Kgomoangwato Mavundla | Soil Physics | Research Excellence Award

Published on 17/02/2026 by Soil Scientist

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Shivanand Pawar | Soil Science | Best Faculty Award

Published on 02/12/202502/12/2025 by Soil Scientist

Dr. Shivanand Pawar | Soil Science | Best Faculty Award

Jain University | India

Profile : Orcid

Featured Publications

Pawar, S. (2025). Human capital and stakeholder engagement intervention: A women empowerment pathway to achieve sustainable community development in water, sanitation, and hygiene at Vaijapur Village of Karnataka, India.

Pawar, S. (2023). Influence of decision-making styles and affective styles on academic procrastination among students.

Pawar, S. (2022). Internet gaming disorder among adolescents during COVID-19 pandemic: A case report of Kerala students, India

Pawar, S. (2022). Psychological wellbeing status of Schedule Caste during COVID-19 pandemic of Thiruvallur District of Tamil Nadu, India

Srimathie Indraratne | Soil Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Published on 14/11/2025 by Soil Scientist

Dr. Srimathie Indraratne | Soil Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Srimathie Indraratne | University of Winnipeg | Canada

Dr. Srimathie Indraratne is a highly accomplished soil and environmental scientist whose work spans soil chemistry, nutrient dynamics, contaminant mobility, and sustainable land management. With a strong academic foundation and extensive university-level teaching, research, and leadership experience, she has contributed significantly to advancing scientific understanding of soil processes across diverse agroecosystems. Her research portfolio reflects a deep commitment to environmental sustainability, with key investigations focusing on soil amendments, trace element behavior, organic inputs, and climate-resilient soil management strategies. She has authored 45 scientific documents that collectively demonstrate the depth and rigor of her research contributions. Her scholarship has earned substantial recognition within the scientific community, evidenced by 836 citations from 689 citing documents, alongside an impressive h-index of 15, highlighting the influence and continuity of her work. In addition to her research achievements, she has made notable contributions to capacity building through supervising undergraduate and graduate research and supporting interdisciplinary environmental science education. Her expertise is further reflected in her active roles in proposal review and academic evaluation, positioning her as a respected leader whose research continues to inform soil conservation, environmental protection, and sustainable agricultural practices at national and international levels.

Profiles: Scopus | Orcid

Featured Publications

Hansima, M. A. C. K., Amarakoon, I., Indraratne, S., Zvomuya, F., Farenhorst, A., & Brown, A. K. (2025). Characterization of liquid swine manure-derived humic substances and their role in sulfamethoxazole sorption to bentonite clay. Journal of Environmental Chemical Engineering.

Indraratne, S., Haak, M., Anil, B., Singh, D., Goltz, D., & Kumaragamage, D. (2025). Stability of vanadium in alkaline soils amended with biochar and metal oxide nanoparticles under simulated seasonal temperature fluctuations. Remediation Journal.

Dissanayake, A. I., Kumaragamage, D., Amarakoon, I., Indraratne, S., Applin, D. M., Cloutis, E. A., & Goltz, D. (2025). Changes of soil test phosphorus and phosphorus fractions with single and blended soil chemical amendments. Canadian Journal of Soil Science.

Perry, M. M., Kumaragamage, D., Goltz, D., Casson, N. J., Amarakoon, I., & Indraratne, S. P. (2024). Residual benefits of alum, gypsum, and magnesium sulfate amendments in reducing phosphorus losses to snowmelt runoff. CATENA.

Jae Gon Kim | Soil Science | Best Researcher Award

Published on 13/11/2025 by Soil Scientist

Dr. Jae Gon Kim | Soil Science | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Jae Gon Kim | Korea Institute of Geoscience and Mineral Resources | South Korea

Dr. Jae Gon Kim is a distinguished principal scientist at the Korea Institute of Geoscience and Mineral Resources (KIGAM), specializing in soil and clay mineralogy, geologic environment studies, and environmental remediation. His extensive research focuses on the chemical and mineralogical processes governing soil behavior, contamination, and restoration, with particular expertise in heavy metal remediation and magnetic separation technologies. With a prolific academic and professional record, Dr. Kim has authored 36 scientific documents, accumulating 985 citations from 963 publications, reflecting his strong global research impact and influence. His h-index of 17 demonstrates the sustained relevance and quality of his contributions to geoscience and environmental research. He has been recognized for his innovation in soil remediation technologies and for developing effective solutions for environmental hazards linked to contaminated soils. Dr. Kim’s work bridges fundamental mineralogical science with applied environmental technology, advancing both theoretical understanding and field-level applications. His leadership in research has earned him numerous professional awards for excellence in technology and scientific communication, establishing him as a prominent figure in the global geoscience community and a driving force in promoting sustainable soil and environmental management practices.

