Antonios Papadopoulos | Agricultural | Research Excellence Award

Mr. Antonios Papadopoulos | Agricultural | Research Excellence Award

Mr. Antonios Papadopoulos | Agricultural | International Hellenic University | Greece

Mr. Antonios Papadopoulos is a dedicated and accomplished professional in the field of food science, with a strong academic background and a growing reputation for his research on food safety and organizational performance. Mr. Papadopoulos completed his education with a focus on food science, gaining comprehensive knowledge in quality management systems, food safety standards, and organizational processes. Over the years, he has amassed valuable professional experience working with diverse food businesses, helping organizations implement ISO 22000 and other food safety management systems to enhance operational efficiency and financial outcomes. His research interests center on the impact of food safety certifications on organizational performance, risk management, and process optimization in the food industry, as evidenced by his co-authored work, “Impact of ISO 22000 Implementation on Organizational and Financial Performance: Evidence from Certified and Non-Certified Food Businesses” published in 2025. Mr. Papadopoulos has honed a range of research skills, including quantitative and qualitative analysis, data collection, statistical evaluation, process auditing, and performance benchmarking, making him adept at translating complex research findings into actionable strategies for both academic and industry stakeholders. Throughout his career, Mr. Papadopoulos has received recognition for his contributions to food science research and industry practice, earning awards and honors that underscore his commitment to advancing food safety and organizational excellence. His collaborative work with fellow researchers and practitioners has further strengthened his profile as a scientist capable of bridging theory and practice, fostering innovation, and promoting evidence-based improvements within the food sector. Mr. Antonios Papadopoulos continues to pursue excellence in research, professional practice, and knowledge dissemination, demonstrating a proactive approach to addressing contemporary challenges in food science. His ongoing dedication to monitoring emerging trends, evaluating industry standards, and providing insights into the intersection of certification, organizational performance, and financial results positions him as a thought leader and reliable expert in the field. In conclusion, Mr. Papadopoulos’s combination of rigorous education, extensive professional experience, focused research interests, versatile skills, and recognized achievements highlights his role as a committed and influential contributor to the advancement of food science, food safety management, and sustainable organizational performance.

Academic Profile: Google Scholar

Featured Publications:

 

Zhifeng Xun | Soil Carbon | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Zhifeng Xun | Soil Carbon | Best Researcher Award

Lecturer | Liaoning Agricultural Vocation and Technical College | China

Dr. Zhifeng Xun is a lecturer at Liaoning Agricultural Vocational and Technical College with a strong academic background in Grassland Science and Turfgrass Resources and Utilization. His research focuses on soil carbon and nitrogen cycling and the microbial pathways responsible for the production of the greenhouse gas nitrous oxide (N₂O). Through a combination of biological inhibition experiments and high-throughput sequencing, he has identified fungi, particularly Ascomycota, as significant contributors to N₂O emissions under nitrogen fertilization, revealing that moderate nitrogen input disproportionately stimulates fungal-driven emissions. Dr. Zhifeng Xunhas contributed to multiple major research programs, enhancing the understanding of microbial mechanisms in urban lawn soils and providing a scientific foundation for sustainable nitrogen management in green spaces. He has authored four journal publications and a book, advancing knowledge in ecosystem management and climate change mitigation. His work integrates soil science and microbial ecology to inform practical strategies for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting resilient, sustainable urban landscapes. His research has garnered 16 citations across 16 documents, with an h-index of 2.

Profile: Scopus | Orcid 

Featured Publications

Xun, Z., Zhao, M., Zhao, X., Wang, M., Liu, Y., Han, X., Zhang, Y., Wu, Y., & Quan, Z. (2025-10). Role of fungi in N<sub>2</sub>O emissions from nitrogen-fertilized lawn soil. Nitrogen.

Quan, Z., Li, S., Xun, Z., Liu, C., Liu, D., Wang, Y., Zhao, X., Yang, M., Lu, C., Chen, X., et al. (2024-07). Evaluating the effects of reduced N application, a nitrification inhibitor, and straw incorporation on fertilizer-N fates in the maize growing season: A field <sup>15</sup>N tracer study. Nitrogen.

