Mr. Yitbarek Abrham | Horticulture | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. Yitbarek Abrham | Horticulture | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Yitbarek Abrham | Horticulture – Wolaita Sodo University, Ethiopia

Yitbarek Abrham is a dedicated and results-driven researcher with expertise in horticulture and food science. His work primarily focuses on climate-smart agriculture, crop productivity, food safety, and nutritional enhancement. He holds an MSc in Horticulture from Wolaita Sodo University and is currently pursuing a PhD in Food Science and Technology at Jimma University, Ethiopia. His research journey has been marked by a passion for improving agricultural practices, particularly in developing regions. Yitbarek’s contributions span several critical areas, including plant nutrition, disease management, and the integration of medicinal and functional plants into food systems. Through his extensive research and academic experience, he has become a prominent figure in agricultural science, contributing significantly to sustainable farming practices in Ethiopia.

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Orcid | Scopus

Education:

Yitbarek’s academic background is rooted in agriculture, with a focus on food science and horticulture. He earned his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from Wolaita Sodo University, where he excelled academically, graduating with a CGPA of 3.52 and 3.75 respectively. His Master’s thesis, which earned an award for excellence, addressed the growth, yield, and quality of eggplants in southern Ethiopia, a project that has had practical implications in improving local agricultural practices. Currently, Yitbarek is pursuing a PhD in Food Science and Technology at Jimma University, where his research continues to focus on food safety, nutritional enhancement, and the development of functional foods using indigenous Ethiopian crops. His dedication to advancing academic knowledge in agricultural sciences reflects his long-term commitment to addressing food security and agricultural productivity challenges in Ethiopia and beyond.

Experience:

Yitbarek has a wealth of experience in both academic and practical fields of agriculture. He currently serves as the Chief Technical Assistant and Project Team Leader at Wolaita Sodo University, where he coordinates multiple research projects related to crop productivity and food safety. He also mentors undergraduate students, guiding them in field experiments and laboratory instruction. His leadership in projects focused on climate-resilient agriculture and nutrient-use efficiency has significantly impacted the local agricultural landscape. Before his current role, Yitbarek gained hands-on experience as a Trainee Agronomist at Mulualem’s Farm, specializing in hybrid seed production, pest and disease management, and agronomic practices. This blend of academic instruction and field experience allows him to provide a comprehensive approach to solving agricultural challenges.

Research Interests:

Yitbarek’s research interests span several critical areas in agricultural science, with a focus on the intersection of food safety, climate-smart agriculture, and functional foods. His work addresses vital issues in food security and sustainable farming, emphasizing the importance of utilizing indigenous crops like Moringa and Enset for nutritional enhancement and food safety. He is particularly interested in the role of medicinal plants in enhancing the nutritional value of foods and improving public health outcomes. Additionally, Yitbarek is exploring post-harvest handling techniques and soil-plant nutrient use efficiency, with a goal of enhancing crop productivity while reducing environmental impacts. His interdisciplinary approach to agricultural research, combining plant science with food safety and nutrition, aims to create solutions that benefit both local communities and global agriculture.

Awards:

Throughout his academic and professional career, Yitbarek has received recognition for his outstanding research contributions. His MSc research, which explored the growth, yield, and quality response of eggplant to blended fertilizers in southern Ethiopia, was awarded an Excellent Result. This work has been well-received in the academic community, culminating in a publication in the reputable Heliyon journal. His research on the role of small-scale irrigation as a climate-smart agriculture practice in Ethiopia also earned recognition for its impact on improving the livelihoods of farmers. These awards highlight Yitbarek’s exceptional academic performance and his ability to translate research into practical applications that benefit local communities and the broader agricultural sector.

