Workina Geleta | Soil Science | Best Researcher Award

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.

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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.

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.

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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.

xiaolan liu | Soil | Best Researcher Award

Dr. xiaolan liu | Soil | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Xiaolan liu, Tianjin Chengjian University, China

Dr. Xiaolan Liu is a lecturer at Tianjin Chengjian University, China, specializing in road and airport engineering. Her research focuses on non-destructive testing of road structures, runway performance in permafrost regions, and sponge city infrastructure. She has led multiple national and municipal research projects and published extensively in international journals. Dr. Liu has received several prestigious awards, including honors from the China Highway Society and the China Civil Aviation Authority, recognizing her contributions to transportation engineering.

Profile

Scopus

Summary:

Dr. Xiaolan Liu’s research addresses a highly relevant and pressing issue in civil and geotechnical engineering, particularly for regions experiencing extreme climates. By focusing on the cooling effects of ventilation subgrades, Dr. Liu is advancing techniques to protect infrastructure in permafrost regions, which is crucial in the context of global climate change. Their work also contributes to the development of better construction practices for frozen soil areas.

🎓 Education

Xiaolan Liu is currently pursuing her Ph.D. at Nanjing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics, specializing in Highway and Railway Engineering under the School of Civil Aviation. Simultaneously, she is enrolled in another Ph.D. program in Civil Engineering at Southwest Forestry University, School of Transportation Engineering. She earned her Master’s degree in Highway and Railway Engineering from the Civil Aviation University of China and has maintained a consistent academic focus on infrastructure engineering throughout her education.

💼Experience

Liu has led and contributed to numerous high-impact research projects, including those funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China and municipal research initiatives. Her roles as principal investigator and advisor on projects dealing with permafrost roadbed settlement, freeze-thaw effects on clay roadbeds, and rigid pavement performance under aircraft loading have established her as a leading expert in infrastructure performance under extreme environmental conditions. She currently serves as a lecturer and actively mentors research teams on structural mechanics and pavement engineering.

🔬Research Focus

Liu’s research primarily centers on the theory and application of non-destructive testing for road structures, engineering solutions for airport runways in permafrost areas, and the development and implementation of sponge city infrastructure. Her work addresses real-world challenges in runway performance under aircraft loading and extreme climatic conditions, making substantial contributions to both civil aviation safety and cold-region infrastructure sustainability.

🛠️Skills

Liu possesses advanced skills in structural modeling, dynamic load analysis, non-destructive testing, permafrost engineering, and pavement material characterization. She is proficient in conducting both field experiments and laboratory testing, complemented by analytical and simulation expertise for evaluating roadbed and runway performance in challenging environments.

🏆Awards

Her academic excellence and research innovations have been recognized through numerous prestigious awards. These include the Second Prize of the Science and Technology Award from the China Highway Society in 2023, the Tianjin Municipal Teaching Achievement Award in 2022, and the China Civil Aviation Science and Technology Achievement Award the same year. She is also a recipient of multiple national scholarships, including those for undergraduate and graduate excellence, and has been honored as an Excellent Graduate Student by both her universities.

📚 Publications

  • Study on the cooling effect of the parallel perforated ventilation subgrade in permafrost regions based on the numerical model

    • Authors: X. Liu, Xiaolan; C. Fu, Chuanwei; X. Cheng, Xinglei

    • Year: 2025

    • Journal: PLoS ONE

  • Study on applicability of parallel perforated ventilation subgrade to the runway in frozen soil regions

    • Authors: X. Liu, Xiaolan; C. Fu, Chuanwei; C. Lv, Chao

    • Year: 2025

    • Journal: AEJ – Alexandria Engineering Journal

Conclusion:

Dr. Liu is a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award due to their innovative approach and contributions to permafrost engineering. With improvements in citation impact and broader engagement, their research could have a more profound influence on both academia and real-world applications in the field of sustainable infrastructure development.

Abderrahmen AKKACHA | Soil Sciences | Outstanding Soil Survey Project

Mr. Abderrahmen AKKACHA | Soil Sciences | Outstanding Soil Survey Project

Mr. Abderrahmen Akkacha, University of Chlef, Algeria

Mr. Abderrahmen Akkacha is a soil scientist affiliated with the University of Chlef, Algeria. With a strong background in soil salinity management, sustainable land use, and soil mapping, he has contributed to numerous national and international research initiatives. He is known for his leadership in laboratory management and collaborative projects focused on soil and water conservation in arid and semi-arid regions.

