Sani Mashi | Soil | Sustainable Soil Practices Award

Published on by Soil Scientist

Prof. Dr. Sani Mashi | Soil | Sustainable Soil Practices Award

Prof. Dr. Sani Mashi, University of Abuja, Nigeria

Prof. Dr. Sani Abubakar Mashi is a distinguished environmental geographer and Professor of Biogeography at the University of Abuja, Nigeria. With extensive academic and administrative experience, he has served as Director General of the Nigerian Meteorological Agency and Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to the World Meteorological Organization. His research focuses on environmental management, climate change adaptation, land degradation, and remote sensing applications. A prolific scholar and policy advisor, he has led numerous national and international research projects and currently chairs the Governing Board of the Katsina State Internal Revenue Service.

Profile

Scopus

Orcid

Summary:

Prof. Dr. Sani Mashi’s career is a compelling embodiment of sustainable soil science in action. He merges academic rigor with applied research to address urgent soil degradation issues affecting livelihoods, food security, and environmental health. His multi-disciplinary approach, extensive mentorship record, and impactful leadership make him an exemplary candidate for recognition.

🎓 Education

Professor Sani Abubakar Mashi received his foundational education from Galadima Primary School and continued through Government Day and Government Secondary Schools in Katsina State. He earned his B.Sc. (Hons) in Geography from Bayero University, followed by an M.Sc. in Soil Geography from Ahmadu Bello University. He completed his Ph.D. in Environmental Applications of Remote Sensing and GIS from Bayero University. In addition, he holds a professional certificate in the Management of Higher Education Institutions from the Galilee International Management Institute in Israel.

💼Experience

Professor Mashi has had a distinguished academic and professional career. He began as a Geography teacher during his National Youth Service in Ondo State and advanced through academic ranks from Graduate Assistant to Professor of Biogeography at various Nigerian universities including Ahmadu Bello University, University of Abuja, and Umaru Musa Yar’adua University. He also held key administrative roles such as Deputy Vice Chancellor, Director of Academic Planning, and Head of Department. Notably, he served as the Director General of the Nigerian Meteorological Agency and as Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to the World Meteorological Organization. Currently, he is a professor at the University of Abuja and serves as Chairman of the Governing Board of the Katsina State Internal Revenue Service.

🔬Research Focus

His research is primarily centered on environmental applications of geographic science. He has led over 25 externally funded projects, focusing on soil and land use dynamics, vegetation change detection, climate services for farmers, ecological assessments, and community-based environmental management. His recent work includes evaluating climate adaptation strategies in drylands and promoting renewable energy through European Union-funded initiatives. He has extensively applied remote sensing and GIS tools to map and manage environmental degradation and land use change, especially in Nigeria’s semi-arid regions.

🛠️Skills

Professor Mashi is a multidisciplinary expert with core competencies in soil science, land degradation, environmental management, remote sensing, and GIS. His work reflects deep expertise in climate adaptation, geospatial analysis, land use planning, and ecosystem sustainability. He is skilled in leading research teams, managing academic programs, policy development, and institutional governance. His academic supervision spans numerous graduate theses and dissertations across environmental management, geography, and planning.

🏆Awards

Professor Mashi has earned national and institutional recognition for his contributions. He was appointed to key federal committees, including the one that developed Nigeria’s National Geoinformation Policy. He served in high-level advisory roles within the National Space Research and Development Agency and various state and federal institutions. His leadership at NiMet and the WMO raised Nigeria’s profile in meteorological science. He currently holds the presidency of the Association of Nigerian Geographers, highlighting his stature in the academic and professional geography community.

