Sivaranjani S | Soil Science | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Sivaranjani S | Soil Science | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Sivaranjani S, G.B. Pant National Institute of Himalayan Environment, India

Dr. Sivaranjani S is a Scientist-C at the G.B. Pant National Institute of Himalayan Environment, North East Regional Centre, India. She holds a Ph.D. in Soil Science from the Forest Research Institute, Dehradun, with expertise in carbon sequestration and nutrient dynamics. With a strong academic foundation, including a Gold Medal in M.Sc. Agriculture (Soil and Water Conservation) from Banaras Hindu University, her research focuses on forest soil health, climate adaptation, and sustainable land management in the Indian Himalayan Region. Dr. Sivaranjani has contributed to numerous national and international projects and publications, earning multiple awards for her scientific excellence.

Profile

Scopus

Summary:

Dr. Sivaranjani S is a dedicated and impactful researcher whose work is helping shape our understanding of soil respiration and its environmental drivers in the Himalayan region. Her contributions to ecological modeling and climate-soil interaction studies are well-recognized and align closely with the objectives of the Research for Best Researcher Award. Her work not only advances scientific understanding but also aids in conservation planning and sustainable ecosystem management.

🎓 Education

Dr. Sivaranjani S holds a Ph.D. in Soil Science from the Forest Research Institute (Deemed to be University), Dehradun, with a specialization in carbon sequestration and nutrient dynamics across various vegetation covers. She earned her M.Sc. in Agriculture (Soil and Water Conservation) from Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, where she secured a Gold Medal with an impressive 88.90%. She also completed her B.Sc. (Agriculture) from Tamil Nadu Agricultural University with a strong academic record of 84%.

💼Experience

Currently serving as Scientist C at the G B Pant National Institute of Himalayan Environment, North East Regional Centre, Dr. Sivaranjani brings a robust research background in soil health and ecosystem-based climate adaptation. Her previous roles include serving as a Research Associate at FRI and as a DST-INSPIRE Fellow, during which she made impactful contributions to forest soil research and conservation strategies. She has participated as Co-Principal Investigator in six significant national and regional research projects focusing on environmental impact, forest fire effects, and social assessments for hydroelectric projects.

🔬Research Focus

Dr. Sivaranjani’s research primarily focuses on soil science, carbon sequestration, nutrient cycling, and sustainable land management in the fragile ecosystems of the Indian Himalayan Region. Her doctoral work contributed to a deeper understanding of forest soil carbon dynamics under various vegetation types. Currently, her research supports climate adaptation and biodiversity resilience through ecosystem-based approaches. She has also contributed to the national preparation of forest soil health cards and continues to integrate scientific research with conservation-oriented field implementation.

🛠️Skills

Dr. Sivaranjani is skilled in soil carbon modeling, agroforestry, water quality assessment, nutrient management, and forest ecosystem analysis. Her expertise spans various domains including ecological monitoring, environmental impact assessment, and sustainable agricultural systems. She has authored or co-authored over 25 research articles in reputed journals, published one book, and contributed to eight book chapters. She serves as a reviewer for journals such as Scientific Reports and Soil Science, and is affiliated with professional bodies including the National Institute of Ecology and the British Ecological Society.

🏆Awards

Dr. Sivaranjani has received several accolades for her academic and research excellence. These include the “Young Researcher Award 2021” from the Institute of Scholars (InSC), Bangalore, and a travel grant from the British Ecological Society to present at the XXII Dokuchaev International Scientific Conference in Russia, where she also won second prize in oral presentation. Additionally, she secured third prize in a poster presentation at the Summit on Climate Resilient Mountain Agriculture, received the DST-INSPIRE Fellowship during her Ph.D., and was awarded a Gold Medal for topping her M.Sc. program. She has also won a Best Paper Award at an international agricultural conference and earned academic accolades as early as 2005 through a state-level science talent search.

