Sezen Ocak Yetişgin | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Research Excellence Award

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Sezen Ocak Yetişgin | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Research Excellence Award

Ondokuz Mayis University | Turkey

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sezen Ocak Yetişgin is an Associate Professor with an academic background in animal science, specializing in zootechnics. She earned her bachelor’s degree from Çukurova University and completed both her master’s and doctoral studies in zootechnics at the Institute of Science, Çukurova University. Her doctoral research focused on the effects of early breeding use in dairy goats under subtropical conditions, with particular emphasis on production performance and hormonal mechanisms. Her master’s research examined physiological changes related to seasonal variation in purebred and crossbred male goats raised in subtropical climates. In addition to her scientific training, she also completed a non-thesis master’s degree in administration and organization, reflecting an interdisciplinary academic profile that combines animal production science with organizational knowledge.

Citation Metrics (Scopus)

200160

120

80

40

0

Citations
183

Documents
20

h-index
9


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Featured Publications


Analyzing the Effectiveness of Carbon Pricing Instruments in Reducing Carbon Emissions in Major Asian Economies

Sustainability, 2024

A Canonical Correlation Analysis on the Relation of ESG and Business Environment in South China

Sustainable Futures, 2025

Adaptive Fourier Decomposition Analysis of Different Pandemic Stages in South Korean Cities: Policies and Trends

Journal of Thoracic Disease, 2025

Cost-Effectiveness of Risk Model–Based Lung Cancer Screening in Smokers and Nonsmokers in China

BMC Medicine, 2025

Predicting COVID-19 Vaccination Timing Using the Theory of Planned Behavior and Diffusion of Innovations

Journal of Thoracic Disease, 2025

Aris Sudomo | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Academic Citation Impact Award

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Aris Sudomo | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Academic Citation Impact Award

Gadjah Mada University | Indonesia

Mr. Aris Sudomo, S.Hut., M.Si. is a dedicated researcher specializing in silviculture and agroforestry, with a strong focus on sustainable management of community forests and tree plantations. As a Senior Researcher at the Research Center for Ecology, Life and Environmental Sciences Organization, National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), he has accumulated extensive experience in forestry research and development. His academic foundation was built through a bachelor’s degree from the Faculty of Forestry at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) and a master’s degree from Hasanuddin University (Unhas), focusing on spatial planning and agroforestry systems. Throughout his career, he has been actively involved in advancing sustainable forestry practices, starting with cutting propagation techniques for eucalyptus and mulberry in Gunungkidul, followed by research on Acacia mangium plantations in Riau, and later, private forest systems in Java and Sulawesi. His research has explored intercropping systems involving ginger, shade-tolerant tuber species, cardamom, and other understory crops, demonstrating the potential of agroforestry to enhance land productivity and biodiversity. He has also led participatory action research in Gunungkidul, emphasizing the integration of timber and non-timber forest products (NTFPs) to support local livelihoods. With a strong publication record and growing citation impact, Aris continues to contribute to the development of innovative silvicultural strategies that align with ecological principles and community needs. His vision is to strengthen the role of agroforestry as a sustainable land management approach that balances environmental conservation with economic empowerment for forest-dependent communities across Indonesia.

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Featured Publications

Salvatore Ceccarelli | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

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Salvatore Ceccarelli | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Bioversity International | Italy

Dr. Salvatore Ceccarelli is a distinguished agricultural scientist and plant breeder recognized globally for his pioneering contributions to participatory and evolutionary plant breeding. With an illustrious career spanning several decades, he has been instrumental in developing innovative breeding strategies tailored for marginal environments and resource-poor farmers. From 1984 to 2008, he served as Director of the Barley Breeding Program at the International Center for Agricultural Research in the Dry Areas (ICARDA), where he designed and implemented breeding approaches that emphasized farmer participation, sustainability, and adaptability to local conditions across Latin America, the Middle East, Asia, and Africa. His leadership at ICARDA helped transform traditional breeding methodologies into more inclusive and resilient systems that addressed the challenges of climate change and food security. Following his tenure as program director, he continued as a consultant and later as a freelance expert, collaborating with international and Italian organizations on research, project design, scientific reporting, and training programs focused on participatory and evolutionary genetic improvement. Dr. Ceccarelli has been deeply involved in international initiatives such as the European SOLIBAM project, promoting biodiversity, agroecology, and genetic resilience through farmer-led experimentation. His work seamlessly integrates scientific rigor with social engagement, empowering farming communities to take an active role in crop improvement. Over the years, he has authored numerous scientific papers and reports, contributing significantly to the global discourse on sustainable agriculture and genetic diversity. Through his lifelong dedication to participatory research, Dr. Ceccarelli has established himself as a leading advocate for farmer-centered innovation, bridging the gap between science and society while advancing agricultural systems that are both equitable and ecologically sound.

