Rajan Bhatt | Soil Science | Excellence in Soil Research

Dr. Rajan Bhatt | Soil Science | Excellence in Soil Research

Dr. Rajan Bhatt, Punjab Agricultural University, India

Dr. Rajan Bhatt is a Senior Soil Scientist and Associate Professor at Punjab Agricultural University, India. With a Ph.D. in Soil Science, his research focuses on soil moisture dynamics, resource conservation technologies, and sustainable water management in agriculture. He has received multiple national and international awards for his contributions to climate-smart agriculture and soil health improvement.

Profile

Scopus

Orcid

Summary:

Dr. Rajan Bhatt is an established and highly decorated soil scientist with more than two decades of research experience. His work is grounded in sustainability, resource conservation, and soil-water relationships in agro-ecosystems. He has made measurable impacts through research publications, awards, farmer outreach, and academic engagement. His dedication is evident from his prolific output and sustained excellence in soil science, agronomy, and environmental conservation.

🎓 Education

Dr. Rajan Bhatt holds a Ph.D. in Soil Science, awarded in July 2015 by Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana. His doctoral research focused on soil physics and water management. He completed his M.Sc. in Agriculture with a specialization in Soil and Water Conservation from the same university in January 2003. He earned his B.Sc. in Agriculture in 2000 from Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar. His higher secondary and matriculation education were completed at Khalsa College and Parbhakar Senior Secondary School in Amritsar, respectively. He also qualified the National Eligibility Test (NET) in 2004 conducted by ICAR, New Delhi in the subject of Soil Science – Soil Physics and Soil & Water Conservation.

💼Experience

Dr. Bhatt is currently serving as Associate Professor (Soil Science) at Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Amritsar, Punjab Agricultural University. His designation also includes Senior Soil Scientist. With a career deeply embedded in research, extension, and teaching, he has contributed significantly through his role at PAU-KVK Amritsar. He has organized and participated in numerous training programs, seminars, and workshops nationally and internationally and has also delivered keynote lectures on modern agricultural technologies and soil health management.

🔬Research Focus

Dr. Rajan Bhatt’s research primarily focuses on soil moisture dynamics in rice-wheat cropping systems, a field in which he is recognized globally as the first to delineate such dynamics during the intervening period. His work emphasizes resource conservation technologies, sustainable soil and water management, and climate-resilient agriculture. He actively explores zero tillage, integrated nutrient and water use efficiency, and the application of precision agriculture techniques. His research has practical implications for increasing land and water productivity and enhancing farmer livelihoods through sustainable soil management strategies.

🛠️Skills

Dr. Rajan Bhatt possesses advanced expertise in soil physics, water management, resource conservation technologies, and soil moisture dynamics. He is proficient in climate-smart agriculture practices, soil and water conservation planning, and sustainable farming technologies. His skills extend to training, capacity building, scientific communication, and guiding young researchers. His competence in interpreting field-scale data and delivering actionable scientific insights has been well recognized in academic and professional platforms.

🏆Awards

Dr. Bhatt has earned more than 25 prestigious awards over the span of his career. These include the Best Publication Award by Dr. Y S Parmar University, Best Paper and Poster Awards from Soil Conservation Society of India and other reputed organizations, Young Scientist Awards from Bioved Society, Samagra Society, Gochar Mahavidyalaya, and the Royal Association of Science-led Socio-Cultural Advancement. He received the Best Researcher Award 2021 from Science Father and Outstanding Scientist Award 2022 from VDGOOD Professional Association. Notable recognitions include the Springer PAWEES Best Paper Award 2022 (Japan), Best Researcher in Soil Science 2022, and the Best Outstation Scientist Award 2022–23 from Punjab Agricultural University. He has also been honored with the Gold Medal Award 2023 at the 32nd National Conference by the Soil Conservation Society of India. His consistent contributions to soil science have earned him awards in multiple international and national conferences for both oral and poster presentations.

📚 Publications

Title: Suitable Integrated Farming System Models in Terms of Energetics, Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Employment Generation for the Small and Marginal Farmers
Author: Rajan Bhatt
Year: 2024
Journal: Sustainability


Title: Optimizing Nutrient and Energy Efficiency in a Direct-Seeded Rice Production System: A Northwestern Punjab Case Study
Author: Rajan Bhatt
Year: 2024
Journal: Agronomy


Title: Soil Carbon and Biochemical Indicators of Soil Quality as Affected by Different Conservation Agricultural and Weed Management Options
Author: Rajan Bhatt
Year: 2023
Journal: Land


Title: Increasing the Efficiency of the Rice–Wheat Cropping System through Integrated Nutrient Management
Author: Rajan Bhatt
Year: 2023
Journal: Sustainability


Title: The Biosynthesis, Mechanism of Action, and Physiological Functions of Melatonin in Horticultural Plants: A Review
Author: Rajan Bhatt
Year: 2023
Journal: Horticulturae


Title: Tillage Crop Establishment and Irrigation Methods Improve the Productivity of Wheat (Triticum aestivum): Water Use Studies, and the Biological Properties and Fertility Status of Soil
Author: Rajan Bhatt
Year: 2023
Journal: Agronomy

Conclusion:

Dr. Rajan Bhatt is a highly deserving candidate for the “Research for Excellence in Soil Research” Award. His contributions are not only academically significant but also highly relevant to the pressing needs of sustainable agriculture, climate change resilience, and rural livelihoods. With a few enhancements in international collaboration and interdisciplinary innovation, his profile could become even more impactful at a global level.

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.

Profile

Orcid

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.

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.

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.

