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

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.

Collins Oduro | Agriculture | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Collins Oduro | Agriculture | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Collins Oduro, Lincoln University, New Zealand

Dr. Collins Oduro is an agricultural economist and researcher affiliated with Lincoln University, New Zealand. His expertise spans agribusiness management, food security, and rural development, with a focus on institutional analysis and project evaluation in Sub-Saharan Africa. A recipient of the prestigious Manaaki New Zealand PhD Scholarship, Dr. Oduro has collaborated with international organizations and universities to address challenges in market access, value chains, and sustainable development. His work bridges academic research and practical implementation to improve livelihoods and resilience in agricultural communities.

Profile

Orcid

Summary:

Dr. Collins Oduro’s academic journey reflects a rare blend of research depth, policy engagement, and field-level impact. His work on institutional dynamics and food insecurity offers fresh perspectives for solving persistent problems in African agriculture. With a strong foundation in teaching, research, and agribusiness strategy, he exemplifies the qualities of a transformative researcher.

🎓 Education

Collins Oduro holds a PhD in Agricultural Economics from Lincoln University in New Zealand. He earned an MPhil in Agricultural Administration from the University of Ghana with coursework spanning Agribusiness, Economics, Extension, and Law. He also holds a BSc in Agricultural Science from the University of Cape Coast, with a focus on Economics, Agribusiness, and Sciences. He has received professional certifications in entrepreneurship and value chains from Wageningen UR in the Netherlands and KNUST in Ghana. Additionally, he completed foundational training in computer literacy at the African Virtual University.

💼Experience

Collins has extensive experience in agribusiness, economic research, rural development, teaching, and administration. He served as Director of Berean Generation NGO in Ghana and as a researcher at Lincoln University. He contributed to research and consultancies with international institutions such as IFAD, University of Ghana, University of Nairobi, University of Guelph, and the Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture. His agribusiness roles have included work in horticulture, quality assurance, export operations, and market access across New Zealand and Ghana. His professional journey also includes experience in municipal agricultural development and academic teaching in international school systems.

🔬Research Focus

Collins Oduro’s research focuses on agricultural economics, food security, rural development, and institutional analysis in project performance. He investigates the causes of food insecurity in Africa through institutional lenses and seeks innovative frameworks for project evaluation. His ongoing studies include the role of community entry strategies in West African project success and the development of new tools to assess performance and sustainability in agricultural initiatives.

🛠️Skills

He possesses strong capabilities in agribusiness management, economics, project evaluation, value chain development, data analysis, teaching, and capacity building. Additional skills include strategic planning, institutional analysis, business plan development, community entry strategy design, and human resource management. He is also proficient in leadership, communication, time management, and computer applications.

🏆Awards

He received the prestigious Manaaki New Zealand PhD Scholarship and was a finalist in the Three Minute Thesis Competition at Lincoln University. He was a two-time finalist in the Africa Category of the Australia Awards. His work on agricultural development earned him recognition from Ghanaian national media and educational institutions for outstanding academic results and international project supervision.

📚 Publications

Title: Several Initiatives but Little Results: A Novel Approach to Offer an Institutional Explanation for Food Insecurity in Ghana
Author: Collins Oduro, A. Renwick, J. O. Akotey
Year: 2025
Journal: World Food Policy

Title: Pineapple Production and Household Poverty Alleviation Indicators: The Case of Pineapple Farmers in the Akuapem South District of Ghana
Author: Collins Oduro
Year: 2016
Journal: LAP LAMBERT Academic Publishing

Conclusion:

Dr. Oduro is a highly suitable candidate for the Research for Best Researcher Award. His achievements, leadership, and forward-thinking research position him as a rising thought leader in agricultural development. With minor enhancements in global academic engagement and collaborative visibility, his contributions could become even more influential in shaping agricultural policy and practice worldwide.

Ibrahim Mosaad | Soil Fertility | Best Researcher Award

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Assist. Prof. Dr. Ibrahim Mosaad | Soil Fertility | Best Researcher Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Ibrahim Mosaad, Agricultural Research Center, Egypt

Assist. Prof. Dr. Ibrahim Mosaad is a Senior Researcher (Assistant Professor) at the Soils, Water, and Environment Research Institute, Agricultural Research Center, Egypt. He holds a PhD in Agricultural Sciences from Mansoura University, with a focus on soil and water management. Dr. Mosaad has extensive experience in soil and water analysis, plant chemistry, and agricultural experimentation. He has supervised several Master’s and PhD theses, contributing to advancements in plant nutrition and fertilization. His research employs various statistical analysis tools and spans across water and fertilizer management for improved crop productivity.