Profile: Orcid 

Featured Publications

Raggi, L., Negri, V., & Ceccarelli, S. (2016, August 1). Morphological diversity in a barley composite cross-derived population evolved under low-input conditions and its relationship with molecular diversity: Indications for breeding. Journal of Agricultural Science, 154(8), 1210–1224.

Shakhatreh, Y., Baum, M., El Haddad, N., Alrababah, M. A., & Ceccarelli, S. (2016, June 1). Assessment of genetic diversity among Jordanian wild barley (Hordeum spontaneum) genotypes revealed by SSR markers. Genetic Resources and Crop Evolution, 63(6), 927–937.

Rahmanian, M., Razavi, K., Haghparast, R., Salimi, M., & Ceccarelli, S. (2016, January 1). Evolutionary plant breeding: A method for rapidly increasing on-farm biodiversity to support sustainable livelihoods in an era of climate change. Journal of Crop Improvement, 30(1), 1–17.

Raggi, L., Ceccarelli, S., & Negri, V. (2016, January 1). Evolution of a barley composite cross-derived population: An insight gained by molecular markers. Journal of Agricultural Science, 154(1), 23–39.

Dwivedi, S. L., Ceccarelli, S., Blair, M. W., Upadhyaya, H. D., Kumar, A. A., & Ortiz, R. (2015, November 7). Landrace germplasm for improving yield and abiotic stress adaptation. Trends in Plant Science, 21(1), 31–42.

Campanelli, G., Acciarri, N., Campion, B., Delvecchio, S., Leteo, F., Fusari, F., Angelini, P., & Ceccarelli, S. (2015). Participatory tomato breeding for organic conditions in Italy. Euphytica, 204(1), 179–197.

Saad Hussein | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Excellence in Citation Achievement Award

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Saad Hussein | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Excellence in Citation Achievement Award

Mansoura University | Egypt

Prof. Dr. Saad Farouk Mohamed Hussein is a distinguished Egyptian scholar and Full Professor at the Department of Agricultural Botany, Faculty of Agriculture, Mansoura University, Egypt. He earned his Ph.D. and M.Sc. in Agricultural Botany from Mansoura University, with research focused on plant physiological responses to salinity and osmoregulation, following his B.Sc. in Horticulture, where he graduated first in his class with distinction. Over his extensive academic career, Prof. Hussein has held several key leadership and academic positions, including Head of the Agricultural Botany Department at Mansoura University, Visiting Professor at the Faculty of Science and Art, Sinop University, Turkey, Agricultural Expert at the National Organic Agriculture Center, Qassem, Saudi Arabia, and Head of the Plant Production Department at Sirte University, Libya. He has also contributed significantly to higher education quality assurance, serving as both Manager and Deputy Manager of the Quality and Accreditation Unit at Mansoura University. Prof. Hussein’s scientific portfolio includes over 63 research papers published in high-impact international and national journals, covering Q1 to Q4 categories, and numerous conference contributions. His research excellence is complemented by his active role as a reviewer for international journals, and his mentorship in over 15 MSc and Ph.D. theses as supervisor and examiner. Recognized for his scholarly impact, he received multiple awards, including the Mansoura University Encouragement Award, the Best M.Sc. Thesis Award , and several undergraduate excellence awards. His professional affiliations include memberships in the Egyptian Horticulture Society and the Mansoura University Journal of Agricultural Sciences editorial board. Prof. Hussein’s expertise encompasses plant physiology, stress biology, quality assurance in education, and statistical analysis, reflecting his deep commitment to advancing agricultural science and education.

Profile: Scoups | Orcid | Google  Scholar             

Featured Publications

  • Farouk, S., & Amany, A. R. (2012). Improving growth and yield of cowpea by foliar application of chitosan under water stress. Egyptian Journal of Biology, 14, 14–16.

  • Farouk, S., Mosa, A. A., Taha, A. A., Ibrahim, H. M., & El-Gahmery, A. M. (2011). Protective effect of humic acid and chitosan on radish (Raphanus sativus L. var. sativus) plants subjected to cadmium stress. Journal of Stress Physiology & Biochemistry, 7(2), 99–116.

  • Farouk, S. (2011). Ascorbic acid and α-tocopherol minimize salt-induced wheat leaf senescence. Journal of Stress Physiology & Biochemistry, 7(3), 58–79.

  • Farouk, S., Elhindi, K. M., & Alotaibi, M. A. (2020). Silicon supplementation mitigates salinity stress on Ocimum basilicum L. via improving water balance, ion homeostasis, and antioxidant defense system. Ecotoxicology and Environmental Safety, 206, 111396. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ecoenv.2020.111396

  • Farouk, S., & Al-Amri, S. M. (2019). Zinc and paclobutrazol mediated regulation of growth, upregulating antioxidant aptitude and plant productivity of pea plants under salinity. Ecotoxicology and Environmental Safety, 180, 349–359.

