Cecilia Dini | Agriculture | Best Researcher Award

Published on 23/10/202523/10/2025 by Soil Scientist

Dr. Cecilia Dini | Agriculture | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Cecilia Dini | National Council for Scientific and Technical Research | Argentina

Dr. Cecilia Dini is a distinguished scientist whose research bridges chemistry, microbiology, and food technology to advance the revalorization of ancient and non-traditional crops for modern food applications. Her work focuses on unlocking the nutritional, functional, and industrial potential of underutilized Andean roots and tubers such as ahipa (Pachyrhizus ahipa), oca (Oxalis tuberosa), arracacha (Arracacia xanthorrhiza), and Jerusalem artichoke, positioning these crops as valuable resources for sustainable food systems. Through two completed research projects and ongoing investigations on Argentinian oca, she has significantly contributed to understanding the biochemical composition, starch characteristics, and functional properties of these species. Her studies have demonstrated how root- and tuber-derived biopolymers, including fructans and resistant starches, can serve as healthy dietary fibers and versatile ingredients for gluten-free products and functional foods. Dr. Dini’s research not only enhances agricultural biodiversity but also supports local farming systems by promoting the use of resilient, climate-adaptive crops. She has published 28 peer-reviewed papers in indexed journals, with her research earning over 550 citations across 475 documents and achieving an H-index of 14 (Scopus) and 17 (Google Scholar), reflecting her strong scientific impact. Her collaborative efforts with international research institutions such as Texas A&M University (USA), IATA (Spain), and the National University of Ambato (Ecuador) have fostered interdisciplinary innovation and global knowledge exchange in crop utilization and food processing. In addition to journal publications, she has authored book chapters on non-cereal starch resources, cassava-derived ingredients, and nutritional analyses of Andean roots, contributing extensively to literature in food science and agricultural biotechnology. Dr. Dini’s body of work exemplifies excellence in research translation—bridging laboratory insights with industrial applications, supporting sustainable crop diversification, and contributing to global food security through science-driven valorization of ancient crops.

Profile: Scopus

Featured Publications

Dini, C. (2025). Characterization of commercial olluco (Ullucus tuberosus) tubers from La Plata, Argentina: Potential as a source of starch, flour, and soluble dietary fiber. Plant Foods for Human Nutrition.

Dini, C., Garzón, R., & Rosell, C. M. (2025). Breadmaking potential of Andean roots and tuber starches from ahipa (Pachyrhizus ahipa), oca (Oxalis tuberosa), and arracacha (Arracacia xanthorrhiza). Starch – Stärke.

Upma Bhatt | Agricultural | Young Scientist Award

Published on 09/10/202509/10/2025 by Soil Scientist

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.

Md Asaduzzaman | Agricultural | Best Researcher Award

Published on 28/08/202528/08/2025 by Soil Scientist

Dr. Md Asaduzzaman | Agricultural | Best Researcher Award

Md Asaduzzaman | State University of Bangladesh | Bangladesh

Asaduzzaman is an Assistant Professor and Academic Coordinator at the State University of Bangladesh. With a background in Food Science and Engineering, his expertise spans food safety, processing, and quality management. He has contributed to both academia and industry, with research focusing on food safety systems, biodegradable packaging, microbiological risk analysis, and value-added food products. His work bridges innovative research and practical applications, supported by national projects and publications in leading international journals.

Profiles

Scopus

Orcid

Summary

Asaduzzaman demonstrates a balanced profile of academic rigor, industrial application, and innovative research contributions. His work reflects a commitment to addressing real-world challenges in food safety, nutrition, and sustainability. His publication record and successful project execution showcase a trajectory of scholarly excellence.

Education

Md Asaduzzaman has pursued a strong academic journey in food science and engineering. He is a PhD candidate in Food Science and Engineering at Jiangnan University. He holds a Master of Engineering in Advanced Engineering Management from Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology and a Master of Science in Food Processing and Engineering from Chittagong Veterinary and Animal Sciences University. He completed his Bachelor of Science in Food and Process Engineering at Hajee Mohammad Danesh Science and Technology University.

