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

 

Dr Milad Mirzaei Aminiyan | Environmental Pollution and Remediation | Best Researcher Award

Dr Milad Mirzaei Aminiyan | Environmental Pollution and Remediation | Best Researcher Award

Ph.D. in Soil Science-Biophysics at University of Tehran, Iran

Dr. Milad Mirzaei Aminiyan is a PhD scholar specializing in Environmental Sciences with a focus on Soil and Water Resources Management. Affiliated with the University of Tehran, his research explores the interactions between emerging pollutants, soil health, and plant growth. With an h-index of 9 and numerous peer-reviewed publications, he has earned recognition as a top researcher in his field. 📚✨

Profile

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🎓 Education

  • PhD in Soil Biophysics (2018–2024)
    University of Tehran (UT), Iran
    Thesis: Impact of Microplastic Particles on Soil and Plant Growth.
  • Guest Ph.D. Student (2023)
    Technical University of Denmark (DTU)
    Research: Polyethylene Microplastics and Microrubber Particles Effects on Willow Growth.
  • M.Sc. in Soil Physics and Conservation (2010–2013)
    Bu-Ali Sina University, Iran
    Thesis: Nanozeolite Effects on Soil Organic Carbon Fractions.
  • B.Sc. in Environmental Soil Science (2006–2010)
    Vali-e-Asr University of Rafsanjan, Iran
    Project: Effects of Pistachio Wastes on Soil Properties.

Professional Experience 👩‍🔬

  • Technical & Commercial Manager, ABENEGAHDAR Organic Fertilizer Factory (2013–2018)
  • Environmental Scientist, Rafsanjan’s Eco-Industrial Zone (2014–2018)

Research Interests 🔬

  • Biodegradation and interaction of microplastics
  • Emerging contaminants: PAHs, pesticides, and metals
  • Hydrogeochemistry and water quality modeling
  • Ecotoxicology and risk assessment

Awards and Honors 🏆

  • 2022: Top Researcher, Soil Sciences and Engineering Department, University of Tehran
  • 2018: 2nd Rank in Iranian PhD Entrance Exam (Soil Physics)
  • 2013: Best M.Sc. Thesis, Bu-Ali Sina University
  • 2010: National Elite Foundation Award for Top Graduates

Achievements 🌟

  • Secured grants from Iran National Science Foundation (INSF) and Iranian Nanotechnology Innovation Council (INIC).
  • Conducted impactful studies on microplastic pollution and soil health improvement.

Upcoming Projects 🚀

  • Exploring microplastic transport in porous media.
  • Risk assessment of polyethylene microplastics on agriculture.
  • Advanced hydrogeochemical modeling for water resource sustainability.

 Publications 📄

Environmental Pollution (Emerging Hazardous Substances)