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Summary:

Mr. Akkacha’s soil survey projects are methodologically robust, environmentally relevant, and regionally impactful. He effectively blends field data with advanced soil science techniques, offering a solid model for modern soil survey work. His focus on semi-arid, saline landscapes makes his work especially important for countries facing desertification and irrigation challenges.

🎓 Education

Abderrahmen Akkacha holds a Ph.D. in Soil Sciences from Tunisia. His academic background is reinforced by specialized training in soil salinity, mapping technologies, and advanced data processing techniques.

💼Experience

He currently serves as Director of a Soil Laboratory in Tunisia and previously held the position of Regional Director at the Regional Agricultural Development Commission (CRDA). Throughout his career, he has coordinated and contributed to numerous international and national research projects focused on soil and water conservation. His expertise has made him a sought-after trainer and speaker at scientific workshops and symposia, and he has collaborated with international institutions such as ICBA, ISRIC, and IWMI.

🔬Research Focus

Abderrahmen’s research is centered on managing soil salinity to enhance productivity in arid and semi-arid regions. He is dedicated to sustainable land use strategies to combat desertification, as well as exploring soil-water-plant interactions to optimize irrigation and crop performance. He also plays a key role in national and international soil health monitoring initiatives.

🛠️Skills

His skills include soil salinity mapping and management, laboratory analysis, GIS and remote sensing applications, project leadership, and training delivery. He is multilingual, fluent in Arabic, French, and English, which enhances his ability to work across diverse regions and cultures.

🏆Awards

Abderrahmen has received several national awards for his work in soil health and sustainable agriculture. He has also been recognized by the Tunisian Ministry of Agriculture and supported through international participation grants for his involvement in global soil salinity and mapping projects.

📚 Publications

Title: Investigating the Impact of Salinity on Soil Organic Matter Dynamics Using Molecular Biomarkers and Principal Component Analysis
Year: 2025
Author: Abderrahmen Akkacha
Journal: Sustainability

Title: Study of the Seasonal Dynamics of Salts in the Irrigated Soils in Semi-Arid Region: Case of Lower-Cheliff (Algeria)
Year: 2024
Author: Abderrahmen Akkacha
Journal: African Journal of Biological Sciences

Conclusion:

Mr. Abderrahmen Akkacha demonstrates all the key qualities of an outstanding soil survey researcher: field expertise, methodological innovation, regional relevance, and scientific integrity. With further growth in spatial analysis and interdisciplinary collaboration, his projects could serve as a benchmark for future soil survey initiatives. He is highly recommended for the Research for Outstanding Soil Survey Project Award.

Ching Nuo Chen | Soil | Soil and Water Conservation

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ching Nuo Chen | Soil | Soil and Water Conservation

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ching Nuo Chen, National Pingtung University of Science, Taiwan

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ching-Nuo Chen is a faculty member in the Department of Civil Engineering at National Pingtung University of Science and Technology, Taiwan. He specializes in hydraulic engineering, soil erosion modeling, flood risk assessment, and river habitat restoration. With a Ph.D. from National Cheng Kung University, his research focuses on developing integrated simulation models to address sediment and flood disasters under climate change. Dr. Chen has published extensively in SCI-indexed journals and leads multiple national projects aimed at enhancing environmental resilience and sustainable watershed management.

Profile

Scopus

Summary:

Dr. Chen’s research clearly advances the field of soil and water conservation by addressing the pressing issues of erosion control, flood risk mitigation, and river habitat restoration. His integrative modeling techniques contribute both to scientific knowledge and to sustainable environmental management practices. With a solid academic foundation, an impressive research portfolio, and a commitment to addressing climate-induced hydrological challenges, he exemplifies the qualities sought in an awardee.

🎓 Education

Ching-Nuo Chen earned his Ph.D. from the Department of Hydraulic and Ocean Engineering at National Cheng Kung University in 2006. His academic foundation integrates hydrology, soil science, and environmental engineering, forming the basis of his interdisciplinary research on sediment and flood disaster simulation in river basins.

