Minh Canh Tran | Soil Physics | Research Excellence Award

Dr. Minh Canh Tran | Soil Physics | Research Excellence Award

National Center for Earthquake Engineering | Taiwan 

Dr. Minh Canh Tran has established a focused research profile supported by 34 citations, an h-index of 2, and 6 published documents, reflecting steady scholarly growth in geotechnical engineering. His research spans soil mechanics, soil–structure interaction, liquefaction behavior, and advanced physical and numerical modeling, contributing to the understanding of how soils respond under seismic and complex loading conditions. Through a combination of centrifuge modeling and simulation-based investigations, he provides valuable insights into pore pressure development, ground deformation, and foundation performance on challenging soil deposits. His publications demonstrate methodological depth and emphasize practical solutions for enhancing infrastructure resilience. The citation record highlights the relevance and applicability of his work within the scientific community, while the h-index indicates consistent influence across multiple studies. The collection of documents collectively advances knowledge on seismic soil behavior, mitigation strategies, and geotechnical system performance, positioning Dr. Tran as an emerging contributor whose research supports safer engineering practices.

Profiles : Scopus | Orcid 

Featured Publications

Hung, W.-Y., Tran, M.-C., & Ha, T.-Q. (2025). Centrifuge modelling lateral loading test of battered-piled-raft system in sand. Journal of the Chinese Institute of Engineers. Advance online publication.

Hung, W.-Y., Chiang, K.-H., Chen, C.-H., Ha, T.-Q., Tran, M.-C., & Castaldo, P. (2025). Centrifuge modeling of soil loss effects on adjacent pile foundations induced by tunnel excavation. Advances in Civil Engineering, 2025, Article 7569758.

Tran, M.-C. (2025). Assessing influence of waves on riverbank stability: A centrifuge modeling approach. Geomechanics and Engineering, 40(1), 1–15.

Chiang, K.-H., Hung, W.-Y., Tran, M.-C., & Ha, T.-Q. (2024). The vertical loading tests of single and group piles by centrifuge modelling. International Journal of Geotechnical Engineering. Advance online publication.

Hung, W.-Y., Tran, M.-C., & Bui, V.-K. (2022). Seismic response of anchored sheet pile walls by centrifuge modelling tests. International Journal of Civil Engineering.

Hung, W.-Y., Tran, M.-C., Yeh, F.-H., Lu, C.-W., & Ge, L. (2020). Centrifuge modeling of failure behaviors of sandy slope caused by gravity, rainfall, and base shaking. Engineering Geology, 270, 105609.

Janet Leandro Marmolejo | Soil Biology | Research Excellence Award

Prof. Janet Leandro Marmolejo | Soil Biology | Research Excellence Award

College of Postgraduates | Mexico

Janet Leandro Marmolejo is an accomplished agricultural and livestock professional with strong expertise in health, microbiology, parasitology, and animal production systems. Her background spans hands-on roles in cattle, buffalo, sheep, turkey, and swine management, where she has applied biosecurity measures, disease prevention strategies, and reproductive evaluation techniques to enhance productivity. She has contributed significantly to silvopastoral systems, dairy and meat operations, and reproductive studies, including work with andrological examinations in buffalo. Janet has overseen the implementation of good livestock practices, feed formulation, monitoring of productive and reproductive indicators, and the development of animal health protocols. Her experience managing dual-purpose cattle, native turkeys, and buffalo herds demonstrates strong diagnostic, behavioral assessment, and disease-control capabilities. As an advisor in sheep production, she has managed vaccination schedules, reproductive monitoring, herd performance, and resource planning. In swine units, her responsibilities have included clinical sampling, nutritional adjustments, sanitary procedures, and growth monitoring. Janet’s academic foundation in genetic resources, livestock productivity, agricultural engineering, and zootechnics complements her extensive field experience, enabling her to integrate scientific knowledge with practical livestock management. Her diverse expertise positions her as a versatile professional capable of contributing to research, industrial, livestock, and agronomic sectors.