Quan, Z., Li, S., Xun, Z., Liu, C., Liu, D., Wang, Y., Zhao, X., Yang, M., Lu, C., Chen, X., et al. (2024). Effects of reduced N application, nitrification inhibitor, and straw incorporation on fertilizer-N fates in maize cropping system: A field <sup>15</sup>N tracer study in Northeastern China. Working paper.

Nawar Al-Tameemi | Soil and Water Conservation | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Nawar Al-Tameemi | Soil and Water Conservation | Best Researcher Award

Research Assistant | Beijing Forestry University | China

Dr. Nawar Al-Tameemi is a dedicated research assistant at Beijing Forestry University specializing in environmental science, remote sensing, and geospatial analysis. His work focuses on understanding and mitigating land degradation and desertification in arid and semi-arid regions through advanced data-driven approaches. He has contributed to pioneering research projects that examine vegetation degradation, land-use change, and desertification risk mapping by integrating satellite-derived data, statistical analyses, and machine learning techniques. Dr. Nawar Al-Tameemi develops innovative frameworks that objectively assess the influence of climatic, vegetative, and human factors on land degradation, providing high-precision risk maps to inform sustainable land management and policy interventions. His research enhances the accuracy and applicability of environmental monitoring tools and supports targeted strategies to promote soil and water conservation. With publications in leading journals such as MDPI Remote Sensing and practical experience in applied projects, he bridges academic research with real-world environmental solutions. Committed to advancing knowledge in sustainable land use, Dr. Nawar Al-Tameemi also contributes to mentoring, collaboration, and capacity-building in climate education, fostering awareness of ecological resilience and the adoption of clean, sustainable practices across vulnerable landscapes.

Featured Publications

Al-Tameemi, N., Xuexia, Z., Shahzad, F., Mehmood, K., Linying, X., & Zhou, J. (2025). From trends to drivers: Vegetation degradation and land-use change in Babil and Al-Qadisiyah, Iraq (2000–2023). Remote Sensing, 17(19), 3343.

Ojone Anyebe | Sustainable Agricultural Practices | Best Researcher Award

Mrs. Ojone Anyebe | Sustainable Agricultural Practices | Best Researcher Award

Researcher | Ahmadu Bello University | Nigeria

Mrs. Ojone Anyebe, a dedicated Nigerian academic and professional from Kogi State, has built a strong career in soil science, environmental management, and education. He began his early education in Ogugu and advanced through secondary and tertiary institutions where he obtained qualifications in Soil Science and Environmental Management, complemented by professional certifications in health, safety, and environment. His scholarly contributions span research in conservation agriculture, soil remediation, biochar applications, and land suitability evaluation, with 4 peer-reviewed publications indexed with 15 citations from 14 documents and an h-index of 3, reflecting his growing academic impact. He has presented at national conferences and engaged in policy and agricultural projects that address fertilizer optimization and value chain development in Africa. His professional career includes teaching and research roles across schools, farms, and government establishments where he served as teacher, agronomist, examination officer, and front desk officer. Currently, he works as a mathematics teacher at Dream Towers Schools in Ebonyi State while continuing to mentor students and contribute to agricultural research. A member of the Soil Science Society of Nigeria, he collaborates with peers and mentors in advancing sustainable soil health management and innovative agricultural practices. His research interests emphasize sustainable agriculture, remediation of contaminated soils, and improving crop productivity through innovative soil management techniques. Beyond academics, he actively engages in mentoring, fashion design, and home management, reflecting a versatile personality with a passion for knowledge sharing and community development. Through his professional journey, Mrs. Ojone Anyebe has combined research, teaching, and service to advance science, education, and sustainable environmental practices in Nigeria and beyond.

Profile: Scopus | OrcidLinkedIn 

Featured Publications

Sadiq, F. K., Anyebe, O., Tanko, F., Abdulkadir, A., Manono, B. O., Matsika, T. A., Abubakar, F., & Bello, S. K. (2025). Conservation agriculture for sustainable soil health management: A review of impacts, benefits and future directions. Soil Systems, 9, 103.