Anand Prakash Singh | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

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Anand Prakash Singh | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

University of Michigan | United States

Dr. Anand Prakash Singh is a Research Investigator at the Frankel Cardiovascular Center, Michigan Medicine, Ann Arbor, where he leads translational studies in cardio-oncology, cardio-immunology, heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF), and exercise-induced cardiac regeneration. He earned his B.Sc. in Chemistry, Botany, and Zoology from the University of Lucknow (2007), M.Sc. in Biotechnology from the University of Allahabad, and Ph.D. in Molecular Medicine from Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi. Following his doctorate, he completed postdoctoral training at prestigious institutions including South Asian University, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, the University of Alabama at Birmingham, and Massachusetts General Hospital/Harvard Medical School, while also serving as a visiting scholar at the Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard. His research focuses on understanding the molecular pathways of cardiac inflammation, senescence, and regeneration, particularly in the context of metabolic stress and cancer therapy–induced cardiotoxicity. Dr. Singh is the recipient of multiple competitive grants, including the Frankel Cardiovascular Center Inaugural Grant Award and VA IPA funding, and has contributed as Co-Investigator to major NIH and AHA projects exploring heart–brain interactions and exercise-mediated cardioprotection. Recognized for his scholarly excellence, he has received honors such as the First Prize for Oral Presentation at the International Conference on Innovation & Technologies in Medicine and Healthcare and the Outstanding Reviewer Award from Experimental Biology and Medicine. His ongoing research aims to bridge basic molecular mechanisms with clinical therapeutics for cardiovascular disease prevention and recovery.

Profile: Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Guo, H. L. Y., Gupte, M., Umbarkar, P., Singh, A. P., et al. (2017). Entanglement of GSK-3β, β-catenin and TGF-β1 signaling network to regulate myocardial fibrosis. Journal of Molecular and Cellular Cardiology, 174, Article 107–118.

Singh, A. P., Glennon, M. S., Umbarkar, P., Gupte, M., Galindo, C. L., Zhang, Q., et al. (2019). Ponatinib-induced cardiotoxicity: Delineating the signalling mechanisms and potential rescue strategies. Cardiovascular Research, 115(5), 966–977.

Umbarkar, P., Tousif, S., Singh, A. P., Anderson, J. C., Zhang, Q., Tallquist, M. D., et al. (2022). Fibroblast GSK-3α promotes fibrosis via RAF-MEK-ERK pathway in the injured heart. Circulation Research, 131(7), 620–636.

Singh, A. P., Umbarkar, P., Tousif, S., & Lal, H. (2020). Cardiotoxicity of the BCR-ABL1 tyrosine kinase inhibitors: Emphasis on ponatinib. International Journal of Cardiology, 316, 214–221.

Umbarkar, P., Singh, A. P., Gupte, M., Verma, V. K., Galindo, C. L., Guo, Y., Zhang, Q., et al. (2019). Cardiomyocyte SMAD4-dependent TGF-β signaling is essential to maintain adult heart homeostasis. JACC: Basic to Translational Science, 4(1), 41–53.

Tousif, S., Singh, A. P., Umbarkar, P., Galindo, C., Wheeler, N., Toro Cora, A., et al. (2023). Ponatinib drives cardiotoxicity by S100A8/A9-NLRP3-IL-1β mediated inflammation. Circulation Research, 132(3), 267–289.

Antonio Borghese | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Distinguished Scientist Award

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Antonio Borghese | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Distinguished Scientist Award

International Buffalo Federation | Italy

Professor Dr. Antonio Borghese, is an eminent Italian scientist renowned for his pioneering contributions to animal production and buffalo research. He earned degrees in Biological Sciences and Veterinary Medicine with top honors, followed by a professional qualification as a veterinarian  and a teaching diploma in Animal Production. His distinguished career began at the Istituto Superiore di Sanità in Rome and continued as a researcher and later Research Director at the Animal Production Research Institute (Istituto Sperimentale per la Zootecnia) in Monterotondo, where he also served as General Director and Director of the Animal Management and Buffalo Department. Professor Borghese has coordinated numerous national and international projects on livestock development, reproduction, and buffalo improvement, significantly advancing animal production systems. A prolific author, he has published over 413 scientific papers and six influential books, including the FAO monograph Buffalo Production and Research and Buffalo Livestock and Products. He has also edited the IDF Bulletin on Milking Management of Dairy Buffaloes and organized major global congresses in buffalo science. As General Secretary of the International Buffalo Federation (IBF) and Coordinator of the FAO Inter-Regional Cooperative Research Network on Buffalo, he has played a central role in promoting buffalo development worldwide through research, education, and international collaboration. Professor Borghese’s lifelong dedication has made him one of the world’s foremost authorities in buffalo science and sustainable animal production.

Profile: Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Sgro, L. A., Basile, G., Barone, A. C., D’Anna, A., Minutolo, P., Borghese, A., … (2003). Detection of combustion formed nanoparticles. Chemosphere, 51(10), 1079–1090.

