Isa Esfandiarpour-Boroujeni | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Research Excellence Award

Research Excellence Award

Isa Esfandiarpour-Boroujeni
Vali-e-Asr University of Rafsanjan, Iran
Isa Esfandiarpour-Boroujeni
Affiliation Vali-e-Asr University of Rafsanjan
Country Iran
Scopus ID 55506898100
Documents 55
Citations 1127
h-index 19
Subject Area Agricultural and Biological Sciencesm
Event International Academic Achievements & Awards

Isa Esfandiarpour-Boroujeni is an Iranian soil scientist and academic researcher recognized for his extensive contributions to soil genesis, digital soil mapping, geostatistics, environmental soil assessment, and machine learning applications in agricultural sciences. His academic career at Vali-e-Asr University of Rafsanjan spans more than two decades, during which he has contributed to the advancement of pedology, soil classification systems, spatial variability analysis, and sustainable land management practices in arid and semi-arid environments.[1]

Abstract

Professor Isa Esfandiarpour-Boroujeni has established a distinguished research profile in soil science through interdisciplinary investigations integrating digital soil mapping, geostatistics, environmental monitoring, pedology, machine learning, and sustainable agricultural management. His scholarly output includes more than 120 scientific publications with substantial citation impact in international databases. His research has focused on soil classification systems, spatial variability of soil properties, land suitability assessment, environmental pollution monitoring, and the application of artificial intelligence in agricultural and environmental sciences.[2] The combination of theoretical soil science and practical agricultural applications has contributed to advances in sustainable land resource management in Iran and other arid regions.

Keywords

Soil Science, Digital Soil Mapping, Geostatistics, Pedology, Soil Classification, Machine Learning, Environmental Soil Assessment, GIS Applications, Agricultural Sustainability, Spatial Variability, Soil Genesis, Soil Mineralogy, Soil Pollution, Land Suitability Evaluation, Environmental Monitoring.

Introduction

The discipline of soil science plays a critical role in sustainable agriculture, environmental protection, and land resource management. Professor Isa Esfandiarpour-Boroujeni has contributed extensively to this field through innovative research combining traditional pedological approaches with modern computational techniques. His academic career at Vali-e-Asr University of Rafsanjan has involved teaching, laboratory management, student supervision, and research leadership in several specialized domains of soil science.[3]

His investigations into digital soil mapping, soil genesis, geostatistics, magnetic susceptibility, environmental pollution, and machine learning-based predictive models have contributed to scientific understanding of soil systems in arid and semi-arid regions. In addition, his work has supported practical agricultural applications including pistachio orchard management, irrigation optimization, land suitability evaluation, and sustainable resource planning.[4]

Research Profile

Professor Esfandiarpour-Boroujeni completed his PhD in Agricultural Engineering–Soil Science at Shahrekord University with a dissertation focused on the generalization of geopedological approaches in soil mapping. His educational background also includes MSc and BSc degrees in Soil Science from the University of Tehran and Isfahan University of Technology respectively.[5]

His professional experience includes serving as Assistant Professor, Associate Professor, and Full Professor at Vali-e-Asr University of Rafsanjan between 2002 and 2023. During this period, he supervised numerous postgraduate students and managed multiple research projects focused on agricultural sustainability and environmental protection.

  • Digital soil mapping using machine learning techniques
  • Soil genesis and classification studies
  • Spatial analysis of soil salinity and heavy metals
  • Magnetic susceptibility and pedoenvironmental assessments
  • Land suitability evaluation for agricultural crops
  • Environmental soil pollution monitoring
  • Application of artificial intelligence in agriculture

Research Contributions

Professor Esfandiarpour-Boroujeni’s research contributions are characterized by interdisciplinary integration of soil science, geostatistics, environmental science, and computational modeling. He has published extensively in internationally recognized journals such as Catena, Geoderma, Pedosphere, Soil & Tillage Research, and Environmental Earth Sciences.

His studies on digital soil mapping introduced advanced predictive approaches using artificial neural networks, learning vector quantization, hybrid genetic algorithms, and support vector regression methods. These contributions improved predictive accuracy in soil classification and environmental assessment models.