💼Experience

Ching-Nuo Chen is currently serving as an Associate Professor in the Department of Civil Engineering at the National Pingtung University of Science and Technology. His career is marked by the development of advanced simulation models for soil erosion, sediment deposition, flood risk, and river habitat restoration. He has led several national research projects funded by the National Science and Technology Council of Taiwan, focusing on climate change adaptation, disaster reduction strategies, and sustainable watershed management.

🔬Research Focus

Dr. Chen’s research primarily addresses the modeling and mitigation of watershed sediment disasters and flood risks under changing climate conditions. His work emphasizes integrating hydrological, geomorphological, and ecological data to simulate erosion and sediment dynamics. He is particularly focused on advancing the understanding of river habitat diversity and ecological restoration through environmentally sensitive engineering practices. His current projects explore the intersection of climate change impacts, disaster resilience, and rural ecological sustainability in Taiwan’s slopelands.

🛠️Skills

Dr. Chen possesses extensive expertise in hydraulic engineering, eco-hydraulics, soil erosion modeling, flood risk assessment, river basin management, and aquatic habitat restoration. He has developed multiple simulation models, including the Physiographic Soil Erosion–Deposition Model and the Two-Dimensional River Habitat Diversity Construction Model, which combine numerical simulations with field surveys to support ecological engineering solutions.

🏆Awards

Among his accolades, one of Dr. Chen’s papers received the PAWEES_Paper Award in 2022 for his work on sustainable rice irrigation. He has been appointed as Co-Guest Editor for Hydrology and Guest Editor for the Journal of Environmental & Earth Science, highlighting his leadership in academic publishing and peer-reviewed research.

📚 Publications

Title: Mapping soil erosion potential and risk for slope land in a watershed
Author: Ching-Nuo Chen
Year: Not specified
Journal: Not specified

Title: Modelling the distribution of fish habitat type and habitat diversity in natural rivers
Authors: Hung, Hsuan-Ju; Lo, Wei-Cheng; Chen, Ching-Nuo; Tsai, Chih-Heng
Year: 2024
Journal: Journal for Nature Conservation

Title: Impact assessment of land use and land cover change on soil erosion at Laonung watershed in Taiwan
Authors: Jien, Shih-Hao; Chen, Ching-Nuo; Dabo, Lala Mariam; Tfwala, Samkele S. Sikhulile; Kunene, Nosizwe Haru
Year: 2023
Journal: Environmental Earth Sciences

Conclusion:

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ching-Nuo Chen is a strong candidate for a research award in Soil and Water Conservation. His work bridges scientific innovation and ecological impact, demonstrating both depth and relevance. With continued emphasis on broadening international collaboration and field-level implementation, his contributions are poised to make a lasting impact in this critical area of environmental science.

Nafiseh Kakhani | Soil Mapping | Best Researcher Award

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.

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.

Seyed Hamidreza Sadeghi | Soil | Outstanding Scientist Award

Prof. Seyed Hamidreza Sadeghi | Soil | Outstanding Scientist Award

Prof. Seyed Hamidreza Sadeghi, Tarbiat Modares University, Iran

Prof. Seyed Hamidreza Sadeghi is a Full Professor at Tarbiat Modares University, Iran, specializing in watershed management, soil and water conservation, and erosion control. He holds a Ph.D. in Soil and Water Conservation Engineering from G.B. Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, India, and completed postdoctoral research at Kyoto University, Japan. With over three decades of experience, he has held leadership roles, including Head of the Department of Watershed Management Engineering and Dean of the Faculty of Natural Resources. His research focuses on erosion modeling, sediment yield analysis, hydrology, and climate change impacts. Prof. Sadeghi has received numerous national and international awards and is recognized as a distinguished professor in Iran.

Profile

Scopus

Summary:

Prof. Seyed Hamidreza Sadeghi is an outstanding scientist with significant contributions to watershed management, soil and water conservation, and hydrological studies. His work has led to important advancements in erosion modeling, sediment yield assessment, and sustainable land-use practices. He has a strong international profile, substantial research output, and recognized leadership in his field. His innovative contributions to cyanobacterization, watershed sustainability, and flood risk management make him a prime candidate for the Research for Outstanding Scientist Award.

🎓 Education

Prof. Dr. SHR Sadeghi obtained his M.Sc. in Watershed Management Engineering from Tarbiat Modares University, Iran, in 1992. He earned his Ph.D. in Soil and Water Conservation Engineering from G.B. Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, India, in 2000. He further pursued postdoctoral research at Kyoto University, Japan, specializing in the mechanisms and processes governing suspended sediment yield in forest watersheds in 2006​.