📚 Publications

Title:
Modeling soil respiration: Seasonal variability and drivers in pine and broad-leaved forests of the lower Himalayas

Authors:
Sivaranjani, S.; Sarkar, Mriganka Shekhar; Panwar, Vijender Pal; Mishra, Arun Pratap; Rathnayake, Upaka Sanjeewa

Year:
2025

Journal:
Trees, Forests and People

Conclusion:

Dr. Sivaranjani is highly suitable for the Best Researcher Award. Her research demonstrates scientific excellence, societal relevance, and a strong foundation for future contributions to environmental science. With continued growth in collaborative and interdisciplinary dimensions, she is poised to be a leading figure in Himalayan ecosystem research and environmental sustainability.

Taiji Kou | Soil | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Taiji Kou | Soil | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Taiji Kou, Henan University of Science and Technology, China

Prof. Dr. Taiji Kou is a Professor and Dean at the Department of Resources and Environmental Science, Henan University of Science and Technology, China. He holds a Ph.D. in Soil Science from the Chinese Academy of Sciences and has conducted postdoctoral research at the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences and the University of Melbourne, Australia. His research focuses on soil carbon and nitrogen cycles, sustainable agricultural production, and nutrient management in major crops. He has authored over 96 research papers, published seven books, and holds ten patents. He is also an executive director of the Henan Soil Society and an expert evaluator for national research projects.

Profile

Scopus

Summary:

Prof. Dr. Taiji Kou is a distinguished researcher with a solid track record in soil science and sustainable agriculture. His work has contributed significantly to nutrient management strategies, improving agricultural productivity while addressing environmental challenges. With numerous publications, patents, and international research exposure, he has demonstrated exceptional leadership in his field.

🎓 Education

Taiji Kou holds a Ph.D. in Soil Science from the Institute of Soil Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing, China, obtained in June 2007. He earned his M.Sc. in Soil Science from Henan Agricultural University in 2004 and his B.Sc. in Soil and Agricultural Chemistry from the same institution in 1999.

💼Experience

Taiji Kou has been part of the Department of Resources and Environmental Science at Henan University of Science & Technology, China, since 2007, where he progressed from Lecturer (2007-2010) to Associate Professor (2010-2019) and then to Professor (2019-present). He also worked as a Postdoctoral Fellow at the Institute of Crop Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (2009-2012), and later at the University of Melbourne, Australia, in the School of Agriculture and Food (2016-2017).

🔬Research Focus

Taiji Kou’s research primarily revolves around the soil carbon and nitrogen cycle, with an emphasis on understanding nutrient element interactions in major crops like wheat, rice, and corn under climate change conditions. His work aims to clarify the response mechanisms and develop regulatory technologies for sustainable agricultural production. He has authored 96 journal articles, including 20 SCI papers, published seven books, and holds ten patents related to soil science and agricultural innovation.

🛠️Skills

His expertise includes soil carbon and nitrogen cycling, efficient crop nutrition utilization, and sustainable agricultural production. He has specialized in analyzing the turnover of major nutrient elements in the crop-soil-air system and their response to climate and environmental changes.

🏆Awards

He has been recognized for his contributions through various grants and projects, including funding from the National Natural Science Foundation of China, China Postdoctoral Science Foundation, and the Ministry of Science and Technology of China. He also plays an active role as an expert evaluator for national scientific foundations, talent projects, and education quality assessments.

📚 Publications

  • Publication: Melatonin: A Novel and Beneficial Substance in Sweet Potatoes Through Selenium Application

    • Authors: Xianghan Cheng, Xuan Yang, Quan Zhang, Wenbang Hou, Youjun Li, et al.

    • Journal: Food Chemistry

    • Year: 2025

  • Publication: Corrigendum to “Melatonin: A Novel and Beneficial Substance in Sweet Potatoes Through Selenium Application”

    • Authors: Xianghan Cheng, Xuan Yang, Quan Zhang, Wenbang Hou, Youjun Li, et al.

    • Journal: Food Chemistry

    • Year: 2025

  • Publication: Effects of Improving Copper-Contaminated Soil With Biochar and Humic Acid on Nutrient Uptake of Wheat Under Warming Conditions

    • Authors: Wangshu Yun, Dehong Liu, Taiji Kou, Lukuan Lai, Dongfang Xia

    • Journal: Agricultural Research in the Arid Areas

    • Year: 2024

Conclusion:

Prof. Dr. Taiji Kou is a highly suitable candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His strong research background, innovative contributions, and leadership in academia make him a compelling nominee. Addressing minor improvements in global collaborations and industry partnerships could further enhance his profile for such prestigious recognitions.

