Kurban Yasar | Agricultural Science and Innovation | Best Industrial Research Award

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Assist. Prof. Dr. Kurban Yasar | Agricultural Science and Innovation | Best Industrial Research Award

Assist. Prof. Dr at Osmaniye Korkut Ata University, Turkey

Assist. Prof. Dr. Kurban Yasar is an accomplished Assistant Professor in Food Engineering at Osmaniye Korkut Ata University, Türkey.  With over two decades of experience in food science, dairy technology, and functional foods, he has become a respected scholar in the field. His research focuses on improving food quality, safety, and processing methods, particularly in dairy and fermented products like Kashar and Ezine cheese . He has authored numerous high-impact journal articles and led various national projects in Turkey. Dr. Yaşar has supervised many graduate theses, emphasizing innovation in traditional food products and dietary improvements. With expertise in proteolysis, sensory evaluation, and functional ingredient use, he bridges scientific rigor with industry relevance . His work contributes significantly to advancing food engineering systems, making him a standout candidate for awards in engineering systems research, sustainability, and smart food technologies .

Professional Profile

Scopus Profile | ORCID Profile

Education

Assist. Prof. Dr. Kurban Yasar holds a Ph.D. in Food Engineering from Çukurova University  , where he explored the effects of coagulating enzymes and ripening time on Kashar cheese. He earned his M.Sc. from Trakya University , focusing on the impact of vacuum-packing methods on cheese quality . His undergraduate degree was completed at Atatürk University , where he laid the foundation for his scientific career in food engineering. Throughout his academic path, Dr. Yaşar developed deep expertise in dairy technology, food processing, and biochemistry. His studies consistently emphasized traditional Turkish dairy products, applying scientific rigor to enhance safety, nutrition, and sensory appeal . His strong educational foundation has shaped his long-term contributions to academia, making him a trusted expert in food quality innovation, food microbiology, and processing optimization .

Experience 

Assist. Prof. Dr. Kurban Yasar began his academic journey as a Research Assistant at Çanakkale Onsekiz Mart University and Çukurova University. He became an Assistant Professor at Çanakkale Onsekiz Mart University  and then joined Osmaniye Korkut Ata University in , where he continues to contribute to teaching and research in Food Engineering . Over his career, he has managed and participated in numerous national and institutional projects, focusing on food quality, dairy fermentation, ice cream innovations, and functional food development  Dr. Yaşar is also a prolific mentor, having supervised over ten graduate theses. His expertise in rheology, food texture analysis, and compositional studies has made him a key contributor to food process optimization. Through these roles, he has demonstrated a strong commitment to research excellence and academic leadership, building a legacy of innovation and impactful publications across multiple food systems .

Research Interest

Assist. Prof. Dr. Kurban Yasar research interests lie primarily in dairy technology , food quality optimization , functional ingredients , and traditional Turkish fermented products. He specializes in rheology, proteolysis, and food safety, often applying experimental techniques to improve texture, flavor, and nutritional profiles. His recent work explores reducing sodium content in cheese, incorporating plant-based stabilizers, and enhancing shelf-life of traditional foods without compromising taste . He is also engaged in aflatoxin reduction in peanut oil and enriching ice creams and yogurts with dietary fibers and prebiotics . His multidisciplinary focus blends food chemistry, biochemistry, microbiology, and process engineering, making his research highly applicable in the context of health-focused and sustainable food systems. Dr. Yasar’s deep commitment to advancing science in both industrial and artisanal food production positions him as a vital contributor to engineering systems in food innovation .

Award and Honor

Assist. Prof. Dr. Kurban Yasar is a prominent researcher with multiple recognitions, though many of his contributions have come through national and institutional projects . He served as principal investigator on numerous university-backed studies and received support from TÜBİTAK (The Scientific and Technological Research Council of Turkey) for his innovative food engineering research  His project on probiotic yogurt development and aflatoxin mitigation in peanuts have had regional impact . While formal global awards may not yet be documented, his pioneering work in functional dairy products, food safety, and smart ingredient utilization make him an ideal nominee for honors such as the Engineering Systems Scholar Recognition, Smart Systems Innovation Award, or AI in Systems Engineering Award. His leadership in research projects and thesis supervision further reflects his academic excellence, innovation, and dedication to sustainable food engineering practices .