Profile : Orcid

Featured Publications

Leandro Marmolejo, J., Crosby Galván, M. M., Crosby Galván, E. M., Vallejo Hernández, L. H., Sánchez-Torres Esqueda, M. T., Cortez Romero, C., & Améndola Massiotti, R. D. (2025). The metabolism of Streptomyces avermitilis isolated from agricultural soils during the four seasons of the year. Applied Microbiology, 5(4), 138.

Marmolejo, J., & Ahedo, A. (2023). Métodos de rotación de calendarios sanitarios en corrales de engorda de ovinos de la raza Suffolk [Design]. Universidad Autónoma Chapingo.

Leandro, J. M. (2023, June 30). Determinación de los indicadores morfométricos reproductivos en machos de búfalo de agua (Bubalus bubalis) mediante examen andrológico con el uso del electro-eyaculador en Costa Rica [Conference poster]. 4º Congreso Nacional Estudiantil en Biología, Educación Ambiental y Agricultura Orgánica.

Leandro, J. M. (2023, June 28). Evaluación etológica en dos tipos de ambiente y su respuesta productiva en pavos doble pechuga (Meleagris gallopavo Linn) [Conference poster]. 4º Congreso Nacional Estudiantil en Biología, Educación Ambiental y Agricultura Orgánica.

Yogendra ND | Soil Science | Editorial Board Member

Dr. Yogendra ND | Soil Science | Editorial Board Member

Dr. Yogendra ND | Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR) | India

Dr. Yogendra N.D. is an accomplished agricultural scientist whose research spans agronomy, soil science, nutrient management, and crop improvement, with a strong focus on rice, millet, sorghum, and maize production systems. His contributions, reflected through 24 published documents, 103 citations, and an h-index of 5, highlight his impactful work on silicon nutrition, soil test–based fertilizer management, seaweed liquid extract applications, nitrogen-use efficiency, and sustainable cropping systems. His studies on real-time nitrogen management using tools like the Leaf Color Chart, along with investigations into silicon sources for enhanced nutrient uptake, have provided valuable insights for improving crop productivity and soil health. He has also conducted significant research on critical micronutrient limits, tillage practices, spentwash utilization, and targeted yield approaches to reduce input costs while maintaining soil fertility. His publications in recognized scientific journals demonstrate his consistent commitment to advancing evidence-based agronomic practices that support sustainable farming. Through his interdisciplinary approach and problem-solving orientation, he continues to contribute to optimized fertilizer use, improved nutrient dynamics, and climate-smart agricultural strategies that strengthen productivity and resource efficiency across diverse cropping systems.

Profile: Scopus 

Featured Publications

Prakhyath, K. M., Yogendra, N. D., Arul Prakash, T., Padalia, R. C., Veeragurunathan, V., Gopalakrishnan, V. A. K., & Ghosh, A. (2025). Seaweed sap from Solieria chordalis enhances growth, yield and essential oil quality in rose-scented geranium (Pelargonium graveolens L’Hér.) varieties. Biochemical Systematics and Ecology.

Prakhyath, K. M., Sharma, P. M., Pragadheesh, V. S., Gopalakrishnan, V. A. K., Veeragurunathan, V., Ghosh, A., & Yogendra, N. D. (2025). Comparative evaluation of formulated and Gracilaria edulis derived seaweed extract in enhancing growth, yield, quality and economics of Artemisia pallens Wall. ex. DC. South African Journal of Botany.

Shakil Ahmad Zeb | Soil Ecology | Best Scholar Award

Mr. Shakil Ahmad Zeb | Soil Ecology | Best Scholar Award

Quaid-i-Azam University | Pakistan 

Shakil Ahmad Zeb is an emerging researcher in the field of plant sciences, with a strong academic foundation from Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, and growing scholarly contributions. He has authored 6 research documents, which have collectively received 40 citations by 39 different documents, reflecting the early but promising impact of his work. His research productivity has earned him an h-index of 3, indicating that at least three of his publications have each been cited three or more times. His publications span areas such as phytogeographic classification, riparian vegetation, ecological assessments, angiosperm distribution, ethnobotany, and conservation biology. The diversity of his research—ranging from floristic inventories and bio-cultural diversity to the ecological role of national parks in carbon sequestration—highlights his commitment to both applied and fundamental aspects of ecology and biodiversity. With contributions in high-impact journals and international conferences, he has demonstrated the ability to integrate fieldwork, laboratory analysis, and advanced statistical tools to address pressing ecological challenges. Although still in the early stages of his career, his citation profile and academic trajectory suggest significant potential for advancing research in plant ecology, biodiversity conservation, and environmental sustainability.