 

Profile

Scopus

Google Scholar

Summary:

Assist. Prof. Dr. Ibrahim Mosaad is a dedicated researcher whose work focuses on soil, water, and environmental sciences with a commitment to improving agricultural practices. His extensive academic experience, proven record of supervising successful theses, and numerous contributions to peer-reviewed journals highlight his potential for the Best Researcher Award. His research on sustainable agricultural practices, particularly in managing water resources and improving soil fertility, is timely and essential in addressing global food security challenges.

 

🎓 Education

Mohamed Mosaad holds a Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Sciences from Mansoura University College of Agriculture, completed in June 2002 with very good and excellent grades. He obtained his Master of Science in Agricultural Sciences, specializing in the Soil Department from the same institution in 2005. Later, he earned a Doctor of Philosophy in Agricultural Sciences, also from Mansoura University, in 2010.

 

💼Experience

Ibrahim has an extensive career in agricultural research, having worked in various capacities. He started as an Agricultural Specialist III at the Plant Nutrition and Soil Fertility Research Department at the Soils, Water, and Environment Research Institute, Agricultural Research Center, Egypt from 2003 to 2007. He later served as a Research Assistant and Teaching Assistant from 2007 to 2008. He was an Assistant Researcher from 2008 to 2011 and a Researcher from 2011 to 2020. Currently, Ibrahim holds the position of Senior Researcher (Assistant Professor) at the same department since April 27, 2020.

 

🔬Research Focus

Ibrahim’s research primarily focuses on soil and water sciences, including chemical and physical analysis of soil and water, as well as the chemical analysis of plants. He is involved in estimating fertilizer and water requirements for crops and designing agricultural experiments. His research includes using various statistical analysis software such as SPSS, Costat, Origin, R, SAS, and Minitab.

 

Skills

Ibrahim is highly proficient in using computer software and various analytical techniques for agricultural research. He has expertise in chemical analysis of soil, water, and plants. His skills extend to designing and analyzing agricultural experiments using statistical software, and he has very good proficiency in the English language.

 

Publications

  • Effect of Surge Flow Irrigation on Water Use Efficiency and Maize Production
    Authors: Sheta, M.H., Ghanem, H.G., Elzanaty, T.M., Mosaad, I.S.M., Fayed, M.H.
    Year: 2024
    Journal: Egyptian Journal of Soil Science, 64(4), pp. 1601–1616
    Citations: 1

 

  • Integrating compost and foliar boron nutrition with mineral nitrogen fertilization improves productivity, quality, and nutrient acquisition of sugar beet
    Authors: Seadh, A.K., Abdelhamied, A.S., Mosaad, I.S.M.
    Year: 2024
    Journal: Egyptian Journal of Soil Science, 64(2), pp. 411–422
    Citations: 0

 

  • Synergistic Effects of Plant Growth Promoting Rhizobacteria and Mycorrhizal Fungi on Roselle Performance in Sandy Soils
    Authors: Mosaad, I.S.M., Gaafar, D.E.M., Al-Anoos, M.A.T., Seadh, A.K.
    Year: 2024
    Journal: Egyptian Journal of Soil Science, 64(2), pp. 443–457
    Citations: 3

 

  • Quantitative nitrate leaching relationship models based on nitrogen fertilisation and the intervals between maize irrigations in the salt-affected soil
    Authors: Mosaad, I.S.M., El-Samit, R.M., Seadh, A.K., Mustafa, A.E.-Z.M.A., Elshikh, M.S.
    Year: 2024
    Journal: Journal of King Saud University – Science, 36(5), 103187
    Citations: 1

 

  • Integrated Organic and Inorganic Amendments for Improving Productivity of Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L.) in Alkaline Soil
    Authors: Abdelhamied, A.S., Abd El-Hady, M.A.M., Mosaad, I.S.M.
    Year: 2024
    Journal: Egyptian Journal of Soil Science, 64(1), pp. 207–219
    Citations: 7

 

  • Effects of humic and fulvic acids on forage production and grain quality of triticale under various soil salinity levels
    Authors: Mosaad, I.S.M., Selim, E.-M.M., Gaafar, D.E.M., Al-Anoos, M.A.T.
    Year: 2024
    Journal: Cereal Research Communications
    Citations: 0

Conclusion:

Dr. Mosaad’s research is of high quality, contributing significantly to both academic knowledge and practical solutions in agriculture. While he has demonstrated leadership in mentoring young researchers and achieving impactful publications, there are opportunities to further enhance his work by broadening his research scope, increasing international visibility, and securing additional funding for large-scale projects. Given his current achievements and potential for further growth, Dr. Mosaad is a strong contender for the Best Researcher Award, deserving recognition for his ongoing contributions to sustainable agriculture and environmental science.