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

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.

Mr. Emmanuel Igwe | Agroecology Award | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Emmanuel Igwe | Agroecology Award | Best Researcher Award 

Mr. Emmanuel Igwe, RUDN university, Russia

Emmanuel Igwe is a trained food policymaker with extensive knowledge of sustainable food systems, economic concepts, and leadership strategies through youth farmer involvement. He holds a BSc in Agricultural Economics from Ebonyi State University, a Mini-MBA from Lagos Business School, and a Master’s degree in Ecology from Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia. With experience as a field instructor and data analyst at the National Root Crop Research Institute and an English instructor in Russia, he is passionate about agribusiness, data interpretation, and food policy formulation. Emmanuel is also a mentor for several international organizations, including the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network, and has held leadership roles in various youth and agricultural initiatives. Skilled in Microsoft Office, SPSS, and web development, he is a proactive and resourceful professional dedicated to advancing food security and sustainable agriculture.

Professional Profile:

GOOGLE SCHOLAR

Suitability for Best Researcher Award

Emmanuel Igwe is a dedicated researcher and food policymaker with expertise in sustainable food systems, environmental monitoring, and agricultural economics. His work on heavy metal pollution, air quality, and greenhouse gas emissions in sub-Saharan Africa highlights his commitment to addressing critical environmental and public health challenges. With international exposure, leadership roles, and impactful publications, he has significantly contributed to agricultural sustainability and ecological research. His multidisciplinary skills and research excellence make him a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

🎓 Education:

  • 📚 Harvard Business School (USA) – Teaching, Leadership, and Power Influence (2022 – Present)

  • 🌍 Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia – Master’s Degree in Ecology (2022 – Present)

  • 🇷🇺 Tomsk State University, Russia – Russian Language Certificate (2021 – 2022)

  • 🎓 Lagos Business School, Pan-Atlantic University, Nigeria – Mini-MBA in Venture Management (2017)

  • 🌾 Ebonyi State University, Nigeria – BSc in Agricultural Economics (2009 – 2014) 🎖️ 2nd Class Honours (Upper Division)

  • 💻 NAZACO Computer School, Nigeria – Diploma in Computer Application (2008)

  • 🏫 St. John Bosco Secondary School, Nigeria – NECO Certificate (2008)

  • ✏️ Goodway Nursery and Primary School, Nigeria – First School Leaving Certificate (2002)

💼 Work Experience:

  • 📖 Benedict International School, Tomsk, RussiaEnglish Instructor (2021 – 2022)

    • Conducted online and offline classes for children and adults

  • 🌱 National Root Crop Research Institute, NigeriaField Instructor & Data Analyst (2016 – 2020)

    • Collected field data, evaluated results, and drafted reports

🏆 Achievements & Awards:

  • 🌍 FounderGodswill e-Learning & Internet Service (2017)

  • 🏆 PresidentNDLEA NYSC Community Development Service, Abuja (2016 – 2017)

  • 🌟 Volunteer MentorUN Sustainable Development Solution Network Youth Program (2017)

  • 🌱 MemberYoung Africa Leaders Development Initiative (2016 – Present)

  • 👩‍🌾 MemberAgricultural Graduate Association of Nigeria (2018 – Present)

  • 🌍 AdministratorCommunity Volunteer Initiative Africa (2015 – Present)

🎖 Honors & International Exposure:

  • 🌍 OnFrontiers Approved MemberProfile Link

  • 👨‍🏫 YouthLed Mentor – Supporting young entrepreneurs in Business & Private Sector Engagement (Profile)

  • 🏅 United Nations SDSN MentorYouth Investment Readiness Program

  • 🌍 Africa Leadership InstituteChange Maker (2019)

  • 🏆 Africa Venture for Capital Mentor (2018 – Present)

Publication Top Notes:

Identification of Sources of Some Priority Heavy Metallic Pollutants Caus-ing Environmental Degradation and It’s Health Implications

 

Identification of some priority heavy metals driver of environmental degradation caused by agricultural activity; a case study in Ebonyi State Nigeria

 

Examining the interplay between air pollution, surface vegetation cover, and stroke prevalence in East Africa: An ecological perspective

 

Assessing sub-Saharan Africa’s GHG emissions from croplands: environmental impacts and sustainable mitigation strategies

 

Examining the interplay between air pollution, vegetation greenness, and stroke prevalence in East Africa: An ecological perspective