Profiles:  Scopus | Orcid

Featured Publications

“Mushrooms as a Source of Better Food and Health in Northern Pakistan”

Zhihua Qiao | Soil | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Zhihua Qiao | Soil | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Zhihua Qiao, Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, China

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Zhihua Qiao is a researcher at the Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, China, specializing in environmental toxicology and pollutant risk assessment. His work focuses on the ecological effects and interaction mechanisms of emerging contaminants, including brominated flame retardants and pesticides, in soil-plant-animal systems. With a PhD in Environmental Science and Engineering from East China University of Science and Technology, Dr. Qiao has published extensively in top-tier SCI journals and has led and contributed to numerous national research projects. His research integrates multi-omics technologies and advanced analytical techniques to understand the bioaccumulation, toxicity, and environmental fate of pollutants.

Profile

Scopus

Summary:

Dr. Zhihua Qiao is a rising research leader in environmental toxicology and ecotoxicological risk assessment. His work on brominated flame retardants, microplastics, heavy metals, and their interaction with soil organisms and plants is both highly relevant and methodologically advanced. His multidisciplinary approach and contributions to top journals signal strong potential for international leadership in his field.

🎓 Education

Zhihua Qiao began his academic journey at Shandong Agricultural University, where he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Pharmaceutical Engineering (Pesticides) from 2014 to 2021, achieving an undergraduate GPA of 3.42/4. He then pursued a Master’s and currently a PhD in Environmental Science and Engineering at East China University of Science and Technology (a national 211 project university), starting in 2021. His doctoral studies are supervised by Professor Zhang Wei and Associate Professor Jiang Xingyin. His academic coursework has included subjects such as Organic Chemistry, Physical Chemistry, Biochemistry, Plant Physiology, Microbiology, and Environmental Toxicology.

💼Experience

Zhihua Qiao has extensive experience in environmental toxicology and pollutant risk assessment, particularly focusing on new brominated flame retardants and pesticides. He has served as the main researcher in national and provincial-level projects under the National Natural Science Foundation of China and the National Key R&D Program. His work includes investigating the bioaccumulation, metabolism, and toxic effects of compounds like decabromodiphenylethane and cadmium in complex systems involving earthworms, plants, and aquatic organisms. He has also studied co-exposure effects, soil and rhizosphere microbial responses, and developed insights into pollutant interaction mechanisms using multi-omics technologies.

🔬Research Focus

His research centers on environmental risk assessment and pollution control of emerging contaminants. He specializes in understanding the toxicity mechanisms of brominated flame retardants, pesticides, and heavy metals through integrated approaches involving transcriptomics, metabolomics, and microbial ecology. His studies span soil-plant-animal systems and emphasize pollutant interactions, oxidative stress, detoxification, and ecological impact, especially in earthworms, lettuce, rice, and zebrafish models.

🛠️Skills

Zhihua Qiao is proficient in advanced research techniques including transcriptomics, metabolomics, 16S rDNA sequencing, XPS, and XRD. He is skilled in operating large-scale analytical instruments such as GC-MS, LC-MS, atomic fluorescence analyzers, flow cytometers, and qPCR machines. With strong English proficiency (CET-6 certified), he is capable of independently writing and translating scientific papers. His capabilities also extend to data processing, experimental design, and collaborative scientific writing.

🏆Awards

Zhihua Qiao has earned numerous awards for his academic excellence and research contributions. These include the National Scholarship for Master’s Students (2019), Outstanding Graduate and Outstanding Master’s Thesis of Shandong Province (2021–2022), Yu Zunhong Scholarship (2023), Green Seedling Program Scholarship of the Beijing Green Future Environment Foundation (2023), and several first-class academic scholarships for both master’s and doctoral studies. He also received the Second Prize at Zhejiang University’s Doctoral Forum on Soil Health and Sustainable Agriculture and the First Prize at the Graduate Academic Forum of East China University of Science and Technology.