Borghese, A., & Merola, S. S. (1998). Time-resolved spectral and spatial description of laser-induced breakdown in air as a pulsed, bright, and broadband ultraviolet–visible light source. Applied Optics, 37(18), 3977–3983.

Sgro, L. A., Borghese, A., Speranza, L., Barone, A. C., Minutolo, P., Bruno, A., … (2008). Measurements of nanoparticles of organic carbon and soot in flames and vehicle exhausts. Environmental Science & Technology, 42(3), 859–863.

Borghese, A., D’Alessio, A., Diana, M., & Venitozzi, C. (1989). Development of hot nitrogen kernel, produced by a very fast spark discharge. Symposium (International) on Combustion, 22(1), 1651–1659.

D’Alessio, A., Di Lorenzo, A., Borghese, A., Beretta, F., & Masi, S. (1977). Study of the soot nucleation zone of rich methane-oxygen flames. Symposium (International) on Combustion, 16(1), 695–708.

Borghese, A., Canevari, R., Donati, V., & Garifo, L. (1981). Unstable–stable resonators with toroidal mirrors. Applied Optics, 20(20), 3547–3552.

Mekides Gardi | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

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Mekides Gardi | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Cimmyt | Ethiopia

Dr. Mekides Woldegiorgis Gardi, an Ethiopian system agronomist and crop modeler, is currently serving as a Postdoctoral Researcher at the International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center (CIMMYT), based at the ILRI campus in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. She holds a Ph.D. in Agricultural Sciences from the University of Hohenheim, Germany, where her research focused on the impacts of climate change and variability on barley (Hordeum vulgare L.). With over a decade of research and project coordination experience, Dr. Gardi has developed strong expertise in crop simulation modeling using DSSAT and APSIM, climate change impact assessment, and climate-resilient agriculture. Her professional journey includes research roles at the Alliance of Bioversity International and CIAT, ICARDA, and DAB Development Research and Training, where she contributed to field data collection, climate-crop interaction studies, and multi-country agricultural projects. At CIMMYT, she leads modeling efforts to evaluate climate change effects on maize and wheat, supports digital agriculture initiatives, and develops adaptation strategies to strengthen climate-resilient breeding and food security systems in Africa. Dr. Gardi is highly skilled in data management, scientific writing, and interdisciplinary collaboration, with a focus on developing sustainable, data-driven agricultural solutions. Her work integrates advanced modeling with on-ground agricultural development to guide policy and improve farming resilience under changing climatic conditions.

Profile: Google Scholar

Featured Publications

  • Gardi, M. W., Memic, E., Zewdu, E., & Graeff‐Hönninger, S. (2022). Simulating the effect of climate change on barley yield in Ethiopia with the DSSAT‐CERES‐Barley model. Agronomy Journal, 114(2), 1128–1145.

  • Gardi, M. W., Haussmann, B. I. G., Malik, W. A., & Högy, P. (2022). Effects of elevated atmospheric CO₂ and its interaction with temperature and nitrogen on yield of barley (Hordeum vulgare L.): A meta-analysis. Plant and Soil, 475(1), 535–550.

  • Wamatu, J., Alkhtib, A., & Woldegiorgis, M. G. (2019). Leveraging traditional crops for food and feed: A case of hulless barley (Hordeum vulgare) landraces in Ethiopia. Journal of Experimental Biology and Agricultural Sciences, 7(1), 42–50.

  • Gardi, M. W., Malik, W. A., & Haussmann, B. I. G. (2021). Impacts of carbon dioxide enrichment on landrace and released Ethiopian barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) cultivars. Plants, 10(12), 2691.

  • Gardi, M. W., Zewdu, E., & Sida, T. S. (2021). Modeling sorghum yield response to climate change in the semi-arid environment of Ethiopia. Journal of Agriculture and Food Research, Article 102143.

 

Zhixu Zhang | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Research Article Award

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Zhixu Zhang | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Research Article Award

Hunan Agricultural University | China

Dr. Zhixu Zhang, a distinguished scholar at the College of Horticulture, Hunan Agricultural University, is recognized for his significant contributions to food science, particularly in the evaluation of functional foods, the deep processing of agricultural by-products, and innovative product development. His research focuses on the screening and evaluation of functional factors in plant-based raw materials, the processing characteristics and adaptability of food resources, and the intricate mechanisms linking nutritional components with human health. He has successfully presided over seven major research projects funded by provincial science and education departments and has played a pivotal role in more than ten national and international projects, including the National Major Special Project, the National Key Research and Development Plan, and international cooperation initiatives. Professor Zhang has published more than influential papers in esteemed journals such as Carbohydrate Polymers, Metabolites, LWT-Food Science and Technology, and Chinese Herbal Medicines. His innovative contributions are further reflected in six authorized invention patents and four software copyrights, underscoring his role in bridging research and practical applications. Notably, he received the Hunan Provincial Technology Award  for his pioneering work in functional food industrialization. His representative research covers diverse areas including functional dietary fiber, cholesterol-lowering plant sterols, fermented food technologies, and novel detection systems for food safety. In addition, he has contributed to the advancement of intellectual property transformation in universities, earning team innovation awards for his leadership in plant-based bioactive component utilization. With his dedication to interdisciplinary research and innovation, Professor Zhang continues to make impactful contributions to food science, functional nutrition, and agricultural product development.