📚 Publications


Title: Determinants of urban waste recycling among smallholder farmers in Katsina, Nigeria: Awareness, adoption, and valorization
Authors: Sani Abubakar Mashi, Amina Ibrahim Inkani, Elizabeth Dorsuu Jenkwe, Kabir Idris
Year: 2025
Journal: Cleaner Waste Systems


Title: Managing climate change risks in urban areas: determinants of climate change responses by informal settlement dwellers
Authors: Sani Abubakar Mashi, Amina Ibrahim Inkani, Elizabeth Dorsuu Jenkwe, Martins Momoh
Year: 2025
Journal: Physics and Chemistry of the Earth, Parts A/B/C


Title: Assessment of efficiency of IFAD-CASP weather and climate services delivery in Sokoto and Katsina states, Nigeria
Authors: Amina Ibrahim Inkani, Sani Abubakar Mashi, Obaro Dominic Oghenejabor, Safirat Sani
Year: 2025
Journal: Physics and Chemistry of the Earth, Parts A/B/C


Title: Enhancing environmental monitoring and assessment: evaluating soil quality changes using a parametric index in smallholder farming systems
Authors: Safirat Sani, Sani Abubakar Mashi, Clement Didi Chup, Elizabeth Dorsuu Jenkwe
Year: 2025
Journal: Environmental Monitoring and Assessment


Title: Assessment of climate change knowledge of residents of informal sectors of Abuja Federal Capital City, Nigeria
Authors: Elizabeth Dorsuu Jenkwe, Sani Abubakar Mashi, Martins Momoh, Oghenjabor Dominic Obaro, Safirat Sani
Year: 2024
Journal: South African Geographical Journal


Title: Determinants of utilization of soil and water conservation practices by smallholder farmers in a dryland ecosystem in Nigeria
Authors: Elizabeth Doosuu Jenkwe, Amina Ibrahim Inkani, Sani Abubakar Mashi, Amina Murtala Abusufyan, Safirat Sani
Year: 2024
Journal: Preprint (Authorea)

Conclusion:

Prof. Dr. Sani Mashi stands out as an excellent nominee for the Research for Sustainable Soil Practices Award. His legacy of integrating scientific innovation with practical land stewardship exemplifies the spirit of sustainability. While greater international collaboration and enhanced global science communication could amplify his influence, his foundational contributions and proven commitment to sustainable soil management solidify his candidacy. This award would not only honor his work but also bring global attention to the critical issues he continues to address.

BARATHKUMAR | Soil Science | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Soil Scientist

Mr. Barathkumar | Soil Science | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Barathkumar, Adhiyamaan College of Agriculture and Research, India

Mr. Barathkumar S is an Assistant Professor in Soil Science at Adhiyamaan College of Agriculture and Research, India. He holds an M.Sc. (Ag.) in Soil Science from Tamil Nadu Agricultural University and specializes in soil fertility, spatial soil mapping, and precision agriculture. His research focuses on soil quality assessment, geospatial analysis, and sustainable nutrient management. He has authored multiple peer-reviewed articles and actively contributes to advancing soil health and sustainable farming practices through innovative teaching and applied research.

Profile

Google Scholar

Summary:

Mr. Barathkumar is a young, dynamic soil scientist whose research is rooted in real-world agricultural and environmental challenges. His scientific contributions span advanced spatial mapping, AI-integrated soil diagnostics, and environmental health—making his work highly relevant to modern agricultural sustainability and digital soil science.

🎓 Education

Barathkumar S holds a Master of Science in Agriculture with a specialization in Soil Science from Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, completed in October 2024 with an impressive OGPA of 8.91 out of 10. He previously earned a Bachelor of Science (Hons.) in Agriculture from the College of Agricultural Technology, Theni, Tamil Nadu, in 2022, securing a CGPA of 7.55. His foundational education includes Higher Secondary School (HSC) and Secondary School (SSLC) education from Sri Vidya Mandir Matric Higher Secondary School in Krishnagiri, where he scored 1088 out of 1200 and 483 out of 500, respectively, demonstrating academic excellence throughout.

