growing impact on veterinary research and sustainable agriculture.

Profiles:  Scopus | Orcid 

Featured Publications

Ahmad, I., Rawnsley, R. P., Bowman, J. P., & Omede, A. A. (2025). Rumen microbiome response to methane inhibition. Microbiology Australia.

Ahmad, I., Rawnsley, R. P., Bowman, J. P., & Omede, A. A. (2025). Limitations in feeding red seaweed Asparagopsis species for enteric methane mitigation in ruminants. Journal of Dairy Science.

Ahmad, I., Bowman, J., Rawnsley, R., & Omede, A. (2025, June 26). Feed-grade biochar supplementation for enteric methane emissions reduction: Potential anti-methanogenic myths and emerging facts [Conference presentation]. ANZBIG Conference, Southern Cross University, Gold Coast, Australia.

Omede, A., Raedts, P., Ahmad, I., Talbot, J., Dolbey, B., & Rawnsley, R. (2024, July 8). Effect of transition feeding of Asparagopsis-oil (Asp-oil) on sheep performance. In Proceedings of the 35th Biennial Conference of the Australian Association of Animal Sciences (p. 389). Australian Association of Animal Sciences.

Upma Bhatt | Agricultural | Young Scientist Award

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Dr. Upma Bhatt | Agricultural | Young Scientist Award

Upma Bhatt | Case Western Reserve University | India

Dr. Upma Bhatt is a dedicated Postdoctoral Research Fellow in Plant Physiology and Stress Biology at IIT Delhi under the DBT-RA program, recognized for her outstanding contributions to abiotic stress research, chlorophyll fluorescence analysis, and desiccation tolerance mechanisms in plants. With a strong academic foundation culminating in a Ph.D. in Botany from Mohanlal Sukhadia University (MLSU), Udaipur, she has built an impressive research portfolio comprising 22 publications, 249 citations, and an h-index of 9, reflecting her growing influence in the field of plant science. Her expertise spans plant stress physiology under drought, salinity, and submergence conditions; photosynthetic efficiency analysis using advanced JIP-test and Triple JIP techniques; and developmental studies on embryo physiology and seed priming. Dr. Bhatt’s commitment to sustainable plant biotechnology and nanoparticle phytotoxicity studies further enhances the applied relevance of her work. She has been honored with several prestigious awards, including the Best Researcher and Young Scientist Awards, underscoring her excellence in innovative plant research. With a passion for developmental physiology and collaborative research, Dr. Bhatt continues to explore the intricate mechanisms underlying plant adaptation and resilience, contributing significantly to advancing stress biology and agricultural sustainability.

Profile:  Scopus

Featured Publications

Bhatt, U.,(2025). Veterinary medicines: An emerging threat to soil, water, and plants. Water, Air, and Soil Pollution.

Bhatt, U.,(2025). Impact of synthetic and herbal dyes on photosynthesis and ROS scavenging enzyme activities in Spirodela polyrhiza. Scientific Reports.

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.

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.