Prof. Ahmet Kurunc | Irrigation and water Quality – Professor Doctor at Akdeniz University, Turkey
Professor Ahmet Kurunç is a distinguished researcher and academic leader in the field of agricultural science, specializing in irrigation and soil quality management. With a career spanning over three decades, he has made notable contributions to the fields of irrigation water quality, water stress, salt-affected soils, and sustainable wastewater use in agriculture. His expertise has garnered international recognition, reflecting his dedication to addressing critical challenges in agriculture through advanced research and innovative solutions. Serving as a Professor in the Department of Agricultural Structures and Irrigation at Akdeniz University, Prof. Kurunç has held various leadership roles, including Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture and Chair of the department, demonstrating his commitment to advancing agricultural education and research. His research initiatives have contributed to sustainable agricultural practices, enhancing crop productivity in challenging environments. His work is widely published, with his findings having a meaningful impact on both academia and practical agricultural applications globally.
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Education
Professor Kurunç’s academic journey began with a Bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Structures and Irrigation from Ankara University, followed by a Master’s degree in the same discipline, where he focused on innovative solutions to irrigation challenges. He further pursued a Ph.D. in Agronomy at New Mexico State University, where his doctoral research explored water stress management, irrigation practices, and the long-term impacts of salinity on agricultural productivity. This rigorous academic background laid a strong foundation for his research career, equipping him with the knowledge and technical skills essential to tackle pressing issues in irrigation science and agricultural water management. His international education and exposure to diverse agricultural environments have allowed him to incorporate global perspectives into his work, making his research relevant in both local and international contexts.
Experience
Professor Kurunç has a wealth of academic and professional experience, having held various teaching and research roles at Akdeniz University. His career progression from a Teaching Assistant to a full Professorship demonstrates his dedication to academia and research excellence. As a former Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture, he led initiatives to strengthen the faculty’s research output and improve student engagement in agricultural studies. His tenure as Chair of the Department of Agricultural Structures and Irrigation focused on enhancing curriculum standards and fostering a research-driven environment. He also served as an Advisor to the Rector, where he played a vital role in institutional development. Throughout his career, Prof. Kurunç has collaborated with international scholars and institutions, advancing his research on water management, soil conservation, and sustainable agriculture. His extensive experience has shaped him into a seasoned researcher with an impressive academic footprint.
Research Interest
Professor Kurunç’s research interests encompass critical areas in sustainable agriculture, including irrigation and water stress management, irrigation water quality, salt stress, soil conservation, and wastewater use in agriculture. He has devoted significant efforts to studying the effects of salinity on crop productivity, exploring how saline conditions influence water use efficiency, crop growth, and evapotranspiration. His research also investigates agricultural pollution, focusing on the sustainable use of wastewater in crop production, which has implications for water conservation and soil health. By identifying effective soil management practices, Prof. Kurunç aims to mitigate the adverse effects of salt stress on soils, thus supporting sustainable agricultural practices in arid and semi-arid regions. His work in agricultural water quality management and salt-affected soils contributes to developing resilient agricultural systems, making him a pivotal figure in his field.
Awards
Throughout his career, Professor Kurunç has received numerous accolades for his contributions to agricultural science. His awards highlight his dedication to pioneering research and his impact on sustainable agricultural practices. His achievements underscore his commitment to advancing knowledge in irrigation management and soil conservation, making him a respected figure in both academia and agricultural communities.
Publications
“Effects of salinity on eggplant (Solanum melongena L.) growth and evapotranspiration” (2010, Irrigation and Drainage), cited 210 times.
“Performance of two stochastic approaches for forecasting water quality and streamflow data from Yeşilırmak River, Turkey” (2005, Environmental Modelling & Software), cited 151 times.
“Salinity and drought affect yield response of bell pepper similarly” (2011, Acta Agriculturae Scandinavica), cited 96 times.
“Identification of nitrate leaching hot spots in a large area with contrasting soil texture and management” (2011, Agricultural Water Management), cited 77 times.
“Growth and Evapotranspiration of Okra (Abelmoschus Esculentus L.) as Influenced by Salinity of Irrigation Water” (2008, Journal of Irrigation and Drainage Engineering), cited 77 times.
“Testing the residuals of an ARIMA model on the Cekerek Stream Watershed in Turkey” (2005, Turkish Journal of Engineering & Environmental Sciences), cited 80 times.
“Effects of long-term salt stress on antioxidant system, chlorophyll and proline contents in pea leaves” (2012, Romanian Biotechnological Letters), cited 74 times.
Conclusion
Professor Ahmet Kurunç’s extensive research, leadership experience, and commitment to sustainable agricultural practices position him as an outstanding candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His academic contributions have advanced the fields of irrigation management, salt stress mitigation, and sustainable water usage in agriculture, directly addressing global challenges in food security and environmental sustainability. Prof. Kurunç’s dedication to education and mentorship further highlights his role in shaping the future of agricultural science. His groundbreaking research and commitment to excellence make him a highly deserving nominee for this recognition.