Workina Geleta | Soil Science | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. Workina Geleta | Soil Science | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Working Geleta, Wollega university, Ethiopia

Mr. Workina Geleta is a Ph.D. candidate in Soil Science at Wollega University, Shambu Campus, Ethiopia. He holds an M.Sc. in Environmental Physics from Haramaya University and a B.Sc. in Applied Physics from Addis Ababa University. His research focuses on land use and land cover dynamics and their effects on soil physicochemical and hydraulic properties, particularly in the Arjo-Dhidhessa region of Western Ethiopia. He has published in peer-reviewed journals and actively contributes to soil and water conservation research. Mr. Geleta is fluent in English, Afaan Oromo, and Amharic.

Profile

Orcid

Summary:

Mr. Workina Geleta is a committed and capable researcher whose work is centered on soil science with tangible implications for environmental sustainability and land management. He meets the core eligibility and evaluation criteria for the Best Researcher Award, including academic merit, publication record, and relevance of research. His trajectory shows promising growth in the field.

🎓 Education

Workina Geleta Likkasa is currently pursuing his Ph.D. in Soil Science at Wollega University, Shambu Campus, Ethiopia, since 2021. He holds a Master of Science degree in Environmental Physics from Haramaya University, completed between 2013 and 2015. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Applied Physics from Addis Ababa University, where he studied from 2008 to 2010.

💼Experience

Workina Geleta is affiliated with the Department of Soil Resource and Watershed Management at Wollega University, Shambu Campus. He has been involved in both academic teaching and field research. His professional experience includes advanced research on soil properties, land use, and environmental physics, contributing to soil and water conservation practices.

🔬Research Focus

His current doctoral research focuses on the dynamics of land use and land cover and their effects on soil physicochemical and hydraulic properties at Arjo-Dhidhessa Sugar Estate in Western Ethiopia. His Master’s thesis evaluated the physical water quality of ground and tap water in Guduru Woreda, Western Ethiopia. He has also presented a seminar on organic carbon stock and soil quality in Ethiopia.

🛠️Skills

He has completed additional short-term training in computer and data management in Ethiopia and a 60-hour course in Experimental Statistics (SAS) at Jimma University between May and June 2015. He is fluent in English, Afaan Oromo, and Amharic, with strong skills in listening, speaking, reading, and writing across all three languages.

🏆Awards

His active engagement in research publication, ongoing doctoral studies, and participation in professional seminars highlight his academic commitment and recognition in the field of soil science and environmental research.

📚 Publications


Title: Investigating the Effects of Arjo‐Dhidhessa Sugar Factory on Land Use and Land Cover Dynamics: A Case of Arjo‐Dhidhessa Sugar Estate, East Wallaga, Oromia, Western, Ethiopia
Author: Workina Geleta
Year: 2025
Journal: Applied and Environmental Soil Science


Title: Exploring the Influence of Land Use Types on Soil Properties at Arjo‐Dhidhessa Sugar Estate, Western Ethiopia
Author: Workina Geleta
Year: 2024
Journal: Applied and Environmental Soil Science

Conclusion:

Mr. Workina Geleta is suitable for nomination for the Research for Best Researcher Award. His strengths in applied soil science research, academic progression, and publication record make him a strong candidate. To further strengthen his case in the future, expanding his research collaborations, documenting community impact, and pursuing recognition from professional bodies is recommended.

Nafiseh Kakhani | Soil Mapping | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Nafiseh Kakhani | Soil Mapping | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Nafiseh Kakhani, Eberhard Karls University of Tübingen, Germany

Dr. Nafiseh Kakhani is a researcher and lecturer at Eberhard Karls University of Tübingen, Germany, specializing in Earth observation, remote sensing, and machine learning. She holds a PhD in Remote Sensing Engineering from K. N. Toosi University of Technology, Tehran, where she focused on spectral-spatial classification of high-resolution multispectral images. Her research interests include AI-driven geospatial analysis, explainable machine learning, digital soil mapping, and land cover classification. She has extensive experience in deep learning, computer vision, and statistical modeling for environmental applications. Dr. Kakhani has received prestigious awards, including the Best Poster Award at the 2023 IEEE IADF-GRSS School, and has published widely in her field.

Profile

Scopus

Summary:

Dr. Kakhani is a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award due to her innovative contributions to explainable AI applications in soil science. Her interdisciplinary research and ability to integrate AI-driven approaches into environmental studies make her work highly relevant and impactful. She has contributed significantly to understanding soil organic carbon dynamics, a crucial factor in climate change mitigation and sustainable agriculture.

🎓 Education

Nafiseh Kakhani holds a PhD in Remote Sensing Engineering from K N Toosi University of Technology in Tehran, Iran, where she specialized in spectral-spatial classification of high-resolution multispectral images using segmentation methods. She completed her MSc in Remote Sensing Engineering from the same university, focusing on integrating neural networks and fuzzy systems to improve classification methods in hyperspectral images. She earned her BSc in Geomatics and Geodesy Engineering from the University of Isfahan, where she developed a statistical classification method for Multi-Beam Echo Sounder data.