Anyebe, O., Sadiq, F. K., Sadiq, A. A., Almaary, K. S., & Akhtar, H. M. S. (2025). Evaluating citric and oxalic acids as sustainable chelating agents for heavy metal remediation and phytoextraction efficiency in contaminated soils using maize (Zea mays). Clean Technologies and Environmental Policy, 26(3).

Anyebe, O., Sadiq, F. K., Manono, B. O., & Matsika, T. A. (2025). Biochar characteristics and application: Effects on soil ecosystem services and nutrient dynamics for enhanced crop yields. Nitrogen, 6, 31.

Sadiq, F. K., Yaqub, M. T., Maniyunda, L. M., Alalwany, A. A. M., Abubakar, F., & Anyebe, O. (2025). Soil classification and land suitability evaluation for tomato cultivation using analytic hierarchy process under different land uses. Heliyon, 11, e41681.

Anyebe, O., Uyovbisere, E. O., Sadiq, F. K., Adegoke, K. A., & Anumah, A. O. (2022). The phytoextraction by Zea mays of residual metals in ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid-washed soils. Chemistry Africa, 5, 395–404.

Anyebe, O., Uyovbisere, E. O., & Amapu, I. Y. (2018). The effect of ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid on the removal and distribution of heavy metals in contaminated soils. In Proceedings of the Second Biennial Conference of the School of Postgraduate Studies, Ahmadu Bello University (pp. 308–315). Zaria, Nigeria.

 

Mokrani Slimane | Biological control | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Mokrani Slimane | Biological control | Best Researcher Award

Teacher researcher, University of Mascara, Algeria 

Dr. Slimane Mokrani is a passionate Teacher-Researcher in Applied Microbiology with extensive expertise in plant-microbe interactions 🌱🔬. With a strong academic and research background rooted in Algeria, he has significantly contributed to biological control, PGPR bacteria, and sustainable agriculture. He is committed to advancing scientific knowledge through collaborative research, training, and scientific communication 📚🧪. Known for his practical insight and dedication to ecological well-being, Dr. Mokrani continues to mentor future scientists while participating in vital microbiological projects across the Maghreb region and beyond.

Profile

Orcid

🎓 Education

Dr. Mokrani’s academic journey began with a Baccalaureate in Natural and Life Sciences (2002) 🧬. He earned his State Engineering Degree in Biological Engineering from University A/Mira in 2007, followed by a Magisterium (2010) and a Ph.D. in Applied Microbiology (2019) from the same institution 🎓. His thesis topics revolved around antibacterial and biofertilizer properties of microbes, highlighting his long-term dedication to plant protection and microbial ecology 🌾🧫.

💼 Experience

With a rich blend of academic and practical exposure, Dr. Mokrani has worked in various microbiology labs, including those at COGB-Labelle and Amizour-Bejaia Hospital 🧪🏥. He also gained international experience at the Higher Institute of Biotechnology, Tunisia. His teaching and research experience span microbiological analysis, PGPR studies, and biohazard risk assessment, making him a versatile contributor in applied microbiology and biotechnology domains 🌍📖.

🔬 Research Interests

Dr. Mokrani’s core research interests lie in Plant Growth Promoting Rhizobacteria (PGPR), biocontrol of phytopathogens, biosurfactant-producing Pseudomonas strains, and biological fertilizers 🌱🧫. He explores microbial biodiversity, functional characterization, and their agricultural applications, aiming to support sustainable farming practices and environmental protection through microbial solutions 🌿🌍.

🏆 Awards & Honors

Throughout his academic journey, Dr. Mokrani has received distinctions for his research excellence, including “Très bien” and “Good” mentions for his defended theses 🎖️📜. He has presented his findings at prestigious scientific conferences and seminars nationally and internationally, underlining his contribution to advancing microbiological knowledge and sustainable agriculture 🌾🏅.

