Nurzhanova Assil | Soil | Women Researcher Award

Prof. Nurzhanova Assil | Soil | Women Researcher Award

Institute of Plant Biology and Biotechnology | Kazakhstan

Assil Nurzhanova is a distinguished Principal Researcher Associate at the Laboratory of Plant Physiology and Biochemistry, Institute of Plant Biology and Biotechnology, with a prolific career in plant science, genetics, and soil bioremediation. Her research primarily focuses on phytoremediation technologies, plant-microbe interactions, and sustainable strategies for detoxifying soils contaminated with heavy metals, pesticides, and other xenobiotics. She has led and contributed to numerous high-impact projects, including the development of biochar-based decontamination technologies, PGPR-assisted phytomanagement approaches, and field-scale microbe-assisted soil remediation initiatives, collaborating with national and international agencies such as the FAO and NATO. Over the years, Assil Nurzhanova’s work has resulted in 360 citations across 21 documents, reflecting an h-index of 13, which highlights the significant influence and recognition of her research within the scientific community. Her studies integrate innovative bioenergy “zero-waste” approaches, emphasizing the practical application of plant biotechnology in environmental restoration and sustainable agriculture. Through her leadership in multidisciplinary projects, she has advanced knowledge in optimizing plant productivity while enhancing soil health and ecosystem resilience, making her a key contributor to the global field of phytoremediation and environmental biotechnology.

Citation Metrics (Scopus)

500
375
250
125
0

Citations
412

Documents
21

h-index
13  

Citations

Documents

h-index

View Scopus ProfileView Orcid Profile

 


Miscanthus × giganteus Rhizobacterial Community Responses to Zn and Oil Sludge Co-Contamination


– Agronomy


Novel Phyto Plant of POP-Pesticides: Energy Crop Miscanthus sinensis


– Experimental Biology


Phytoremediation and Bioremediation of Pesticide-Contaminated Soil


– Applied Sciences


POP Pesticides and Reclamation Methods


– Reports


Comparative Assessment of Miscanthus × giganteus for Remediation of Heavy Metal-Contaminated Soils


– Environmental Science and Pollution Research

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.

Sayed Hemeda | Soil Science | Research Excellence Award

Prof. Dr. Sayed Hemeda | Soil Science | Research Excellence Award

Cairo University | Egypt 

Sayed Hemeda is a distinguished scholar in architectural conservation and civil engineering, recognized for integrating advanced structural and geotechnical engineering principles with innovative heritage preservation methodologies. His work has significantly contributed to developing conservation protocols tailored to the complex conditions of archaeological sites, particularly within Egypt’s culturally rich landscape. With 42 published documents, an h-index of 12, and 378 citations, his research demonstrates strong scholarly impact and sustained international recognition. Hemeda’s contributions span high-quality journal publications, influential book chapters, and invited lectures that have strengthened global academic collaboration and elevated the visibility of Cairo University’s conservation programs. His leadership in interdisciplinary research has driven the adoption of engineering-based approaches to heritage preservation by leading institutions, while his involvement in major archaeological initiatives reflects a commitment to applying scientific principles to real-world conservation challenges. As an active member of international alliances and collaborative projects, he continues to promote research exchange and innovation within the field. Through his strategic academic leadership, project management expertise, and dedication to safeguarding cultural landmarks, Sayed Hemeda remains a transformative figure advancing sustainable and scientifically driven methodologies for the protection of cultural heritage.

Profiles : Scopus | Orcid 

Featured Publications

Hemeda, S. (2025). 3D stability modelling of Tutankhamen’s Tomb (KV62) using PLAXIS 3D with jointed rock model. npj Heritage Science.

Hemeda, S. (2024). Experimental and finite element assessment of stabilizing configurations for underground heritage sites. Heritage Science.

Hemeda, S. (2024). PLAXIS 3D numerical analysis of complex geotechnical problems of colossal built heritage. Heritage Science.

