Azzouz Zahra | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Research Excellence Award

Azzouz Zahra | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Research Excellence Award

University of Bejaia, Faculty of Natural and Life Sciences | Algeria

Dr. Zahra Azzouz is a dedicated teacher-researcher in microbiology at the University of Bejaia, Algeria, with a strong academic background and research focus in industrial and environmental microbiology. She earned her PhD in Microbiology from the University of Bejaia, where her research centered on the production and optimization of fungal cellulases and xylanases through solid-state fermentation, including their characterization, enzymatic synergies, and application in the saccharification of lignocellulosic materials. Her work contributes to advancing sustainable biotechnological solutions for biomass conversion and industrial enzyme applications. In addition to her research, she is actively engaged in teaching and continuously enhancing her academic communication skills through advanced English language training.

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Manoj Shrivastava | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Research Excellence Award

Manoj Shrivastava | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Research Excellence Award

ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute | India

Dr. Manoj Shrivastava is a Principal Scientist in Soil Science at the Division of Environmental Science, with over twenty-five years of experience in agricultural research. His expertise spans soil physics, soil fertility, soil microbiology, climate-smart agriculture, conservation agriculture, and sustainable farming systems. He has led and contributed to numerous research and development initiatives, working collaboratively with government agencies, international organizations, research institutions, and industry stakeholders. His work integrates scientific research with training, extension, and project development to enhance agricultural sustainability and productivity.

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Featured Publications


Integrating critical nitrogen dilution curve, nitrogen nutrition index, and yield response modelling to optimize nitrogen requirement in spring wheat

– Plant Physiology Reports, 2026

Synergistic Impacts of Synthesized Nanozeolite-Based Nitrogen Fertilizers on Soil Nitrogen Mineralization and Crop Yield

– Water Air and Soil Pollution, 2025

A Stable Isotope-hydrochemical Approach to Assess Groundwater Chemistry and Recharge Dynamics in Southwest Delhi, India

– Water Air and Soil Pollution, 2025

Corn Cob-Derived Bioplastics Infused with Titanium Dioxide Nanoparticles: Synthesis and Functional Assessment

– Waste and Biomass Valorization, 2025

Innovative applications of nanozeolite: Advancing environmental and agricultural sustainability

– Book Chapter, 2025

 

Delagnon Assou | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Research Excellence Award

Delagnon Assou | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Research Excellence Award

Laboratoty of Ecology and Ecotoxicology (LaEE), University of Lomé | Togo

Delagnon ASSOU is an ecologist specializing in the sustainable use and management of natural resources, with particular expertise in biodiversity assessment, wildlife and protected areas management, ecological genomics, and fishery productivity evaluation. He holds a PhD in Ecology and Sustainable Use of Natural Resources from the University of Lomé and has received advanced international training in wildlife conservation practice from the University of Oxford. His academic background includes a Master’s degree in Natural Resources Management with a focus on wildlife conservation, as well as solid training in animal biology and ecology. His research and professional work emphasize applied conservation science, data-driven ecological analysis, and the integration of geospatial and statistical tools to support evidence-based decision-making.

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Soon-Jae Lee | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Research Excellence Award

Soon-Jae Lee | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Research Excellence Award

University of Lausanne & African Genome Center | Switzerland

prof. Soon-Jae Lee is a microbiome scientist affiliated with the Swiss National Centre of Competence in Research (NCCR) Microbiomes in Switzerland and based at the University of Lausanne, where his work focuses on advancing the understanding of microbial communities and their interactions with hosts and environments. His research integrates microbiology, molecular biology, and systems-level approaches to uncover how microbiomes influence health, disease, and ecosystem functioning. With a strong publication record that includes 18 scientific articles and 12 comprehensive review papers, he has made significant contributions to synthesizing complex microbiome knowledge and translating it into conceptual and practical advances for the field. His innovative research activities have also resulted in one patented invention, reflecting his engagement with applied science and technology transfer. In addition to his peer-reviewed work, he is an active contributor to the scientific community through conference participation, having delivered seven conference presentations that disseminate his findings to international audiences. He is widely recognized for his expertise, as demonstrated by his frequent invitations to speak, including 11 invited and keynote lectures at scientific meetings and academic institutions.