💼Experience

Currently serving as an Assistant Professor in Soil Science at Adhiyamaan College of Agriculture and Research, Hosur since November 2024, Barathkumar has developed and taught undergraduate courses in fundamentals of soil science, problematic soils, and remote sensing. He has guided innovative student projects and conducted institutional events such as Soil Day’25. His academic involvement is complemented by active participation in research, publishing numerous peer-reviewed research, review, and popular science articles on soil and water mapping, AI in agriculture, soil fertility, and sustainable farming.

🔬Research Focus

Barathkumar’s research focuses on soil chemistry, fertility, conservation, and precision agriculture. He has conducted field and laboratory studies on soil quality, including spatial soil assessments in industrial zones using ArcGIS and geostatistical models. His recent works include heavy metal contamination analysis, nutrient prediction using multivariate time-series models, and AI-driven soil nutrient diagnostics. He has also explored environmental impacts of industrial effluents, groundwater quality assessment, and the application of liquid biofertilizers and radioisotopes in sustainable agriculture. His broader research interests lie in carbon dynamics, agroecosystem resilience, and integrating AI with soil health strategies for improved crop productivity.

🛠️Skills

Barathkumar is proficient in ArcGIS Pro software, which he used to map the soil of the ACAR farm, and has expertise in geostatistical analysis, laboratory techniques, soil quality assessment, scientific research, and statistical analysis. His skillset extends to scientific writing, remote sensing applications, and innovative classroom instruction. He also demonstrates strong capabilities in time management and interdisciplinary collaboration.

🏆Awards

He has participated in prestigious programs including the India International Science Festival’s Young Scientists Conference, the European Astronomy Contest “Catch a Star,” and various astronomy observation events. Notable academic conferences include his participation in the 8th Agricultural Graduate Students Conference (AGSC 2023), themed around the globalization of agriculture, where he engaged with contemporary discussions on food, feed, and fuel.

📚 Publications

  • Title: Advancements in Soil Quality Assessment: A Comprehensive Review of Machine Learning and AI-Driven Approaches for Nutrient Deficiency Analysis
    Authors: S. Barathkumar, K.M. Sellamuthu, K. Sathyabama, P. Malathi, et al.
    Year: 2025
    Journal: Communications in Soil Science and Plant Analysis, 56(2), 251–276

  • Title: Effects of Artificial Soil Fertility Gradient Strategy on the Soil Fertility, Nutrient Uptake and Growth Attributes of Chakravarthi Keerai (Chenopodium album)
    Authors: R. Arulmani, K.M. Sellamuthu, S. Maragatham, P. Malathi, R. Rajeswari, et al.
    Year: 2024
    Journal: International Journal of Plant & Soil Science, 36(12), 519–529

  • Title: A Geostatistical Study of Heavy Metal Contamination and Soil Quality in Industrial Areas of Erode and Namakkal
    Authors: S. Barathkumar, A. Chitra Devi
    Year: 2025
    Journal: Soil and Sediment Contamination: An International Journal, 1–21

  • Title: Multivariate Time Series Models for Soil Nutrient and Yield Prediction in Site Specific Integrated Nutrient Management
    Authors: A. Chitra Devi, S. Maragatham, R. Santhi, S. Srivastava, P. Dey, et al.
    Year: 2025
    Journal: Communications in Soil Science and Plant Analysis, 1–19

  • Title: Groundwater Quality Assessment in Selected Polluted Hotspots of Tamil Nadu, India Using Geospatial and Statistical Approaches
    Authors: S. Barathkumar, K.M. Sellamuthu, K. Sathyabama, P. Malathi, et al.
    Year: 2025
    Journal: Desalination and Water Treatment, 322, 101047

Conclusion:

Mr. S. Barathkumar is highly suitable for the Research for Best Researcher Award. His work demonstrates originality, relevance, and future promise. With continued support, he is well-positioned to become a leading researcher in soil science and precision agriculture both nationally and globally.

