Maria Esmeralda Cuzco Cruz | Agriculture | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Maria Esmeralda Cuzco Cruz | Agriculture | Best Researcher Award 

Prof. Maria Esmeralda Cuzco Cruz | Agriculture | Master at University of Guayaquil | Ecuador

Prof. Maria Esmeralda Cuzco Cruz is a distinguished scholar and researcher in the field of Agricultural Sciences, with a particular focus on Plant Protection, Entomology, Agroecology, and Sustainable Crop Systems. She earned her Ph.D. in Protected Agriculture (Plant Protection) from the University of Almería, Spain, where her doctoral research centered on biological pest control and greenhouse crop management. Prof. Cuzco Cruz also holds master’s degrees in Sanitation and Plant Production from the Polytechnic University of Valencia and in Geomatics, Remote Sensing, and Spatial Models for Forest Management from the University of Córdoba, Spain, complementing her undergraduate degree in Agronomic Engineering from the Catholic University of Santiago de Guayaquil, Ecuador. Professionally, she has served as a Professor and Researcher at leading institutions such as the University of Guayaquil, University Agraria del Ecuador, and Technological University ECOTEC, where she has contributed to both academic instruction and research leadership. Her research interests include biological control of insect pests, pest ecology in greenhouse systems, biodiversity assessment, and the integration of IoT and remote sensing technologies in sustainable agriculture. She is proficient in molecular and morphological pest identification, experimental design, statistical analysis, and spatial modeling techniques. Throughout her career, Prof. Cuzco Cruz has received multiple academic honors, including recognition for Outstanding Research in Agricultural Innovation and leadership in Sustainable Agroecological Development Projects. Her scholarly contributions are reflected in numerous peer-reviewed journal articles indexed in Scopus and Google Scholar, which address emerging challenges in pest management, biodiversity conservation, and climate-resilient agriculture. Prof. Maria Esmeralda Cuzco Cruz continues to promote scientific excellence through interdisciplinary collaborations and innovative approaches that strengthen sustainable agriculture and environmental stewardship for future generations.

Profile: Google Scholar

Featured Publications 

  1. Cuzco Cruz, M. E., Bustos, J. P. Q., Cabrera, W. G. M., & Sánchez, A. J. L. (2022). Molecular and morphological characterization of the genus Pythium from forest species. RECIAMUC, 6(2), 375–387. 

  2. Cuzco Cruz, M. E. (2014). Development of rearing methods for Hambletonia pseudococcina (Hymenoptera: Encyrtidae) and its efficacy in the biological control of Dysmicoccus texensis (Hemiptera: Pseudococcidae).

  3. Sánchez, A. J. L., Sornoza, J. S. V., Cruz, M. E. C., & Bustos, J. P. Q. (2022). Evaluation of zootechnical parameters of Oreochromis spp fed with 8% corn FVH and ascorbic acid in earthen ponds. Ciencia Latina Revista Científica Multidisciplinar, 6(5), 5056–5070.

  4. Cuzco, M. E., Vera, A. M., Quiñonez, J. P., Mera, L. F., & Lao, M. T. (2025). Influence of a greenhouse adapted to the Ecuadorian coastal climate on pest dynamics in tomato crops. Horticulturae, 11(11), 1279. 

  5. Cuzco, M., Santos, D., Vivas, M., Cotto, M., Vera, A., & Quito, E. (2024). Identification, spatial distribution and report of new records of pest and beneficial insect species in Ecuador from Samanea saman trees. African Journal of Biological Sciences, 6(Si4), 5458–5469.

  6. Rolando, L., Paulino, M. P., Astudillo-Astudillo, E. A., Cruz, M. E. C., et al. (2023). The impact of agroecological practices on biodiversity and agricultural productivity. Migration Letters, 20(S3), 1282–1294. 

  7. Prada Herrera, J. C., Bolaños Contreras, C. C., Cano Legua, F. E., & Cruz, M. E. C. (2023). Strategies for microbiological control in food: Microbiological control, agronomy, and environmental conservation. Journal of Namibian Studies, 33. 

 

Sundeep Kumar | Molecular Breeding | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Sundeep Kumar | Molecular Breeding | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Sundeep Kumar | Molecular Breeding | Principal Scientist at ICAR-National Bureau of Plant Genetic Resources | India

Dr. Sundeep Kumar is a highly accomplished Principal Scientist in the field of plant biotechnology, with a career dedicated to advancing genetic improvement and sustainability in cereal crops. His expertise spans wheat genomics, molecular breeding, and plant biotechnology, where he has contributed to solving critical challenges such as heat tolerance, disease resistance, and grain quality. Through his pioneering work, he has become widely recognized as a leading researcher whose scientific output has bridged the gap between fundamental plant biology and applied crop improvement. His professional journey reflects continuous growth, dedication, and impact in global agricultural research.