Tao Huang | Soil Erosion | Soil and Water Conservation

Mr. Tao Huang | Soil Erosion | Soil and Water Conservation

Mr. Tao Huang, Nanjing Normal University, China

Tao Huang is an Associate Professor at the School of Geography Science, Nanjing Normal University, China. He specializes in soil erosion, nitrogen cycles, and greenhouse gas emissions. His research focuses on organic carbon dynamics in lake sediments, nitrogen transformation, and scaling greenhouse gas emissions from local to regional levels. He holds a Ph.D. in Plant Nutrition from China Agricultural University and has conducted research at the University of Hohenheim, Germany. Dr. Huang has contributed to multiple national and international projects and has published extensively in high-impact journals on soil and environmental sciences.

Profile

Scopus

Summary:

Mr. Tao Huang has a robust background in water and sediment biogeochemistry, making him a strong candidate for soil and water conservation research. His interdisciplinary expertise, international collaborations, and high-quality publications position him well for recognition in the field. While his work is highly relevant to water conservation, a greater focus on direct soil conservation strategies and applied research would further strengthen his profile.

🎓 Education

Tao Huang holds a Ph.D. in Plant Nutrition from China Agricultural University, Beijing, which he completed in 2014 under the supervision of Prof. Xiaotang Ju. His doctoral research focused on the effects of long-term carbon and nitrogen inputs on soil organic carbon and nitrogen pools, with significant environmental implications. He earned his M.S. in Plant Nutrition from Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, in 2010, under the guidance of Xiangmin Rong. His academic journey began with a B.S. in Resources Environment and the Management of Urban and Rural Planning from Hunan University of Science and Technology, Xiangtan, in 2007. Additionally, he participated in a Joint Sino-German Research Training Program at the Institute of Soil Science and Land Evaluation, University of Hohenheim, Germany, where he conducted research under Prof. Thilo Streck and Dr. Joachim Ingwersen.

💼Experience

Dr. Tao Huang is an Associate Professor at the School of Geography Science, Nanjing Normal University. His research career has been marked by active participation in major national projects, including studies on the mechanisms of carbon and nitrogen interactions in soil aggregates and their impact on nitrous oxide emissions in North China. He has contributed to multiple research projects funded by the Natural Science Foundation of China, focusing on organic carbon burial efficiency in eutrophic lakes, the temporal-spatial distribution of trace organic matter and persistent organic pollutants, and the regulation mechanisms of nitrification and denitrification in agricultural soils.

🔬Research Focus

Tao Huang specializes in soil erosion, nitrogen cycles, and greenhouse gas emissions. His research delves into multi-proxy reconstruction of vegetation distribution and organic carbon sources over century-scale periods using biomarkers. He investigates the effects of algal debris on nitrogen transformation, transportation, and greenhouse gas emissions from lake sediments. His work also emphasizes scaling greenhouse gas emissions from plot to field and basin levels using simple models and emission factors. As part of the basin environmental evolution team, he contributes to understanding organic carbon burial efficiency in lake sediments of the Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau, the proportion of autochthonous and allochthonous organic carbon in lake sediments, and the estimation of greenhouse gas emissions in aquatic ecosystems at a catchment scale.

🏆Awards

Tao Huang has received research funding and support from prestigious institutions, including the Natural Science Foundation of China, for his contributions to soil and environmental sciences. His work in greenhouse gas emissions and soil nutrient dynamics has been widely recognized through collaborations with international researchers and publications in high-impact journals.

🛠️Skills

Tao Huang possesses extensive expertise in soil nutrient dynamics, greenhouse gas flux measurement, and organic carbon cycling. He is proficient in experimental design for soil and sediment studies, stable isotope techniques, and modeling approaches for scaling greenhouse gas emissions. His skill set also includes biomarker analysis for reconstructing vegetation history and environmental changes. Additionally, he has significant experience in interdisciplinary research, project management, and international collaboration.

