Xueting Ma | Agricultural | Young Scientist Award

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Dr. Xueting Ma | Agricultural | Young Scientist Award

Xueting Ma | Tarim University | China

Xueting Ma is an Associate Professor at the College of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, Tarim University, China. He specializes in agricultural product quality evaluation, focusing on non-destructive testing techniques for fruit quality assessment. His research integrates hyperspectral imaging, near-infrared spectroscopy, and advanced analytical methods to enhance fruit detection accuracy. Dr. Ma has published multiple peer-reviewed articles contributing to innovations in food science and technology.

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Summary:

Xueting Ma, an Associate Professor at the College of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, Tarim University, China, has established himself as a promising young researcher in agricultural product quality evaluation. With a doctoral background in mechanical design and theory and significant expertise in non-destructive testing techniques, he has contributed to advancements in fruit maturity detection and quality assessment. His research integrates hyperspectral imaging, near-infrared spectroscopy, UAV multi-spectrum analysis, and fractal theory, leading to impactful publications in high-ranking journals within food science and technology.

Education

Xueting Ma holds a Doctorate in Mechanical Design and Theory from Northeast Forestry University, where he also completed his undergraduate studies in Mechanical and Electronic Engineering. He has additionally pursued academic development at China Agricultural University while continuing his professional research work at Tarim University.

Experience

Xueting Ma is currently serving as an Associate Professor at the College of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, Tarim University, China. Since joining the institution, he has been dedicated to advancing research in the field of agricultural product quality evaluation, with a particular emphasis on non-destructive testing techniques for fruit quality assessment.

Research Focus

His primary research focus is on developing innovative, non-destructive methods for evaluating fruit quality and improving detection accuracy through advanced imaging and analytical technologies. He has made notable contributions in understanding and enhancing apple quality detection using NIRS, hyperspectral imaging, and bibliometric analysis of fruit quality research trends.

Skills

He possesses expertise in agricultural product quality evaluation, hyperspectral imaging technology, near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS), fractal theory applications, and scientometric analysis. His skills extend to advanced methodologies in detecting fruit quality parameters such as soluble solids and sugar content.

Awards

Throughout his academic journey, Xueting Ma has contributed significantly to the field of agricultural product testing, earning recognition through impactful research publications in high-quality journals within the food science and technology domain.

Publications

Study on the Maturity Detection Method of Winter Jujube (Ziziphus jujuba ‘Dongzao’) Based on Near-Infrared Spectroscopy Technology
Authors: Xueting Ma, Xin Luo, Ganggang Guo, Quanzhong Zhang, Huaping Luo
Year: 2025
Journal: Journal of Food Composition and Analysis

Research on Quality Detection of Jujube (Ziziphus jujuba Mill.) Fruit Based on UAV Multi-Spectrum
Authors: Xueting Ma, Congying Wang, Huaping Luo, Ganggang Guo
Year: 2024
Journal: Applied Sciences

Effects of Hairy Vetch Cultivation on Soil Quality and Productivity in Chinese Orchards: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Xueting Ma, Jiean Liao, Jinfei Zhao, Linqiao Xi
Year: 2023
Journal: Food Science and Technology

Evaluation of Maturity and Moisture Content in Fresh Jujube Using Fractal Theory and Tissue Images
Authors: Xueting Ma, Fei Zhang, Huaping Luo, Feng Gao
Year: 2023
Journal: Food Science and Technology

Experiment and Meta-Analysis on the Effects of Grass Cultivation in the Orchard on Fruit Yield and Quality
Authors: Xueting Ma, Jiean Liao, Jinfei Zhao
Year: 2023
Journal: Food Science and Technology


Conclusion:

Given his academic excellence, innovative research contributions, and strong publication record, Xueting Ma is highly suitable for the Research for Young Scientist Award. With continued efforts in global collaboration and research leadership, he has the potential to become a prominent figure in agricultural product quality evaluation and food science technology.