Hemeda, S. (2023). Influences of bulk structure of calcarenitic rocks on water storage and transfer in order to assess durability and climate change impact. Heritage Science.

Hemeda, S. (2022). Geotechnical modelling and subsurface analysis of complex underground structures using PLAXIS 3D. International Journal of Geo-Engineering.

Jianxia Yang | Soil Ecology | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Jianxia Yang | Soil Ecology | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Jianxia Yang, Qinghai Normal University, China

Ms. Jianxia Yang is a Lecturer at the College of Geographical Sciences, Qinghai Normal University, China. Her research specializes in environmental remote sensing and Geographic Information Systems (GIS), with a focus on vegetation monitoring, soil salinization, and ecological change analysis. She has published in SCI-indexed journals and is committed to advancing sustainable environmental management through innovative geospatial techniques.

Profile

Scopus

Summary:

Ms. Jianxia Yang exhibits strong potential as an emerging environmental scientist with expertise in GIS and remote sensing. Her work is timely, methodologically advanced, and addresses key ecological concerns. She brings academic integrity and innovation to her field and shows clear promise for future leadership in environmental geoscience research.

🎓 Education

Jianxia Yang has developed a strong academic foundation in the fields of environmental sciences and geoinformatics. Her educational background supports her expertise in environmental remote sensing and Geographic Information Systems (GIS), enabling her to approach complex environmental issues with a scientific and technical perspective.

💼Experience

She currently holds the position of Lecturer at the College of Geographical Sciences, Qinghai Normal University. In this role, she engages in both teaching and research activities. Her professional experience includes the application of remote sensing and GIS technologies to monitor vegetation, assess soil salinization, and analyze ecological patterns over time and space.

🔬Research Focus

Her research is centered on environmental remote sensing and GIS applications. She has contributed to innovations in monitoring vegetation and soil salinization, investigating temporal and spatial environmental changes, and exploring the coordinated development of soil and vegetation ecosystems.

🛠️Skills

She is proficient in environmental remote sensing, GIS analysis, ecological data interpretation, and spatial modeling. Her work involves advanced techniques for detecting environmental changes and evaluating the interrelationships between soil and vegetation systems.

🏆Awards

While specific honors are not listed in the nomination form, Jianxia Yang’s publication record in SCI-indexed journals signifies recognition of her research contributions and academic excellence within her field.

📚 Publications

Title: Applicability analysis of weakly supervised semantic segmentation for identifying salinized soil boundaries
Year: 2025
Authors: Jianxia Yang, Jun Zhao, Xufeng Mao, Yuan Zhang, Feipeng Hu
Journal: Journal of Arid Environments

Conclusion:

Ms. Jianxia Yang is a suitable and competitive candidate for the Best Researcher Award, particularly given the quality and relevance of her work. While further expansion in publication volume, international exposure, and measurable citation metrics could enhance her profile, her current contributions and potential for impactful future research make her a deserving nominee.

Maryam Fazlollahi Mohammadi | Soil Ecology | Best Academic Researcher Award

Mrs. Maryam Fazlollahi Mohammadi | Soil Ecology | Best Academic Researcher Award

Mrs. Maryam Fazlollahi Mohammadi, South East Technological University, Ireland

Dr. Maryam Fazlollahi Mohammadi is a Forestry Lecturer at South East Technological University (SETU), Ireland. She holds a Ph.D. in Forestry from Tarbiat Modares University, Iran, where her research focused on the effects of topography on forest ecosystems, including soil and tree regeneration. With expertise in forest ecology, carbon modeling, and forest management, Dr. Fazlollahi Mohammadi has contributed to various research projects, including the Terrain-AI project, which aims to improve carbon flux estimates for climate mitigation. She has published several papers in top-tier journals and has collaborated with multiple academic and industry partners. At SETU, she teaches and supervises both undergraduate and postgraduate students, while also being involved in industry and research collaborations.