Publications:

  1. “Growth, yield, and quality response of eggplant (Solanum melongena L.) to blended NPSB fertilizer rates and intra-row spacing in Boloso Bombe District, Wolaita Zone, South Ethiopia” (Heliyon, 2024). 🌱
  2. “Small-scale irrigation (SSI) farming as a climate-smart agriculture (CSA) practice and its influence on livelihood improvement in Offa District, Southern Ethiopia” (Journal of Agriculture and Food Research, 2023). 💧
  3. “Medicinal ethnoveterinary plants used for treating livestock ailments in the omo-gibe and rift valley basins of Ethiopia” (BMC Veterinary Research, 2024). 🌿
  4. “Diversity of Spice Plants, Their Use and Function as Additive in Traditional Ethiopian Gastronomies and Culinary Recipes” (Pakistan Journal of Scientific & Industrial Research, 2025). 🌶️
  5. “Response of Sweet Basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) to blended NPS and potassium fertilizers on growth and yield, in Wolaita zone, Southern Ethiopia” (Asian Journal of Plant Science & Research, 2023). 🌿
  6. “Effect of Blended NPS Fertilizer Rates on Growth Performance of Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) at Wolaita Sodo University, Ethiopia” (Journal of Natural Sciences Research, 2019). 🍅

Conclusion:

Yitbarek Abrham is a highly accomplished researcher whose work is making significant contributions to the fields of horticulture, food science, and climate-smart agriculture. His academic and professional achievements, combined with his dedication to improving agricultural practices and food safety, make him a strong candidate for the “Best Researcher Award.” With numerous publications in leading journals and an ongoing commitment to addressing local and global agricultural challenges, Yitbarek is poised to continue his impactful research and further enhance the scientific community’s understanding of sustainable farming and food security. His blend of academic excellence, leadership, and practical experience makes him an invaluable asset to both Ethiopian and global agricultural research.

Chenjing Han | Horticulture | Best Researcher Award

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Chenjing Han | Horticulture | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Chenjing Han | Horticulture – Institute of Leisure Agriculture, Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, China

Dr. Han Chenjing is an accomplished researcher in the field of horticulture and agricultural sciences, with a focus on tree peonies, oilseed peonies, and plant breeding techniques. As an Associate Professor at the Institute of Leisure Agriculture, Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, she has made significant contributions to optimizing plant cultivation, improving plant oil extraction methods, and enhancing flower landscaping. Her interdisciplinary research integrates molecular plant breeding, agronomic practices, and horticultural innovations, reflecting her dedication to advancing sustainable agricultural practices. With an extensive publication record, multiple patents, and numerous research projects, Dr. Han is recognized as a leading scientist in her field.

Professional Profile

Scopus

Education

Dr. Han’s academic journey is marked by her strong foundation in forestry and plant sciences. She earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Shandong Agricultural University, specializing in forestry. She then pursued her doctoral studies at the Chinese Academy of Forestry, where she focused on advanced plant research and its industrial applications. Her postdoctoral training at the Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences further refined her expertise in agricultural research, particularly in plant cultivation techniques and optimization strategies.

Experience

With a career spanning nearly a decade, Dr. Han has gained extensive experience in research and academia. She began as a postdoctoral researcher at the Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, where she contributed to advancements in forestry and plant breeding. She then progressed to the role of Assistant Professor at the Cotton Research Center and Institute of Leisure Agriculture, where she played a key role in developing innovative horticultural techniques. Her international experience as a visiting scholar at the National Agriculture and Food Research Organization and Chiba University in Japan broadened her research scope, particularly in flower landscaping and conservation. Currently serving as an Associate Professor, Dr. Han continues to drive impactful research in horticultural sciences.

Research Interests

Dr. Han’s research interests lie at the intersection of horticulture, plant breeding, and agricultural sustainability. Her work primarily focuses on optimizing tree peony and oilseed peony cultivation, enhancing seed oil extraction techniques, and improving flower landscaping methodologies. She has also explored the impact of environmental factors, such as shading and nutrient management, on plant growth and productivity. Additionally, her studies in plant histochemistry and molecular breeding provide valuable insights into increasing agricultural efficiency and sustainability. Through her research, Dr. Han aims to contribute to global efforts in biodiversity conservation and sustainable agriculture.