📚 Publications

Pseudomonas diversity in western AlgeriaEuropean Journal of Plant Pathology, 2018. Cited by: multiple articles. 📄

Growth Stimulation by Bacillus AmyloliquefaciensJOJ Hortic Arboric, 2018. Cited by: relevant studies. 📘

Antifungal Activities of Pseudomonas StrainsResearch Journal of Plant Pathology, 2019. 📕

Suppression Determinants of Pseudomonas fluorescentsAgro-Ecologie, 2014. 📗

The Use of Plant Extract in Biological Control – In: Algeria: Agriculture, Water Supply and Vegetation, Nova Science, 2019. 📙

Antifungal activity of non-fluorescent PseudomonasEuropean Journal of Biotechnology and Bioscience, 2019. 📓

🏁Conclusion

Dr. Slimane Mokrani is well-qualified and strongly positioned as a candidate for the Best Researcher Award, especially within microbiology, plant science, and biological control. His dedication to applied research, academic contributions, and alignment with sustainable agriculture themes makes him a deserving nominee. With broader international exposure and enhanced publication strategy, his profile could reach even higher distinction. ✅🌟

Mohsen Ramadan | Biological Control | Outstanding Scientist Award

Dr. Mohsen Ramadan | Biological Control | Outstanding Scientist Award

Entomologist, Hawaii Department of Agriculture, United States

Dr. Mohsen M. Ramadan is an esteemed Exploratory Entomologist at the Hawaii Department of Agriculture’s Plant Pest Control Branch. With over four decades dedicated to entomology, he has significantly contributed to the biological control of invasive pests and weeds in Hawaii. His work encompasses the discovery, importation, and evaluation of natural enemies for pest management, reflecting his commitment to ecological balance and agricultural sustainability.

Profile

Scopus

Education 🎓

Dr. Ramadan’s academic journey began with a B.S. in Entomology from Alexandria University, Egypt, in 1974. He furthered his studies at the University of Hawaii at Manoa, earning an M.S. in 1985 and a Ph.D. in Entomology in 1991. His doctoral research focused on the reproductive strategies and mass production of Opiinae parasitoids targeting Bactrocera dorsalis, under the mentorship of Dr. John W. Beardsley.

Experience 💼

Dr. Ramadan’s professional experience is vast and varied. He began as a Research Assistant in Saudi Arabia, studying date palm pests. His tenure at the University of Hawaii and the USDA involved mass-rearing fruit flies and their parasitoids, and implementing biological control programs. Since 1997, as an Exploratory Entomologist in Hawaii, he has led efforts in surveying pests, conducting foreign explorations, and introducing natural enemies for pest and weed control.

Research Interest 🔍

Dr. Ramadan’s research interests lie in classical biological control, parasitoid-host dynamics, and the ecology of invasive species. He specializes in the identification, importation, and evaluation of natural enemies to manage invasive pests and weeds, aiming to restore ecological balance and protect native ecosystems.

Awards 🏆

Throughout his career, Dr. Ramadan has received numerous accolades and grants. Notably, he was awarded the Sustained Superior Performance Award by the Hawaii Department of Agriculture in 2000. He has secured significant funding for exploratory expeditions across Central America, Africa, and Australia, focusing on finding natural enemies for invasive species like Miconia calvescens and Senecio madagascariensis.

Publications 📄

“Aroplectrus dimerus (Hymenoptera: Eulophidae), Ectoparasitoid of the Nettle Caterpillar, Oxyplax pallivitta (Lepidoptera: Limacodidae): Evaluation in the Hawaiian Islands” (2024) ScholarSpace+2ResearchGate+2MDPI+2

“Male Impact on Female Reproductive Performance of the Larval Tephritid Parasitoid Diachasmimorpha tryoni” (2021) Oxford Academic+2BioOne+2Oxford Academic+2

“Is the Oriental Fruit Fly a Natural Host for the Opiine Parasitoid Diachasmimorpha tryoni?” (1994) Oxford Academic

“Parasitization of the Mediterranean and Oriental Fruit Flies in the Kula Area of Maui, Hawaii” (1987) Oxford Academic

“Biological Observations on Tetrastichus giffardianus, a Gregarious Endoparasitoid of the Mediterranean Fruit Fly” (1990) ScholarSpace

Conclusion

Dr. Mohsen M. Ramadan presents an outstanding profile rooted in decades of meaningful contributions to entomology, biological control, and pest management. His role as an exploratory entomologist and his impact on Hawaii’s invasive species programs demonstrate applied scientific excellence. Despite a few areas that could benefit from greater scholarly visibility and professional engagement, his extensive contributions, leadership in global exploration, and sustained applied research make him highly suitable for the Research for Outstanding Scientist Award.

