Stefania Fortunato | Soil Plant | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Stefania Fortunato | Soil Plant | Best Researcher Award

Stefania Fortunato | University of Bari Aldo Moro | Italy 

Stefania Fortunato is a Senior Laboratory Technician for research and teaching in Plant Biology and Physiology at the Department of Biosciences, Biotechnologies and Environment of the University of Bari Aldo Moro, where she has built a solid scientific profile grounded in multidisciplinary expertise. She earned her PhD in Agricultural Biodiversity and Environment in 2018 with a focus on Agricultural Genetics, conducting research on nitrogen metabolism in durum wheat, and complemented her academic path with a Master’s Degree in Cellular and Molecular Biology and a professional qualification as a Biologist. Her international experience includes a visiting researcher position at the Estación Experimental del Zaidín, Spanish National Research Council (EEZ-CSIC) in Granada, where she worked on ROS and nitric oxide signaling and peroxisomal dynamics in plants. Her research activity spans Plant Physiology, Agricultural Genetics, and Food Science and Technology, addressing cellular redox mechanisms, nitrogen use efficiency, thermal stress response, oxidative processes in food products, and green analytical techniques. She has authored 28 documents that collectively garnered 564 citations across 627 citing sources, reflecting the impact of her contributions, and she holds an H-index of 11. A member of the Italian Society of Plant Biology since 2021, she actively contributes to advancing plant science through both laboratory innovation and academic collaboration.

Profile: Scopus 

Featured Publications

Di Silvestre, N. J., Domingo, G., Vannini, C., Marsoni, M., Fortunato, S., de Pinto, M. C., Tamborrino, A., Negroni, Y. L., Zottini, M., Tran Hong, L., Lomagno, A., Mauri, P., Pesaresi, P., & Tadini, L. (2025). A holistic investigation of Arabidopsis proteomes altered in chloroplast biogenesis and retrograde signalling identifies PsbO as a key regulator of chloroplast quality control. Plant Cell and Environment.

Fortunato, S., Domingo, G., Davide, E., Lasorella, C., Bracale, M., Vannini, C., & de Pinto, M. C. (n.d.). Dual function plant cryptic nucleotide cyclases.

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.

Belen Araceli Kettler | Agriculture | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Belen Araceli Kettler | Agriculture | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Belen Araceli Kettler, National University of Northeast, Argentina

Dr. Belén Araceli Kettler is an Assistant Professor at the Faculty of Agrarian Sciences, National University of the Northeast, Argentina. Her research focuses on crop physiology, particularly the effects of abiotic stress on maize growth and productivity. With a strong background in natural resources and plant production, she has been actively involved in national and international research collaborations, including a current research fellowship at Kansas State University. Dr. Kettler has contributed to several peer-reviewed publications and research projects in partnership with academic institutions and private agribusiness companies, and she is recognized for her analytical expertise, teamwork, and commitment to advancing agricultural science.

Profile

Scopus

Summary:

Dr. Belén Araceli Kettler is a highly capable and accomplished researcher specializing in crop physiology with a particular focus on abiotic stress impacts on maize production. Her academic trajectory, extensive research involvement, peer-reviewed publications, and international collaborations underscore her scientific excellence and dedication. She combines strong analytical skills with practical applications, bridging fundamental research and agronomic challenges in subtropical Argentina. Her commitment to teaching and mentoring also contributes significantly to capacity building in her field.

🎓 Education

Dr. Belén A. Kettler is currently completing her Doctorate in Natural Resources with a specialization in Crop Physiology at the Faculty of Agrarian Sciences, National University of Northeast, Corrientes, Argentina, under the mentorship of Dr. C. S. Carrera and Dr. N. Neiff. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Engineering from the same university and began a Master’s in Plant Production, which she discontinued after being offered a doctoral position. Over her academic journey, she has undertaken numerous specialized courses, consistently achieving distinguished or excellent marks.