Profile : Scopus

Featured Publications

Baek, I., Kim, J., Song, Y., & Kim, T. (2021). Neutralization effect of slag on the acid rock drainage. International Journal of Geo-Engineering.
Lee, A., Chon, C.-M., Kim, J. G., & Ryu, J. (2024). Irreversible cesium adsorption capacity of granite-origin soil. Journal of Radioanalytical and Nuclear Chemistry.

Soulaimani Aziz | Soil Quality | Soil Quality Improvement Champion

Published on 08/11/2025 by Soil Scientist

Mr. Soulaimani Aziz | Soil Quality | Soil Quality Improvement Champion

Mr. Soulaimani Aziz | University Mohammed VI Polytechnic | Morocco

Dr. Aziz Soulaimani is a distinguished researcher specializing in soil, water, and plant quality assessment, metrology, and analytical chemistry, with a proven record of advancing laboratory accreditation and quality assurance under ISO/IEC 17025 standards. His expertise focuses on developing and validating physicochemical methods, producing certified reference materials for soil and water analysis, and improving laboratory management systems for environmental and agricultural applications. With 14 scientific publications, his research has earned 277 citations across 273 documents and an h-index of 8, reflecting consistent academic impact and methodological innovation. His scientific contributions span topics such as trace metal dynamics, soil fertility, irrigation water quality, nutrient partitioning, and environmental contamination monitoring. Through collaborative studies with international and regional institutions, he has contributed to the development of sustainable soil and water management strategies, the evaluation of pedotransfer functions, and the creation of eco-friendly analytical approaches. Dr. Soulaimani’s applied research integrates precision measurement, quality control, and environmental monitoring to enhance agricultural productivity and ecological resilience. His leadership in laboratory accreditation projects and scientific training programs has strengthened analytical capacity and promoted best practices in metrology and quality systems, reinforcing his reputation as a leading figure in soil and water analytical sciences.

Profile: Scopus

Featured Publications

Guéablé, Y. K. D., Jemo, M., Soulaimani, A., Hafidi, M., El Gharous, M., & El Mejahed, K. (2024). Sustainable strategy for rehabilitating phosphate mining sites and valorisation of phosphate industry by-products and sludge using pistachio tree (Pistacia atlantica), false pepper (Schinus molle), and eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus) trees. Science of the Total Environment.

Riffat Rahim | Soil Science | Best Researcher Award

Published on 29/09/202529/09/2025 by Soil Scientist

Dr. Riffat Rahim | Soil Science | Best Researcher Award

University of Leipzig | Germany

Dr. Riffat Rahim is an accomplished soil scientist with a strong research portfolio and international experience across Germany, Canada, and Pakistan. She has contributed significantly to soil chemistry, rhizosphere processes, mucilage dynamics, salinity management, and phosphorus behavior in calcareous soils. Her academic journey includes a Ph.D. in Agricultural Sciences from Forschungszentrum Jülich and the University of Bonn, a Master’s and Bachelor’s in Soil Science from Bahauddin Zakariya University. She has authored 4 scientific documents, accumulated 40 citations, and holds an h-index of 4, reflecting the visibility and impact of her publications. Her work spans experimental studies, pore-scale simulations, and field-relevant investigations, with research outputs published and additional manuscripts under review. She has presented at major platforms such as the EGU General Assembly, World Congress of Soil Science, DBG Germany conferences, and international workshops on spectroscopy and bioeconomy. Professionally, she serves as a Postdoctoral Researcher at the University of Rostock and has held roles as a Visiting Scientist, Doctoral Researcher, and Research Assistant in leading institutions. Her technical mastery includes XANES, GC, HPLC, tomography, atomic absorption, and advanced data analysis using Python, R, and Origin. She is multilingual and experienced in laboratory management, project execution, and scientific communication.

Profile: Scopus

Featured Publications

Nazir, M. J., Hussain, M. M., Albasher, G., Iqbal, B., Khan, K. A., Rahim, R., Li, G., & Du, D. (2024). Glucose input profit soil organic carbon mineralization and nitrogen dynamics in relation to nitrogen-amended soils. Journal of Environmental Management.