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Amanpreet K. Sidhu | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Amanpreet K. Sidhu | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Khalsa College for Women | India

Dr. Amanpreet Kaur Sidhu is an accomplished Assistant Professor and researcher with over fourteen years of academic experience in biotechnology, spanning teaching, research, and departmental leadership across reputed institutions in India. Her expertise lies in bio-nanotechnology, bioprocess engineering, and recombinant DNA technology, with significant contributions to nanoparticle synthesis, characterization, and their applications in agriculture and environmental sustainability. She is highly proficient in advanced molecular techniques, including DNA isolation, PCR, Southern blotting, RFLP, transformation, and in handling fermenters for the production of enzymes, bioactive compounds, and other valuable metabolites. Her diverse research portfolio encompasses enzyme purification and characterization, enzyme-based bioremediation, endophytic fungi with biotechnological potential, metabolite production through fermentation, antidiabetic studies of medicinal plants, and biological control applications involving invasive species such as water hyacinth. With a strong publication record that includes impactful research articles, reviews, and book chapters, she has earned over 800 citations with notable h-index and i10-index scores, reflecting her scientific influence. She has served as Guest Associate Editor for Frontiers in Nanotechnology and continues to contribute as an editor and reviewer for leading international journals. A dedicated mentor, she has guided numerous postgraduate and undergraduate research projects and has played vital roles in organizing national and international conferences, seminars, workshops, and academic events. She has also contributed to academic development through her involvement in curriculum committees, laboratory management, value-added course coordination, and initiatives under the DBT Star College Scheme. Recognized for her strong administrative capabilities, innovative academic contributions, and commitment to scientific advancement, Dr. Sidhu remains a driving force in fostering research excellence and interdisciplinary growth in the field of biotechnology.

Profile: Scopus | Orcid 

Featured Publications

Sidhu, A. K., Sharma, M., Shah, P., & Sandhu, S. K. (2025). CRISPR and RNA interference: Revolutionary tools for extending food shelf life and ensuring safety. Frontiers in Food Science and Technology, 5, 1609948.

Sidhu, A. K., Patil, S. N., & Gaikwad, V. B. (2025). Enhanced glyphosate degradation using laccase-immobilized magnetic iron oxide nanoparticles: A comparative study. Journal of Environmental and Water Nanotechnology, 10(2), 1–11.

Sidhu, A. K., Verma, N., Kaushal, P., & Agrawal, S. (2025). Fungal-mediated synthesis of multimetallic nanoparticles: Mechanisms, unique properties, and potential applications. Frontiers in Nanotechnology, 7, 1549713.

Sharma, M., Sidhu, A. K., Samota, M. K., Shah, P., Pandey, M. K., & Gangurde, S. S. (2024). Technological advancements in the CRISPR toolbox for improving plant salt tolerance. Discover Agriculture, 2(1), 1–31.

Kaur, K., Sidhu, A. K., & Brar, N. K. (2024). Bioactives in soybean: Health implications and transgenic improvement. Agrica.

Sidhu, A. K., Sharma, M., Agrawal, S. B., Bhavsar, P. P., & Samota, M. K. (2024). Nanomaterial strategies for enhancing plant resilience in the face of temperature stress. CABI Agriculture and Bioscience, 5(1), 60.

Dereba Megersa | Environmental Science | Most Cited Article Award

Dereba Megersa | Environmental Science | Most Cited Article Award

Ethiopia Meteorlogy Institute | Ethiopia

Dr. Dereba Muleta Megersa,  in Arsi Bekoji, Oromia, Ethiopia, is a dedicated meteorologist and climate science professional with a strong academic and international training background. He began his education at Tulu Nageso Elementary School and progressed through Bekoji Junior and Senior Secondary Schools, completing his preparatory studies. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree from Arba Minch University and later pursued a Master’s degree at Nanjing University of Information Science and Technology (NUIST), China, graduating. Currently engaged in advanced studies, Dereba has consistently expanded his expertise through numerous international workshops and training programs. His participation includes the FY2023 Fengyun Satellite User Conference in Xiamen, China; seminars on global climate change, agricultural meteorology, and disaster mitigation hosted by NUIST and CMA; and specialized courses on atmospheric policy and weather forecasting across China and South Korea. These experiences reflect his commitment to enhancing meteorological forecasting and environmental resilience in developing countries. Dereba is fluent in professional communication and actively collaborates through platforms like WeChat and ORCID. With a career rooted in academic excellence and global engagement, Dereba continues to contribute to climate science and disaster preparedness, embodying a proactive approach to international collaboration and sustainable development.