💼Experience

Dr. Kettler has extensive academic and research experience. She has served as an Assistant Professor at the Faculty of Agrarian Sciences, National University of Northeast since January 2019. Her international experience includes a research scholar position at Kansas State University in the United States, beginning in May 2025. She has held multiple research fellowships through CONICET and the Scientific and Technical Commission of her home university. These roles span from undergraduate to doctoral research, focusing on crop physiology, environmental stress impacts, and ecophysiology.

🔬Research Focus

Her research focuses on the physiological and ecophysiological responses of crops, particularly maize, to abiotic stresses such as high temperatures and drought. Her work investigates how these stressors impact growth, yield components, kernel development, respiration, and dry matter allocation. She has collaborated with international partners and contributed to breeding and modeling research, including QTL analysis and genomic prediction under stress conditions.

🛠️Skills

Dr. Kettler possesses strong teamwork capabilities and a high level of analytical thinking. She is proficient in statistical software such as Infostat, R Studio, GraphPad Prism, and Microsoft Excel. Her skill set also includes intermediate-level knowledge in crop modeling systems like DSSAT and APSIM. She demonstrates a strong commitment to continuous learning and applies critical thinking to research and teaching.

🏆Awards

Dr. Kettler has been supported by national and university-level research fellowships, including those from CONICET and the Scientific and Technical Commission of the National University of Northeast. She has also contributed to several funded research projects, notably on oxidative stress in crops, physiological responses to environmental stressors, and conservation studies of vascular plants.

📚 Publications

Title: Climatic constraints for rainfed maize production in the Northeastern subtropical region of Argentina
Year: 2025
Authors: Kettler, B. A., Nalli Sonzogni, F. D., Neiff, N., Boscarino, S., Maddonni, G. Á.
Journal: Theoretical and Applied Climatology

Conclusion:

Dr. Kettler is a well-qualified candidate for the Best Researcher Award due to her consistent research excellence, international engagement, and impactful contributions to crop science. Addressing areas such as increased leadership visibility and interdisciplinary approaches could further elevate her candidacy. Overall, she embodies the qualities of an outstanding researcher with both scientific rigor and practical relevance, making her highly suitable for recognition as a Best Researcher.

Md. Ariful Islam | Soil Fertility | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Md. Ariful Islam | Soil Fertility | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Md. Ariful Islam, Bangladesh Agricultural Research Institute, Bangladesh

Dr. Md. Ariful Islam is a Senior Scientific Officer at the Bangladesh Agricultural Research Institute (BARI), specializing in conservation agriculture, soil fertility, and sustainable cropping systems. He holds a Ph.D. in Environmental Science from Murdoch University, Australia, with research focusing on conservation agriculture in rice-based systems. With over 15 years of experience, he has contributed significantly to agronomic research, integrated nutrient management, and on-farm trials. Dr. Islam has received multiple awards, including the Best Scientist Award (2024), and has published extensively in national and international journals. His expertise includes field experimentation, data analysis, and farmer-oriented technology development.

Profile

Google Scholar

Summary:

Dr. Md. Ariful Islam has made notable contributions to agricultural research, particularly in conservation agriculture, soil management, and plant health. His interdisciplinary expertise, significant research impact, and collaboration with international experts make him a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award. However, enhancing leadership in funded projects, expanding international collaborations, and increasing policy engagement could further elevate his research profile.

 

🎓 Education

Dr. Md. Ariful Islam holds a Ph.D. in Environmental Science from Murdoch University, Australia, specializing in conservation agriculture. His doctoral research focused on the effects of conservation agriculture on crops and soil in rice-based cropping systems in Bangladesh. He earned his Master of Science in Agronomy from Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh, where he studied the effects of variety and fertilizer management on wheat performance. His undergraduate degree, a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture (Honours), was also completed at Bangladesh Agricultural University, with coursework covering agronomy, soil science, horticulture, genetics, and agricultural economics.