Profile

Scopus

Summary:

Mrs. Maryam Fazlollahi Mohammadi is an outstanding candidate for the Best Academic Researcher Award due to her exceptional contributions to forest ecology, her innovative research on the effects of topography on forest ecosystems, and her involvement in high-impact, collaborative projects like Terrain-AI. Her ability to blend academic excellence with practical applications, teaching, and mentoring makes her a strong asset to both the academic and broader environmental communities. Her research continues to influence forest management and conservation practices, with a focus on carbon modeling, soil management, and biodiversity.

🎓 Education

Chai Yanjun earned his PhD from the Institute of Agricultural Environment and Sustainable Development at the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences. His academic background laid a strong foundation for his career in environmental engineering and sustainable agriculture.

💼Experience

After completing her Ph.D., Maryam worked as a lecturer at various Iranian universities, teaching modules on Ecology, Soil Fertility, Experimental Design, and Agriculture and Livestock Management. She also served as an occasional lecturer at University College Dublin (UCD) in the Forest Climate and Carbon course, where she prepared and delivered lectures, developed quizzes, graded exams, and mentored students. In 2021, Maryam started a postdoctoral position at UCD, working on the Terrain-AI project, which explores the impact of management and disturbances on forest carbon uptake. Since December 2022, she has been a Forestry Lecturer at South East Technological University (SETU), where she teaches at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels, supervises students, and organizes field trips and labs.

🔬Research Focus

Maryam’s research is centered around forest ecology, particularly the effects of topography on forest ecosystems. She has studied soil physical, chemical, and biological traits, forest regeneration, herbaceous species, and tree distribution. Her work in the Hyrcanian forests of Iran has significantly contributed to understanding species selection based on soil conditions and forest management practices. Currently, her postdoctoral research in the Terrain-AI project aims to improve carbon flux estimates across complex environments and develop more accurate climate mitigation strategies.

🛠️Skills

Maryam is proficient in a variety of software tools, including MS Office, ArcGIS, MATLAB, R, SPSS, and statistical analysis tools such as EndNote and GS+. She has also completed a project management course for postdocs and applies this knowledge to her current projects. Her communication, analytical, and organizational skills have been key to her academic success, including the completion of her degrees and the timely delivery of reports.

🏆Awards

Maryam received funding from the Ministry of Science and Technology of Iran to develop an international collaboration, which led her to work at the University of Torino, Italy, for six months during her Ph.D. Additionally, she has published six papers in prestigious journals like Scientific Reports, Nature, and Applied Soil Ecology Journal, with her most recent work focusing on forest soil characteristics and tree species distribution.

📚 Publications

Title: Topographic patterns of soil traits and macro fauna in oriental beech forests in Iran
Year: 2025
Authors: M. Fazlollahi Mohammadi, Maryam; B. Tobin, Brian; A. Kulmatiski, Andrew; S.G. Jalali, Seyed Gholamali; Y. Kooch, Yahya
Journal: Applied Soil Ecology

Conclusion:

Mrs. Maryam Fazlollahi Mohammadi’s academic journey and research accomplishments highlight her as a leader in the field of forestry. Her strengths in research excellence, collaboration, and education, combined with her ability to translate academic findings into practical solutions, make her an ideal candidate for the Best Academic Researcher Award. To further enhance her career, she could focus on broadening her research scope and increasing her visibility in public and policy circles, while continuing to make significant contributions to forest and environmental science.

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.

Runze Tian | Soil Science | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Runze Tian | Soil Science | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Runze Tian, Beijing jiaotong university, China

Dr. Runze Tian is a researcher at Beijing Jiaotong University, China, specializing in frozen soil mechanics, hydrothermal coupling simulations, and geotechnical engineering. His work focuses on developing advanced computational models, including the modified h-form hydrothermal coupling simulation method, to enhance the understanding of soil behavior in extreme conditions. Dr. Tian’s expertise includes numerical analysis, soil behavior modeling, and engineering simulations, contributing to advancements in geotechnical research.