 

Muhammad Irfan | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

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Muhammad Irfan | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Tuskegee University | United States

Dr. Muhammad Irfan is a soil scientist with extensive expertise in biochar, soil chemistry, and environmental sustainability. Currently serving as a Postdoctoral Research Associate at Tuskegee University, Alabama, USA, he focuses on pesticide risk assessment, air pollution dispersion, and the role of biochar in mitigating greenhouse gas emissions. He earned his PhD in Soil Science from China Agricultural University, Beijing, where his dissertation explored biochar applications for saline soil improvement. With over seven years of academic experience as an Assistant Professor at the University of Agriculture, Peshawar, Pakistan, he has taught advanced courses in soil fertility, plant nutrition, environmental soil chemistry, and soil-water-plant relationships. His research contributions have advanced the understanding of heavy metal remediation, soil reclamation, phytoremediation, and nutrient management in saline agriculture. Dr. Irfan has published widely in high-impact journals such as Scientific Reports, Environmental Science and Pollution Research, ACS Omega, and the Journal of Saudi Chemical Society.

Publication Profile

Google Scholar

Education

Dr. Muhammad Irfan has a strong academic foundation in soil and environmental sciences. He earned his PhD in Soil Science from the College of Resources and Environment, China Agricultural University, Beijing, where his dissertation focused on “The characters of biochar and application in saline soil improvement.” His doctoral work laid the groundwork for his expertise in soil remediation and biochar technology. Prior to this, he completed his M.Sc. in Soil and Environmental Sciences at the University of Agriculture, Peshawar, Pakistan, with a thesis on the “Effect of phosphorus and sulfur on the yield and nutrient uptake of maize.” He also holds a B.Sc. in Soil and Environmental Sciences from the same institution, complemented by an internship evaluating irrigation water quality and soil salinity in District Karak, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. Collectively, his academic journey highlights a consistent focus on soil health, nutrient management, and environmental sustainability.

Experience

Dr. Irfan’s career blends teaching, research, and applied environmental science. he has been a Postdoctoral Research Associate at Tuskegee University, USA, working on pesticide risk assessment, urban air dispersion, and biochar’s role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. he served as a Research Scholar at Auburn University, focusing on manufacturing biochar from downed timber and exploring its applications in soil amendment and wastewater treatment. Prior to his U.S. research appointments, Dr. Irfan was an Assistant Professor in the Department of Soil and Environmental Sciences at the University of Agriculture, Peshawar, Pakistan. There, he taught advanced soil science courses, supervised research projects, and conducted studies on soil fertility, heavy metal remediation, and saline soil management. His teaching portfolio includes Soil Fertility and Plant Nutrition, Soil-Water-Plant Relationships, and Environmental Soil Chemistry, establishing him as both an educator and a researcher of high repute.

Honors and Awards

While specific formal awards are not listed, Dr. Irfan’s career is distinguished by significant academic and research achievements that reflect recognition in his field. His successful completion of a PhD at China Agricultural University with a dissertation on biochar applications in saline soils represents a major scholarly milestone. His postdoctoral appointments at Auburn University and Tuskegee University in the United States further highlight international recognition of his expertise in soil science, environmental chemistry, and biochar research. He has consistently collaborated with international teams of scientists, publishing in high-impact journals such as Scientific Reports, Environmental Science and Pollution Research, ACS Omega, and the Journal of Saudi Chemical Society. His selection for advanced projects on pesticide risk assessment, greenhouse gas mitigation, and biochar’s role in environmental sustainability signifies his contributions being valued at the global research level. Collectively, his positions, collaborations, and publications serve as evidence of professional honors.

Research Focus

Dr. Irfan’s research is primarily centered on soil remediation, biochar technology, and sustainable agricultural practices. He investigates the characterization of biochar with enhanced heavy metal removal efficiency and its applications in soil and water systems. His work extends into ecotoxicology, focusing on heavy metal speciation, mobility, and bioavailability in contaminated soils and sediments. He has developed adsorption and desorption models to better understand heavy metal interactions and tested remediation strategies using both organic and inorganic soil amendments. Additionally, his studies explore phytoremediation and saline agriculture, with special emphasis on nutrient and water management in saline soils. His recent projects have included assessing pesticide risk in urban agricultural systems and evaluating biochar’s role in greenhouse gas reduction. By integrating laboratory experiments, field studies, and advanced modeling approaches, Dr. Irfan contributes solutions for heavy metal pollution, soil degradation, and sustainable food production, aligning his research with global environmental challenges.