Collins Oduro | Agriculture | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Collins Oduro | Agriculture | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Collins Oduro, Lincoln University, New Zealand

Dr. Collins Oduro is an agricultural economist and researcher affiliated with Lincoln University, New Zealand. His expertise spans agribusiness management, food security, and rural development, with a focus on institutional analysis and project evaluation in Sub-Saharan Africa. A recipient of the prestigious Manaaki New Zealand PhD Scholarship, Dr. Oduro has collaborated with international organizations and universities to address challenges in market access, value chains, and sustainable development. His work bridges academic research and practical implementation to improve livelihoods and resilience in agricultural communities.

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Summary:

Dr. Collins Oduro’s academic journey reflects a rare blend of research depth, policy engagement, and field-level impact. His work on institutional dynamics and food insecurity offers fresh perspectives for solving persistent problems in African agriculture. With a strong foundation in teaching, research, and agribusiness strategy, he exemplifies the qualities of a transformative researcher.

🎓 Education

Collins Oduro holds a PhD in Agricultural Economics from Lincoln University in New Zealand. He earned an MPhil in Agricultural Administration from the University of Ghana with coursework spanning Agribusiness, Economics, Extension, and Law. He also holds a BSc in Agricultural Science from the University of Cape Coast, with a focus on Economics, Agribusiness, and Sciences. He has received professional certifications in entrepreneurship and value chains from Wageningen UR in the Netherlands and KNUST in Ghana. Additionally, he completed foundational training in computer literacy at the African Virtual University.

💼Experience

Collins has extensive experience in agribusiness, economic research, rural development, teaching, and administration. He served as Director of Berean Generation NGO in Ghana and as a researcher at Lincoln University. He contributed to research and consultancies with international institutions such as IFAD, University of Ghana, University of Nairobi, University of Guelph, and the Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture. His agribusiness roles have included work in horticulture, quality assurance, export operations, and market access across New Zealand and Ghana. His professional journey also includes experience in municipal agricultural development and academic teaching in international school systems.

🔬Research Focus

Collins Oduro’s research focuses on agricultural economics, food security, rural development, and institutional analysis in project performance. He investigates the causes of food insecurity in Africa through institutional lenses and seeks innovative frameworks for project evaluation. His ongoing studies include the role of community entry strategies in West African project success and the development of new tools to assess performance and sustainability in agricultural initiatives.

🛠️Skills

He possesses strong capabilities in agribusiness management, economics, project evaluation, value chain development, data analysis, teaching, and capacity building. Additional skills include strategic planning, institutional analysis, business plan development, community entry strategy design, and human resource management. He is also proficient in leadership, communication, time management, and computer applications.

🏆Awards

He received the prestigious Manaaki New Zealand PhD Scholarship and was a finalist in the Three Minute Thesis Competition at Lincoln University. He was a two-time finalist in the Africa Category of the Australia Awards. His work on agricultural development earned him recognition from Ghanaian national media and educational institutions for outstanding academic results and international project supervision.

📚 Publications

Title: Several Initiatives but Little Results: A Novel Approach to Offer an Institutional Explanation for Food Insecurity in Ghana
Author: Collins Oduro, A. Renwick, J. O. Akotey
Year: 2025
Journal: World Food Policy

Title: Pineapple Production and Household Poverty Alleviation Indicators: The Case of Pineapple Farmers in the Akuapem South District of Ghana
Author: Collins Oduro
Year: 2016
Journal: LAP LAMBERT Academic Publishing

Conclusion:

Dr. Oduro is a highly suitable candidate for the Research for Best Researcher Award. His achievements, leadership, and forward-thinking research position him as a rising thought leader in agricultural development. With minor enhancements in global academic engagement and collaborative visibility, his contributions could become even more influential in shaping agricultural policy and practice worldwide.

Santosh Marahatta | Agriculture | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Santosh Marahatta | Agriculture | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Santosh Marahatta, Agriculture and Forestry University , Nepal

Prof. Santosh Marahatta is an Associate Professor of Agronomy at Agriculture and Forestry University, Nepal. He holds a Ph.D. in Cropping System Agronomy from Tribhuvan University and specializes in conservation agriculture, precision nutrient management, and sustainable soil fertility practices. With over a decade of academic and research experience, he has led numerous national and international projects and published extensively on rice-based cropping systems, resource use efficiency, and agronomic innovations. Prof. Marahatta is actively involved in university leadership, editorial boards, and government agricultural committees, contributing significantly to research, education, and policy in Nepal’s agricultural sector.