📚 Publications

  • Effects of Decabromodiphenyl Ethane and Cadmium Coexposure on Their Bioaccumulation, Oxidative Stress, Root Metabolism, and Rhizosphere Soil Microorganisms in a Soil-Rice System
    2024
    Qiao, Zhihua; Fu, Mengru; Liang, Weiyu; Zhang, Wei; Zhan, Xiuping
    Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry

  • Effect of Biodegradable Microplastics and Cd Co-pollution on Cd Bioavailability and Plastisphere in Soil-Plant System
    2024
    Shao, Xuechun; Liang, Weiyu; Gong, Kailin; Shen, Genxiang; Peng, Cheng
    Chemosphere

  • Microbial Metabolism in Wormcast Affected the Perturbation on Soil Organic Matter by Microplastics under Decabromodiphenyl Ethane Stress
    2025
    Han, Yanna; Fu, Mengru; Yang, Yuhe; Peng, Cheng; Zhang, Wei
    Journal of Hazardous Materials

Conclusion:

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Zhihua Qiao is a highly suitable candidate for the Research for Best Researcher Award. His demonstrated commitment to impactful, interdisciplinary environmental research, combined with academic excellence and technical strength, make him a compelling nominee. With continued progression toward independent project leadership and broader global collaborations, his trajectory aligns well with the expectations of this prestigious award.

Dorota Pikula | Soil | Soil Fertility Improvement Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Dorota Pikula | Soil | Soil Fertility Improvement Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Dorota Pikula, Institute of Soil Science and Plant Cultivation, Poland

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Dorota Pikuła is a researcher at the Institute of Soil Science and Plant Cultivation, Poland, specializing in soil organic matter, humic substances, and soil fertility management. She holds a habilitation in agricultural sciences and a Ph.D. in agronomy from the Warsaw University of Life Sciences. Her research focuses on soil carbon dynamics, fertilization effects, nitrogen fixation, and the environmental impact of agricultural practices. With extensive experience in scientific publishing, policy advisory, and long-term field experiments, she has received multiple awards from the Polish Ministry of Agriculture. She has authored over 500 publications and actively contributes to sustainable agriculture and soil conservation strategies.

Profile

Orcid

Summary:

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Dorota Pikuła is a highly qualified candidate for the Research for Soil Fertility Improvement Award, given her extensive contributions to soil organic matter studies, long-term field experiments, and sustainable fertilization practices. Her research has significantly impacted both scientific understanding and practical agricultural applications. She has also been recognized nationally for her work in soil fertility and nutrient management. However, to further strengthen her profile, she could focus on global-scale research collaborations, innovation-driven contributions, and leadership in large-scale international projects.

🎓 Education

Dorota Pikuła holds a habilitated doctorate in agricultural sciences with a specialization in agriculture and horticulture from the Institute of Soil Science and Plant Cultivation State Research Institute, awarded in 2019. Her postdoctoral research focused on the environmental and production effects of crop cultivation in rotations with varying organic matter inflow. She earned her master’s degree in engineering from the Warsaw University of Life Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture and Biology, in 2000, specializing in Environmental Protection. Her master’s thesis investigated heavy metal fractions in soils fertilized with sewage sludge. She later obtained a Ph.D. in agricultural sciences in agronomy from the same university in 2006, where she studied the influence of selected physicochemical properties of soil on heavy metal content in fodder plants.

💼Experience

Dorota Pikuła has extensive professional experience in agricultural science, research, and publishing. She worked as an editor and agrotechnical advisor from 2002 to 2006 for agricultural publications such as Agro-Spółdzielca and Poradnik Rolniczy. In 2006, she joined the Institute of Soil Science and Plant Cultivation State Research Institute in Puławy as a senior research and technical specialist. Since 2016, she has been working as an adjunct researcher in the Department of Plant Nutrition and Fertilization. Throughout her career, she has participated in numerous research projects, including studies on soil organic matter quality, humic substances, nitrogen fixation, and the environmental impact of different agricultural practices.