Publications

  • Heavy metals immobilization and improvement in maize (Zea mays L.) growth amended with biochar and compost.

  • Exploring the potential effect of Achnatherum splendens L. derived biochar treated with phosphoric acid on bioavailability of cadmium and wheat growth in contaminated soil.

  • Evaluating the efficacy of activated carbon in minimizing the risk of heavy metals contamination in spinach for safe consumption.

  • Zinc foliar application mitigates cadmium-induced growth inhibition and enhances wheat growth, chlorophyll contents, and yield.

  • Effect of wheat straw derived biochar on the bioavailability of Pb, Cd, and Cr using maize as test crop (Journal of Saudi Chemical Society

  • Impact of biochar interlayer on surface soil salt content, salt migration, and photosynthetic activity and yield of sunflowers: Laboratory and field studies.

Conclusion

Dr. Muhammad Irfan is an accomplished soil scientist whose expertise bridges environmental sustainability, soil chemistry, and agricultural productivity. His research on biochar has opened new pathways for remediating heavy metal contamination, reclaiming saline soils, and mitigating greenhouse gas emissions, contributing directly to solutions for global environmental challenges. With a strong foundation in teaching and mentoring, he has guided students in advanced soil and environmental sciences while producing impactful research recognized internationally. His postdoctoral research at Auburn University and Tuskegee University underscores his role as a global collaborator in developing sustainable agricultural practices and environmental risk management strategies. By publishing in prestigious journals and advancing applied soil science, Dr. Irfan has established himself as a respected voice in biochar and soil remediation research. His career demonstrates a commitment to both advancing scientific knowledge and addressing urgent environmental concerns, making him a valuable contributor to agricultural and environmental sciences.

Francesca Valenti | Agricultural | Most Reader’s Article Award

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Prof Dr. Francesca Valenti | Agricultural | Most Reader’s Article Award

Professor at Università di Bologna – Alma Mater Studiorum, Italy

Dr. Francesca Valenti is a highly accomplished professional in the field of Agricultural, Forestry, and Biosystems Engineering, with a strong academic background and extensive experience in research, teaching, and project management. She holds a Ph.D. in Agriculture, Food, and Environmental Science and has received national scientific qualifications to function as both an Associate Professor and a Full Professor in Italian Universities. Dr. Valenti has been recognized for her research contributions with awards such as the “Adriano Guarneri” award for the best Ph.D. thesis in Agricultural Engineering. With a diverse range of research interests, including sustainable development, biogas production, and precision agriculture, Dr. Valenti has been involved in several research projects funded by prestigious institutions. Her expertise extends to various software tools, including Microsoft Office, QGIS, R Studio, AutoCAD, and others, which she utilizes in her research and teaching activities. Dr. Valenti’s teaching experience is extensive, spanning across different academic levels and topics such as informatics, data survey analysis, and CAD/GIS modules. She is also a sought-after lecturer, having been invited to speak at conferences and events, demonstrating her expertise and reputation in the field. Overall, Dr. Francesca Valenti’s dedication to advancing agricultural engineering, coupled with her academic achievements and practical skills, make her a valuable asset to the academic and research community.

Professional Profiles:

📚 Education:

Dr. Francesca Valenti obtained her PhD in Agriculture, Food, and Environmental Science from the Department of Agriculture, Food, and Environment at the University of Catania on February 27, 2018. Her doctoral thesis focused on the sustainable development of regional biogas production, specifically conducting a GIS-based Techno Economic Assessment in Southern Italy. Prior to her doctoral studies, Dr. Valenti completed a Master’s course at the Department of Humanities at the University of Catania in 2015, where she explored the sustainable use of cultural and environmental heritage. She also holds a Master of Science in Architectural and Building Engineering from the Department of Civil Engineering and Architecture at the University of Catania, achieved in 2012. Her master’s thesis centered on the existing building acoustic requalification according to the UNI 11367 standard. Additionally, Dr. Valenti has received national scientific qualifications to function as an Associate Professor and Full Professor in Italian Universities for the Macro sector 07C1 – Agricultural, Forestry, and Biosystems Engineering, in 2018 and 2021, respectively.