Experience

He is serving as an Assistant Professor and Academic Coordinator at the State University of Bangladesh where he has contributed to lecture planning, student supervision, and research development. His earlier professional experience includes working as an Executive in the Dairy Unit of Akij Food and Beverage Limited where he managed quality control of dairy products. He also worked as a Quality Control Officer at Aftab Bahumukhi Farms Limited ensuring compliance with international quality standards and as an intern at the Institute of Food Science and Technology, Bangladesh Council of Scientific and Industrial Research where he assisted with laboratory research.

Research Focus

His research primarily focuses on food safety, food processing, and engineering innovations. He has worked on microplastic pollution, biodegradable packaging, microbiological hazard analysis, freeze-thaw pretreatment in oil extraction, and development of functional food products. His academic publications reflect interests in polysaccharide-protein interactions, nutritional enhancement, food safety systems, and value addition in agricultural products.

Skills

He is skilled in classroom management, student counseling, proofreading, and interactive teaching methods. His technical proficiency includes R statistical software, Zotero, Mendeley, Power BI, Microsoft Office applications, and familiarity with multiple operating systems. He also has hands-on expertise in HACCP, ISO standards, food safety systems, and laboratory testing.

Awards

He has received recognition through several research grants and projects supported by the Ministry of Science and Technology in Bangladesh. His projects span across food safety, biodegradable packaging, microbiological hazard analysis, and development of value-added food products. His scientific publications in reputed international journals further highlight his academic and research excellence.

Publications

Effect of Sweet Potato Flash Powder on the Proximate, Functional, and Bioactive Properties of Fortified Confectionery Products
Authors: Tupura Khatun, Md. Asaduzzaman
Journal: Food and Humanity
The Design of Food Safety Management System (FSMS) Plan for Rice Fortification Kernel (RFK) Factory – A Case Study
Authors: T. Khatun, M. Asaduzzaman
Journal: Journal of Food Quality and Hazards Control
The State-of-the-Art on Exploring Polysaccharide-Protein Interactions and Its Mechanisms, Stability, and Their Role in Food Systems
Authors: Mst Nushrat Yiasmin, Salauddin Al Azad, Md. Easdani, Md. Serajul Islam, Mudassar Hussain, Weichao Cao, Nuo Chen, Angelo Uriho, Md. Asaduzzaman, Cong Liu et al.
Journal: Food Reviews International
Effects of Hydrothermal Treatment and Low pH on the Fermentation Characteristics of Polysaccharides Based Water-Soluble Maitake with Lactobacillus acidophilus and L. plantarum
Authors: Mst Nushrat Yiasmin, Md. Easdani, Shabbir Ahammed, Mahbuba Siddiquy, K.M. Maruf Hasan, Weichao Cao, Nuo Chen, Md. Asaduzzaman, Cong Liu, Yaxian Liu et al.
Journal: Food Chemistry
Enhancing Nutritional Value and Quality of Cookies through Pumpkin Peel and Seed Powder Fortification
Authors: Md. Asaduzzaman, Syed Amir Ashraf, Mst. Sorifa Akter, Mahbubur Rahman
Journal: PLOS ONE

Conclusion

With his strong foundation in research, significant scientific outputs, and ability to bridge academia with industry, Md. Asaduzzaman stands out as a deserving candidate for the Research for Best Researcher Award. While further growth in interdisciplinary engagement and innovation commercialization would enhance his profile, his current achievements clearly establish him as a strong contender.