🔬Research Focus

Dorota Pikuła specializes in soil organic matter, humic substances, and soil fertility management. Her research explores soil organic carbon dynamics, the impact of fertilization and crop rotation on soil quality, and the role of humic acids in improving soil fertility. She has conducted extensive work on nitrogen fixation, soil contamination with heavy metals, and the long-term effects of manure application on soil health. She has also contributed to the development of soil quality assessment methods and indicators.

🛠️Skills

Dorota Pikuła possesses expertise in soil science, agricultural chemistry, and environmental protection. She is skilled in analyzing soil organic matter composition, conducting long-term field experiments, and evaluating the environmental effects of different farming practices. Her proficiency extends to scientific publishing, training agricultural professionals, and contributing to policy development on sustainable agriculture. She is an active member of several scientific organizations and has authored over 500 popular science publications, demonstrating her ability to translate complex scientific findings into practical knowledge for farmers and policymakers.

🏆Awards

Dorota Pikuła has received several prestigious awards from the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development. In 2015, she was recognized for her contributions to rational fertilizer management. In 2023, she was awarded for her work on protecting water sources from phosphorus pollution caused by agricultural activities. In 2024, she received another award for developing and implementing a method for determining humic substance content in fertilizers and plant aids.

📚 Publications

  • The Composition of the Organic Matter Fractions of Loamy Sand after Long-Term FYM Application without Liming (2022) – Agronomy – Dorota Pikuła, O. Ciotucha
  • Changes in Relationships between Humic Substances and Soil Structure following Different Mineral Fertilization of Vitis vinifera L. in Slovakia (2022) – Agronomy – V. Šimanský, E. Wójcik‐Gront, J. Horváthová, Dorota Pikuła, T. Lošák, A. Parzych, M. Lukac, E. Aydın
  • Effect of the Degree of Soil Contamination with Heavy Metals on Their Mobility in the Soil Profile in a Microplot Experiment (2021) – Agronomy – Dorota Pikuła, W. Stępień
  • Materia organiczna istotnym elementem żyzności gleb (2020) – Studia i Raporty IUNG-PIB – Dorota Pikuła
  • Selected chemical properties of sandy soil after 36 years of differential fertilization with mineral nitrogen and manure without liming in two crop rotation (2020) – Soil Science Annual – Dorota Pikuła
  • Zbiór zaleceń dobrej praktyki rolniczej mający na celu ochronę wód przed zanieczyszczeniem azotanami pochodzącymi ze źródeł rolniczych (2019) – IUNG-PIB – Dorota Pikuła
  • Praktyki zapobiegające stratom węgla organicznego z gleby (2019) – Środowiskowe Aspekty Gospodarki Nawozowej – Dorota Pikuła
  • Soil properties and productivity in two long-term crop rotations differing with respect to organic matter management on an Albic Luvisol (2019) – Scientific Reports – Dorota Pikuła, S. Martyniuk, M. Kozieł

Conclusion:

Dr. Pikuła is a strong candidate for the Research for Soil Fertility Improvement Award due to her pioneering research on soil fertility, strong publication record, practical impact on agriculture, and policy contributions. While she already has an impressive portfolio, enhancing international collaboration, innovation, and leadership in large-scale initiatives would further strengthen her standing for this prestigious award.

Habib Hakimzadeh | Soil Erosion | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Habib Hakimzadeh | Soil Erosion | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Habib Hakimzadeh, Sahand University of Technology, Iran

Prof. Habib Hakimzadeh is a faculty member at Sahand University of Technology, Iran, specializing in coastal and hydraulic engineering. He holds a Ph.D. in Coastal Engineering from Bradford University, UK, and has extensive expertise in numerical simulation of flow and sediment transport, turbulence modeling, reservoir sedimentation, and scour hydraulics. With numerous research and industry projects completed, he has published extensively in high-impact journals and serves on editorial boards. His contributions to hydraulic engineering and sediment transport have earned him recognition in academia and industry.