Profile: Scoups | Orcid

Featured Publications

Megersa, D. M., Abera, M., Geremew, T., Zainab, Z., & Luo, X. S. (2025). Effects of climate on malaria transmission: The role of temperature, rainfall, and humidity across Africa. Theoretical and Applied Climatology, 156, 438.

Megersa, D. M., & Luo, X.-S. (2025). Effects of climate change on malaria risk to human health: A review. Atmosphere, 16(1), 71.

Geremew, T., Ullah, I., Akinsanola, A. A., Muleta, D., Teshome, F., Syed, S., & Rafi, R. (2025). Unravelling Southern Ocean sea surface temperatures impacts on long rainfall variability in East Africa. Atmospheric Research, 310, 108406.

Luo, X.-S., Muleta, D., Hu, Z., Tang, H., Zhao, Z., Shen, S., & Lee, B.-L. (2017). Inclusive development and agricultural adaptation to climate change. Current Opinion in Environmental Sustainability, 24, 78–83.

Yohannes, T., Yu, J., Jonah, K., Oo, K. Y. T., Muleta, D., Adem, K., & Geremew, T. (2024). A bibliographic review on anthropogenic climate change and drought. Environmental Science & Policy, 160, 103830.

Abdela, K. A., Fantabil, A., & Muleta, D. (2023). Bibliographic review on drought and water level articles. Discover Water, 3, 17.

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

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.

 

Poonam Singhal | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Poonam Singhal | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

University of Hyderabad | India

Dr. Poonam Singhal is a distinguished academic and nutrition expert with over 18 years of experience in teaching, research, consulting, and policy engagement in food and nutrition sciences. She holds a Ph.D. in Food Science and Nutrition from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi, with a strong research focus on functional foods, food safety, and nutrition informatics. Currently serving as Principal Scientist at the DST-Centre for Policy Research, University of Hyderabad, she works at the intersection of science communication, grassroots innovation, and start-up ecosystems. She has previously served as an Assistant Professor of Nutrition at reputed institutions including St. Ann’s College for Women, St. Francis College for Women, and St. Joseph Degree & PG College for Women, mentoring hundreds of Master’s and Bachelor’s students, supervising thesis work, and coordinating academic-industry collaborations. Beyond academia, Dr. Singhal has contributed to national and international projects with UNICEF, IIM Calcutta, ISB Hyderabad, IIT Delhi, and the Ministry of Rural Development, producing impactful publications, case studies, and technical manuals. She has also offered professional consultations in clinical and community nutrition, both in India and abroad. A gold medalist and award-winning researcher, she continues to integrate education, research, and innovation to address public health challenges.

Publication Profile

Scopus

Education

Dr. Poonam Singhal pursued her B.Sc. (Hons.) in Home Science from Lady Irwin College, University of Delhi in 2004, graduating with distinction. She went on to complete her M.Sc. in Food and Nutrition from the same institution, securing the Gold Medal as University Topper, alongside receiving multiple academic awards. During her Master’s, she represented India in a prestigious student exchange program at Michigan State University, USA, where she gained international exposure to food and nutrition research. Her postgraduate research included projects on low-cost recipe standardization for the ICDS Supplementary Nutrition Program and experimental recipe development with natural sweeteners under industry collaborations. She earned her Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.), also from Lady Irwin College, equipping her with pedagogical expertise to lead higher education courses. Her academic journey culminated with a Doctorate in Food Science & Nutrition from IIT Delhi, where she specialized in functional foods and bamboo-based nutrition systems. Her Ph.D. work, supported by IIT Delhi and DST, resulted in high-impact publications, international conference presentations, and contributions to sustainable food security research. These academic milestones, enriched with awards and international exposure, provided the foundation for her distinguished teaching, research, and consulting career.

Experience

Dr. Poonam Singhal has held diverse academic, research, and consulting roles across leading institutions in India. She is presently Principal Scientist at DST-Centre for Policy Research, University of Hyderabad, focusing on science communication, innovation systems, and policy engagement. She previously served as Assistant Professor of Nutrition at St. Joseph Degree & PG College for Women, St. Francis College for Women, and St. Ann’s College for Women, where she taught Master’s and Bachelor’s students, coordinated outreach, supervised research theses, and initiated collaborations such as a MoU on Nutrition Informatics. Earlier, as Visiting Faculty at University of Hyderabad, she taught international students, blending classroom teaching with field visits. She also worked as Faculty at NITHM Hyderabad, and as Guest Faculty at IHM Pusa and IGNOU, where she trained diploma, postgraduate, and distance-learning students in nutrition and dietetics. Beyond academia, Dr. Singhal contributed to UNICEF projects at NIRDPR Hyderabad, authored management case studies at ISB, assisted research at IIM Calcutta, and served as Project Associate at IIT Delhi for MoRD projects. Additionally, she has served as a Nutrition Consultant for Cure.fit and Sanat Products and as a freelance mentor for global students. Her career reflects a balanced blend of teaching, policy research, and applied nutrition consulting.