💼Experience

Prof. Sadeghi has held various academic and professional positions. He served as an Expert of Watershed Management Engineering at the Ministry of Agriculture from 1986 to 1988 and later as a Master Expert at the Ministry of Jihad-e-Sazandegi from 1991 to 1994. He joined Tarbiat Modares University as an Assistant Professor in 1994 and later became a Full Professor in 2011. He has served as Head of the Department of Watershed Management Engineering multiple times, Vice Dean and Dean of the Faculty of Natural Resources and Marine Sciences, and Dean of the International Campus of Tarbiat Modares University. He has also been a member of various scientific and international cooperation committees​.

🔬Research Focus

Prof. Sadeghi’s research focuses on watershed management, soil and water conservation, erosion and sedimentation processes, climate change impacts on soil erosion, flood and sediment hazard mitigation, ecohydrology, and the application of modeling techniques in hydrological studies. His work also includes evaluating watershed health and sustainability, using amendments for soil and water conservation, and developing innovative techniques for sediment measurement​.

🛠️Skills

His expertise spans watershed management, soil conservation, erosion control, hydrology, sediment yield analysis, and sustainable land and water resource management. He has strong skills in research leadership, academic administration, international collaboration, and environmental policy advisory​.

🏆Awards

Prof. Sadeghi has received numerous prestigious awards, including Golden Medals for both his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees. He was selected for inclusion in Leading Educators in the World by the International Biographical Center, Britain (2005), and Who’s Who in Science and Engineering, USA (2005-2006). He was honored with the Leadership Award from the Soil Conservation Society of India in 2008 and received the Gold Medal from the same society in 2014. He has also been recognized multiple times as a Superior Researcher and Professor in Iran and received the Distinguished Professor of Iran title in 2021​.

📚 Publications

  1. Inhibiting soil and water loss in a saline soil through cyanobacterization

    • Authors: Sudabeh Gharemahmudli, Seyed Hamidreza Sadeghi
    • Journal: Soil and Tillage Research
    • Year: 2025
  2. Comparative effect of traditional and collaborative watershed management approaches on flood components

    • Authors: Ali Nasiri Khiavi, Mehdi Vafakhah, Seyed Hamidreza Sadeghi, Changhyun Jun, Sayed M. Bateni
    • Journal: Journal of Flood Risk Management
    • Year: 2025
  3. HOTSED: A new integrated model for assessing potential hotspots of sediment sources and related sediment dynamics at watershed scale

    • Authors: M. La Licata, Alberto Bosino, Seyed Hamidreza Sadeghi, Andrea Terret, Michael Maerker
    • Journal: International Soil and Water Conservation Research
    • Year: 2025
  4. Improvability of quality main indices of a marl soil using endemic microorganisms

    • Authors: Atefeh Jafarpoor, Seyed Hamidreza Sadeghi, Mehdi Homaee, Behrouz Zarei Darki
    • Journal: Physics and Chemistry of the Earth
    • Year: 2025
  5. Significance of the Water-Energy-Food Nexus on the Watershed Health Status

    • Authors: Sanaz Pourfallah Asadabadi, Seyed Hamidreza Sadeghi, Mehdi Vafakhah, M. Delavar
    • Journal: Water Resources Management
    • Year: 2025

Conclusion:

Prof. Sadeghi is a highly suitable candidate for this award. His long-standing contributions, global research collaborations, practical applications in environmental conservation, and leadership roles make him an ideal nominee. Strengthening his impact through higher citation outreach, policy engagement, and global research initiatives would further solidify his standing as one of the foremost experts in watershed management and soil conservation.

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.

Muhammad Amin | Geostatistics in Soil Science | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Muhammad Amin | Geostatistics in Soil Science | Best Researcher Award

 Dr. Muhammad Amin, Department of Statistics, Pakistan

Dr. Muhammad Amin is an Associate Professor in the Department of Statistics at the University of Sargodha, Pakistan. He holds a Ph.D. in Statistics from Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan. His research interests include Regression Analysis, Generalized Linear Models, Influence Diagnostics, and Statistical Learning. Dr. Amin has supervised numerous M.Phil. students and co-supervised Ph.D. research scholars. With over 90 research papers and significant citations, he has made valuable contributions to applied statistics. He is also skilled in various statistical software tools such as R, Matlab, SPSS, and Minitab.