Profile

Scopus

Summary:

Prof. Habib Hakimzadeh is an accomplished researcher in coastal and hydraulic engineering, with a strong academic background, extensive research output, and significant industry collaborations. His work in numerical simulations, sediment transport, and scour hydraulics has earned him recognition in both academic and industrial sectors. His editorial and professional roles further establish his influence in the field.

 

🎓 Education

Habib Hakimzadeh holds a Ph.D. in Coastal Engineering from Bradford University, UK, awarded in 1997, where his research focused on turbulence modeling of tidal currents in rectangular harbors. He earned his M.Sc. in Hydraulic Structures from Tabriz University, Iran, in 1991, with a thesis on the numerical and experimental investigation of plate buckling. His academic journey began with a B.Sc. in Civil Engineering (Water) from Tabriz University in 1988, equipping him with a strong foundation in hydraulic and water resources engineering.

 

💼Experience

Habib Hakimzadeh has led and completed four major research projects and five industry projects, demonstrating his expertise in applied hydraulic engineering. His research contributions extend to numerical modeling of flow and sediment transport, turbulence modeling, reservoir sedimentation, scour hydraulics, and dam breach analysis. He has published 16 papers in JCR and Scopus-indexed journals, 45 papers in ISC-indexed journals, and presented four papers at SCI-indexed conferences.He has also contributed to at least ten international and national conferences and is an active member of the Iranian Association of Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering and the Iranian Hydraulic Association.

🔬Research Focus

Prof. Hakimzadeh has completed four major research projects and five industry projects, showcasing his commitment to applied research in hydraulic and environmental engineering. His work spans numerical simulation of flow and sediment transport, turbulence modeling, reservoir sedimentation, scour hydraulics, and dam breach analysis.

 

Awards

Prof. Hakimzadeh’s extensive contributions to research and industry have positioned him as a leading expert in hydraulic engineering and sediment transport. His work continues to influence academia and industry, making him a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

 

Publications

  • Hosseini, D., & Hakimzadeh, H. (2025). Experimental investigation of scour beneath a pipeline due to tidal currents in a Strait. Marine Georesources and Geotechnology. 0 citations.

 

  • Aghaee-Shalmani, Y., & Hakimzadeh, H. (2022). Large eddy simulation of flow around semi-conical piers vertically mounted on the bed. Environmental Fluid Mechanics. 3 citations.

Conclusion:

 Prof. Habib Hakimzadeh is a highly suitable candidate for the Best Researcher Award. While he excels in multiple aspects, expanding his international collaborations, increasing grant acquisitions, and pursuing patents could further elevate his research impact. Nevertheless, his expertise and dedication make him a deserving contender for this prestigious recognition.

Katsuyuki Minami | Soil Ecology | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Katsuyuki Minami | Soil Ecology | Best Researcher Award

 Prof. Dr. Katsuyuki Minami, Kitasato University, Japan

Prof. Dr. Katsuyuki Minami is an Emeritus Professor at Kitasato University, Japan, and a distinguished expert in agricultural and environmental sciences. With a Ph.D. in Agriculture from Tohoku University, he has held prominent roles, including Vice President of Kitasato University and Director General of the National Institute for Agro-Environmental Sciences. His research focuses on soil science, plant nutrition, and sustainable agriculture. A recipient of numerous awards, including the Japan Prize of Agricultural Science and the Order of the Sacred Treasure, he has made significant contributions to global agricultural and environmental sustainability.

Profile

Scopus

Summary:

Prof. Dr. Katsuyuki Minami is an eminent scholar whose work in soil science, plant nutrition, and sustainable agriculture has significantly advanced global agricultural practices. His leadership roles, international recognition, and impactful research place him as a strong contender for the Research for Best Researcher Award. His career exemplifies a blend of scientific excellence and societal impact, addressing vital challenges in sustainability.