Profile

Scopus

Summary:

Dr. Runze Tian has made significant strides in the field of frozen soil mechanics and hydrothermal coupling simulations. His research is well-recognized and has contributed to understanding soil behavior under extreme conditions. While his technical expertise and contributions are commendable, expanding research collaborations and industry applications could further solidify his reputation.

🎓 Education

Tian Runze is affiliated with Beijing Jiaotong University, located in Beijing, China. His academic background is rooted in engineering and geotechnical studies, focusing on frozen soil research and hydrothermal coupling simulation methods.

💼Experience

Tian Runze has been engaged in research and academic projects related to geotechnical engineering, frozen soil mechanics, and computational simulations. His expertise lies in developing and refining hydrothermal coupling simulation methods, particularly for frozen soil applications.

🔬Research Focus

His primary research interests include frozen soil mechanics, hydrothermal coupling simulations, geotechnical engineering, and computational modeling. His notable work on the “modified h-form hydrothermal coupling simulation method for frozen soil” demonstrates his commitment to advancing the understanding of soil behavior under extreme conditions.

🛠️Skills

His technical skill set includes hydrothermal simulation modeling, computational mechanics, numerical analysis, and soil behavior analysis. He is proficient in applying advanced engineering methodologies to improve the accuracy of frozen soil behavior predictions.

🏆Awards

Tian Runze has contributed to innovative research in frozen soil mechanics and hydrothermal simulation, which may have earned him recognition within academic and engineering communities. Specific awards or distinctions related to his work would highlight his contributions to the field.

📚 Publications

Title: A modified h-form hydrothermal coupling simulation method for frozen soil
Author(s): Tian, R., Li, X., Li, X., Wang, S., & Wang, Q.
Year: 2025
Journal: Computers and Geotechnics

Conclusion:

Dr. Runze Tian is a highly suitable candidate for the Best Researcher Award. With continued advancements in broader geotechnical fields and international collaborations, he can further enhance his contributions and strengthen his standing in the global research community.

Eric LEGBA | Soil Fertility | Young Scientist Award

Mr. Eric LEGBA | Soil Fertility | Young Scientist Award

Mr. Eric LEGBA, World Vegetable Center, Benin

Eric C. LEGBA is a Research Assistant Agronomist at the World Vegetable Center, West and Central Africa, based at the IITA-Benin Campus in Cotonou. He holds a Master’s degree in Agronomy with a specialization in Sustainable Cropping Systems. His research focuses on soil fertility management, crop productivity enhancement, and sustainable agriculture. Eric has led studies on intercropping techniques, organic fertilization, and the use of Black Soldier Fly frass as an organic amendment. He has collaborated with international research institutions and contributed to capacity-building programs, influencing sustainable farming practices across West Africa.

Profile

Google Scholar

Scopus

Summary:

Mr. Eric Legba is a strong candidate for the Research for Young Scientist Award, given his contributions to sustainable agriculture, soil fertility management, and innovative farming techniques. His work has direct applications in improving agricultural practices, particularly in Africa, and his affiliation with the World Vegetable Center adds credibility to his research. His publications and technical reports demonstrate a commitment to bridging scientific research and real-world agricultural solutions.

 

🎓 Education

Eric C. LEGBA holds a Master’s degree in Agronomy with a specialization in Sustainable Cropping Systems. His academic training has provided him with a strong foundation in soil fertility, crop nutrition, agronomic trials, and sustainable agricultural practices.

💼Experience

As a Research Assistant Agronomist at the World Vegetable Center, West and Central Africa, based at the IITA-Benin Campus in Cotonou, Eric LEGBA has been actively involved in multiple research and development initiatives. He has worked extensively on intercropping techniques, organic fertilization trials, and sustainable agricultural technologies. His research projects include maize-mungbean intercropping, okra variety evaluations, and nutrient management using organic amendments such as Black Soldier Fly frass. In addition to research, he has contributed to consultancies and training programs focused on improving agricultural sustainability in West Africa.