Assiya Ansabayeva | ecology | Best Researcher Award

Assoc Prof Dr. Assiya Ansabayeva | ecology | Best Researcher Award

Researcher, Associate Professor, «AKHMET BAITURSYNULY Kostanay Regional University», Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, Kazakhstan

🌍 Dr. Ansabayeva Assiya is a passionate environmental scientist and associate professor at «Akhmet Baitursynuly Kostanay Regional University,» Faculty of Agricultural Sciences. With over 14 years of academic experience, her research focuses on ecology, environmental management, and sustainable agriculture. She actively contributes to international projects like Erasmus+ and Bolashak while being a prolific author with a Hirsch Index of 5. 🌱✨

Publication Profile

ORCID

Education

🎓 Dr. Ansabayeva holds a strong academic foundation, having completed advanced training under the prestigious Bolashak Program in 2023. Her educational pursuits have honed her expertise in agroecology, crop production, and organic farming. 🌾📘

Experience

💼 Dr. Ansabayeva has participated in diverse projects, from restoring degraded pastures to developing sustainable agricultural technologies. She has served as a senior researcher and project leader for initiatives funded by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Agriculture of Kazakhstan, and Erasmus+. Her work focuses on innovative crop rotation practices and ecological conservation. 🌿🔬

Research Interests

🔍 Her research interests span ecology, rational use of natural resources, organic farming, and crop production. She actively investigates sustainable agricultural practices to enhance soil fertility, biodiversity, and environmental health. 🌎🌾

Awards

🏆 Dr. Ansabayeva has received numerous accolades, including the Bolashak International Scholarship (2023), the Diploma of Five New Persons of Kostanay Region (2021), and the Best Science Communicator Award (2021). She is also a member of the Alliance of Young Scientists and actively engages in public and university life. 🎖️📜

Publications

The Phytophthora infestans effector Pi05910 suppresses and destabilizes host glycolate oxidase StGOX4 to promote plant susceptibility
Molecular Plant Pathology, 2024, 25(11). Co-author.

Studying the Combined Impact of Salinity and Drought Stress-Simulated Conditions on Physio-Biochemical Characteristics of Lettuce Plant
Horticulturae, 2024, 10(11). Corresponding Author.

Biological Products Sway the Yield and Quality Traits of Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) in a Continental Climate
Sabrao Journal of Breeding and Genetics, 2024, 56(1). Author.

Cultivation of peas, Pisum sativum L. in organic farming
Caspian Journal of Environmental Sciences, 2023, 21(4). Author.

Influence of crop rotation, the treatment of crop residues, and the application of nitrogen fertilizers on soil properties and maize yield
Soil Science Society of America Journal, 2024, 88(6). Co-author.

Dr. Luca Pallotti | Agricultural | Best Researcher Award-1793

Dr. Luca Pallotti | Agricultural | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Luca Pallotti, Università politecnica delle Marche, Italy

Luca Pallotti, Ph.D., is a dedicated Postdoctoral Fellow in the Agricultural, Food, and Environmental Sciences Department at Marche Polytechnic University, Italy. With a strong background in viticulture and enology, Luca’s expertise lies in grapevine physiology, vineyard management, and sustainable agricultural practices. He has made significant contributions to the field through research on climate change adaptation in viticulture, aiming to improve grape quality and production. Luca’s academic journey and innovative projects have established him as a promising young scientist in the realm of sustainable agriculture and viticulture. 🌿🍇

Profile

Google scholar

Based on the provided information, Luca Pallotti appears to be a strong candidate for the “Best Researcher Award,” particularly in the Young Scientist Award category. Let’s break down his suitability, strengths, areas for improvement, and conclude with a recommendation.

Strengths for the Award

Strong Academic Background: Luca has an impressive educational record, completing his Ph.D. in Agricultural, Food, and Environmental Sciences from a well-regarded institution (Marche Polytechnic University) with a focus on viticulture and climate change adaptation strategies.