Lili Dong | Soil | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Lili Dong | Soil | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Lili Dong, Shenyang Agricultural University, China

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Lili Dong is a researcher at Shenyang Agricultural University, China, specializing in ecology, biogeochemical cycles, and soil carbon dynamics. She holds a Ph.D. in Ecology from Northeast Forestry University and has conducted extensive research on litter decomposition, soil respiration, and the effects of nitrogen deposition on ecosystems. With experience as a research assistant at the Institute of Applied Ecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, she has led and contributed to multiple national and international research projects. Dr. Dong has received prestigious awards, including the Liang Xi Youth Science and Technology Award, and has published widely in high-impact journals on ecological processes and environmental sustainability.

Profile

Scopus

Summary:

Dr. Lili Dong is a highly accomplished researcher in ecological sciences with a strong publication record, competitive research funding, and international collaborations. Her work has significantly contributed to understanding soil carbon dynamics, nitrogen deposition, and ecosystem processes. She has received prestigious awards and recognition for her research excellence, making her a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

 

🎓 Education

Lili Dong obtained her Bachelor’s degree in Information Engineering from Xinyang Normal University (2004–2008). She then pursued a Master’s degree in Phytochemistry at Northeast Forestry University (2009–2012) and later completed her Ph.D. in Ecology at the same university (2014–2017).

💼Experience

Since July 2017, Lili Dong has been a Postdoctoral Researcher at the Institute of Applied Ecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences. In September 2019, she was appointed as a Research Assistant at the same institute. She also gained overseas experience in 2019 through a research stay at the University of Minnesota.

🔬Research Focus

Her research primarily revolves around the carbon cycle, biogeochemical processes, litter decomposition, soil respiration, and ecological responses to global change. She is particularly interested in the effects of nitrogen deposition, especially organic nitrogen, on ecological processes and soil carbon pools. Her studies involve long-term field experiments in grasslands and forests in China, exploring the impact of different forms of nitrogen on litter decomposition and ecosystem functions. Additionally, she investigates the relationship between forest evolution and species secondary metabolites.

Awards

She has received several prestigious awards, including the Liang Xi Youth Science and Technology Award (Second Prize, 2019), the Science and Technology Award of Heilongjiang Province (Third Prize, 2018), and the First Prize of the Science and Technology Award of Provincial University (2018). She was also recognized with the Outstanding Master’s Thesis Award and Outstanding Graduate Award from Heilongjiang Province and Northeast Forestry University in 2012.

Skills

Lili Dong is skilled in ecological research, soil and litter decomposition analysis, biogeochemical assessments, data interpretation, and scientific communication. She has extensive experience in field experiments, laboratory techniques, and interdisciplinary collaborations within environmental sciences.

Publications

 

  • Title: Deep return of straw improves topsoil health and maize productivity more efficiently than shallow return
    Authors: J. Li, X.X. Jin, J. Li, L. Dong, H. Zou
    Year: 2024
    Journal: Soil Use and Management

 

  • Title: Patterns and controlling factors of decomposition in distal shoot systems by branch order across 10 temperate tree species
    Authors: W. Gu, B. Berg, L. Dong, F.J. Yang, T. Sun
    Year: 2024
    Journal: Plant and Soil

 

Conclusion:

 Dr. Lili Dong is a highly suitable candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Enhancing her leadership in large-scale projects, mentoring activities, and policy-oriented research could further strengthen her profile. However, her current track record already places her among top researchers in her field.

Mingxin Zhou | Soil Ecology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Mingxin Zhou | Soil Ecology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. MIngxin Zhou, Heilongjiang Institute of Construction Technology, China

Dr. Mingxin Zhou is a researcher at the Heilongjiang Institute of Construction Technology, China. She holds a doctoral degree and has completed post-doctoral research. Her work focuses on nitrogen deposition, root system traits, and ecological slope stability, with applications in environmental engineering and bioengineered slope reinforcement. She has published over ten academic papers, including high-impact SCI and EI-indexed articles, and has contributed as a chief editor for two textbooks. Dr. Zhou has also participated in multiple provincial-level teaching and research projects, demonstrating expertise in soil stability, root biomechanics, and sustainable construction practices.

Profile

Scopus

Summary:

Dr. Mingxin Zhou’s research excellence in soil science and ecological slope stability makes her a strong contender for the Best Researcher Award. Her publication record, leadership in academic writing, and innovative contributions position her among top researchers in her field.

 

🎓 Education

Mingxin Zhou holds a Doctoral degree and has completed post-doctoral research.

 

💼Experience

She has participated in three provincial-level teaching and research projects and has been actively involved in academic publishing and textbook compilation.

 

🔬Research Focus

Her research primarily revolves around nitrogen deposition, root biomass, root morphological traits, and their implications for soil stability and ecological slope reinforcement. She has explored the mechanical properties of shrub species and their role in environmental engineering and sustainability.

 

Awards

Mingxin Zhou has compiled two textbooks as a chief editor and has published over ten academic papers, including six high-level papers. Among these, three are indexed in SCI Zone 2, one in SCI Zone 4, and two in EI. Her work has contributed significantly to understanding soil anti-scouring resistance and bioengineered slope stability.

 

Skills

Mingxin Zhou possesses expertise in environmental science, root system analysis, and ecological slope stability. She has strong research, writing, and academic publishing skills, along with experience in project management and curriculum development.

 

Publications

Publication: Root Biomass and Root Morphological Traits of Three Shrub Species: Implications for the Soil Anti-scouring Resistance of the Ecological Slope

Authors: Mingxin Zhou, Guoyong Yan, Yibo Li, Qinggui Wang, Yajuan Xing

Journal: PLoS ONE

Year: 2023

Citations: 1

Conclusion:

 Dr. Mingxin Zhou is well-suited for the Best Researcher Award. With expanded collaborations and increased community impact, she could further solidify her standing as a leading scientist in environmental research.