📝Research:

Dr. Francesca Valenti has been involved in several research projects, showcasing her expertise and commitment to innovative agricultural practices. She collaborated in the research program “Soluzioni innovative per la sicurezza alimentare nella filiera cerealicola (S.I.S.A.CER.)” funded by Bando POR FESR Sicilia 2007-2013, Sicily region, from May 15, 2014, to July 15, 2014. Her research focused on monitoring and processing microclimatic data recorded during thermal treatment for insect pests control. From January 1, 2015, to April 30, 2018, Dr. Valenti participated in the research program “Soluzioni tecnologiche innovative per la valorizzazione degli scarti degli agrumi (SOCRATE)” funded by the Ministero dello Sviluppo Economico. Here, she applied the LCA methodology to evaluate the innovative processes adopted during the project. Another significant contribution was her collaboration in the research program “FIR-2014- Analisi per lo sviluppo della filiera biometano in ambiente mediterraneo” from March 6, 2015, to October 30, 2017. This project, funded by a Public announcement (D.R. n. 2334, 03/06/2014) – codice 335C3E, involved territorial analysis of Mediterranean biomasses availability using Geographic Information Systems. Additionally, Dr. Valenti participated in the research program “FIR-2014- Messa a punto di un sistema automatico per lo studio del comportamento individuale di bovine da latte in stabulazione libera” from March 6, 2015, to October 30, 2017, under the same funding source. Lastly, she contributed to the research program “Progetto di ricerca industriale sul Pastazzo di Agrumi” from November 1, 2015, to January 1, 2016, funded by The Coca-Cola Foundation. Her research involved territorial analysis through GIS application for localizing industrial citrus processing companies that produce citrus pulp usable in anaerobic digestion processes for biogas production.

🗣️Professional experience:

Dr. Francesca Valenti has a diverse professional background, starting with her current role as an Associate Professor at the Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences at the Alma Mater Studiorum – University of Bologna, where she has been since July 1, 2023. Prior to this, she served as an Assistant Professor at the Department of Agriculture, Food, and Environment at the University of Catania from April 22, 2020, to June 30, 2023. Before her appointment as an Assistant Professor, Dr. Valenti was a Post-doctoral Fellow Researcher at the same department from February 1, 2019, to January 31, 2020, focusing on the development of Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) methodology to sustainable localize new biogas plants fed by feedstock-mixture suitable for enhancing biogas production. Dr. Valenti also held a research contract at the Department of Agriculture, Food, and Environment at the University of Catania from December 21, 2018, to February 21, 2019, where she worked on territorial data elaboration for developing a model to quantify electrical and thermal energy from citrus pulp and olive pomace anaerobic digestion. Additionally, she served as a Professor by contract for the Laboratory of Informatics (M-Z course) at the same department, focusing on Bachelor’s Degree in Agricultural Science and Technology for the academic year 2018/2019 and 2019/2020 – 1° Year, from November 1, 2018, to April 22, 2020. Prior to these roles, Dr. Valenti was a Post-doctoral fellow at the Department of Agriculture, Food, and Environment at the University of Catania from March 12, 2018, to September 12, 2018, where her research activity involved GIS-based model developing for evaluating the agro-industrial by-products availability through suitable index. She also held a research contract at the Research center for Sustainable Development of the Mediterranean Area (C.Ri.S.A.M.) – Centro di Ricerca per lo Sviluppo Sostenibile dell’Area Mediterranea from November 1, 2017, to December 11, 2017, focusing on spatial analysis to quantify and localize innovative biomasses suitable for enhancing biogas production.

🏆Awards:

Dr. Francesca Valenti has received prestigious awards and recognitions for her outstanding contributions to the field of Agricultural Engineering. She was awarded the National Scientific Qualification to function as a Full Professor in Italian Universities for the Macro sector 07C1 – Agricultural, Forestry, and Biosystems Engineering, valid from June 2021 until June 2030. Prior to this, she achieved the National Scientific Qualification to function as an Associate Professor in Italian Universities for the same sector, valid from October 2018 until October 2027. Additionally, Dr. Valenti was honored with the “Adriano Guarneri” award for the best Ph.D. thesis in Agricultural Engineering by the Italian Association of Agricultural Engineering in July 2017, further highlighting her exceptional research and academic achievements.

Teaching experience:

Dr. Francesca Valenti has a comprehensive teaching experience, contributing significantly to various courses related to Agricultural Science and Technology. She served as a Professor by contract for the Laboratory of Informatics (M-Z course) at the Department of Agriculture, Food, and Environment, Bachelor’s Degree in Agricultural Science and Technology, for the academic years 2018/2019 and 2019/2020, focusing on 1st-year students. In the academic year 2020/2021, Dr. Valenti took on multiple teaching roles, including Professor of Data survey analysis for Precision Agriculture and Professor of Computer lab and computer-aided design for 3rd-year students in the Bachelor’s Degree in Agricultural Science and Technology. Additionally, she served as a Professor of CAD and GIS modules for the course CAD, GIS, and Participatory Mapping for the PhD in Agricultural, Food, and Environmental Science. In October 2021, Dr. Valenti was an Invited Main Lecturer at the 3rd Joint Meeting of Agriculture-oriented PhD Programs UniCT, UniFG, and UniUD, where she delivered a lecture titled “GIS modelling for precision and sustainable agriculture.” Continuing her teaching commitment, in the academic year 2021/2022, Dr. Valenti resumed her role as a Professor of Data survey analysis for Precision Agriculture for 3rd-year students in the Bachelor’s Degree in Agricultural Science and Technology. She also took on the role of Professor in Buildings and Landscape for Food and Wine itineraries for 3rd-year students in the Bachelor’s Degree in Science and Technology for Food Service and Distribution of Mediterranean Foods, showcasing her versatility and expertise in various fields of agricultural education.