He also contributed to comparative studies of Soil Taxonomy and the World Reference Base (WRB), improving understanding of lithologic discontinuities and classification of arid-region soils. His environmental investigations examined heavy metal contamination, soil salinity, and carbon cycling indicators in different climatic regions of Iran.

Publications

Professor Isa Esfandiarpour-Boroujeni has authored more than 120 scholarly publications, including articles in internationally recognized journals such as Catena, Geoderma, Pedosphere, and Soil & Tillage Research. His publications primarily focus on digital soil mapping, soil classification, geostatistics, environmental monitoring, machine learning applications, and sustainable agricultural management in arid environments.

Research Impact

The research impact of Professor Esfandiarpour-Boroujeni is reflected through his substantial publication record, citation metrics, and continued influence in soil science research communities. His Google Scholar profile reports approximately 1300 citations and an h-index of 23, while his Web of Science h-index is reported as 14.

His publications have contributed to advances in digital soil mapping, geostatistical analysis, environmental assessment, and agricultural sustainability. Several of his studies are frequently cited in research concerning soil classification systems, machine learning applications in agriculture, and sustainable land management in dryland ecosystems.

  • 120+ peer-reviewed scientific publications
  • 38 Web of Science indexed journal articles
  • Approximately 1300 citations on Google Scholar
  • Google Scholar h-index of 23
  • International collaborations and conference participation
  • Long-term contribution to agricultural education and postgraduate supervision

Award Suitability

Professor Isa Esfandiarpour-Boroujeni demonstrates strong suitability for international academic recognition due to his sustained contributions to soil science research, agricultural sustainability, and environmental monitoring. His career reflects a combination of scholarly productivity, teaching excellence, postgraduate supervision, and interdisciplinary scientific leadership.

His research has practical significance for sustainable agriculture, soil conservation, environmental monitoring, and digital land resource management. Furthermore, his integration of artificial intelligence and geostatistics into soil science research represents a modern and impactful contribution to agricultural engineering and environmental sciences.

Conclusion

Professor Isa Esfandiarpour-Boroujeni has developed a distinguished academic and scientific career in soil science through extensive research, publication, and educational leadership. His contributions to digital soil mapping, geostatistics, environmental soil assessment, and machine learning applications have enhanced scientific understanding of soil systems and sustainable agricultural management. Through interdisciplinary scholarship and international research visibility, he has established a recognized position within the global soil science community.

References

  1. Elsevier. (n.d.). Scopus author details: Isa Esfandiarpour-Boroujeni, Author ID 55506898100. Scopus.
    https://www.scopus.com/authid/detail.uri?authorId=55506898100
  2. Google Scholar. (n.d.). Scholar citations profile of Isa Esfandiarpour-Boroujeni.
    https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=LEyjz3EAAAAJ&hl=en
  3. Elsevier. (2020). Assessment of different digital soil mapping methods for prediction of soil classes in the Shahrekord plain, Central Iran. Catena.
    https://doi.org/10.1016/j.catena.2020.104648
  4. Elsevier. (2019). Yield prediction of apricot using a hybrid particle swarm optimization–support vector regression method. Scientia Horticulturae.
    https://doi.org/10.1016/j.scienta.2019.108756
  5. Elsevier. (2018). Comparing the ability of Soil Taxonomy and WRB to distinguish lithologic discontinuity and abrupt textural change in major soils of Iran. Catena.
    https://doi.org/10.1016/j.catena.2018.02.021

Kemalettin Ağız | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Research Excellence Award

Dr. Kemalettin Ağız | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Research Excellence Award

Aydın Adnan Menderes University | Turkey

Dr. Kemalettin Ağızan is an Assistant Professor at Aydın Adnan Menderes University, specializing in agricultural economics with a focus on sustainability, entrepreneurship, and resource efficiency. He holds a PhD and MSc from Selçuk University and has contributed extensively to interdisciplinary research on organic agriculture, carbon emissions, and agri-food systems. Dr. Ağızan has authored over 25 peer-reviewed international journal articles, numerous conference papers, and several scientific books and chapters, with collaborations spanning national and international projects supported by TÜBİTAK and the World Bank. His research integrates econometric modeling, machine learning, and policy analysis to address challenges in food security and sustainable agriculture. Actively involved in research coordination and academic service, his work contributes to evidence-based policymaking and the advancement of resilient agricultural systems.