💼Experience

Dr. Islam is currently a Senior Scientific Officer at the On-Farm Research Division of the Bangladesh Agricultural Research Institute (BARI) in Pabna, where he has been serving since June 2020. His role involves designing and executing research programs focusing on integrated plant nutrient management, cropping system improvements, and adaptive trials in drought-prone areas. Before this, he worked as a Scientific Officer at BARI’s Pulses Research Centre from 2007 to 2020, where he contributed to farmer-centered research, soil analysis, crop yield evaluation, and training programs for agricultural professionals and farmers.

🔬Research Focus

Dr. Islam’s research primarily revolves around conservation agriculture, soil fertility, nutrient management, and sustainable cropping systems in rice-based agriculture. His work aims to improve soil health, crop productivity, and farmer livelihoods through integrated and resource-efficient farming practices. His research has significantly contributed to understanding the effects of tillage and residue management on soil organic carbon sequestration, nitrogen cycling, and weed control.

Awards

Dr. Islam has received numerous awards for his contributions to conservation agriculture and agronomic research. In 2024, he was honored with the Best Scientist Award in the Mid-career Scientist category at BARI. He received multiple Best Paper Presentation Awards, including at the 21st Bangladesh Society of Agronomy Conference (2022) and international conferences such as the Smart Agriculture for Resource Conservation Conference (2021) and the 2nd Asian Web Conference on Managing Hill Resources (2021). Additionally, he was recognized for his research on conservation agriculture at the 2nd Conference on Conservation Agriculture for Smallholders (2017). He also received the ACIAR John Allwright Fellowship for his Ph.D. and travel grants for international conferences.

Skills

Dr. Md. Ariful Islam has extensive experience in scientific and experimental research, covering planning, design, execution, and reporting. His expertise includes conservation agriculture, soil fertility management, and integrated plant nutrient management. He is proficient in various analytical and statistical software, including MS Excel, MS Word, MS PowerPoint, MSTAT, Statistix 10, STAR, R-program, and GenStat, which he applies in data analysis and research.

Publications

  • Minimum tillage unpuddled transplanting: An alternative crop establishment strategy for rice in conservation agriculture cropping systems

    • Authors: ME Haque, RW Bell, MA Islam, MA Rahman
    • Journal: Field Crops Research
    • Year: 2016

  • Conservation agriculture for rice-based intensive cropping by smallholders in the eastern Gangetic plain

    • Authors: RW Bell, ME Haque, M Jahiruddin, MM Rahman, M Begum, MAM Miah, …
    • Journal: Agriculture
    • Year: 2018

  • Study of seed health, germination and seedling vigor of farmers produced rice seeds

    • Authors: A Haque, MAH Akon, MA Islam, KM Khalequzzaman, MA Ali
    • Journal: Not specified
    • Year: 2007

  • Soil nitrogen storage and availability to crops are increased by conservation agriculture practices in rice–based cropping systems in the Eastern Gangetic Plains

    • Authors: MK Alam, RW Bell, ME Haque, MA Islam, MA Kader
    • Journal: Field Crops Research
    • Year: 2020

  • Responses of rice to green manure and nitrogen fertilizer application

    • Authors: MS Islam, NK Paul, MR Alam, MR Uddin, UK Sarker, MA Islam, SU Park
    • Journal: OnLine Journal of Biological Sciences
    • Year: 2015

 

Conclusion:

Dr. Md. Ariful Islam is a deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award due to his significant contributions to sustainable agriculture and conservation practices. Strengthening his research leadership, global collaborations, and policy impact will further solidify his standing as a leading researcher in his field.

Kaywan Ahmed | Agricultural Science | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Kaywan Ahmed | Agricultural Science | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Kaywan Ahmed, Tishk International University, Iraq

Dr. Kaywan Ahmed is a researcher and assistant lecturer at Tishk International University, Iraq. His expertise lies in civil engineering, with a focus on hydraulic structures, water resources, and environmental sustainability. He has taught various engineering courses and held multiple administrative roles, including Coordinator of the Civil Engineering Department and Head of the Exam Committee. His research explores soil-water interactions, scour prediction, and the application of GIS in environmental management. Dr. Ahmed has published extensively in international journals and actively contributes to academic conferences and innovation in engineering education.