Biplab Brahma | Soil Fertility | Soil Nutrient Management Pioneer

Published on by Soil Scientist

Dr. Biplab Brahma | Soil Fertility | Soil Nutrient Management Pioneer

Dr. Biplab Brahma, Assam University, India

Dr. Biplab Brahma is an environmental researcher specializing in soil carbon sequestration, biomass modeling, and climate change mitigation. He holds a Ph.D. in Ecology and Environmental Science from Assam University, India, with expertise in soil health management, carbon flux, and agroforestry systems. Dr. Brahma has worked extensively on ecosystem carbon stocks, fine root dynamics, and land use impact assessments. He has received the Shastri Indo-Canadian Postdoctoral Fellowship (2019) and the Junior Scientist of the Year Award (2017). His research contributes to sustainable land management, biodiversity conservation, and climate resilience, with multiple high-impact publications and international collaborations.

Profile

Scopus

Summary:

Dr. Biplab Brahma has made pioneering contributions to soil nutrient management through his research on soil carbon sequestration, fine root dynamics, and biomass modeling. His work has enhanced the understanding of soil organic matter preservation and ecosystem restoration, making him a strong contender for the Research in Soil Nutrient Management Pioneer Award.

🎓 Education

Dr. Biplab Brahma holds a Ph.D. in Ecology and Environmental Science from Assam University, India, with research focusing on carbon stock and sequestration potential in rubber plantations. He also earned an M.Sc. in Ecology and Environmental Science from the same university and a Postgraduate Diploma in Bamboo Cultivation and Resource Utilization from Tripura University. His academic foundation includes a B.Sc. in Biological Science from Tripura University, and he is currently pursuing an M.A. in Sustainable Science from IGNOU.

💼Experience

Dr. Brahma has extensive research experience in environmental science, particularly in carbon dynamics and soil management. Since March 2020, he has been a Research Associate working on ecosystem carbon stock and sequestration rates in North East Indian forests. Previously, he was a Shastri Indo-Canadian Postdoctoral Research Fellow in 2019, where he assessed soil nutrient management and carbon sequestration strategies. From 2017 to 2019, he served as a Senior Research Fellow, focusing on phytolith occluded carbon in bamboo species for climate change mitigation. Earlier, as a Junior Research Fellow from 2015 to 2017, he assessed carbon sequestration potential in major land-use types of Southern Assam. His career began as a Field Assistant in 2009 on a bamboo cultivation and resource utilization project.

🔬Research Focus

Dr. Brahma specializes in soil carbon stock and sequestration, soil health management, fine root and litter dynamics, biomass modeling, and forest and biodiversity management. His work extends to climate change mitigation and adaptation, ecosystem restoration, and sustainable land management. He has contributed significantly to understanding carbon flux, sequestration rates, and the impact of land use changes on soil organic carbon pools. His research has practical applications in forest conservation, agroforestry, and carbon sink management.

🛠️Skills

Dr. Brahma possesses expertise in soil health management, ecosystem carbon sequestration, and biomass allometric modeling. He is skilled in statistical and GIS tools, including SPSS, R, MS Excel, and QGIS, for environmental data analysis. He has experience in natural resource management, climate change mitigation, and project management. His skills extend to research design, data analysis, laboratory experimentation, and scientific writing. Additionally, he is proficient in community engagement and capacity building and is fluent in English, Hindi, Bengali, and Assamese.

🏆Awards

Dr. Brahma has received notable recognition for his contributions to environmental science. He was awarded the Shastri Indo-Canadian Institute Postdoctoral Fellowship in 2019 and honored as the Junior Scientist of the Year in 2017 by the Confederation of Indian Universities and the International Foundation for Environment and Ecology. His research paper on ecosystem carbon sequestration in North East India was one of the most downloaded articles between 2016 and 2018 in Land Degradation and Development. Another study on biomass stocks and carbon loss in rubber plantations was featured in Science Last Fortnight by Current Science in 2018.