Profile

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Summary:

Prof. Marahatta exemplifies excellence in agricultural research with a focus on sustainability, productivity, and innovation. His research addresses critical agronomic challenges through practical, field-based solutions. His leadership in academia, commitment to mentoring, and scholarly contributions mark him as a transformative figure in Nepal’s agricultural research landscape.

🎓 Education

Dr. Santosh Marahatta holds a Ph.D. in Cropping System Agronomy from Tribhuvan University, Nepal, where his dissertation focused on conservation agriculture and site-specific nutrient management in intensive rice-based systems in Nepal’s western foothills. He completed his M.Sc. in Agriculture (Agronomy) with distinction from the same university, conducting research on rice varieties and fertility practices in southern Chitwan. He earned his B.Sc. in Agriculture from Tribhuvan University as well.

💼Experience

Dr. Marahatta currently serves as an Associate Professor of Agronomy at the Agriculture and Forestry University (AFU), Nepal. His academic career spans over a decade, with prior roles including Assistant Professor (both permanent and temporary) at Tribhuvan University and AFU. He also served as an agronomist at the Nepal Agricultural Research Council and as a lecturer at the Himalayan College of Agricultural Science and Technology. He is actively engaged in university governance and curriculum development as a Senate Member, Academic Council Member, Faculty Board Member, and Head of the Department of Agronomy at AFU. Additionally, he serves on multiple editorial boards and government-appointed agricultural committees and has led or contributed to numerous national and international research and development projects.

🔬Research Focus

Dr. Marahatta’s research is deeply rooted in conservation agriculture, precision nutrient management, and sustainable soil fertility practices. His work emphasizes zero tillage, direct seeding of rice, and the use of biofertilizers, slow-release nitrogen sources, and tools like NDVI and SPAD meters to improve nutrient efficiency. He has published extensively on cropping systems, resource use efficiency, and agronomic interventions for enhancing productivity in Nepal’s diverse agro-climatic zones.

🛠️Skills

He is proficient in a range of research and statistical software, including MS Office Suite, Mstat, GenStat, SPSS, DSSAT, R Studio, SigmaPlot, and Adobe Photoshop. Dr. Marahatta communicates effectively in Nepali, English, and Hindi and has participated in numerous international workshops and training programs, reinforcing his expertise in sustainable and climate-resilient agricultural practices.

🏆Awards

During his academic career, Dr. Marahatta was honored with the prestigious Tribhuvan University Merit Scholarship throughout his B.Sc. studies, awarded to the top 15% of students at the Institute of Agriculture and Animal Science.

📚 Publications

Title
Improving soil health and crop productivity through conservation agriculture and nitrogen management in rice–mustard–maize systems

Authors
Santosh Marahatta, Shrawan Kumar Sah, Andrew M. McDonald, Jagadish Timsina, Krishna Prasad Devkota

Journal
Field Crops Research

Year of Publication
2025

Conclusion:

Prof. Santosh Marahatta is a visionary agronomist whose sustained academic output, impactful research, and leadership make him highly deserving of the Best Researcher Award. His work is not only shaping sustainable agricultural practices in Nepal but also serving as a model for developing countries worldwide. With continued focus on innovation and collaboration, he is well-positioned to achieve even greater influence in global agricultural science.

FAZL ULLAH | Agronomy | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. FAZL ULLAH | Agronomy | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Fazl Ullah, Huazhong agricultural University, Pakistan

Mr. Fazl Ullah is a dedicated researcher from Pakistan with a Master’s degree in Agronomy from Yanbian University, China. His academic and research background spans crop physiology, plant nutrition, soil microbiology, and sustainable agricultural practices. He has contributed to multiple peer-reviewed publications focusing on phosphorus management, microbial interactions in soil, and biogas production. Fluent in English, Chinese, Urdu, and Pashto, Mr. Ullah is passionate about advancing crop science and is currently seeking opportunities to pursue a Ph.D. in a research-driven environment.

