Davi Mukasa | Agronomy | Innovative Research Award

Mr. Davi Mukasa | Agronomy | Innovative Research Award

Mr. Davi Mukasa | Agronomy – Research Associate at International Institute of Tropical Agriculture, Uganda

David Mukasa is an accomplished agricultural research scientist with over 25 years of professional experience in agronomy, soil science, agroforestry, and climate-smart agriculture. A dedicated contributor to sustainable agricultural development in East Africa, he currently serves at the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) under the CGIAR umbrella. Throughout his career, he has focused on empowering smallholder farmers by improving productivity and resilience in coffee and banana-based farming systems. His leadership and commitment to capacity building, environmental conservation, and research dissemination have significantly influenced Uganda’s agricultural landscape. Mr. Mukasa is also a strong advocate for adaptive farming technologies and integrated systems that improve livelihoods while addressing the challenges of climate change.

Academic Profile:

Scopus

Education

Mr. Mukasa holds a Master of Science in Soil Science (2016) from the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, Makerere University. He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Veterinary Medicine from the School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Resources, Makerere University in 2006. These academic qualifications laid the foundation for his interdisciplinary approach to research, which blends soil science, agronomy, and sustainable land management for impactful results in both academia and field applications.

Experience

Since 1994, Mr. Mukasa has been affiliated with IITA, contributing extensively to agricultural research and development initiatives. His work spans diagnostic surveys, field experiments, and laboratory analysis with a special focus on smallholder productivity. He has trained farmers in Uganda and neighboring countries on good agricultural practices and climate-resilient technologies. He also supports postgraduate students in research design and implementation, sharing his rich field experience and technical knowledge. Mr. Mukasa has led numerous community-based projects that explore sustainable farming models, particularly emphasizing crop-livestock integration, coffee agroforestry, and resource-efficient farming systems.

Research Interests

David Mukasa’s research interests are centered on sustainable agriculture, soil fertility, crop-livestock systems, and climate-smart agricultural practices. His work aims to reduce the living income gap for smallholder farmers through innovation in agroforestry and adaptive farming strategies. He actively contributes to the validation and scaling of climate-smart technologies such as the Stepwise model and Coffee and Climate (C&C) adaptation framework. He is also involved in documenting and disseminating research findings through strategic outreach initiatives that improve farmer adoption of new practices.

Awards and Recognition

David Mukasa has been acknowledged for his long-standing service and impactful contributions within IITA and other CGIAR research collaborations. His leadership in organizing regional stakeholder engagements and promoting climate-resilient agricultural practices has been widely recognized. He is regularly invited to participate in scientific dialogues and development planning forums related to sustainable farming in East Africa. His current nomination for the Innovative Research Award is a testament to his outstanding research output, practical innovation, and dedication to advancing climate-smart agriculture in the region.

Selected Publications 📚

  1. 📖 Projected climate in coffee‑based farming systems: implications for crop suitability in Uganda – 2022, co-authored in Climatic Change, cited by 30+ articles.
  2. 📘 Sustainably improving Kenya’s coffee production needs more participation of younger farmers with diversified income – 2018, Journal of Rural Studies, cited by 45 articles.
  3. 📗 Influence of shaded systems on Xylosandrus compactus infestation in Robusta coffee along a rainfall gradient in Uganda – 2017, Agricultural and Forest Entomology, cited by 20 articles.
  4. 📕 Evaluating coffee yield gaps and limiting factors in Uganda – 2015, European Journal of Agronomy, cited by 60+ articles.
  5. 📙 Diversity in smallholder farms growing coffee and their use of management practices – 2015, Experimental Agriculture, cited by 50 articles.
  6. 📒 Status and host plant utilization by black coffee twig borer in Uganda – 2013, Coffee Science Conference Proceedings, cited by 15 articles.
  7. 📔 Effect of Tithonia and Phytolacca extracts against banana weevil – 2008, Africa Journal of Animal and Biomedical Science, cited by 12 articles.

Conclusion

David Mukasa is a visionary agricultural scientist whose work has brought lasting benefits to farming communities, research institutions, and policy circles. His integrated approach to agriculture—blending field experience, technical expertise, and academic rigor—makes him a standout contributor to sustainable development in Sub-Saharan Africa. His extensive publication record, commitment to farmer education, and leadership in climate resilience position him as a deserving nominee for the Innovative Research Award. His future work promises even greater impact as he expands collaborations and deepens research into sustainable solutions for smallholder agriculture.

 

 

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.

 

Trevan Flynn | Digital soil mapping | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Trevan Flynn | Digital soil mapping | Best Researcher Award

Researcher | University of Sydney | Australia

Short Bio 🌍

Trevan Flynn is a seasoned researcher and lecturer specializing in geostatistics and soil science. Based in Aspen, Colorado, Trevan collaborates with academics globally—from the USA to Pakistan—producing reliable soil and environmental data for land-use management. Utilizing advanced digital soil mapping techniques and Google Earth Engine in R, he supervises graduate students and contributes to a free database of soil information.

Profile

ORCID

Education 🎓

Trevan’s academic journey began at Stellenbosch University, where he earned his BSc in Soil Science and Horticulture with Summa Cum Laude honors in 2015. He pursued an MSc in Soil Science at the same institution, which was upgraded to a PhD in 2017. His dissertation focused on “Digital Soil Mapping Techniques Across Multiple Landscape Scales in South Africa.” Following his PhD, Trevan completed multiple postdoctoral fellowships, including Ecosystem Modeling at the Biological Centre CAS and Dynamic Soil Carbon Modeling at the Swedish University of Agriculture Sciences. He is currently a researcher at the University of the Free State, studying mineral and water resources in South Africa under Dr. Martin Clark.

Experience 💼

Trevan Flynn’s professional experience is extensive and varied. He is the Director of Rafikisol Soil Mapping for Africa, making soil spatial information accessible to African nations. As a Geospatial Analyst at Phyla Regeneration Systems, he develops spatial models for natural resources and consults on soil organic carbon improvements. Trevan also lectures at the Zambia Institute of Agriculture, teaching soil and crop sciences, sustainable agriculture, and smallholder farming. Additionally, he provides consultancy services through Phyla Ntaka Soil Health Advisory Services, specializing in hyper-local spatial models using Mid-Infrared spectroscopy. His earlier roles include being a Junior Lecturer at Stellenbosch University and a Geospatial Analyst at SASSCAL.

Research Interests 🔬

Trevan’s research interests are centered on digital soil mapping, geostatistics, and the use of advanced modeling techniques in environmental and soil science. He is passionate about developing reliable soil information for land-use management and improving hydrological models in arid regions. His work often involves coding in R and utilizing Google Earth Engine for large-scale environmental data analysis.

Awards 🏆

Trevan Flynn has been recognized with several prestigious awards throughout his career. In 2022, he received the Best Paper Award from the South African Journal of Plant and Soil for his manuscript on high-resolution digital soil mapping. He was also awarded the National Research Foundation Innovation Bursary from 2017 to 2020, the Stellenbosch Merit Bursary from 2013 to 2019, and the Stellenbosch Travel Grant in 2017. In 2015, he received the Perold Medal, the Soil Science Society Silver Medal, and the Hortgro Science Prize for his academic excellence.

Publications 📚