📚Publications

  • Historical Inputs and Biogeochemical Transformations of Dissolved Organic Matter Since 1850 CE in a Small Plateau-Lake, Southwest China
    Authors: S. Li, Shuaidong; X. Wang, Xiaolei; J. Liu, Jinliang; H. Yang, Hao; C. Huang, Changchun
    Journal: Palaeogeography, Palaeoclimatology, Palaeoecology
    Year: 2025

  • Stoichiometric Insights into Sediment Carbon, Nitrogen, and Phosphorus Deposition in Small Forest Reservoirs in Southeast China Under Forest Conversion and Climate Change
    Authors: H. Ye, Hongmeng; F. Tang, Fang; H. Zhang, Haiyan; C. Huang, Changchun; T. Huang, Tao
    Journal: Catena
    Year: 2025

  • Groundwater-Derived Carbon Stimulates Headwater Stream CO₂ Emission Potential on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau
    Authors: Y. Wu, You; G. Yang, Guangrui; L. Meng, Lize; Z. Zhang, Zhigang; C. Huang, Changchun
    Journal: Water Research
    Year: 2025

  • Corrigendum to “20th Century Climate Warming and Human Disturbance Triggered High Aquatic Production and Strong Water-Column Mixing in Maar Lake Xiaolongwan, Northeastern China”
    Authors: L. Tu, Luyao; H. Xue, Hongpan; X. Zhou, Xin; C. Huang, Changchun; M. Grosjean, Martin
    Journal: Anthropocene
    Year: 2024

  • Molecular Composition Limits the Reaction Kinetics of Riverine Dissolved Organic Matter Decomposition
    Authors: Y. Pan, Yiru; L. Meng, Lize; Y. Wu, You; H. Liu, Hailong; C. Huang, Changchun
    Journal: Science of the Total Environment
    Year: 2024

  • Urbanization Significantly Increases Greenhouse Gas Emissions from a Subtropical Headwater Stream in Southeast China
    Authors: M. Dai, Mutan; Y. Xu, Yuanhui; Y. Genjebay, Yegenberdy; C. Huang, Changchun; T. Huang, Tao
    Journal: Science of the Total Environment
    Year: 2024

  • Non-Negligible Allochthonous Contributions to Dissolved Organic Matter Biodegradability in the Yangtze River
    Authors: Y. Wu, You; L. Meng, Lize; Y. Pan, Yiru; H. Liu, Hailong; C. Huang, Changchun
    Journal: ACS ES&T Water
    Year: 2024

Conclusion:

Mr. Tao Huang is a highly suitable candidate for an award in Soil and Water Conservation Research. His contributions to sediment biogeochemistry, nutrient cycling, and greenhouse gas emissions are critical for understanding soil-water interactions. Expanding his focus on soil-specific conservation techniques and practical applications could further enhance his impact. His strong publication record, international collaborations, and interdisciplinary research make him a competitive contender for recognition in this field.

ARUN KUMAR | Soil erosion | Soil Ecosystem Preservation Award

Dr. ARUN KUMAR | Soil erosion | Soil Ecosystem Preservation Award

Dr. ARUN KUMAR, Indira Gandhi National Open University, India

Dr. Arun Kumar is a dedicated geologist and researcher who earned his PhD in Geology from Indira Gandhi National Open University, India, in 2023. With extensive expertise in geomorphology, glaciology, and watershed management, he has contributed significantly to environmental research in the Himalayan region. As an Assistant Professor (Guest Faculty) at Himachal Pradesh University Regional Center, Dharamshala, since 2018, Dr. Kumar has mentored students, advanced curriculum development, and fostered student engagement. His prolific research, published in reputed journals, focuses on soil erosion, glacial dynamics, and land-use changes, addressing critical ecological and geological challenges.

Profile

Scopus

Summary:

Dr. Arun Kumar is a dedicated researcher whose work on soil erosion, land use change, and watershed management aligns closely with the goals of the Research for Soil Ecosystem Preservation Award. His innovative and interdisciplinary approaches have resulted in significant academic contributions, especially in ecologically fragile Himalayan regions. However, scaling up the application of his findings and expanding his geographical and outreach efforts could further strengthen his case.

 

🎓 Education

Dr. Arun Kumar completed his PhD in Geology from Indira Gandhi National Open University in 2023. He earned his Master of Science in Geology from Himachal Pradesh University in 2015, laying a strong academic foundation for his career in geosciences.