Honors and Awards

Dr. Poonam Singhal has been consistently recognized for her academic excellence and professional contributions with numerous prestigious awards. She secured the Laxmi Devi and Basant Rai Gold Medal and the B. Tara Bai Award for ranking first in M.Sc (Food and Nutrition) at Lady Irwin College. She also received the Akhil Bhartiya Vidyarthi Parishad Award for academic excellence on International Women’s Day. Her early research on bamboo earned her the Best Poster Award at the National Seminar on Bamboo, and she was supported with a travel grant from IIT Delhi to present research in Thailand. she cleared the UGC-NET for Lectureship, qualifying her for faculty roles across India. Later, her strong publication record won her the Dr. Nirmala Xavier Gold Medal at St. Ann’s College for Women. She was selected for the Summer Faculty Research Fellow Programme (IIT Delhi) and received the National Nutrition Award from the Nutrition and Natural Health Science Association, New Delhi. she received multiple honors including the RND Sadhana Award, Grand Queens Global Leadership Award, and a Travel Grant for World Bamboo Congress, Taiwan. She was also nominated for a Research Award by the Republic of Rwanda, underscoring her global impact.

Research Focus

Dr. Poonam Singhal’s research interests lie at the intersection of functional foods, nutrition informatics, sustainable food systems, and public health nutrition. Her doctoral research at IIT Delhi pioneered the exploration of bamboo shoots, seeds, and leaves as novel functional foods, focusing on their nutritional properties, antioxidant potential, and role in food security. She has examined the impact of domestic cooking methods on bamboo’s nutritional profile and toxicity, generating knowledge to promote safe consumption practices aligned with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Her work extends to trans fats and their disease implications, contributing review papers to strengthen dietary guidelines. She has also researched changing consumption patterns in traditional food systems, bridging modern nutrition science with indigenous practices. In addition, she has contributed to UNICEF projects on nutrition education, developing training modules, brochures, and outreach materials. As an early promoter of Nutrition Informatics, she spearheaded academic-industry collaborations to integrate data-driven approaches in nutrition education and practice. Her professional consulting has emphasized clinical and community nutrition, addressing conditions such as obesity, PCOD, and cardiovascular disorders. Through her publications, patents, and policy engagements, Dr. Singhal continues to push the boundaries of nutrition research, advocating for evidence-based, sustainable, and community-focused interventions.

Publications

  • The Physico-chemical properties of Dendrocalamus strictus and Bambusa bambos Seeds: An Unexplored Functional Food

  • Bamboo leaves: Exploring the nutritional and antioxidant profile of the new age functional food in Bambusa vulgaris and Bambusa tulda

  • Effects of domestic cooking methods on the functional profile and cyanogenic toxicity of bamboo shoot: An Insight on achieving the food security and SDGs

  • Bamboo Leaves: An Emerging Multi-functional Food

  • Trans Fats and their Effects on Various Diseases: A Review

  • Changing Consumption Patterns of Bamboo Shoots: A Case Study of Traditional Food-Related Knowledge Systems

Conclusion

Dr. Poonam Singhal’s professional journey reflects an inspiring blend of academic excellence, research innovation, and impactful contributions to food and nutrition sciences. With a solid academic foundation from Lady Irwin College and a doctorate from IIT Delhi, she has consistently bridged the gap between research, education, and community engagement. Her work on bamboo-based functional foods, nutrition informatics, and sustainable food systems has opened new dimensions in nutritional research, aligning with global priorities such as food security and the Sustainable Development Goals. In academia, she has shaped the careers of countless students through teaching, mentoring, and curriculum innovation, while also initiating collaborations that integrated technology and evidence-based nutrition practices into higher education. Her contributions extend beyond classrooms, as reflected in her leadership of UNICEF projects, authorship of research publications, patents, and technical manuals that serve both scientific and rural communities. Recognized with multiple national and international awards, she has established herself as a leader who combines research with advocacy for healthier, more sustainable diets.