💼Experience

She is currently an Earth Observation and Machine Learning Scientist at The LandBanking Group GmbH in Munich, where she applies machine learning techniques to environmental monitoring and land assessment. Previously, she was a Postdoctoral Researcher and Lecturer at the University of Tübingen, where she conducted research in remote sensing and taught courses on deep learning, photogrammetry, and the fundamentals of remote sensing. She has also worked at the Iranian Space Agency, focusing on remote sensing sensor calibration and spectral library preparation. Additionally, she has mentored Master’s students in GIS, remote sensing, and machine learning and has been a guest speaker at international workshops and conferences.

🔬Research Focus

Her research focuses on computer vision for Earth observation, explainable machine learning, deep learning, statistical machine learning, pattern recognition, and Earth system science. She has worked extensively on AI-driven geospatial analysis, digital soil mapping, land cover classification, and the development of deep learning frameworks for remote sensing applications.

🛠️Skills

She is proficient in Python, using libraries such as PyTorch, TensorFlow, and Scikit-learn, as well as MATLAB and JavaScript for Google Earth Engine applications. She has expertise in geospatial software, including ArcGIS, QGIS, ENVI, ERDAS IMAGINE, and Agisoft Metashape. She is experienced in cloud computing platforms such as Google Cloud, AWS, and Tübingen ML Cloud, enabling her to process large-scale remote sensing datasets efficiently.

🏆Awards

She received the Best Poster Award at the 2023 IEEE IADF-GRSS School for her work on SoilNet, a spatio-temporal deep learning framework for digital soil mapping. She was a top-ranked graduate student in both her MSc and BSc programs and was admitted to her MSc without an entrance exam, a privilege reserved for exceptional students in Iran.

📚 Publications

Publication: Towards Explainable AI: Interpreting Soil Organic Carbon Prediction Models Using a Learning-Based Explanation Method

Authors: N. Kakhani, R.T. Mehrjardi, D. Omarzadeh, U. Heiden, T.J. Scholten

Journal: European Journal of Soil Science

Year: 2025

Conclusion:

Dr. Nafiseh Kakhani is a highly suitable candidate for the Best Researcher Award. While there is always room for further growth, her expertise and achievements in applying AI to soil science place her among the leading researchers in this field.

Bernard Omomoh | Soil Science | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. Bernard Omomoh | Soil Science | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Bernard Omomoh, Federal University of Technology, Nigeria

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

Profile

Scopus

Summary:

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

🎓 Education

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

💼Experience

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

🔬Research Focus

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

🛠️Skills

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

🏆Awards

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

Publications

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

Conclusion:

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

Dr. Jamal Nasar | Soil Science | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Jamal Nasar | Soil Science | Best Researcher Award

 Dr. Jamal Nasar ,Guizhou University, China

Dr. Jamal Nasar is a soil scientist at Guizhou University, China. He specializes in soil fertility, plant nutrition, cropping systems, and agricultural sustainability. His work integrates research on soil-plant-microbial interactions, soil remediation, and environmental science. He holds a PhD in Soil Science from Jilin Agricultural University, China, and has received multiple academic awards, including the CSC Chinese Government Scholarship.

 

Profile

Google Scholar

Summary:

Dr. Jamal Nasar is a distinguished soil scientist whose research in soil fertility, plant nutrition, and agricultural sustainability has contributed significantly to the advancement of agricultural sciences. His interdisciplinary focus and strong publication record make him a competitive candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

 

🎓 Education

Jamal Nasar holds a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Soil Science from Jilin Agricultural University, China, completed in 2021. He earned his Master of Philosophy (MPhil) in Soil and Environmental Sciences from The University of Agriculture, Peshawar, Pakistan, in 2015. His Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Soil and Environmental Sciences was awarded by Gomal University, Dera Ismail Khan, Pakistan, in 2012. He completed his Higher Secondary School Certificate in 2007 and his Secondary School Certificate in 2005 from the Board of Intermediate & Secondary Education, Saidu Sharif Swat, Pakistan.

 

 

💼Experience

Jamal served as a Postdoctoral Fellow at Guangxi University, Nanning, China, from 2021 to 2023. He gained extensive research experience during his PhD (2016-2021) and one-year research roles at Agriculture Research Institutes in Mingora Swat and Tarnab Peshawar, Pakistan. His teaching journey includes positions as a science teacher at Axiom School, Green Valley Public School, and Islamia Public School in Swat, Pakistan, between 2012 and 2016.