Research Contributions: He has four publications in reputable journals, which indicates a consistent output in his area of expertise. His research is focused on sustainable viticulture practices, addressing critical issues related to climate change—a relevant topic in environmental sciences.

Practical Impact: Luca’s projects have a clear application, aiming to enhance grape quality and support sustainable vineyard management. His research offers direct solutions for climate change adaptation in agriculture, which is impactful for the field.

Teaching and Mentoring: He has engaged in teaching activities and co-supervised undergraduate theses, showcasing his commitment to knowledge dissemination and mentoring young researchers.

Recognition and Awards: Luca received an award for his undergraduate thesis, highlighting his early excellence in research.

Areas for Improvement

Limited Number of Projects: While Luca has made significant contributions, he has completed only one major research project so far. Increasing his involvement in more diverse projects could further strengthen his profile.

Collaboration and Professional Engagement: Although he has experience as a visiting scholar and collaborations, engaging in more international collaborations or industry projects could enhance his visibility and research impact.

Editorial and Leadership Roles: There are no current editorial appointments or leadership roles listed. Taking on such responsibilities could demonstrate his expertise and leadership within the scientific community.

Education 🎓

Luca Pallotti’s academic foundation is rooted in excellence at the Marche Polytechnic University, Italy. He earned his Ph.D. in Agricultural, Food, and Environmental Sciences in 2024, focusing on innovative viticultural practices. Before this, Luca graduated cum laude in both his Master’s (2019) and Bachelor’s (2017) degrees, specializing in Agricultural Sciences and Viticulture & Enology, respectively. His academic journey reflects a strong commitment to advancing sustainable grape production and climate-resilient agricultural techniques. 📚✨

Experience 🧑‍🔬

Luca Pallotti has been actively involved in research since 2021 at Marche Polytechnic University, where he has worked on projects addressing grape quality, vineyard soil management, and climate change adaptation. His ongoing research fellowship focuses on vineyard training systems and grape ripening quality. Notably, in 2023, he was a visiting scholar at California State University, Fresno, contributing to significant studies in viticulture. Luca’s diverse experience bridges academic research and practical applications in vineyard management. 🌾🌍

Research Interests 🔬

Luca’s research interests center around agronomy, viticulture, and sustainable grape production. His work explores the physiological responses of grapevines to climate change, focusing on innovative practices like shading nets and soil management techniques. Luca’s aim is to develop effective adaptation strategies that enhance grape quality while promoting environmentally sustainable practices. His passion for agroecology and vineyard management drives his commitment to advancing resilient viticultural systems. 🍇🌱

Awards and Honors 🏆

Luca Pallotti was recognized for his outstanding undergraduate thesis in

Sciences, receiving an award from the Accademia dei Georgofili and the Re Stocco Association. His thesis analyzed Verdicchio harvest data, providing valuable insights into viticulture trends over nearly three decades. This accolade highlights Luca’s academic excellence and significant contributions to the field of viticulture. 🌟🍾

Selected Publications 📚

Effects of shading nets as a form of adaptation to climate change on grapes production: a review

Analysis of Verdicchio harvest data in Matelica appellation area during the 1989-2016 time series

Innovative vine training system as a strategy for adaptation to climate change on Verdicchio

Using Legume-Enriched Cover Crops to Improve Grape Yield and Quality in Hillside Vineyards

New strategies for vineyard management

Conclusion

Overall, Luca Pallotti is a promising candidate for the “Best Researcher Award,” especially given his focus on sustainability in viticulture and climate change adaptation. His academic achievements, coupled with practical research contributions, align well with the award’s objectives. While there are areas for growth, such as expanding his project portfolio and gaining more professional appointments, his current strengths make him a solid contender for recognition in the environmental sciences domain.

Dr. Mujib Rahman Ahmadzai | Agricultural | Young Scientist Award

Dr. Mujib Rahman Ahmadzai | Agricultural | Young Scientist Award

Dr. Mujib Rahman Ahmadzai, Kabul University, Afghanistan

Mujib Rahman Ahmadzai is a dedicated Ph.D. candidate specializing in Natural Resources, focusing on Forest Management and Ecosystem Sciences. With over 15 years of professional experience across diverse roles in government, NGOs, and INGOs, Mujib has significantly contributed to Climate Smart Agriculture, Disaster Risk Reduction, and Humanitarian Responses in Afghanistan. His passion for empowering women and girls in sustainable development drives his commitment to innovative teaching and impactful project management.