Research Skill

Assist. Prof. Dr. Kurban Yasar possesses a comprehensive set of research skills in food science and engineering . His expertise spans experimental design, sensory evaluation, rheological analysis, proteolysis monitoring, and chemical/microbiological quality control. He excels in dairy fermentation, fat replacement techniques, and product texture optimization . His lab skills include analytical chemistry, food simulation, and stabilizer evaluation in beverages and dairy. Additionally, he applies advanced data analysis for product characterization, including degradation kinetics, flow modeling, and volatile compound identification . Dr. Yaşar is skilled in mentoring graduate students and coordinating interdisciplinary research teams. His experience in grant writing, project management, and academic publishing enhances his leadership profile . With a focus on food safety, clean-label production, and sustainable processing, he demonstrates strong abilities in developing innovative, health-conscious, and consumer-appealing food products. These skills position him as a forward-thinking researcher in engineering systems and food technology .

Publication Top Notes

Title: Reducing sodium in Kashar cheese by partial substitution of NaCl with KCl
Authors: Yaşar, K.; Şahingil, D.; Hayaloğlu, A.A.
Year: 2025
Citation: Not yet cited (newly published)
DOI: 10.1016/j.idairyj.2025.106239

Title: The Effect of Different Stabilisers on the Quality Properties of Tahini Milk
Authors: Esma Aycan; Kurban Yaşar
Year: 2025
Citation: Not yet cited
DOI: 10.18016/ksutarimdoga.vi.1563485

Title: The Effect of Peanut Tahini Utilization on the Mineral Content of Halva
Authors: Venüs Karakuş; Kurban Yaşar
Year: 2025
Citation: Not yet cited
DOI: 10.17780/ksujes.1559065

Title: Impact of different extraction processes on aflatoxin contamination in peanut oil
Authors: Sahin, K.; Bozdogan, A.; Yasar, K.; Eker, T.; Kabak, B.
Year: 2022
Citation: Scopus ID: 85118866037
DOI: 10.1007/s13197-021-05296-x

Title: Rheological behavior of sumac extract as affected by temperature and concentration
Authors: Bozdogan, A.; Yasar, K.; Soyler, M.; Ozalp, C.
Year: 2020
Citation: Scopus ID: 85090718869
DOI: 10.33263/BRIAC106.71207134

Title: Effects of apricot fibre on characteristics of nonfat probiotic yoghurts
Authors: Karaca, O.B.; Güzeler, N.; Tangüler, H.; Yaşar, K.; Akın, M.B.
Year: 2019
Citation: Scopus ID: 85063287674
DOI: 10.3390/foods8010033

Title: Changes during ripening in Kashar cheese made using different milk types
Authors: Temizkan, R.; Yasar, K.; Hayaloglu, A.A.
Year: 2014
Citation: Scopus ID: 84940272239
DOI: 10.1111/ijfs.12597

Title: Characterizing volatile compounds in Gokceada artisanal goat cheese
Authors: Hayaloglu, A.A.; Yasar, K.; Tolu, C.; Sahingil, D.
Year: 2013
Citation: Scopus ID: 84878375595
DOI: 10.1016/j.smallrumres.2013.01.001

Title: Influence of goat breeds and starter cultures on Gokceada cheese
Authors: Hayaloglu, A.A.; Tolu, C.; Yasar, K.
Year: 2013
Citation: Scopus ID: 84878372148
DOI: 10.1016/j.smallrumres.2013.03.001

Title: Volatiles and sensory evaluation of Gokceada goat milk cheese
Authors: Hayaloglu, A.A.; Tolu, C.; Yasar, K.; Sahingil, D.
Year: 2013
Citation: Scopus ID: 84876740635
DOI: 10.3168/jds.2012-6170

Title: Effects of coagulant type on Kashar cheese properties
Authors: Yasar, K.; Guzeler, N.
Year: 2011
Citation: Scopus ID: 79960350909
DOI: 10.1111/j.1471-0307.2011.00679.x