Theophilus Maduabuchukwu Ikegwu | Agricultural Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Published on 26/07/202526/07/2025 by Soil Scientist

Dr. Theophilus Maduabuchukwu Ikegwu | Agricultural Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Theophilus Maduabuchukwu lkegwu, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Nigeria

Dr. Theophilus Maduabuchukwu Ikegwu is a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Food Science and Technology at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Nigeria. With a strong academic background in Food Processing and Technology, his research focuses on functional food development, postharvest preservation, and nutritional enhancement of local crops. He has authored numerous peer-reviewed publications and book chapters, received multiple TETFund research grants, and holds the NOTAP-Industry Technology Transfer Fellowship. Dr. Ikegwu is actively involved in academic leadership, community service, and contributes as an Associate Editor for scientific journals in food science.

Profile

Scopus

Orcid

Summary:

Dr. Ikegwu is an accomplished scholar whose research has advanced food science in Nigeria, particularly in the areas of postharvest preservation, food quality, and processing technologies. His work reflects both academic excellence and practical relevance, with a strong focus on improving food security and supporting sustainable development goals through science.

🎓 Education

Dr. Theophilus Maduabuchukwu Ikegwu obtained his Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctoral degrees in Food Science and Technology from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka. His academic training provided a solid foundation in food processing and food technology, shaping his expertise in functional food product development and postharvest handling technologies.

💼Experience

Dr. Ikegwu is a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Food Science and Technology at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka. He has years of academic and research experience in teaching, supervising research projects, publishing in peer-reviewed journals, and contributing to curriculum development. He has served in multiple departmental leadership roles, including as ICT Officer, Research Grant Coordinator, and Secretary of the Curriculum Development Committee. He has also participated in community service initiatives and election monitoring at both national and state levels.

🔬Research Focus

Dr. Ikegwu’s research primarily focuses on the development and processing of functional and fortified food products aimed at enhancing nutritional security. He explores novel preservation technologies for cereals, legumes, and oilseeds and investigates the impacts of different processing methods on nutritional, physicochemical, and sensory properties of food. His work contributes significantly to food biotechnology, value addition in underutilized crops, and improving food quality and shelf life through innovative technologies.

🛠️Skills

His skillset spans food processing and preservation technologies, product development, food quality analysis, and sensory evaluation. He is highly proficient in scientific writing, research coordination, laboratory experimentation, data interpretation, and technology transfer. His expertise also extends to academic leadership and mentoring students in applied food science research.

🏆Awards

Dr. Ikegwu is a recipient of multiple TETFund Research Grant Awards for innovative projects such as the development of egg powder, nutritious beverages from mango and tiger nut, and cashew apple juice optimization. He was awarded the NOTAP-Industry Technology Transfer Fellowship in 2015 in recognition of his commitment to industrially relevant research. He also serves as Associate Editor for the Journal of Foods, Natural and Life Sciences.

📚 Publications

Title: Counting the Cost: Effect of COVID-19 on Household Food Security in South East Nigeria
Authors: Johnny Ogunji, Stanley Iheanacho, Chinwe Victoria Ogunji, Michael Olaolu, Vivian Oleforuh-Okoleh, Nuria Amaechi, Esther David, Onyekachi Ndukauba, Theophilus M. Ikegwu
Year: 2021
Journal: Sustainability

Conclusion:

Dr. Theophilus Maduabuchukwu Ikegwu is a highly deserving nominee for the Best Researcher Award. By addressing minor gaps in international engagement and integrating emerging technologies into his research, his impact could be significantly amplified on a global scale.

Sher Shah Hassan | Agricultural | Best Researcher Award

Published on 13/03/202513/03/2025 by Soil Scientist

Mr. Sher Shah Hassan | Agricultural | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Sher Shah Hassan, Ministry of Climate Change, Pakistan

Sher Shah Hassan is an Agricultural Engineer and climate expert currently serving as a Team Lead and MRV/GIS Expert at the Global Climate-Change Impact Studies Centre (GCISC), Ministry of Climate Change, Pakistan. With extensive experience in GIS, remote sensing, climate risk assessment, and energy efficiency, he has played a key role in Pakistan’s GHG inventory, mitigation policies, and adaptation monitoring. He has collaborated with international organizations, including CITEPA (France), the World Bank, UNDP, and PIK (Germany), contributing to climate transparency frameworks and sustainable agricultural strategies. His research focuses on geospatial data analysis, machine learning applications in climate science, and sustainable land and water management.