  1. Aminiyan, M.M., Shorafa, M., Pourbabaee, A.A. (2024)
    Mitigating the detrimental impacts of low- and high-density polyethylene microplastics using a novel microbial consortium on a soil-plant system: Insights and interactions.
    Journal: Ecotoxicology and Environmental Safety
  2. Aminiyan, M.M., Rahman, M.M., Rodríguez-Seijo, A., Begloo, R.H., Cheraghi, M., Aminiyan, F.M. (2022)
    Elucidating of potentially toxic elements contamination in topsoils around a copper smelter: Spatial distribution, partitioning, and risk estimation.
    Journal: Environmental Geochemistry and Health
  3. Aminiyan, M.M., Kalantzi, O.I., Etesami, H., Khamoshi, S.E., Begloo, R.H., Aminiyan, F.M. (2021)
    Occurrence and source apportionment of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in dust of an emerging industrial city in Iran: Implications for human health.
    Journal: Environmental Science and Pollution Research
  4. Moghtaderi, T., Aminiyan, M.M., Alamdar, R., Moghtaderi, M. (2019)
    Index-based evaluation of pollution characteristics and health risk of potentially toxic metals in schools’ dust of Shiraz megacity, SW Iran.
    Journal: Human and Ecological Risk Assessment
  5. Aminiyan, M.M., Baalousha, M., Mousavi, R., Aminiyan, F.M., Hosseini, H., Heydariyan, A. (2018)
    The ecological risk, source identification, and pollution assessment of heavy metals in road dust: a case study in Rafsanjan, SE Iran.
    Journal: Environmental Science and Pollution Research
  6. Aminiyan, M.M., Baalousha, M., Aminiyan, F.M. (2018)
    Evolution of human health risk based on EPA modeling for adults and children and pollution level of potentially toxic metals in Rafsanjan road dust.
    Journal: Environmental Science and Pollution Research
  7. Aminiyan, M.M., Aminiyan, F.M. (2020)
    Comprehensive integrated index-based geochemistry and hydrochemical analyses of groundwater resources for multiple consumptions under coastal conditions.
    Journal: Environmental Science and Pollution Research
  8. Aminiyan, M.M., Aitkenhead-Peterson, J., Aminiyan, F.M. (2018)
    Evaluation of multiple water quality indices for drinking and irrigation purposes for the Karoon River, Iran.
    Journal: Environmental Geochemistry and Health
  9. Aminiyan, M.M., Aminiyan, F.M., Heydariyan, A. (2016)
    Study on hydrochemical characterization and annual changes of surface water quality for agricultural and drinking purposes in a semi-arid area.
    Journal: Sustainable Water Resources Management
  10. Aminiyan, M.M., Aminiyan, F.M., Heydariyan, A., Sadikhani, M. (2016)
    The assessment of groundwater geochemistry of some wells in Rafsanjan plain, Iran.
    Journal: Eurasian Soil Science

 

Ebrahim Sepehr | Soil and Water Pollution | Best Researcher Award

Prof Ebrahim Sepehr | Soil and Water Pollution | Best Researcher Award

Professor in Environmental Soil Chemistry at the Department of Soil Science at Urmia University , Iran

Profile

Orcid

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🌱 Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Ebrahim Sepehr’s academic journey began with a strong foundation in soil chemistry and fertility. He pursued advanced education in these disciplines, which culminated in his role as a professor at Urmia University, Iran. His passion for understanding soil’s intricate properties laid the groundwork for his future contributions to agriculture and environmental science.

🌟 Professional Endeavors

Dr. Sepehr has held several prestigious positions, showcasing his leadership in academia and the agricultural sector. Since 2021, he has served as the Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture at Urmia University. He also presides over the Soil Science Society of West Azerbaijan, Iran, since 2016, and chairs the Agriculture & Environment Committee of the region. His tenure as Head of the Soil Science Department (2014-2016) solidified his reputation as a dedicated educator and administrator.

📚 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Sepehr’s research spans critical areas such as soil and water pollution, remediation of contaminated soils, and advanced plant nutrition. His work has significantly influenced sustainable agriculture, particularly in the realm of nutrient use efficiency and organic matter management. Beyond journal articles, he has co-authored influential books like Soil and Water Chemistry: An Integrative Approach and contributed to seminal works on soil fertility in Iran.

🏆 Accolades and Recognition

Dr. Sepehr’s excellence has been recognized through multiple awards, including the Best University Teacher (2023) and Best Researcher (2024) in West Azerbaijan. These accolades underscore his dedication to advancing soil science education and research.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Dr. Sepehr’s studies on eco-friendly solutions, such as using biochar and sustainable fertilizers, have contributed to global efforts to combat soil degradation and pollution. His innovative approaches, such as employing artificial neural networks for detecting nutrient deficiencies, reflect his forward-thinking methodology.

Legacy and Future Contributions

As a leader in soil science, Dr. Sepehr continues to inspire future generations through his teaching and research. His enduring focus on integrating modern technology with traditional agricultural practices positions him as a pioneer in sustainable soil management. With his ongoing work in combating salinity and enhancing nutrient recovery, his contributions are poised to leave a lasting impact on both local and global agricultural ecosystems.