Profile

Scopus

Google Scholar

Orcid

Summary:

Dr. Muhammad Amin is a highly accomplished Associate Professor in the Department of Statistics at the University of Sargodha, Pakistan, with a strong academic background and an impressive record of research in statistical methods. His expertise, leadership in research supervision, and contributions to the field of applied statistics make him a strong candidate for the Research for Best Researcher Award.

 

🎓 Education

Dr. Muhammad Amin holds a Ph.D. in Statistics from Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan, Pakistan (2016), an M.Phil. in Statistics from the same university (2011), and an M.Sc. in Statistics (2006). He completed his B.Sc. from Bahauddin Zakariya University in 2004, and his HSSC and SSC from BISE, Multan in 2002 and 1998, respectively.

 

💼Experience

Dr. Amin is currently an Associate Professor at the Department of Statistics, University of Sargodha, since July 2024. He previously served as an Assistant Professor at the same department from January 2018 to July 2024 and was the Incharge of the department from May 2019 to December 2021. Before his academic career, he worked as a Lecturer at Govt. College for Boys Makhdoom Aali, Lodhran (2009-2018) and a Visiting Lecturer at Bahauddin Zakariya University (2010-2018). He also worked as a Six Sigma Executive at Mehr Dastagir Group of Industries PVT. Ltd. in Multan from 2006 to 2008.

 

🔬Research Focus

Dr. Muhammad Amin’s research interests lie in Regression Analysis, Generalized Linear Models, Influence Diagnostics, Biased Estimation Methods, Statistical Learning, and Applied Statistics. His work has contributed significantly to the fields of statistical methods and their applications.

 

Awards

Dr. Amin was a Gold Medalist in his M.Phil. Statistics program. He has also gained significant recognition through his research output, with 93 research papers, 1249 citations, an h-index of 20, and an i10-index of 34.

Skills

Dr. Amin is proficient in a variety of statistical software tools, including R, Mathematica, Matlab, JMP, Minitab, SPSS, Statgraphics, and Sigma XL. These tools are integral to his work in statistical analysis and modeling.

 

Publications

  • New ridge parameter estimators for the quasi-Poisson ridge regression model
    • Shahzad, A., Amin, M., Emam, W., Faisal, M.
    • Published in Scientific Reports, 2024, 14(1), 8489

 

  • Stein estimation in the Conway-Maxwell Poisson model with correlated regressors
    • Sami, F., Amin, M., Aljeddani, S.M.A.
    • Published in International Journal of Advanced and Applied Sciences, 2024, 11(7), pp. 49–56

 

  • Liu Estimation Method in the Zero-Inflated Conway Maxwell Poisson Regression Model
    • Amin, M., Ashraf, B., Siddiqa, S.M.
    • Published in Journal of Statistical Theory and Applications, 2024

 

  • A ridge estimation method for the Waring regression model: simulation and application
    • Noor, A., Amin, M., Amanullah, M.
    • Published in Communications in Statistics: Simulation and Computation, 2024

 

  • Exploring Spatial Variability and Yield-Determining Factors in Cotton Production: A Multivariate Analysis
    • Afzal, S., Hayat, A., Amin, M., Afzal, A., Gardezi, S.
    • Published in Communications in Soil Science and Plant Analysis, 2024, 55(20), pp. 3117–3132

 

  • Performance of Alternative Estimators in the Poisson-Inverse Gaussian Regression Model: Simulation and Application
    • Ashraf, B., Amin, M., Mahmood, T., Faisal, M.
    • Published in Applied Mathematics and Nonlinear Sciences, 2024, 9(1), 20241493

 

  • New ridge parameter estimators for the zero-inflated Conway Maxwell Poisson ridge regression model
    • Ashraf, B., Amin, M., Akram, M.N.
    • Published in Journal of Statistical Computation and Simulation, 2024, 94(8), pp. 1814–1840

Conclusion:

Dr. Amin’s achievements and ongoing contributions to the field of statistics position him as an exemplary researcher in his field. His extensive publication record, mentoring capabilities, and proficiency in statistical software make him a deserving candidate for the Research for Best Researcher Award. By addressing potential areas for improvement, such as expanding international collaborations and engaging in emerging research fields, he can further elevate his impact in the academic community.