Profile

Google scholar

Education 🎓

Mujib obtained his Ph.D. in Forest Management and Ecosystem Sciences from the University Putra Malaysia (2020-2024). He also earned a Master’s degree in Natural & Land Resource Management from the same university (2013-2015) and a Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture (Plant Science) from Al-Beroni University, Kapisa, Afghanistan (2006-2009). His educational background is complemented by a strong foundation in environmental sciences, shaping his expertise in natural resource management.

Experience 💼

With 16 years of extensive experience, Mujib currently serves as a Senior Lecturer at Kabul University and has held various consultancy roles. He has worked as a National Coordination Consultant for the Norwegian Church Aid, focusing on Climate Smart Agriculture, and has played key roles in disaster management and agricultural policy development with organizations like CWSA and the Afghanistan Atomic Energy High Commission. His work emphasizes strategic planning, curriculum design, and capacity building, ensuring sustainable agricultural practices in Afghanistan.

Research Interests 🔍

Mujib’s research interests encompass Forest Management, Ecosystem Sciences, Climate Change Adaptation, and Disaster Risk Reduction. He is particularly focused on the integration of Climate Smart Agriculture techniques to enhance resilience in vulnerable communities. His commitment to women and girls’ empowerment in sustainable development is also a crucial aspect of his research agenda.

Awards 🏆

Mujib’s contributions to environmental management and education have been recognized through various awards. His initiatives in Women and Girls Empowerment and sustainable practices in agriculture have garnered appreciation, reflecting his dedication to driving positive change within his community and beyond.

Publication Top Notes 📚

The societal and economic impact of reforestation strategies and policies in Southeast Asia—A review

Customization of GIS for spatial and temporal analyses of Air Quality Index trends in Kabul city

Socioeconomic Characteristics And Satisfaction Level Across Forest Products And Vegetable Farming Of The Agroforestry Community In Khost Province, Afghanistan

A comprehensive AHP numerical module for assessing resilience of Kabul City to flood hazards

Agroforestry Contributions to Ecosystem Services in Southeast Asia: a Systematic Review

Farmers’ Socioeconomic Characteristics and Perception of Land Use Change Defining Optimal Agroforestry Practices in Khost Province, Afghanistan

The Role of Logar River in Sustaining Agricultural Production: A Case Study

METEOROLOGICAL DROUGHT RISK ASSESSMENT USING SPI NUMERICAL MODEL: A CASE STUDY OF HELMAND RIVER BASIN, AFGHANISTAN

Climate Change Impacts and Surface Water Accessibility Analysis in the Ghorband Sub River Basin, Afghanistan

Mrs. MARIA CABRAL | Agricultural | Women Researcher Award

Mrs. MARIA CABRAL | Agricultural | Women Researcher Award

Mrs. MARIA CABRAL, Capes, United States

Maria J.S. Cabral is a distinguished researcher specializing in agronomy and pest management, with extensive experience in the field of crop protection. She is currently affiliated with the Department of Agronomy at the Universidade Federal dos Vales do Jequitinhonha e Mucuri (UFVJM), Brazil, and also works at the Center for Biological Control, Florida A&M University (FAMU), USA. Her work primarily focuses on the sustainable management of insect pests, particularly in sweet potato crops, combining research on pest control strategies and agricultural production in Brazil and the United States.

Profile

Orcid

Strengths for the Award

Maria J. S. Cabral’s recent publication, “Major Insect Pests of Sweet Potatoes in Brazil and the United States, with Information on Crop Production and Regulatory Pest Management,” exemplifies her substantial contributions to agricultural entomology and pest management. The study highlights significant pest challenges affecting sweet potato production, which is crucial for food security in both Brazil and the United States. Her research showcases a multidisciplinary approach, integrating crop production, pest biology, and regulatory policies. The article’s insights into integrated pest management (IPM) strategies underscore her commitment to sustainable agricultural practices, making her work valuable not only to scientists but also to farmers and policymakers. Furthermore, her role in a collaborative effort, as indicated by her co-authorship with other notable researchers, demonstrates her ability to work effectively in diverse teams, a quality essential for impactful research in today’s interconnected world.