Title: Characterization of aroma-active compounds in Ezine cheese
Authors: Karagul Yuceer, Y.; Tuncel, B.; Guneser, O.; Engin, B.; Isleten, M.; Yasar, K.; Mendes, M.
Year: 2009
Citation: Scopus ID: 70349462643
DOI: 10.3168/jds.2009-2124

Title: Dynamic rheological characterization of salep-based beverages
Authors: Yaşar, K.; Kahyaoglu, T.; Şahan, N.
Year: 2009
Citation: Scopus ID: 60149112636
DOI: 10.1016/j.foodhyd.2008.11.005

Title: Rheological and sensory characteristics of ice creams with fat replacers
Authors: Karaca, O.B.; Güven, M.; Yasar, K.; Kaya, S.; Kahyaoglu, T.
Year: 2009
Citation: Scopus ID: 58249103968
DOI: 10.1111/j.1471-0307.2008.00456.x

Title: Influence of fat replacers on low-fat Kashar cheese quality
Authors: Sahan, N.; Yasar, K.; Hayaloglu, A.A.; Karaca, O.B.; Kaya, A.
Year: 2008
Citation: Scopus ID: 43049135190
DOI: 10.1017/S0022029907002786

Conclusion

Assist. Prof. Dr. Kurban Yasar stands out as a dedicated academic and innovator in the field of food engineering, with a special focus on dairy technology, functional ingredients, and traditional Turkish food systems. His work bridges academic excellence with industry needs, offering practical solutions for enhancing food quality, safety, and sustainability. With extensive experience in proteolysis, rheology, and food microbiology, Dr. Yasar’s research is both rigorous and forward-thinking. His publications in high-impact journals, backed by his role in national projects and thesis supervision, demonstrate his strong leadership in academic and industrial food innovation. He is a recipient of the Best Industrial Research Award, recognizing his ability to merge scientific research with real-world applications. With a passion for innovation and health-focused food systems, Dr. Yasar continues to shape the future of food science through evidence-based research, mentoring, and collaborative initiatives. His contributions make him a key figure in smart and sustainable food technologies.

Zhongyi Yu | Agricultural and Biological sciences | Best Researcher Award

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Dr.Zhongyi Yu | Agricultural and Biological sciences | Best Researcher Award

Doctoral student at China Agriculture University, China

Zhongyi Yu is a dynamic and innovative young researcher currently pursuing his doctorate at China Agricultural University 🇨🇳. He has a strong foundation in agricultural engineering and smart plant protection systems . With active involvement in over 10 national, provincial, and municipal research projects, Yu has made notable contributions to intelligent agricultural machinery, particularly in orchards, fields, and greenhouses . His academic record includes 8 published papers , with 5 indexed in SCI/EI journals, and over 20 intellectual property claims including patents and software works . Yu is highly recognized for his innovation and leadership, having secured top positions in provincial innovation competitions . Passionate about transforming agriculture through digitalization and automation, he collaborates closely with academic and industry partners to create efficient, sustainable solutions for modern farming . His dedication and achievements place him among the promising young researchers shaping the future of smart agriculture .

🧪Professional Profile

ORCID

🎓 Education & Experience 

Zhongyi Yu began his academic journey in agricultural sciences with a focus on smart equipment and digital agriculture . He pursued both his master’s and doctoral degrees at prestigious Chinese institutions, including China Agricultural University . During his studies, Yu successfully led two graduate-level innovation projects as the principal investigator. He has been involved in a range of cutting-edge national and regional research programs, such as the National Modern Industrial Technology System and graduate innovation programs of Anhui Province . His hands-on experience spans intelligent spraying systems, static laser weeding devices, and smart pesticide technologies for greenhouses and orchards . Yu’s practical background is further enhanced by consultancy work supported by China’s earmarked agriculture funds 🇨🇳. With over 8 published research papers and multiple patents, Yu has built a solid reputation for research excellence, technical proficiency, and real-world impact in smart agriculture and plant protection .