Awards and Recognitions

Dr. Han’s contributions to agricultural research have been widely recognized. She has received the Shandong Natural Resources Science and Technology Award for her groundbreaking work in plant sciences. Her research excellence has also earned her the Shandong Postgraduate Excellent Scientific and Technological Innovation Achievement Award and the title of Outstanding Graduate of Shandong Province. These accolades underscore her dedication to advancing agricultural innovation and her significant impact on the field.

Selected Publications 📚

Han C J, Ji X Y, Wang Z W, et al. Innovative tree peony and herbaceous peony germplasm display balls with high application potential. Horticulturae, 2025, 11: 196. 🌿
Han C J, Li J, Wang L, et al. Optimization of grafting methods for oilseed tree peony. Molecular Plant Breeding, 2023, 21(17): 5878-5882. 🌱
Han C J, Liu C, Li J, et al. Nonlinear programming to optimize tree peony seed oil extraction. Molecular Plant Breeding, 2021-11-24. 🏵️
Han C J, Wang Q, Zhang H B, et al. Seed development and nutrient accumulation as affected by light shading in oilseed peony. Scientia Horticulturae, 2019, 251, 25-31. 🌾
Han C J, Wang Q, Wang S H, et al. Cultivation technique for high yield and quality of oilseed peony in Shandong province. World Journal of Forestry, 2017, 6(2): 36-40. 🌍
Han C J, Meng Q H, Chen X M, et al. Research and utilization progresses and industrial development strategies of oilseed peony in China. Shandong Agricultural Sciences, 2015, 47(10): 125-132. 📈
Han C J, Xing S Y, Dong Z K, et al. Studies on histochemistry of the developmental epiphyllous ovule in Ginkgo biloba var. epiphylla. Acta Horticulturae Sinica, 2011, 38(5): 817-824. 🌳

Conclusion

Dr. Han Chenjing is a distinguished researcher whose contributions to horticultural sciences have significantly advanced the field of plant breeding and agricultural sustainability. Her expertise in optimizing tree peony and oilseed peony cultivation, combined with her innovative approaches to plant oil extraction, has positioned her as a leading figure in her domain. Her extensive publication record, multiple patents, and research leadership highlight her dedication to scientific excellence. With numerous accolades recognizing her contributions, Dr. Han is highly deserving of the Best Researcher Award, as she continues to shape the future of agricultural innovation and sustainability.

Rawia El-Motaium | Agricultural | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Dr. Rawia El-Motaium | Agricultural | Best Researcher Award

Professor of Plant Nutrition | Plant Research Department, Nuclear Research Center | Egypt

A distinguished professor with extensive expertise in agricultural science, plant nutrition, and environmental stress management, this individual has contributed significantly to the research community. Her academic journey includes a Ph.D. from the University of California, Davis, USA, focusing on the tolerance of Prunus rootstocks to salt and boron, alongside an M.Sc. in soil sciences and agricultural sciences. She has taught in various countries, including the USA, Saudi Arabia, Ecuador, and Egypt, and participated in numerous international workshops and research projects. Her research spans agricultural sustainability, environmental stress on plants, and waste management, utilizing advanced radiation technologies for agricultural applications.

Profile

Scopus

Education
She holds a Ph.D. from the University of California, Davis, where she specialized in plant nutrition and environmental stress, particularly focusing on the interaction of calcium with boron. Her educational background also includes an M.Sc. in Soil Sciences from the University of California, Riverside, and another M.Sc. from the University of Cairo, Egypt, where she explored the biochemical effects of gamma irradiation on bananas. Additionally, she completed a B.Sc. in Horticulture from the University of Cairo. Her academic training underpins her extensive research in plant nutrition, environmental stress, and waste management.

Experience
Her career as a professor and researcher spans decades, with notable roles as a teaching assistant at the University of California, Davis, and faculty positions at universities in Saudi Arabia, Ecuador, and Egypt. She has taught courses in plant physiology, mineral nutrition, and environmental pollution, among others. As a principal investigator, she led several high-profile research projects, including those funded by the USAID and IAEA, addressing issues such as the remediation of sewage water and sludge using nuclear technologies. She has collaborated internationally with experts from countries like the USA, Austria, India, and Argentina.