Profile

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Summary:

Mr. Fazl Ullah is a promising early-career researcher with a strong foundation in agronomic research, particularly in the areas of plant-soil interactions, biofertilizers, and environmental stress management. His work demonstrates originality, technical depth, and alignment with contemporary global agricultural challenges. He has already contributed to the scientific community through quality publications and shows significant potential for further growth.

🎓 Education

Fazl Ullah holds a Master’s degree in Agronomy from Yanbian University, China, where he studied from 2019 to 2024. Prior to that, he completed a year of intensive Chinese language studies at the same university’s College of International Cultural Exchange in 2018–2019. His academic foundation in agriculture was laid at the University of Swabi in Pakistan, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Agriculture between 2013 and 2017.

💼Experience

Fazl Ullah has been actively involved in academic research throughout his studies. His work includes studies on phosphorus application and phosphate-solubilizing bacteria to enhance maize and wheat yields, contributing to improved nutrient uptake in alkaline soils. He has co-authored multiple peer-reviewed journal articles and engaged in interdisciplinary research on soil microbial communities, greenhouse gas emissions, and biogas production under psychrophilic conditions. Most recently, he conducted research on the effect of iron ion addition on saline-alkali soil properties and microbial dynamics during soybean cultivation, which is currently ready for submission.

🔬Research Focus

His core research interests are centered around crop science and environmental sustainability. He is passionate about plant physiology, crop management, and plant nutrition, particularly in rice, maize, and soybean systems. He is also interested in biofertilizers, photosynthesis, plant hormones, weed control, and the integration of biotechnology and fermentation science in sustainable agriculture. His work extends to greenhouse gas mitigation, biogas production from lignocellulosic materials, and improving soil health in challenging environments.

🛠️Skills

Fazl Ullah possesses a strong skill set in modern agricultural science and research. His expertise includes crop phenotyping, nutrient and soil microbiology analysis, seed testing, and sustainable farming practices. He is proficient in statistical analysis, experimental design, herbicide application, laboratory safety, and scientific data management. His excellent communication and collaboration skills are complemented by his command of Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, which he has further refined through professional certification courses.

🏆Awards

He has been the recipient of the prestigious Chinese Government Scholarship awarded by the China Scholarship Council, which fully funded both his Chinese language studies and his Master’s program. Additionally, during his undergraduate studies, he was awarded a merit-based laptop by the Prime Minister of Pakistan in recognition of academic excellence in 2015.

📚 Publications

Title: Effects of FeSO₄ and Organic Additives on Soil Properties and Microbiota during Model Soybean Planting in Saline-Alkali Soil
Authors: Fazl Ullah
Year: 2024
Journal: Agronomy

 

Title: Impact of Temperature on the Performance and Character of the Methanogenic Community of a Fixed-Bed Anaerobic Reactor at Psychrophilic Temperature
Authors: Hongyan Z., Liu H., Sun Y., Zhang L., Ullah F., Piao R., Wang W., Cui Z.
Year: 2021
Journal: Water

 

Title: Combining Phosphorus (P) with Phosphate Solubilizing Bacteria (PSB) Improved Wheat Yield and P Uptake in Alkaline Soil
Authors: Hussain A., Adnan M., Iqbal S., Fahad S., Saeed M., Mian I. A., Muhammad M. W., Romman M., Perveez R., Wahid F., Ullah F.
Year: 2019
Journal: Pure and Applied Biology

 

Title: Integrated Application of Phosphorus (P) and Phosphate Solubilizing Bacteria (PSB) Improves Maize Yield
Authors: Fazl Ullah, Adnan M., Fahad S., Iqbal S., Arshad M., Muhammad D., Wahid F., Noor M.
Year: 2018
Journal: Pure and Applied Biology

Conclusion:

Mr. Fazl Ullah is a highly suitable candidate for the Best Researcher Award at Huazhong Agricultural University. While he is still in the early stages of his academic career, his trajectory is upward, and this recognition would serve to encourage continued excellence and leadership in agricultural research. With further opportunities for leading projects and expanding collaborations, he is well-positioned to make impactful contributions to the field.

Eric LEGBA | Soil Fertility | Young Scientist Award

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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.

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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 Srinivasan – Sustainability 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 Ramasamy – International 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.