Shakil Ahmad Zeb | Soil Ecology | Best Scholar Award

Published on 17/09/202517/09/2025 by Soil Scientist

Mr. Shakil Ahmad Zeb | Soil Ecology | Best Scholar Award

Quaid-i-Azam University | Pakistan

Shakil Ahmad Zeb is an emerging researcher in the field of plant sciences, with a strong academic foundation from Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, and growing scholarly contributions. He has authored 6 research documents, which have collectively received 40 citations by 39 different documents, reflecting the early but promising impact of his work. His research productivity has earned him an h-index of 3, indicating that at least three of his publications have each been cited three or more times. His publications span areas such as phytogeographic classification, riparian vegetation, ecological assessments, angiosperm distribution, ethnobotany, and conservation biology. The diversity of his research—ranging from floristic inventories and bio-cultural diversity to the ecological role of national parks in carbon sequestration—highlights his commitment to both applied and fundamental aspects of ecology and biodiversity. With contributions in high-impact journals and international conferences, he has demonstrated the ability to integrate fieldwork, laboratory analysis, and advanced statistical tools to address pressing ecological challenges. Although still in the early stages of his career, his citation profile and academic trajectory suggest significant potential for advancing research in plant ecology, biodiversity conservation, and environmental sustainability.

Profiles: Scopus | Orcid

Featured Publications

“Mushrooms as a Source of Better Food and Health in Northern Pakistan”

Elma Hrustemovic | Soil | Best Researcher Award

Published on 09/08/2025 by Soil Scientist

Dr. Elma Hrustemovic | Soil | Best Researcher Award

Elma Hrustemovic | University of Sarajevo Veterinary Faculty | Bosnia

Elma Hrustemovic is a doctoral student at the University of Sarajevo, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, specializing in Veterinary Medicine and Public Health. An Academic Specialist in Clinical Microbiology, she is actively engaged in research on foodborne pathogens, antibiotic resistance, and molecular diagnostics. With over 40 scientific contributions, including peer-reviewed papers, conference presentations, and book chapters, she combines advanced laboratory expertise with a strong commitment to public health and food safety.

Profile

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Summary:

Elma Hrustemovic is a promising and dedicated researcher whose expertise in microbiology, public health, and food safety positions her as a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Her combination of academic excellence, leadership, and impactful research demonstrates a clear commitment to advancing scientific knowledge and addressing global health challenges.

Education

Elma Hrustemovic is a Doctoral Student in the third year of Veterinary Medicine and Public Health at the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sarajevo. She has completed an integrated graduate and postgraduate academic program in Veterinary Medicine, accumulating comprehensive expertise in the field. She holds the title of Doctor of Veterinary Medicine and is an Academic Specialist in Veterinary Medicine in Clinical Microbiology. Her academic background also includes a postgraduate specialist degree in Clinical Microbiology and advanced professional training in public health management, internal auditing for the public health sector, and governance for management and supervisory boards of companies with state capital involvement.

Experience

Elma is an active researcher and a dedicated member of the research team at the University of Sarajevo – Faculty of Veterinary Medicine. She is engaged in multiple scientific projects focusing on the detection, identification, and antibiotic resistance profiling of foodborne pathogens such as Listeria monocytogenes and Campylobacter spp. Her work involves applying molecular techniques such as RealTime PCR, sequencing, and next-generation sequencing, alongside traditional microbiological methods. She has coordinated and contributed to various research work packages covering sampling, laboratory analysis, molecular confirmation, sequencing, antibiotic resistance testing, data harmonization, and dissemination of scientific findings.

Research Focus

Her research primarily targets the prevalence, distribution, and antibiotic resistance of foodborne pathogens, with a strong emphasis on public health safety and food quality assurance. She is involved in studies examining the genetic diversity of Listeria monocytogenes and Campylobacter spp., the public health impact of antimicrobial resistance, and the development of molecular detection and identification protocols. Her scholarly contributions include numerous peer-reviewed publications, conference proceedings, and ongoing book and manual authorships in the field of genetically modified organisms, microbiological safety, and pathogen control in the food chain.

Skills

Elma possesses advanced expertise in clinical microbiology, including isolation, identification, and characterization of microorganisms using microscopic, cultural, biochemical, and molecular methods. She is skilled in antibiotic sensitivity testing, serological diagnostics, immunoprophylaxis, and interpretation of microbiological results. Her technical proficiency extends to digital tools such as Microsoft Office Suite, Microsoft Project, Joomla, Adobe Photoshop, and database management systems.

Awards

Elma has been recognized for her leadership and scientific engagement, serving as President of the Technical Committee for the VIII Student Congress “Food–Nutrition–Health” at the University of Sarajevo. She has actively contributed to both domestic and international scientific forums through oral presentations, posters, and published research.

Publications

Title: Testing the effectiveness of 6% domestic vinegar on the reduction of Campylobacter species in chicken meat production
Author: Elma Hrustemovic
Journal: Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture
Year: 2025

Conclusion:

Elma Hrustemovic is highly suitable for the Best Researcher Award. With continued growth in global collaborations and applied research outcomes, she has the potential to become a leading figure in her field.