🔬Research Focus

His research interests span plant nutrition, stress physiology, cropping systems, organic farming, agricultural sustainability, nutrient utilization, and soil fertility. He is dedicated to exploring soil-plant-microbial interactions, enzymatic activities, and environmental sciences, with a special focus on soil remediation and metagenomics.

 

Awards

Jamal has been recognized as an Outstanding Graduate Student by Jilin Agricultural University in 2021. He received the prestigious CSC Chinese Government Scholarship from 2016 to 2021. Additionally, he was awarded the Prime Minister and Naway Sahar laptops with fee waivers in 2014 and 2012, respectively.

 

 

Skills

Jamal is proficient in soil and plant sampling, lab analysis, and advanced lab equipment such as Kjeldahl analyzers, spectrophotometers, and flame photometers. He excels in microbial cultivation, soil DNA extraction, and the use of portable photosynthesis systems. His data analysis skills encompass software like SPSS, MS Office, Origin, GraphPad Prism, and STAMP. He is multilingual, fluent in English, Urdu, Pashto, and moderately proficient in Chinese.

 

Publications

  • Photosynthetic activities and photosynthetic nitrogen use efficiency of maize crop under different planting patterns and nitrogen fertilization
    Authors: J Nasar, W Khan, MZ Khan, HI Gitari, JF Gbolayori, AA Moussa, …
    Journal: Journal of Soil Science and Plant Nutrition 21 (3), 2274-2284
    Citations: 87
    Year: 2021

 

  • Interactive effects of melatonin and nitrogen improve drought tolerance of maize seedlings by regulating growth and physiochemical attributes
    Authors: S Ahmad, GY Wang, I Muhammad, YX Chi, M Zeeshan, J Nasar, XB Zhou
    Journal: Antioxidants 11 (2), 359
    Citations: 66
    Year: 2022

 

  • Nitrogen fertilization coupled with iron foliar application improves the photosynthetic characteristics, photosynthetic nitrogen use efficiency, and the related enzymes of maize
    Authors: J Nasar, GY Wang, S Ahmad, I Muhammad, M Zeeshan, H Gitari, …
    Journal: Frontiers in Plant Science 13, 988055
    Citations: 60
    Year: 2022

 

  • The effect of maize–alfalfa intercropping on the physiological characteristics, nitrogen uptake and yield of maize
    Authors: J Nasar, Z Shao, A Arshad, FG Jones, S Liu, C Li, MZ Khan, T Khan, …
    Journal: Plant Biology 22 (6), 1140-1149
    Citations: 48
    Year: 2020

 

  • Root Contact between Maize and Alfalfa Facilitates Nitrogen Transfer and Uptake Using Techniques of Foliar 15N-Labeling
    Authors: Z Shao, X Wang, Q Gao, H Zhang, H Yu, Y Wang, J Zhang, J Nasar, …
    Journal: Agronomy 10 (3), 360
    Citations: 39
    Year: 2020

 

  • Effect of iron and molybdenum on yield and nodulation of lentil
    Authors: J Nasar, Z Shah
    Journal: ARPN Journal of Agricultural and Biological Science 12 (11), 332-339
    Citations: 33
    Year: 2017

 

  • Maize-alfalfa intercropping induced changes in plant and soil nutrient status under nitrogen application
    Authors: J Nasar, Z Shao, Q Gao, X Zhou, S Fahad, S Liu, C Li, J Banda SK, …
    Journal: Archives of Agronomy and Soil Science 68 (2), 151-165
    Citations: 29
    Year: 2022

 

  • Maize productivity, economic returns and phosphorus use efficiency as influenced by lime, Minjingu Rock Phosphate and NPK inorganic fertilizer
    Authors: RP Cheptoek, HI Gitari, B Mochoge, OM Kisaka, E Otieno, S Maitra, …
    Journal: Renu Publishers 8 (1), 47-60
    Citations: 29
    Year: 2021

 

  • Maize-soybean intercropping at optimal N fertilization increases the N uptake, N yield and N use efficiency of maize crop by regulating the N assimilatory enzymes
    Authors: J Nasar, CJ Zhao, R Khan, H Gul, H Gitari, Z Shao, G Abbas, I Haider, …
    Journal: Frontiers in Plant Science 13, 1077948
    Citations: 28
    Year: 2023

 

  • Physiological and transcriptomic study reveal SeNPs-mediated AsIII stress detoxification mechanisms involved modulation of antioxidants, metal transporters, and transcription factors
    Authors: M Zeeshan, YX Hu, XH Guo, CY Sun, A Salam, S Ahmad, I Muhammad, …
    Journal: Environmental Pollution 317, 120637
    Citations: 27
    Year: 2023

 

Conclusion:

Based on his research achievements, academic recognitions, and contributions to soil science, Dr. Jamal Nasar is highly suitable for the Best Researcher Award. Strengthening international collaborations and increasing his involvement in grant-funded projects could further elevate his research stature and solidify his candidacy for future recognitions.