Skills:

Dr. Francesca Valenti possesses a wide range of software skills that enhance her capabilities in various aspects of her work. She is proficient in Microsoft Office, which includes Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, facilitating her administrative and presentation tasks. Additionally, Dr. Valenti is skilled in QGIS software, enabling her to work with geographic information systems effectively. Her proficiency in R Studio allows her to conduct statistical analysis and data visualization, crucial for her research in Agricultural Science and Technology. Furthermore, she is experienced in AutoCAD and 3DS Max Design, which are essential for her work in architectural and building engineering, particularly in existing building acoustic requalification and computer-aided design. Dr. Valenti also has expertise in Photoshop and Corel Draw, which are valuable for graphic design and image editing tasks. Her proficiency extends to ArchiCAD, SAP 2000, and CDS Software, which are essential for architectural and engineering design and analysis. Additionally, she is familiar with Software Echo 6.0 Acustica and software termotecnica ACCA, which are crucial for acoustic and thermotechnical analysis, respectively. Moreover, Dr. Valenti is skilled in Minitab, a statistical software, and Simulation CFD 2015, which is used for computational fluid dynamics analysis. These software skills highlight her versatility and competence in utilizing a wide range of tools to support her research and teaching activities in the field of Agricultural, Forestry, and Biosystems Engineering.

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📚Publications :

Anaerobic co-digestion of multiple agricultural residues to enhance biogas production in southern Italy

Authors: F Valenti, Y Zhong, M Sun, SMC Porto, A Toscano, BE Dale, F Sibilla

Citations: 75

Year: 2018

Spatial analysis of feedstock supply and logistics to establish regional biogas power generation: A case study in the region of Sicily

Authors: F Valenti, SMC Porto, BE Dale, W Liao

Citations: 59

Year: 2018

Evaluation of biomethane potential from by-products and agricultural residues co-digestion in southern Italy

Authors: F Valenti, SMC Porto, R Selvaggi, B Pecorino

Citations: 50

Year: 2018

Use of citrus pulp for biogas production: a GIS analysis of citrus-growing areas and processing industries in South Italy

Authors: F Valenti, SMC Porto, G Chinnici, R Selvaggi, G Cascone, C Arcidiacono

Citations: 46

Year: 2017

Energy and environmental assessment of plastic granule production from recycled greenhouse covering films in a circular economy perspective

Authors: S Cascone, C Ingrao, F Valenti, SMC Porto

Citations: 43

Year: 2020

Sequential crops for food, energy, and economic development in rural areas: The case of Sicily

Authors: R Selvaggi, F Valenti, G Pappalardo, L Rossi, S Bozzetto, B Pecorino

Citations: 43

Year: 2018

Quantification of olive pomace availability for biogas production by using a GIS‐based model

Authors: F Valenti, C Arcidiacono, G Chinnici, G Cascone, SMC Porto

Citations: 42

Year: 2017

Covering plastic films in greenhouses system: A GIS-based model to improve post-use sustainable management

Authors: MCM Parlato, F Valenti, SMC Porto

Citations: 40

Year: 2020

Co-digestion of by-products and agricultural residues: A bioeconomy perspective for a Mediterranean feedstock mixture

Authors: F Valenti, SMC Porto, R Selvaggi, B Pecorino

Citations: 40

Year: 2020

Tomato puree in the Mediterranean region: An environmental Life Cycle Assessment, based upon data surveyed at the supply chain level

Authors: C Ingrao, N Faccilongo, F Valenti, G De Pascale, L Di Gioia, A Messineo

Citations: 36

Year: 2019

Life cycle assessment of agro-industrial by-product reuse: a comparison between anaerobic digestion and conventional disposal treatments

Authors: F Valenti, W Liao, SMC Porto

Citations: 34

Year: 2020

Potential biogas production from agricultural by-products in Sicily. A case study of citrus pulp and olive pomace

Authors: F Valenti, SMC Porto, G Cascone, C Arcidiacono

Citations: 33

Year: 2017

A GIS‐based model to estimate citrus pulp availability for biogas production: an application to a region of the Mediterranean Basin

Authors: F Valenti, SMC Porto, G Chinnici, G Cascone, C Arcidiacono

Citations: 33

Year: 2016

Assessment of citrus pulp availability for biogas production by using a GIS-based model: The case study of an area in southern Italy

Authors: Valenti, Porto, Chinnici, Cascone, Arcidiacono

Citations: 32

Year: 2017