Research Interests
Her research interests are broad and multifaceted, primarily revolving around plant nutrition, physiology, and environmental stress management. She investigates nutrient interactions, particularly calcium and boron, as well as the use of stable and radioactive isotopes to study nutrient uptake and translocation in plants. Other key research areas include the impact of environmental stresses such as salinity, nutrient deficiencies, and heavy metal contamination on plant growth. Additionally, she is deeply involved in waste management, focusing on composting and recycling sewage sludge and municipal waste for agricultural use. Her expertise also extends to the utilization of nuclear technologies, particularly gamma radiation, to treat sewage water and soil for improved crop productivity.

Awards
Her outstanding contributions have been recognized with multiple prestigious awards, including the Peace Fellowship from USAID, which supported her M.Sc. studies, and the Mission Fellowship from the Egyptian Ministry of Higher Education for her Ph.D. in the USA. She was also nominated for the Matrouh Governorate Shield and offered an internship with the United Nations in Geneva. Additionally, her work in agricultural and environmental sciences has earned her several international grants and honors, including the International Peace Scholarship and International Student Grants.

Publications
She has authored a number of influential publications in agricultural science, focusing on plant nutrition, environmental stress, and waste management. Some of her key publications include:

  1. “Impact of Irradiated Sewage Sludge on Soil Fertility and Crop Yields” (2000) – Journal of Environmental Management
  2. “Nutrient Uptake and Interaction in Plants: The Role of Calcium and Boron” (2003) – Plant Physiology Journal
  3. “Composting of Sewage Sludge for Agricultural Use: Environmental Implications” (2005) – Waste Management Journal
  4. “Effects of Heavy Metals on Plant Growth and Soil Health” (2008) – Ecological Applications
  5. “Radiation Technology for Wastewater Treatment and Environmental Remediation” (2011) – Environmental Science and Technology
  6. “Sustainable Agriculture: The Role of Nuclear Techniques in Crop Management” (2015) – Agricultural Research Journal
  7. “Salinity Tolerance in Plants: Mechanisms and Approaches” (2017) – Soil Science and Plant Nutrition Journal

Her work has been cited in numerous studies, with articles on sewage sludge and wastewater treatment being particularly influential.

Conclusion
With a rich academic background, a broad range of teaching experiences, and significant contributions to agricultural and environmental sciences, this professor stands at the forefront of research on plant nutrition, environmental stress management, and sustainable agricultural practices. Her pioneering work in utilizing nuclear techniques for environmental and agricultural remediation continues to have a lasting impact on both scientific research and practical applications in the field. Her leadership in international research projects, commitment to teaching, and numerous accolades reflect her dedication to advancing agricultural sciences for global sustainability.

Pichad Khejornsart | Agricultural | Outstanding Scientist Award

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Assist. Prof. Dr. Pichad Khejornsart | Agricultural | Outstanding Scientist Award

Researcher | Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources | Thailand

Dr. Pichad Khejornsart is an esteemed Associate Professor in Ruminant Nutrition at Kasetsart University, Thailand. He has dedicated his career to improving the efficiency of local beef and buffalo production and enhancing meat quality, with a strong emphasis on sustainable animal nutrition. His research aims to optimize ruminant nutrition to enhance animal performance while minimizing the environmental impact of livestock operations. His work addresses diverse aspects of animal health, digestion, and metabolic processes, particularly in ruminants like cattle and buffalo. Through his extensive experience in academia and practical research, Dr. Khejornsart has contributed significantly to advancing agricultural science in Thailand.

Profile

Scopus

Education

Dr. Khejornsart earned his Ph.D. in Ruminant Nutrition from Khon Kaen University, Thailand, where he studied under the guidance of Professor Dr. Metha Wanapat. He achieved a remarkable GPA of 3.93 during his doctoral studies (2005-2010). Prior to this, he completed his B.Sc. in Animal Science at the same institution with first-class honors, graduating in 2004 with a GPA of 3.62. His education equipped him with a solid foundation in animal science, focusing specifically on ruminant nutrition and the optimization of feeding strategies for farm animals.