Academic Profile

Scopus

Education

Dr. Sundeep Kumar pursued his academic foundation in plant sciences with a specialization in molecular biology and biotechnology. His advanced training enabled him to acquire in-depth knowledge of genetics, genomics, and breeding strategies, which later became the cornerstone of his research career. He further enhanced his expertise through research fellowships and international exposure, gaining proficiency in advanced technologies such as genome-wide association studies, quantitative trait nucleotide mapping, and KASP marker validation. His education not only prepared him for an academic and research career but also gave him the skills to address emerging agricultural challenges through molecular innovation.

Experience

Dr. Sundeep Kumar has served in a senior scientific capacity at a premier national research institution, where he has led projects in genomic resources, plant biotechnology, and molecular breeding. His leadership in multi-institutional and international collaborations has brought forward solutions for wheat improvement under climate stress conditions. He has overseen large-scale projects funded by leading scientific agencies, successfully integrating genomic discoveries into applied breeding programs. His experience is not limited to research but also extends to mentoring young scientists, guiding doctoral students, and contributing to the global research community through editorial and advisory roles. His professional experience reflects both scientific excellence and leadership in agricultural biotechnology.

Research Interest

The research interests of Dr. Sundeep Kumar lie in deciphering the genetic and molecular basis of complex traits in wheat and other cereals. He has extensively focused on identifying genomic regions associated with heat tolerance, disease resistance, grain quality, and yield stability. His work emphasizes the use of cutting-edge tools such as GWAS, high-throughput genotyping, and functional genomics for crop improvement. Another key area of his interest is understanding the role of plant defense mechanisms, including thermoregulation and hormone-mediated responses, in adaptive immunity. His research has strong translational value, directly contributing to sustainable food security by providing insights into climate-resilient agriculture.

Award

Dr. Sundeep Kumar has been recognized with several prestigious awards and honors for his outstanding contributions to plant biotechnology and crop improvement. His recognition by leading national and international organizations demonstrates the scientific and societal impact of his work. His contributions to wheat genomics, molecular breeding, and sustainable agricultural practices have not only advanced scientific knowledge but also influenced agricultural strategies at broader levels. His awards reflect his leadership, innovation, and dedication to addressing global challenges in agriculture.

Selected Publication

  • Unraveling the genetic basis of heat tolerance and yield in bread wheat: QTN discovery and Its KASP-assisted validation, BMC Plant Biology, 2025, 1 Citation.

  • Identification of quantitative trait nucleotides for grain quality in bread wheat under heat stress, Scientific Reports, 2025, 2 Citations.

  • Genetic dissection of leaf rust resistance in a diversity panel of tetraploid wheat (Triticum turgidum), BMC Plant Biology, 2025, 2 Citations.

  • Plant Defense Hormones: Thermoregulation and Their Role in Plant Adaptive Immunity, Journal of Plant Growth Regulation, 2025, 2 Citations.

Conclusion

Dr. Sundeep Kumar is an eminent researcher whose career reflects a blend of innovation, leadership, and societal relevance. His expertise in wheat genomics and plant biotechnology has generated significant advancements in crop science, especially in developing strategies for heat tolerance, disease resistance, and yield improvement. His numerous publications, high-level collaborations, and recognition through awards place him among the leading scientists shaping the future of sustainable agriculture. With a strong commitment to addressing global food security challenges, Dr. Sundeep Kumar continues to be a driving force in advancing plant biotechnology and molecular breeding.

PERUMAL SIDDHURAJU | Environemntal Food Security | Best Researcher Award

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Prof Dr.PERUMAL SIDDHURAJU | Environemntal Food Security | Best Researcher Award 

Professor and Head Department of Environmental Sciences,School of Life Sciences, Bharathiar University, Coimbatore- 641046, India

Dr. P. Siddhuraju is a distinguished Professor and Head of the Department of Environmental Sciences at Bharathiar University, Coimbatore, India. With a career spanning over 30 years, he has made significant contributions to environmental science and resource technology. His research focuses on bioresource potential, environmental food security, sewage wastewater reuse, microplastic pollution, and zero-waste agroecosystems. Dr. Siddhuraju has held prominent positions in academia and research globally, including roles in Germany and Spain. His achievements have earned him recognition as one of the top 2% scientists in the world.

Profile

Scopus

Education

Dr. Siddhuraju completed his Ph.D. in Botany from Bharathiar University, Coimbatore, in 1994 with high commendation. He earned his M. Phil. in Botany from the same university in 1990, following an M.Sc. in Botany from Annamalai University in 1988. His academic journey began with a B.Sc. in Botany from Gobi Arts and Science College in 1986.

Experience

Dr. Siddhuraju’s extensive career includes significant roles across various institutions. He began as a Senior Research Fellow and later worked as a Research Associate at Bharathiar University. His international experience includes post-doctoral research in Spain and Germany, where he served as an Alexander von Humboldt Fellow and Senior Scientist. He has been a Professor and Head at Bharathiar University since 2016, and has also served as the Dean of Research. His professional journey reflects a deep commitment to advancing environmental sciences.