Areas for Improvement

While Cabral’s research is robust, there are areas for potential improvement. One significant aspect is the need for more comprehensive field studies that assess the practical implementation of her proposed IPM strategies in varying agricultural settings. This could involve direct collaboration with smallholder farmers to tailor solutions that meet their unique challenges. Additionally, expanding her research to include the socio-economic impacts of pest management strategies would provide a more holistic understanding of the agricultural landscape. Further interdisciplinary collaboration with social scientists could enhance her work by integrating perspectives on farmer behavior and economic viability, leading to more effective pest management solutions.

Education 🎓

Maria J.S. Cabral holds advanced degrees in agronomy from renowned institutions. She pursued her research in Brazil, where she earned her degrees from UFVJM. Her academic journey has been dedicated to understanding and mitigating the effects of insect pests on key crops like sweet potatoes, providing a solid foundation for her contributions to both academic and applied agricultural science.

Experience 🧑‍🔬

Maria’s professional experience spans multiple roles in academia and research institutions in Brazil and the United States. She has worked on various pest control projects, particularly focusing on sweet potato production. Her collaborations with FAMU have led to significant contributions to regulatory pest management and crop production strategies. She regularly participates in international research initiatives, contributing to pest control solutions that impact food security and agricultural sustainability.

Research Interest 🔬

Maria’s primary research interests lie in integrated pest management (IPM), biological control, and sustainable agricultural practices. Her work on insect pests that affect sweet potatoes is critical for enhancing crop yield and quality, especially in Brazil and the United States. She also explores non-pesticide approaches for pest control, promoting eco-friendly and sustainable solutions to support farmers and reduce the environmental impact of agricultural practices.

Awards 🏆

Maria J.S. Cabral has been recognized for her outstanding research contributions to agronomy and pest management. She has received numerous accolades for her work in developing innovative pest control strategies and has been invited to speak at various international conferences.

Publication Top Notes 📝

Poekilloptera phalaenoides (Hemiptera: Flatidae): occurrence on Inga striata (Fabaceae) in a mountainous region

Polybia erythrothorax (Hymenoptera: Vespidae): first record of occurrence in the Cerrado biome of northeastern Brazil

Protonectarina sylveirae (Hymenoptera: Vespidae): first report preying Bedellia somnulentella (Lepidoptera: Bedelliidae) in Brazil

Pupal parasitoids of Antichloris eriphia (Fabr.) (Lepidoptera: Erebidae) in the Agreste region of the Alagoas state, northeastern Brazil
Major Insect Pests of Sweet Potatoes in Brazil and the United States, with Information on Crop Production and Regulatory Pest Management
The invasive Bedellia somnulentella (Lepidoptera: Bedelliidae): new record of host plant, predator and biome in Brazil
Sex dimorphism in pupae and adults of the specialist Ipomoea batatas defoliator Bedellia somnulentella (Lepidoptera: Bedelliidae)

Parasitoides pupais de Antichloris eriphia (Lepidoptera: Erebidae) na região agreste Alagoana, nordeste do Brasil

Ipomoea (Convolvulaceae) plants as new hosts of Tetranychus ludeni (Acari: Tetranychidae)

Oxytenis modestia (Cramer, 1780) (Saturniidae: Oxyteninae): first record for the Cerrado of Northeast Brazil

Conclusion

Maria J. S. Cabral’s contributions to the field of entomology through her research on sweet potato pests have far-reaching implications for food security and sustainable agriculture. Her strengths lie in her multidisciplinary approach and her commitment to advancing pest management strategies that can benefit farmers in both Brazil and the United States. By addressing the identified areas for improvement, such as expanding field studies and incorporating socio-economic factors, Cabral can further enhance the impact of her research. Therefore, she is a deserving candidate for the Women Researcher Award, as her work not only advances scientific knowledge but also contributes to practical solutions for real-world agricultural challenges.