Experience

Dr. Khejornsart has been a part of Kasetsart University since 2011, where he currently serves as an Associate Professor in the Department of Agro-Resources. Over the years, he has held several key positions, including the Head of the Animal Science Research Farm from 2012. He also served as the Director of the Tropical Feed Resources Research and Development Center at Khon Kaen University. His international experience includes a visiting research appointment at the University of Florida, USA, where he worked under the supervision of Associate Professor Dr. Adesogan T. Adebola. He has been involved in numerous research and extension activities aimed at improving animal productivity and health through better nutrition and feeding systems.

Research Interests

Dr. Khejornsart’s research primarily focuses on rumen fermentation, microbial populations, and the use of local feed resources in ruminant nutrition. His work explores the nutritional effects on energy balance, health, and reproduction in lactating dairy cattle. He is particularly interested in the manipulation of ruminal fermentation to enhance feed efficiency and reduce methane emissions. Another significant area of his research involves the use of biotechnology to improve animal production. His work also extends to studying the impacts of feeding management on milk composition, particularly in dairy cattle. His innovative approach to utilizing local, often underused feed resources is aimed at promoting sustainable livestock farming.

Awards

Dr. Khejornsart has earned recognition for his outstanding contributions to animal science and nutrition. Notable among his accolades is his selection as a finalist for the prestigious Kasetsart University Research Award in 2022, highlighting his leadership in advancing sustainable agricultural practices. His innovative research into improving the quality and nutritional value of feed for livestock has made him a respected figure in the academic and agricultural communities.

Publications

Dr. Khejornsart has published a number of impactful research papers in leading journals related to animal science and nutrition. Below are a few of his significant publications:

  1. Wanapat, M., P. Khejornsart, P. Parkdee, and S. Wanapat. (2008). Effect of supplementation of garlic powder on rumen ecology and digestibility of nutrients in ruminants. J Sci Food Agric, 88(13), 2231-2237.
  2. Khejornsart, P. and M. Wanapat. (2010). Diversity of rumen anaerobic fungi and methanogenic archaea in swamp buffalo influenced by various diets. J Anim Vet Adv, 9(24), 3062-3069.
  3. Khejornsart, P. and M. Wanapat. (2011). Effect of various chemical-treated rice straw on rumen fermentation characteristics using in vitro gas production technique. Livestock Research for Rural Development, 23(1).
  4. Khejornsart, P., M. Wanapat, and P. Rowlinson. (2011). Diversity of anaerobic fungi and rumen fermentation characteristic in swamp buffalo and beef cattle fed on different diets. Livestock Science, 139(3), 230-236.
  5. Khejornsart, P., Anusorn Cherdthong, and Metha Wanapat. (2021). In vitro screening of plant materials to reduce ruminal protozoal population and mitigate ammonia and methane emissions. Fermentation, 7(3), 166.
  6. Khejornsart, P., Teerayut Jantanam, and Watcharawit Meenongyai. (2021). Effect of type of treated rice straw on ruminal fermentation characteristic and cellulolytic bacteria of swamp buffalo. Buffalo Bulletin, 40(4), 599-608.
  7. Gunun, P., Cherdthong, A., Khejornsart, P., Wanapat, M., et al. (2022). The effect of phytonutrients in Terminalia chebula on rumen fermentation efficiency, nitrogen utilization, and protozoal population in goats. Animals, 12(16).

These publications are well-regarded in the field of ruminant nutrition and have been widely cited for their contributions to improving livestock management and feed utilization.

Conclusion

Dr. Pichad Khejornsart’s academic and professional journey reflects his passion for advancing animal science, particularly in the area of ruminant nutrition. Through his extensive research, he has developed methods to improve the efficiency of feed utilization, enhance livestock productivity, and minimize the environmental impact of animal agriculture. His commitment to integrating sustainable practices with innovative feeding strategies continues to make a significant impact on the agricultural sector in Thailand and beyond. Dr. Khejornsart’s contributions to animal science are set to inspire future advancements in the field, particularly in sustainable livestock farming practices.