Profile

Scopus

Summary:

Mr. Sher Shah Hassan is a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award due to his contributions to air pollution and climate change research in Pakistan, his use of geospatial techniques, and his work’s direct impact on policymaking. However, to enhance his profile further, he could focus on expanding his research globally, publishing more independent work, and increasing international collaborations.

🎓 Education

Sher Shah Hassan holds a BSc (Hons) in Agricultural Engineering from the University of Engineering & Technology, Peshawar, Pakistan, graduating in 2017 with a CGPA of 3.58/4.00. His undergraduate thesis focused on “Spatial Flood Risk Analysis of Chenab River from Marala to Qadirabad Based on Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA).” He is currently completing an MSc in Soil and Water Engineering at the same university, with a CGPA of 3.18/4.00. His master’s research integrates geospatial machine learning and multi-criteria decision-making for sustainable mangrove management in the Indus Delta, Pakistan.

💼Experience

Sher Shah Hassan has extensive experience in climate impact research, GIS applications, and agricultural engineering. He currently serves as Team Lead and MRV/GIS Expert at the Global Climate-Change Impact Studies Centre (GCISC), Ministry of Climate Change & Environmental Coordination, Pakistan, where he specializes in data collection, stakeholder engagement, and climate impact analysis. Since May 2021, he has also been the Team Leader for Mitigation & Adaptation at the Centre Interprofessionnel Technique d’Etudes de la Pollution Atmosphérique (CITEPA), France, where he contributes to GHG inventory management, climate transparency, and adaptation monitoring in Pakistan.

🔬Research Focus

Sher Shah Hassan’s research focuses on climate change mitigation and adaptation, sustainable agricultural practices, GIS-based environmental monitoring, energy efficiency in agriculture, and water resource management. His work integrates geospatial technologies and machine learning for sustainable land-use planning and climate resilience.

🛠️Skills

His expertise in GIS and remote sensing applications, climate risk assessment, agricultural engineering, geospatial data analysis, energy efficiency strategies, mitigation and adaptation policy development, stakeholder engagement, and technical report writing. He is also proficient in multi-criteria decision analysis, machine learning applications in climate science, and institutional capacity building.

🏆Awards

Throughout his career, he has been engaged in national and international climate research collaborations, contributing to policy frameworks and transparency mechanisms for climate adaptation. His contributions to Pakistan’s climate action strategies, particularly in MRV systems and energy efficiency, have been instrumental in shaping policy interventions.

📚 Publications

Title: Assessing smog trends and sources of air pollutants across northeastern districts of Punjab, Pakistan using geospatial techniques
Authors: M.A. Goheer (Muhammad Arif), S.S. Hassan (Sher Shah Hassan), A.S. Sheikh (A. S.), M.A. Uzair (Muhammad Ali), T.N. Satti (T. N.)
Journal: International Journal of Environmental Science and Technology
Year of Publication: 2025

Conclusion:

Mr. Sher Shah Hassan is a suitable candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His research aligns with pressing environmental challenges, and his findings have both scientific merit and policy implications. However, strengthening his global reach and independent research contributions could make his candidacy even stronger.

Chimi Djomo Cédric | Agricultural | Best Researcher Award

Published on 26/01/202513/05/2025 by Soil Scientist

Dr. Chimi Djomo Cédric | Agricultural | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Chimi Djomo Cedric, Institute of Agricultural Research for the Development (IRAD), Cameroon

Dr. Chimi Djomo Cédric is a researcher at the Institute of Agricultural Research for the Development (IRAD) in Cameroon. He holds a Ph.D. in Forest Ecology and Management (2018), with a focus on allometric equations and forest contributions to climate change mitigation. His research interests include biodiversity, carbon stocks, agroforestry systems, non-timber forest products, ecosystem services, and the ecological impacts of land use. With over 70 peer-reviewed publications, Cédric has contributed significantly to environmental science and forestry. He is also actively involved in conservation strategies, local governance, and community engagement to promote sustainable land use practices.