📚 Publications

  • Publication: Significance of land management practices under haskap orchards to mitigate the degradations of soil organic carbon stocks and soil health because of land use changes from forest and grassland
    Author: Brahma, B., Hammermeister, A.M., Lynch, D.H., Smith, P., Nath, A.J.
    Year: 2025
    Journal: Soil Use and Management

Conclusion:

 Dr. Brahma is a highly deserving candidate for this award. His work not only advances scientific knowledge but also provides practical solutions for sustainable soil management and climate change mitigation.

Awouminassi Marcellin ATAKOUN | Soil Conservation | Young Scientist Award

Published on by Soil Scientist

Mr. Awouminassi Marcellin ATAKOUN | Soil Conservation | Young Scientist Award

 Mr. Awouminassi Marcellin ATAKOUN ,West African Sciences Services Center on Climate Change and Adapted Land Use (WASCAL), Benin

Awouminassi Marcellin Atakoun is a dedicated PhD candidate at the West African Sciences Services Center on Climate Change and Adapted Land Use (WASCAL) in Benin. With a strong academic background in soil, water, and environmental sciences, his research focuses on sustainable agricultural systems, agroecological transitions, and greenhouse gas mitigation. A recipient of prestigious awards, including the CLIFF-GRADS and IPCC scholarships, Marcellin contributes significantly to advancing climate-smart agricultural practices in West Africa.

Profile

Scopus

Summary:

Marcellin Atakoun is a highly promising researcher with a strong foundation in environmental sciences and a focus on addressing climate change challenges through sustainable agricultural practices. His receipt of internationally recognized scholarships underscores his potential and contribution to the field.

 

🎓 Education

Marcellin is a PhD candidate in Climate Change and Land Use at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Ghana. He holds a Master’s degree in Soil-Water-Environment and Modeling and a Bachelor’s degree in Plant Production Sciences from the University of Parakou, Benin. His educational foundation includes a high diploma in Biology and Geology.

 

💼Experience

Awouminassi Marcellin Atakoun has diverse professional experiences spanning research, teaching, and project management in climate action and sustainable agriculture. He served as a United Nations Volunteer in Benin, contributing to the prevention of violent extremism. His research assistantships include working on biochar studies under the ProSol Project with GIZ, and at the Permanent Experimentation Center for soil and water conservation. Additionally, he has held roles in crop production management and scientific communication.

 

🔬Research Focus

His research is centered on sustainable agricultural systems, including agroecological transitions, soil and water conservation, greenhouse gas mitigation in cropping systems, and the modeling of production systems for sustainability.

 

Awards

Marcellin has received several prestigious awards, including the CLIFF-GRADS Scholarship for research in soil nitrogen fluxes, the IPCC Scholarship for climate change research, and the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Scholarship. He also holds a WASCAL PhD scholarship in Climate Change and Land Use and earned accolades for academic excellence in his Master’s program.

 

Skills

He is proficient in various software tools, including R Commander, ArcGIS, Microsoft Office Suite, SPSS, and Python, among others. His expertise encompasses modeling, climate data analysis, and agroecological tools like DSSAT and QGIS.

 

Publications

  • Publication: GENDER ROLE IN FOOD RIGHTS AND SOVEREIGNTY IN WEST AFRICA: A RAPID REVIEW
    Authors: Addo, P., Djekic-Ivankovic, M., Abdu, A., Naïm, S., Marquis, G.S.
    Citation: African Journal of Food, Agriculture, Nutrition and Development, 2024, 24(10), pp. 24725–24773.

 

  • Publication: Evaluation of cover crop contributions to conservation agriculture in northern Benin
    Authors: Atakoun, A.M., Tovihoudji, P.G., Diogo, R.V.C., Hougni, A., Tittonell, P.
    Citation: Field Crops Research, 2023, 303, 109118.

 

Conclusion:

Marcellin’s contributions, particularly in advancing climate-smart agricultural practices in West Africa, make him a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award. However, enhancing his research profile through additional high-impact publications, broader collaborations, and leadership roles will further solidify his position as an influential figure in his field.