 

💼Experience

Dr. Kumar has been serving as an Assistant Professor in Geology (Guest Faculty) at Himachal Pradesh University Regional Center, Dharamshala, since 2018. In this role, he has actively mentored students, communicated internship and employment opportunities, and evaluated academic progress. He has also applied innovative teaching methods, contributed to campus activities, and supported struggling students through personalized guidance. Between 2016 and 2018, Dr. Kumar worked as a Junior Research Fellow on an ISRO-sponsored project focused on Lunar Geomorphology at Govt. PG College Dharamshala. During this period, he collaborated with interdisciplinary teams, utilized GIS software for data analysis, and conducted impactful scientific research.

 

🔬Research Focus

Dr. Kumar’s research interests span geomorphology, soil erosion, watershed management, and glaciology. His work integrates GIS-based methodologies and morphometric analyses to address pressing environmental challenges in ecologically sensitive Himalayan regions. His studies focus on soil erosion susceptibility, land use/land cover changes, and glacial lake dynamics, offering insights into sustainable management of natural resources.

 

Achievements

Dr. Kumar has co-authored several publications in renowned journals, including studies on soil erosion, watershed prioritization, and glacial dynamics in the Himalayan region. His research has contributed significantly to the understanding of geomorphological processes and their implications for environmental sustainability. Notable works include analyses of the Dehar watershed and glacial lake dynamics in Kishtwar National Park.

Skills

Dr. Kumar is proficient in advanced research techniques, student-centered learning, and fostering student engagement. His ability to collaborate effectively with peers and contribute to academic outcomes reflects his dedication to education. Alongside his professional skills, he is fluent in English and Spanish, enhancing his ability to connect with a diverse audience.

Publications

  • Multi-parametrical analysis of Haptal glacier, lower Chenab basin, Jammu and Kashmir, India: A remote sensing approach
    • Authors: Rai, S.K., Dhar, S., Kour, G., Mehta, P., Kumar, D.
    • Journal: Journal of Earth System Science
    • Year: 2024
    • Citations: 0

 

  • Two Decades of Glacier and Glacial Lake Change in the Dhauladhar Mountain Range, Himachal Himalayas, India (2000–2020)
    • Authors: Rai, S.K., Dhar, S., Sahu, R., Kumar, A.
    • Journal: Journal of the Indian Society of Remote Sensing
    • Year: 2024
    • Citations: 1

 

  • Four decades of Glacier and Glacial Lake dynamics in Kishtwar high altitude National Park, Chenab Basin, Jammu and Kashmir, India
    • Authors: Rai, S.K., Sahu, R., Dhar, S., Kumar, A.
    • Journal: Modeling Earth Systems and Environment
    • Year: 2024
    • Citations: 4

 

  • Rapid expansion of proglacial lake and deglaciation of host glacier in Kishtwar Himalaya, Jammu and Kashmir, India, from 1993 to 2020
    • Authors: Rai, S.K., Sahu, R., Dhar, S., Tripathi, N., Kumar, A.
    • Journal: Himalayan Geology
    • Year: 2024
    • Citations: 1

 

  • Land use/land cover change and its implication on soil erosion in an ecologically sensitive Himachal Himalayan watershed, Northern India
    • Authors: Prashanth, M., Kumar, A., Dhar, S., Rai, S.K., Kouser, B.
    • Journal: Frontiers in Forests and Global Change
    • Year: 2023
    • Citations: 14

 

  • Decomposition of continuous soil–gas radon time series data observed at Dharamshala region of NW Himalayas, India for seismic studies
    • Authors: Dhar, S., Randhawa, S.S., Kumar, A., Bharti, H., Kumar, A.
    • Journal: Journal of Radioanalytical and Nuclear Chemistry
    • Year: 2021
    • Citations: 12

 

Conclusion:

Dr. Arun Kumar is a strong candidate for the Research for Soil Ecosystem Preservation Award. His expertise, innovative research, and commitment to soil ecosystem preservation make him deserving of this recognition. By addressing areas for improvement, he can further enhance the impact and reach of his work, cementing his role as a leader in this critical field.