Profile

Scopus

Summary:

Dr. Chimi Djomo Cédric is a highly skilled researcher at the Institute of Agricultural Research for the Development (IRAD) in Cameroon, with expertise in forest ecology, biodiversity conservation, and climate change mitigation. His dedication to advancing environmental science through rigorous research and local community engagement makes him a deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award. He has made significant contributions to forest-based ecosystems, particularly in Cameroon, and has published extensively on topics like carbon sequestration, agroforestry, and ecosystem services.

🎓 Education

Cédric CHIMI DJOMO completed his MSc thesis in 2014 on Biodiversity and Agroforestry, focusing on vascular epiphytic species. In 2018, he completed his Ph.D. in Forest Ecology and Management, where he specialized in allometric equations and the role of forests in climate change mitigation.

💼Experience

As a researcher at the Institute of Agricultural Research for the Development (IRAD), Cédric has been involved in over 10 projects in the forest domain, contributing in various roles depending on the project. He has gained extensive experience in biodiversity assessment, landscape carbon sequestration, conservation strategies, and community engagement, often collaborating with local communities and stakeholders to promote sustainable practices.

🔬Research Focus

His research primarily revolves around environmental science and forestry, with particular emphasis on biodiversity, carbon stocks, non-timber forest products, ecosystem services, agroforestry systems, ecological impacts of land use, and the development of conservation strategies for threatened species and habitats. Cédric is also passionate about understanding the role of forests in mitigating climate change and promoting sustainable land use.

Awards

Cédric has an h-index of 15 on ResearchGate and 13 on Google Scholar, reflecting his contributions to scientific literature. He has authored over 70 peer-reviewed articles, book chapters, and working papers, making significant strides in the environmental and forestry research fields. He is also nominated for the Best Paper Award for his ongoing and past contributions to ecological research.

Cédric possesses a wide range of skills including expertise in biodiversity assessment, landscape carbon sequestration, agroforestry systems, conservation strategies, and project management. His skills also extend to data analysis, ecological research, community engagement, and local governance, with a focus on integrating indigenous knowledge into conservation practices.

Publications

Impact of Useful Species Preferences on Carbon Stocks and Annual Increments in Various Cocoa-based Agroforestry Systems in Central Region of Cameroon
Authors: Zekeng, J.C., Fobane, J.L., Biye, H.E., Cédric, D.C., Abada Mbolo, M.M.
Journal: Journal of Sustainable Forestry, 2023, 42(4), pp. 399–420
Citations: 1 citation

Floristic Surveys of Some Lowlands Polluted in a Tropical Urban Area: The Case of Yaoundé, Cameroon
Authors: Anne, A., Ebenezer, S.K., Guy Valerie, D.W., Pierre François, D., Noumsi Ives Magloire, K.
Journal: International Journal of Phytoremediation, 2021, 23(11), pp. 1191–1202
Citations: 2 citations

Vascular Epiphytes Loss in Exploited Trees of the Semi-Deciduous Managed Forest of Ndelele, East Cameroon
Authors: Nfornkah, B.N., Martin, T., Zapfack, L., Frederick, M.N., Sonke, B.
Journal: Journal of Sustainable Forestry, 2019, 38(7), pp. 670–685
Citations: 3 citations

Conclusion:

Dr. Cédric’s research not only addresses pressing environmental challenges but also serves as a guide for sustainable land use and forest management practices. He has proven his ability to generate impactful research, foster collaboration, and contribute to global conversations around biodiversity conservation. With some improvements in broader public outreach and interdisciplinary collaboration, Cédric’s work has the potential to create even greater positive change in both the scientific community and the wider world. His nomination for the Best Researcher Award is a testament to his remarkable achievements and future potential.