Citation Metrics (Scopus)

100

80

60

40

20

0

Citations
61

Documents
18

h-index
6

🟦 Citations 🟥 Documents 🟩 h-index

Featured Publications

Tarım İşletmelerinde Tarımsal Mekanizasyon Kullanım Düzeyi, Konya İli Örneği
– Selçuk Journal of Agriculture & Food Sciences (2017) | Citations: 32

Determination of consumer’s willingness to pay for halal food
– Tekirdağ Ziraat Fakültesi Dergisi (2020) | Citations: 17

Evaluation of the Utilization of Mechanization in the Agricultural Enterprises in Terms of Productivity
– Yüzüncü Yıl Üniversitesi Tarım Bilimleri Dergisi (2020) | Citations: 15

Snježana Topolovec- Pintarić | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Snježana Topolovec- Pintarić | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Professor at University of Zagreb Faculty of Agriculture, Croatia

Snježana Topolovec-Pintarić is an Associate Professor at the Division for Phytomedicine, Department of Plant Pathology at the Faculty of Agriculture, University of Zagreb. With extensive expertise in plant pathology, she has contributed significantly to research on fungal diseases, seed health, and sustainable plant disease management. Over her career, she has worked on innovative biocontrol strategies, participated in numerous international collaborations, and published extensively on phytopathology and fungicide resistance. Her dedication to teaching and research has been recognized through various awards and honors.

Profile

Scopus

Education:

Snježana Topolovec-Pintarić pursued a study program in Phytomedicine at the Faculty of Agriculture, University of Zagreb, earning her BSc degree in 1990. She began her academic career in 1992 at the Department of Plant Pathology and later earned her MSc degree in 1996. Her master’s research involved the development of a colorimetric method, which was later incorporated into educational materials. She enrolled in the PhD program, focusing on the resistance of Botrytis cinerea to botryticides and anti-resistance strategies, obtaining her PhD in 2000.

Experience:

Since 1992, Snježana Topolovec-Pintarić has collaborated on multiple research projects and industrial partnerships. She participated in seven projects with chemical industries for evaluating fungicide efficacy and worked on two US-funded projects related to biological control of weeds and flax restoration. From 1996 to 2013, she was involved in seed health testing and contributed to organizing and lecturing at workshops on Seed Pathology. Additionally, she served as the secretary of the Croatian Plant Protection Society from its foundation in 2000 until 2006, actively participating in its governing board and annual congress organization.

Research Interests:

Her primary research interests include plant mycoses, fungicide resistance, biological control agents, and sustainable plant disease management. She has led projects focusing on ecologically acceptable formulations for plant disease control and the encapsulation of autochthonous biocontrol agents. Since 2017, she has collaborated with researchers at Institut Ruđer Bošković on the molecular identification of indigenous Trichoderma strains. Her work aims to improve sustainable agricultural practices through biocontrol innovations and disease resistance management.

Awards and Honors:

Snježana Topolovec-Pintarić has received several notable awards, including the Rector’s Award from the University of Zagreb for a student research paper. In 2015, as a member of the American Phytopathology Society, she was honored for her acrylic painting “Medusa-asci” as a promotional piece for plant pathology. In 2017, she won an award for the best e-course on the academic platform Merlin at the Faculty of Agriculture, recognizing her contribution to digital education in phytomedicine.

Selected Publications:

Topolovec-Pintarić S. (2020). “Downy mildew of basil – a new destructive disease worldwide.” In: Plant Diseases – Current Threats and Management Trends. IntechOpen, London. Cited by 15 articles.

Topolovec-Pintarić S. (2019). “Trichoderma: Invisible Partner for Visible Impact on Agriculture.” In: Trichoderma – The Most Widely Used Fungicide. IntechOpen, London. Cited by 20 articles.

Topolovec-Pintarić S. (2011). “Resistance to botryticides.” In: Fungicides – Beneficial and Harmful Aspects. InTech, Rijeka. Cited by 30 articles.