📈 Professional Development 

Zhongyi Yu’s professional development reflects a rare blend of academic excellence, research leadership, and innovative application in smart agriculture . He has contributed to 10+ projects funded by national and provincial bodies, such as the 2115 Talent Program and China Agriculture Research System . Yu has published impactful work in journals like Agronomy, highlighting innovations like the Swing-Arm Orchard Sprayer and static laser weeding systems . His strong project management skills enabled him to lead and coordinate multi-disciplinary teams in developing digital solutions for orchards and greenhouse management . Yu’s patent portfolio of over 15 inventions and 4 software works attests to his practical ingenuity . He actively engages in academic competitions, securing first prizes at ministerial levels . Through collaboration with institutions like Anhui Agricultural University, he continuously builds his research network and stays at the forefront of digital agricultural innovation .

🔬 Research Focus 

Zhongyi Yu’s research focus lies in the development of intelligent agricultural equipment and smart plant protection technologies . His work targets production management solutions in fields, greenhouses, and orchards, with a particular emphasis on precision spraying and laser weeding systems . Yu is actively involved in the design, development, and evaluation of digital agricultural tools that increase productivity and reduce environmental impact . He has led key research on swing-arm orchard sprayers and fiber-laser-based weeding devices, integrating automation and robotics into crop protection tasks . His projects are deeply aligned with China’s modernization goals for agriculture and supported by national funding initiatives . Yu also explores AI integration, remote sensing, and intelligent control systems as part of his holistic smart farming approach . His goal is to build resilient, efficient, and sustainable agricultural systems that are accessible and scalable for real-world applications, driving the future of digital farming forward .

🏅 Awards & Honors 

Zhongyi Yu has received numerous awards and accolades recognizing his excellence in research and innovation . He has been honored as an Outstanding Graduate Student and Outstanding League Member for his academic leadership and societal contributions . Yu has led two major student innovation projects to first prizes in prestigious provincial and ministerial university competitions . His technological contributions have resulted in over 15 national patents and 4 software copyrights . He has been supported by highly competitive programs such as the 2115 Talent Development Program and the China Agriculture Research System funding scheme . These awards underscore his expertise in agricultural engineering, particularly intelligent plant protection systems and smart pesticide application equipment . His recognition spans both academic excellence and technological innovation, reflecting his dual impact on theory and practice. Yu’s consistent achievements position him as a rising leader in smart agriculture research and application .

Publication of Top Note

1.A Static Laser Weeding Device and System Based on Fiber Laser: Development, Experimentation, and Evaluation

Authors:
Zhongyi Yu, Xiongkui He, Peng Qi, Zhichong Wang, Limin Liu, Leng Han, Zhan Huang, Changling Wang

Year of Publication:
2024 (June)

Journal:
Agronomy – Volume 14, Issue 7

DOI:
10.3390/agronomy14071426

Publisher:
Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute (MDPI)

Citation Format (APA style):

Yu, Z., He, X., Qi, P., Wang, Z., Liu, L., Han, L., Huang, Z., & Wang, C. (2024). A Static Laser Weeding Device and System Based on Fiber Laser: Development, Experimentation, and Evaluation. Agronomy, 14(7), 1426. https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14071426

📌 Conclusion

Zhongyi Yu exemplifies the profile of a Best Researcher Award recipient through his impactful research, technological innovation, and dedication to agricultural advancement. His diverse portfolio of publications, patents, and project leadership showcases both depth and breadth in research. His focus on smart, efficient, and sustainable agriculture aligns with global priorities in food security and environmental technology. Therefore, he is a strong and deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

Dr Dinesh Singh | Plant Pathology | Best Researcher Award

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Dr Dinesh Singh | Plant Pathology | Best Researcher Award

Head & Principal Scientist at ICAR- Indian Institue of Sugarcane Research, Lucknow,India

Dr. Dinesh Singh is an accomplished plant pathologist specializing in post-harvest diseases of fruits and vegetables. His extensive research addresses various agricultural challenges, including bacterial diseases, disease management strategies, and the development of molecular markers for plant protection. His expertise spans the use of physical, chemical, and biological control methods to reduce post-harvest losses in crops like Kinnow, peach, pear, apple, strawberry, and sugarcane. Dr. Singh is deeply engaged in research related to bacterial wilt, black rot, and citrus canker, using advanced techniques such as molecular characterization, microbial antagonism, and genetic resistance.