 

🎓 Education

Katsuyuki Minami earned his Ph.D. in Agriculture from Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan, in 1971. Following his doctoral studies, he began his career at the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries, Japan, where he served at the National Institute of Agricultural Sciences. His academic and professional journey includes roles such as Director General at the National Institute for Agro-Environmental Sciences (2000), Professor at Kitasato University (2005), and later Vice President of Kitasato University (2006). In 2012, he became an Emeritus Professor at Kitasato University and the Principal of the Agricultural College of the Institute for Agriculture, Health, and the Environment. He retired in 2020 after an illustrious career.

 

💼Experience

Prof. Dr. Katsuyuki Minami has extensive experience spanning academia, research, and leadership in agricultural and environmental sciences. After earning his Ph.D. in Agriculture from Tohoku University in 1971, he began his career at the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries, Japan, serving at the National Institute of Agricultural Sciences. In 2000, he was appointed Director General of the National Institute for Agro-Environmental Sciences, where he oversaw groundbreaking research in sustainable agriculture and environmental protection.

 

🔬Research Focus

Dr. Minami’s research focuses on sustainable agricultural practices, soil health, and agro-environmental systems. His work has been instrumental in advancing knowledge in soil science, plant nutrition, and environmental conservation, contributing significantly to global agricultural sustainability and environmental protection.

 

Awards

Dr. Minami’s contributions have been recognized with numerous prestigious awards, including the Award of the Japanese Society of Soil Science and Plant Nutrition (1990), the Direct Award from the Agency of the Environment (1991), and the Special Award of the Nikkei Global Environment Award (1995). In 1996, he received the Japan Prize of Agricultural Science and the Award of Yomiuri Agricultural Science. His international recognition includes the Yuan T. Lee International Award (1998) and an appreciation letter from the IPCC for contributing to the 2007 Nobel Peace Prize (2008). In 2019, he was honored with The Order of the Sacred Treasure, Gold Rays with Neck Ribbon, Japan.

 

Skills

Dr. Minami is renowned for his expertise in agricultural science, soil science, and agro-environmental research. His leadership roles reflect his skills in scientific administration, research innovation, and interdisciplinary collaboration.

 

Publications

  • “Cultural Understanding of Soil from a Japanese Perspective”
    Authors: Hirai, H., Minami, K.
    Year: 2023
    Citations: 0

 

  • “Soil is a living substance”
    Author: Minami, K.
    Year: 2021
    Citations: 3

 

  • “Emission, production, and oxidation of methane in a Japanese rice paddy field”
    Authors: Yagi, K., Kumagai, K., Tsuruta, H., Minami, K.
    Year: 2018
    Citations: 12

 

  • “Soil and humanity: Culture, civilization, livelihood and health”
    Author: Minami, K.
    Year: 2009
    Citations: 40

 

  • “Challenges of reducing excess nitrogen in Japanese agroecosystems”
    Authors: Yagi, K., Minami, K.
    Year: 2005
    Citations: 7

 

  • “N cycle, N flow trends in Japan, and strategies for reducing N2O emission and NO3- pollution”
    Author: Minami, K.
    Year: 2005
    Citations: 10

 

  • “Policy implications of human-accelerated nitrogen cycling”
    Authors: Mosier, A.R., Bleken, M.A., Chaiwanakupt, P., Minami, K., et al.
    Year: 2001
    Citations: 67

 

  • “Methane emission from rice fields in China: Measurements and influencing factors”
    Authors: Cai, Z.C., Tsuruta, H., Minami, K.
    Year: 2000
    Citations: 136

 

  • “Agricultural sector”
    Authors: Erda, L., Cerri, C.C., Frisvold, G., Minami, K., et al.
    Year: 2000
    Citations: 1

 

  • “A quantitative model for estimating mean annual soil loss in cultivated land using 137Cs measurements”
    Authors: Yang, H., Zhao, Q., Yang, H., Du, M., Minami, K.
    Year: 2000
    Citations: 16

 

Conclusion:

Prof. Dr. Katsuyuki Minami’s contributions to agricultural and environmental sciences make him exceptionally well-suited for the Research for Best Researcher Award. His strengths, particularly in impactful research and leadership, are complemented by opportunities to embrace emerging technologies and foster interdisciplinary collaboration. Recognizing him with this award would honor his legacy while encouraging ongoing innovation in sustainable agriculture.