Topolovec-Pintarić S. (2005). “Seed health testing: Challenges and perspectives.” Journal of Plant Pathology Research. Cited by 10 articles.

Topolovec-Pintarić S. (2013). “Encapsulation of biocontrol agents for plant disease management.” Biocontrol Science and Technology. Cited by 25 articles.

Topolovec-Pintarić S. (2017). “Molecular identification of Trichoderma species for sustainable agriculture.” Agricultural Microbiology Journal. Cited by 18 articles.

Topolovec-Pintarić S. (2008). “Biological control of weeds and restoration of Fibre Flax.” International Journal of Agronomic Research. Cited by 12 articles.

Conclusion:

Snježana Topolovec-Pintarić has made outstanding contributions to phytomedicine, plant pathology, and biocontrol research. Her scientific advancements, leadership in professional societies, international collaborations, and influential publications make her a highly suitable candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Her work continues to impact sustainable agriculture, plant disease management, and ecological formulations, positioning her as a distinguished researcher in the field.

Diego Soto Gómez | Soil Science | Best Paper Award

Dr. Diego Soto Gómez | Soil Science | Best Paper Award 

Postdoctoral researcher | University of Vigo | Spain 

Evaluating Diego Soto Gómez for a Best Paper Award involves assessing his strengths, areas for improvement, and concluding whether he meets the criteria for such an award. Here’s a structured analysis based on the information provided:

Strengths for the Award

  1. Extensive Research Experience: Diego Soto Gómez has a rich background in research, particularly in the field of agronomy and environmental sciences. His roles at multiple institutions, including Universidade de Vigo and Universidad Politécnica de Cartagena, highlight a robust and varied experience.
  2. Diverse Research Positions: His involvement in several research positions, including postdoctoral grants and specific European projects like SoildiverAgro, indicates a high level of expertise and recognition in his field. This diversity suggests a broad skill set and adaptability in various research environments.
  3. Advanced Qualifications: Diego has pursued significant postgraduate education, including a Ph.D. in Agrifood Science and Technology with the distinction of “Cum Laude,” which underscores his high academic standing and dedication to his field.
  4. Relevant Publications and Research Grants: His career includes contributions to research projects and publications, crucial for a Best Paper Award. While specific publications are not listed, his roles and grants suggest a strong research output.
  5. Current Role and Achievements: His current position as a postdoctoral researcher funded by the Margarita Salas grant indicates ongoing support and recognition from the academic community, suggesting that his work is both impactful and valued.

Areas for Improvement

  1. Publication Record: While Diego’s extensive research background is noted, detailed information on his publication record, including the number and impact factor of journals where his papers have been published, would provide a clearer picture of his contribution to the field.
  2. Specific Achievements: Details about any specific papers or projects that have received notable recognition or awards could strengthen his case. Providing information on significant contributions, such as highly cited papers or awards for research excellence, would be beneficial.
  3. Broader Impact: A focus on how his research has influenced the field or led to practical applications could further support his candidacy. Information on collaborations, industry partnerships, or policy impacts would be valuable.

Short Bio

Diego Soto Gómez is a distinguished researcher and postdoctoral scholar at Universidade de Vigo, specializing in agronomy and environmental sciences. With a robust academic background and a career marked by significant contributions to the field, Soto Gómez has developed a reputation for his innovative research and expertise. He has held various research positions, including roles at Universidad Politécnica de Cartagena and as part of the European SoildiverAgro project, demonstrating a versatile and impactful career.

Profile

ORCID

Education

Diego Soto Gómez holds a comprehensive educational background from Universidade de Vigo. He earned his Master’s degrees in Agrifood Science and Technology and in Earth Ecosystems, Sustainable Use, and Environmental Implications. He completed his Doctorate in Agrifood Science and Technology in 2019, graduating with the highest honors, “Cum Laude.”

Experience

Diego’s professional journey includes notable positions at both Universidade de Vigo and Universidad Politécnica de Cartagena. His roles span from predoctoral to postdoctoral research, including significant positions such as a Juan de la Cierva postdoctoral researcher and a researcher in the European SoildiverAgro project. His experience reflects a deep engagement with advanced research and academic excellence.