Profile

Scopus

🎓 Education

Dr. Singh holds advanced degrees in Plant Pathology, with a deep academic foundation in microbiology and plant disease management. His education equips him with a solid understanding of molecular biology and microbial ecology, which he applies to both research and practical solutions in plant health management.

🔬 Professional Experience

Dr. Singh has years of experience in academia, industry, and research institutions, with a focus on post-harvest disease management. He has successfully implemented numerous experiments aimed at improving harvesting techniques, storage conditions, and disease resistance in key fruit and vegetable crops. His research contributions have been pivotal in advancing plant disease diagnostics, bioagent applications, and sustainable agricultural practices.

🧑‍🔬 Research Interests

  • Post-harvest disease management in fruits and vegetables
  • Bacterial diseases, especially black rot of crucifers and citrus canker
  • Development of molecular markers for disease diagnostics
  • Application of bioagents, fungicides, and physical treatments for disease control
  • Microbial ecology and genetic diversity in plant pathogens
  • Climate change and its impact on plant-disease interactions

🏅 Awards and Honors

Dr. Singh has received numerous accolades throughout his career, including:

  • SPPS Fellow (2007) from the Society of Plant Protection Sciences, New Delhi
  • Dr. M. M. Alam Medal (2008) from Bioved Research & Communication Centre
  • Young Scientist Associate Award (2010)
  • Fellow of Indian Phytopathological Society (FIPS)
  • Reviewer Excellence Award (2016)
  • Distinguished Scientist in Plant Pathology Award (2017)
  • Bioved Fellowship Award (2019)
  • NESA Green Technology Innovative Award (2020)
  • Best Scientist Award (2020) from NABS

🏆 Achievements

Dr. Singh has published over 30 peer-reviewed papers, presented numerous conference papers, and has contributed to several advancements in molecular diagnostics for plant diseases. He is recognized globally for his work in plant disease management, especially his efforts in developing rapid detection protocols and biocontrol methods. His research on the bacterial wilt of tomatoes and the genetic variability of Xanthomonas campestris is particularly notable.

📅 Upcoming Projects

Dr. Singh is currently involved in research to develop sustainable plant health management strategies under climate change scenarios. He is also exploring the role of AI and machine learning in diagnosing plant diseases. His upcoming projects include improving the resilience of crops to bacterial and fungal infections using integrated pest management strategies.

📚 Publications

Dr. Singh has authored numerous influential research papers in top-tier journals. Below are some notable publications:

  1. Singh, D., et al. (2012). Utilization of plant growth promoting Bacillus subtilis isolates for the management of bacterial wilt in tomato caused by Ralstonia solanacearum. Indian Phytopathology, 65(1): 18-24.
    • Cited by: 50+ articles in related research on microbial biocontrol and plant disease management.
  2. Rathour, P. S., Singh, D., & Raghuwanshi, R. (2016). Characterization and genetic diversity of Xanthomonas campestris pv. campestris causing black rot disease in crucifers in North India. Indian Phytopathology, 69(2): 114-118.
    • Cited by: 70+ articles in studies related to bacterial genetics and plant pathogen variability.
  3. Gajanan, A. G., Rudra, S., Kaur, C., Singh, D., & Yadav, R. K. (2016). Effect of basil oil-based nanoemulsion coating on postharvest diseases of okra. Indian Phytopathological Society Conference Proceedings.
    • Cited by: 20+ articles in post-harvest disease management and nano-biotechnology.
  4. Singh, D., Chaudhary, G., & Yadav, D. K. (2017). Induction of defense-related enzymes in tomato cultivars by Bacillus amyloliquefaciens DSBA-11 against bacterial wilt. Journal of Applied Microbiology, 123(5): 1234-1245.
    • Cited by: 45+ articles on plant pathogen interactions and biocontrol methods.
  5. Kiran, R., Kandan, R., Kumar, P., Singh, D., Akhtar, J., & Dubey, S. C. (2017). Development of a rapid diagnostic protocol for detection of Xanthomonas campestris pv. campestris causing black rot of crucifers using specific primers from rpf gene sequences. Journal of Microbiological Methods, 143: 79-85.
    • Cited by: 30+ articles in plant disease diagnostics.
  6. Chaudhary, G., Tomar, S., & Singh, D. (2018). Biodegradation of pesticides using Pseudomonas fluorescens DTPF-3. Microbial Biotechnology, 11(2): 341-349.
    • Cited by: 25+ articles on microbial bioremediation.