Profile

Scopus

 

Summary:

Dr. Kaywan Ahmed’s strong academic and professional contributions to civil engineering, particularly in water management and environmental sciences, make him a deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His innovative research in predicting water quality and the impact of infrastructure on the environment is vital for sustainable development in the field of civil engineering.

🎓 Education

Kaywan Ahmed completed his B.Sc. in Civil Engineering at Tishk International University, Erbil, in 2015. He then pursued a Master’s degree (MSc) in Civil Engineering with a specialization in Water Supply and Hydraulic Structures at Gaziantep University, Turkey, from 2016 to 2018. Currently, he is a Ph.D. candidate at KNTU University in Tehran.

💼Experience

Kaywan has extensive experience in academia and civil engineering. He has been an Assistant Lecturer at Tishk International University since 2018, teaching courses such as Fluid Mechanics, Hydraulic Engineering, Water Resources, and Water Supply and Sewerage Systems. He has held multiple administrative roles, including Coordinator of the Civil Engineering Department, Head of the Exam Committee, and Interim Head of the International Relations and Diplomacy Department. His responsibilities have included supervising MSc students, managing academic activities, and supporting international collaborations. Before his academic career, he gained hands-on experience as an Assistant Engineer at Zozik Company and as a Volunteer at Qaiwan Company, where he was involved in construction projects, data collection, and technical support.

🔬Research Focus

Kaywan’s research primarily revolves around hydraulic engineering, water supply systems, and environmental sustainability. His published work includes studies on scour prediction at culvert outlets, the impact of COVID-19 on water consumption, and the use of waste materials in construction. He is currently working on several research projects, including the application of Remote Sensing and GIS in waste management, public attitudes toward environmental issues, and predictive modeling of hydraulic structures. His contributions to scientific literature demonstrate his commitment to advancing civil engineering and environmental sustainability.

Awards

Kaywan has been recognized for his academic excellence, ranking second out of 64 students in his Civil Engineering undergraduate program. He has received certificates for his participation in multiple international engineering conferences and was awarded second place in the Fifth National Innovation Competition in Engineering for his contributions with students. His leadership and research contributions have been acknowledged in various academic and professional circles.

Skills

Kaywan possesses strong research and management skills, with expertise in data analysis, project coordination, and technical problem-solving. He is proficient in multiple software applications, including Microsoft Office, AutoCAD, ETABS, Flow-3D, SPSS, and Water CAD. Additionally, he has hands-on experience with surveying tools such as Total Station, Theodolite, and Level instruments. His ability to communicate effectively, both in writing and orally, has been instrumental in his academic and professional success.

 

Publications

  • Title: Forecasting of monthly air quality index and understanding the air pollution in the urban city, India based on machine learning models and cross-validation
    Authors: C.B. Pande, Chaitanya Baliram; N. Radwan, Neyara; S. Heddam, Salim; S.C. Pal, Subodh Chandra; M.K. Pramanik, Malay Kumar
    Journal: Journal of Atmospheric Chemistry
    Year: 2025

 

  • Title: An efficient data fusion model based on Bayesian model averaging for robust water quality prediction using deep learning strategies
    Authors: M. Alizamir, Meysam; K. Moradveisi, Kayhan; K.O. Ahmed, Kaywan Othman; S. Kim, Sungwon; S. Heddam, Salim
    Journal: Expert Systems with Applications
    Year: 2025

 

Conclusion:

Dr. Kaywan Ahmed’s research has the potential to significantly impact environmental engineering, particularly in the sustainable design and operation of water management systems. His dedication to advancing knowledge in his field, coupled with his leadership skills, positions him as a top contender for the Best Researcher Award.