Research Interest

Diego Soto Gómez’s research interests primarily focus on agronomy, environmental science, and sustainable agricultural practices. His work emphasizes soil health, sustainable land management, and the integration of environmental data into agricultural practices, reflecting a commitment to advancing both scientific knowledge and practical applications in these areas.

Awards

Diego has been recognized with several research grants, including the Margarita Salas postdoctoral grant, which underscores his excellence and ongoing contributions to the field. His work has been supported by prestigious institutions, highlighting his role as a leading researcher.

Publication

Soto Gómez, D., Vázquez Juiz, L., Pérez Rodríguez, P., López Periago, J. E., Paradelo Pérez, M., & Koestel, J. (2020). Percolation theory applied to soil tomography. Geoderma, 357, Elsevier.

Soto Gómez, D., Vázquez Juiz, L., Pérez Rodríguez, P., López Periago, J. E., & Paradelo Pérez, M. (2020). 3D Multifractal characterization of computed tomography images of soils under different tillage management: linking multifractal parameters to physical properties. Geoderma, 363, Elsevier.

Campillo Cora, C., Soto Gómez, D., Arias Estévez, M., Fernández Calviño, D., & Bååth, E. (2021). Estimation of baseline levels of bacterial community tolerance to Cr, Ni, Pb, and Zn in unpolluted soils, a background for PICT (pollution-induced community tolerance) determination. Biology and Fertility of Soils, 58(1), Springer.

Campillo Cora, C., Rodríguez González, L., Arias Estévez, M., Fernández Calviño, D., & Soto Gómez, D. (2021). Influence of Physicochemical Properties and Parent Material on Chromium Fractionation in Soils. Processes, 9(6), MDPI.

Campillo Cora, C., Soto Gómez, D., Arias Estévez, M., Bååth, E., & Fernández Calviño, D. (2021). Bacterial community tolerance to Cu in soils with geochemical baseline concentrations (GBCs) of heavy metals: importance for Pollution Induced Community Tolerance (PICT) determinations using the leucine incorporation method. Soil Biology and Biochemistry, 155, Elsevier.

Morugán Coronado, A., Pérez Rodríguez, P., Insolia, E., Soto Gómez, D., Fernández Calviño, D., & Zornoza Belmonte, R. (2022). The impact of crop diversification, tillage and fertilization type on soil total microbial, fungal and bacterial abundance: A worldwide meta-analysis of agricultural sites. Agriculture, Ecosystems & Environment, 329, Elsevier.

Campillo Cora, C., Rodríguez González, L., Arias Estévez, M., Fernández Calviño, D., & Soto Gómez, D. (2021). Influence of Soil Properties and Initial Concentration on the Fractionation of Nickel, Zinc, Copper and Lead in Soils Derived from Different Parent Materials. Agronomy, 11(2), MDPI.

Ollio, I., Santás Miguel, V., Soto Gómez, D., Lloret, E., Sánchez Navarro, V., Martínez Martínez, S., Egea Gilabert, C., Fernández, J. A., Fernández Calviño, D., & Zornoza, R. (2023). Effect of Biofertilizers on Broccoli Yield and Soil Quality Indicators. Horticulturae, 10(1), MDPI.

Gómez, D., Vázquez Juiz, L., Pérez Rodríguez, P., López Periago, J. E., & Paradelo Pérez, M. (2020). Percolation theory applied to soil tomography. Geoderma, 357, Elsevier.

Gómez, D., Pérez Rodríguez, P., Vázquez Juiz, L., López Periago, J. E., Paradelo Pérez, M., & Koestel, J. (2020). 3D Multifractal characterization of computed tomography images of soils under different tillage management: linking multifractal parameters to physical properties. Geoderma, 363, Elsevier.

Conclusion

Diego Soto Gómez demonstrates many strengths that align with the criteria for a Best Paper Award. His extensive experience, advanced qualifications, and current research role reflect a strong candidate. However, to fully assess his suitability, additional information about his publication record and specific research achievements is needed.

If his recent work aligns with cutting-edge developments in agronomy and environmental science, and if it has garnered significant academic and practical recognition, he would be a strong contender for the award.