🔬Research Focus

Eric LEGBA’s research focuses on sustainable cropping systems, soil fertility improvement, and innovative crop technologies. His studies emphasize the use of organic amendments, including Black Soldier Fly frass, to enhance soil health and crop yield. He has collaborated with international research institutions such as CIMMYT, IWMI, IFAD, and national organizations, contributing to capacity building, policy recommendations, and farmer training programs. His work aims to advance agroecological practices and optimize fertilization strategies for improved vegetable production.

Awards

Eric LEGBA has received recognition for his contributions to sustainable agriculture and soil fertility management. He has been nominated for the Young Scientist Award, showcasing his impactful research and commitment to advancing agronomic practices.

Skills

His expertise encompasses soil fertility management, crop productivity enhancement, agronomic trials, sustainable cropping technologies, and agroecology. He has extensive experience in project implementation, research collaborations, and consultancy work aimed at promoting evidence-based agricultural practices. His technical skills include intercropping techniques, organic fertilization strategies, and the development of improved tools for sustainable farming.

 

Publications

2025

  • Productivity and Profitability of Maize-Mungbean and Maize-Chili Pepper Relay Intercropping Systems for Income Diversification and Soil Fertility in Southern Benin
    EC Legba, L Dossou, J Honfoga, L Pawera, R SrinivasanSustainability 17 (3), 1076

2024

  • Organic mulching
    EC Legba, L Dossou, J Honfoga, S Odjo, S Ramasamy

 

  • Staking of fruit vegetable plants
    EC Legba, L Dossou, J Honfoga, S Odjo, S Ramasamy

 

  • Low inputting of fertilizers for safe and sustainable vegetable production
    L Dossou, EC Legba, J Honfoga, S Odjo, S Ramasamy

 

  • Use of sticky traps in vegetable production for sustainable pest management
    L Dossou, EC Legba, J Honfoga, S Odjo, S Ramasamy

 

  • Citizen science informs demand-driven breeding of opportunity crops
    R Voss, K de Sousa, S N’Danikou, AJ Shango, LA Aglinglo, MA Laporte, EC Legba, et al.bioRxiv, 2024.07.31.605211

2023

  • Technical report on safe and sustainable vegetable production activities in Benin
    E Legba, L Dossou, J Honfoga, S RamasamyInternational Food Policy Research Institute

 

  • Preferences of market gardeners for traditional vegetables and associated factors in urban areas of southern Benin
    TA Kouévi, CK Adé, S N’Danikou, RL Mongbo, C Komlan, EC Legba, et al.Future of Food: Journal on Food, Agriculture and Society 11 (5)

 

  • Developing improvement strategies for management of the Sisrè berry plant [Synsepalum dulcificum (Schumach & Thonn.) Daniell] based on end-user perspectives
    DA Tchokponhoué, EC Legba, S N’Danikou, D Nyadanu, HO Oselebe, et al.Frontiers in Sustainable Food Systems 7, 1252036

 

  • Guide pratique de culture de l’amarante et de multiplication des semences
    LA Aglinglo, A Sidibe, S N’Danikou, EC Legba, A Nantoume-Dolo, et al.ResearchGate

2020

  • Fiche technique synthétique pour la production de la carotte (Daucus carota L.)
    EC Legba, LA Aglinglo, RA Francisco, CA Houdegbe, et al.DOI:10.13140/RG.2.2.32623.66729

 

Conclusion:

With a solid research foundation and international collaborations, Mr. Legba has great potential to make further contributions to sustainable food production. Strengthening his profile through increased citations, securing research funding, mentoring young scientists, and integrating interdisciplinary approaches would enhance his candidacy. Overall, he is a highly competitive nominee for the award and has the potential to become a leading figure in sustainable agricultural research.