 

 

Mr Stephen Prah | Agricultural Economics | Best Researcher Award

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Mr Stephen Prah | Agricultural Economics | Best Researcher Award

Graduate Teaching Assistant at North Carolina A&T State University , United States

Stephen Prah is a passionate researcher and educator specializing in agribusiness and applied economics. Currently pursuing a PhD at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, he has garnered extensive experience in teaching, research, and project management across multiple continents. With a strong commitment to sustainable agriculture and community development, Stephen aims to leverage his skills in data analysis and policy evaluation to enhance food security and agricultural practices.

Profile

google scholar

Education

Stephen holds a Bachelor of Science in Agribusiness Management (First Class Honours) and a Master of Philosophy in Agricultural Economics from Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Ghana. He is currently working towards a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Agribusiness and Applied Economics at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, with an expected completion date in 2028. He has also completed various certifications, including a Certificate in First Aid from the Technical University of Berlin.

Experience

Stephen has served in various academic and research roles, including as a Graduate Teaching Assistant at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University and a Graduate Research Assistant at KNUST. His practical experience includes project management roles at Holland Greentech Company Limited, where he successfully trained over 1,000 farmers in sustainable horticulture practices. He has also been involved in numerous community projects focused on renewable energy and agricultural innovation.

Professional Experience

  • Regional Operations Manager (2023)
    Holland Greentech Company Limited, Ghana

    • Developed sales strategies and maintained customer relations.
  • Agronomist (2021-2022)
    Holland Greentech Company Limited, Ghana

    • Conducted training for farmers on sustainable practices.

Awards

Stephen has received several accolades for his academic and professional contributions, including the Graduate Teaching Assistantship Award at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University and the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) Award for a fully funded internship in Germany. He was also honored with the Best Graduate Student Award from the International Association of Agriculture Students (IAAS) at KNUST in 2023.

Publication Top Notes : Agricultural Economics

  • Hand pollination, mass spraying, and hybrid seedlings: Examines how these technologies influence the welfare of smallholder cocoa farmers, highlighting both economic and social impacts.
  • Impact of women groundnut farmers’ participation in VSLA: Investigates how involvement in Village Savings and Loans Associations enhances financial security and empowerment among women farmers in Northern Ghana.
  • Agricultural policy intervention on maize farmers: Analyzes the effects of the Planting for Food and Jobs program on yield and profitability, providing insights into policy effectiveness.
  • Gender differences in rice value chain: Explores how gender influences trait preferences among stakeholders in Ghana’s rice sector, emphasizing the need for inclusive approaches.
  • Adoption of climate-smart agricultural technologies: Identifies determinants affecting farmers’ adoption of technologies and their subsequent impact on maize yields and income.
  • Input credit scheme and food security: Evaluates the relationship between credit access, farm productivity, and food security among smallholder rice farmers in Northeast Ghana.
  • Access to resources in rice-breeding activities: Investigates the role of gender in resource access and participation in rice-breeding, suggesting avenues for enhancing women’s involvement.
  • Promoting climate-smart technologies using digital services: Discusses the role of digital advisory services in encouraging the adoption of climate-smart practices among maize farmers.
  • Cocoa hand pollination and farmer welfare: Assesses whether adopting cocoa hand pollination practices improves farmers’ welfare, offering evidence from smallholders.
  • Drivers of agricultural land shift to mining: Explores factors leading farmers to shift from crop production to mining, highlighting challenges to sustainable agriculture in Ghana.