Research Interests

Dr. Siddhuraju’s research primarily revolves around environmental science and bioresource technology. His interests include the bioresource potential of underutilized crops, environmental food security, sewage wastewater reuse, microplastic pollution, and zero-waste agroecosystems. He investigates the impact of neglected crops on soil fertility, livestock management, and agroecosystem sustainability, while also exploring the effects of microplastic pollution on the environment and agriculture.

Awards

Dr. Siddhuraju has received numerous accolades, including:

  • International Distinguished Research Excellence Award 2022 in Environmental Sciences.
  • Recognition as one of the top 2% scientists in India in the field of Environmental Food Security by Stanford University (2021).
  • Awarded E-Membership of the Society of Chemical Industry, London (2021).
  • Various fellowships from the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation and the Spanish Ministry of Education & Science.

Publications

Dr. Siddhuraju has contributed to numerous publications in prestigious journals. Notable articles include:

  • “Impact of Underutilized Crops on Environmental Food Security” published in Frontiers in Nutrition (2022). Link to publication
  • “Microplastic Pollution in Sewage Wastewater” in Environmental Science & Technology (2021). Link to publication

Shaghaf Kaukab | Post-Harvest Engineering and Technology | Young Scientist Award

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Dr.Shaghaf Kaukab | Post-Harvest Engineering and Technology | Young Scientist Award

Scientist ICAR-CIPHET India

Shaghaf Kaukab is a dedicated scientist specializing in Agricultural Structures and Process Engineering at ICAR-CIPHET, Ludhiana. With over 4 years of scientific research experience and 7.5 years of academic research, she excels in food engineering and technology. Her expertise spans extrusion processing, drying technology, hermetic packaging, functional food product development, and the application of AI, machine learning, and deep learning in agriculture. Shaghaf has significantly contributed to storage and quality management of agricultural commodities, developing innovative solutions for pest control and storage losses.

Profile

Scopus

Education 🎓

Shaghaf Kaukab’s educational background is rooted in post-harvest technology. She earned her Ph.D. in Post Harvest Technology from the Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, with an excellent grade (CGPA: 9.1/10.00) in 2019. Prior to that, she completed her M.Tech. in Post Harvest Engineering & Technology from the same institute, achieving a CGPA of 8.97/10.00 in 2016. Her rigorous academic training has equipped her with extensive knowledge and practical skills in her field.

Experience 💼

Shaghaf currently serves as a Scientist at ICAR-CIPHET, Ludhiana, focusing on Agricultural Structures & Process Engineering. Since January 2020, she has led projects on cold storage monitoring systems, maize cob drying systems, and AI-enabled robotic apple harvesters, among others. She collaborates with academic partners and mentors students, providing training and skill development for farmers and entrepreneurs. Her previous role at ICAR-National Academy of Agricultural Research Management in Hyderabad involved developing agricultural development plans and modern information management techniques.

Research Interests 🔬

Shaghaf’s research interests lie in the application of new-age technologies like AI, ML, and DL in post-harvest agriculture. She focuses on mathematical modeling, image processing techniques (biospeckle, RGB, X-ray, hyperspectral imaging), and analysis of food properties including physical, thermal, mechanical, and micro-structural aspects. Her work aims to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of food process engineering through innovative technological solutions.

Honors and Awards 🏆

Shaghaf’s contributions have been recognized with several prestigious awards. She received the Best Presentation Award for her work on enhancing apple quality control using deep learning techniques at the 57th ISAE Annual Convention in 2023. She was also awarded the Bihar Gaurav Award by the State Government of Bihar in 2009, and the IARI Merit Medal for outstanding academic performance during 2014-2016. Her academic excellence is further highlighted by her top rankings in GATE, ICAR-JRF, and ICAR-SRF examinations.

Publications 📚

Shaghaf has authored numerous publications in reputed journals, contributing significantly to her field. Her notable works include:

  1. Improving Real-time Apple Fruit Detection: Depth and Multi-modal Information Fusions with Non-targeted Background Removal (2023) – Ecological Informatics
  2. Chickpea Temperature Profile Development and its Implication under Microwave Treatment (2023) – Biological Forum – An International Journal
  3. Osmotic Dehydration of Aloe-vera Gel Discs (2023) – Journal of AgriSearch
  4. Engineering Properties, Processing and Value Addition of Tamarind: A Review (2023) – IJBSM
  5. Study of engineering properties of selected vegetable seeds (2019) – Indian Journal of Agricultural Sciences
  6. Technological Interventions for Convenient Rice Preparation (2017) – Agricultural Engineering Today
  7. Rice Quality Evaluation Techniques (2017) – Trends in Biosciences
  8. Evaluation of Shelf Stability of Reconstituted (Extruded) Rice Under Ambient Storage Condition (2017) – Trends in Biosciences