Siyu Chen | Soil Ecology | Emerging Soil Scientist Recognition

Published on 04/08/2025 by Soil Scientist

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Siyu Chen | Soil Ecology | Emerging Soil Scientist Recognition

Siyu Chen | Nanning Normal University | China

Dr. Siyu Chen is an Associate Professor at Nanning Normal University, China, specializing in forest soil ecology and karst ecosystem restoration. Her research focuses on soil biogeochemistry, nutrient stoichiometry, carbon sequestration, and nitrogen deposition impacts. With extensive experience in leading national and provincial research projects, Dr. Chen has made significant contributions to understanding nutrient cycling and microbial-enzyme interactions in fragile ecosystems, advancing sustainable land management and biodiversity conservation.

Profile

Orcid

Summary:

Dr. Siyu Chen’s research excellence, innovation in soil nutrient dynamics, and contributions to sustainable ecosystem restoration make her a strong candidate for the Emerging Soil Scientist Recognition. She has demonstrated significant achievements early in her career and is poised for further breakthroughs in soil science research and practice.

Education

Dr. Siyu Chen holds advanced academic qualifications in soil ecology and environmental sciences, specializing in nutrient cycling and biogeochemistry within forest ecosystems.

Experience

She is an Associate Professor at Nanning Normal University, Guangxi, China, with extensive teaching and research expertise in forest soil ecology, karst ecosystem restoration, and ecological modeling. She has successfully led multiple national and provincial research projects and has significant experience providing technical consulting for carbon sink evaluation and ecosystem restoration in Southwest China.

Research Focus

Her research focuses on soil biogeochemistry, forest C–N–P stoichiometry, nitrogen deposition impacts, carbon sequestration mechanisms, and restoration of fragile karst ecosystems. She has significantly advanced knowledge of nutrient dynamics and microbial-enzyme interactions, providing critical insights for sustainable land management and biodiversity conservation.

Skills

Dr. Chen is skilled in field monitoring, isotope tracing, ecological modeling, nutrient stoichiometry analysis, and biogeochemical coupling studies. She is also experienced in integrating research findings into practical environmental management strategies.

Awards

She has been recognized for her contributions to soil science through high-impact research publications and has received funding from the National Natural Science Foundation of China and the Natural Science Foundation of Guangxi Province.

Publications

Elevational Patterns and Drivers of Soil Total, Microbial, and Enzymatic C:N:P Stoichiometry in Karst Peak-Cluster Depressions in Southwestern China
Authors: Siyu Chen, Chaohao Xu, Cong Hu, Chaofang Zhong, Zhonghua Zhang, Gang Hu
Year: 2025
Journal: Forests
The Nitrogen Cycle of a Cool-Temperate Deciduous Broad-Leaved Forest
Authors: Ruoming Cao, Siyu Chen, Shinpei Yoshitake, Takeo Onishi, Yasuo Iimura, Toshiyuki Ohtsuka
Year: 2024
Journal: Forests
Biometric-Based Net Primary Production (NPP) and the Effects of a Masting Event on Production Allocation in a Secondary Lucidophyllous Forest in Central Japan
Authors: Toshiyuki Ohtsuka, Riona Suzuki, Siyu Chen, Ruoming Cao, Shinpei Yoshitake, Miyuki Kondo, Shogo Kato
Year: 2023
Journal: Forests
Stemflow Hydrology and DOM Flux in Relation to Tree Size and Rainfall Event Characteristics
Authors: Siyu Chen, Ruoming Cao, Shinpei Yoshitake, Toshiyuki Ohtsuka
Year: 2019
Journal: Agricultural and Forest Meteorology
Nitrogen Deposition and Responses of Forest Structure to Nitrogen Deposition in a Cool-Temperate Deciduous Forest
Authors: Ruoming Cao, Siyu Chen, Shinpei Yoshitake, Toshiyuki Ohtsuka
Year: 2019
Journal: Forests

Conclusion:

Dr. Siyu Chen is highly suitable for the Emerging Soil Scientist Recognition. With continued expansion of her global presence and leadership roles, she has the potential to evolve into a leading figure in advancing soil sustainability and environmental conservation worldwide.

Sani Mashi | Soil | Sustainable Soil Practices Award

Published on 24/07/2025 by Soil Scientist

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

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

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

Profile

Scopus

Orcid

Summary:

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

🎓 Education

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

💼Experience

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

🔬Research Focus

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

🛠️Skills

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

🏆Awards

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

📚 Publications

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

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

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

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

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

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

Conclusion:

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