Publication Top Notes 

Esmaillou, Z., Asghari, M., Zaare-Nahandi, F., & Sepehr, E. (2024). Effect of rootstock and magnetized water on apple saplings under salinity stress. 🌱 Plant Productions.

Piri, M., Sepehr, E., & Sharifmand, M. (2024). Combined phosphorus-organic matter fertilizer effects on Moldavian Balm. 🌸 Iranian Journal of Soil and Water Research, 55(3), 401–413.

Mirbolook, A., Rasouli-Sadaghiani, M., Sepehr, E., et al. (2024). Responses of bread wheat to Zn-Glycine and Zn-Alanine fertilizers under saline soil. 🌾 Journal of Plant Nutrition, 1–19.

Ashrafi-Saiedlou, S., Rasouli-Sadaghiani, M., Samadi, A., Barin, M., & Sepehr, E. (2024). Aspergillus niger for eco-friendly potassium release. 🍄 Heliyon, 10(7).

Hajizadeh, N., Sepehr, E., Maleki, R., & Imani, A. (2024). Detecting iron deficiency in peaches using AI. 🍑 Iranian Journal of Soil and Water Research, 55(1), 69–81.

Miran, N., Rasouli-Sadaghiani, M., Feiziasl, V., Sepehr, E., et al. (2024). Nutritional status of dryland wheat via DRIS method. 🌾 Applied Soil Research, 11(4), 18–29.

Piri, M., & Sepehr, E. (2024). Struvite/biochar composites as phosphorus fertilizers for maize. 🌽 Journal of Plant Nutrition, 47(3), 433–447.

Azimzadeh, Z., Hassani, A., Mandoulakani, B. A., & Sepehr, E. (2024). Oregano responses to salinity stress. 🌿 Acta Physiologiae Plantarum, 46(2), 14.

Sharifmand, M., Sepehr, E., Rasouli-Sadaghiani, M., & Asri-Rezaei, S. (2023). Study of ciprofloxacin hysteresis in soil. 🌍 Iranian Journal of Soil and Water Research, 54(10), 1597–1608.

Piri, M., Sepehr, E., & Ghavidel, S. Z. (2023). Leonardite/struvite phosphorus fertilizers for calcareous soils. 🌾 Journal of Cleaner Production, 430, 139723.

 

Prof Franklyn Lisk | Development Economics | Excellence in Research

Prof Franklyn Lisk | Development Economics | Excellence in Research

Deputy Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Africa) at University of Warwick, UK , United Kingdom

Professor Franklyn Lisk is a distinguished development economist and policy adviser with over 50 years of professional experience. His technical skills include expertise in international political economy and development policy. He has significant teaching experience across various universities globally, emphasizing professional development through partnerships with African institutions. Notably, his top publications include key works in leading academic journals.

Profile

ORCID

Education 🎓

Professor Lisk earned his PhD in Economics from the University of Birmingham, UK, where he began his academic career as a lecturer in development economics in 1973.

Professional Experience 🏢

Currently, he is the Academic Director for Africa at the University of Warwick, UK, and a Professor of International Political Economy of African Development and Global Health Governance. Previously, he held various significant roles at the International Labour Organisation (ILO), including Senior Economist and Director. He is also a co-founder of the Center for Research on Political Economy (CREPOL) in Dakar and a visiting professor at the University of KwaZulu-Natal.

Research Interests 🔍

Professor Lisk’s research focuses on international political economy, development economics, and global health governance, with a specific emphasis on African development policies and practices.

Awards 🏆

Throughout his career, Professor Lisk has been recognized for his contributions to development economics and policy advisory, although specific awards are not detailed in the biodata.

Top Noted Publications📖

  • The Political Economy of HIV/AIDS in Africa. Global Health Action.(2013)
  • Employment and Labour Market Policies in Africa. African Journal of Economic Policy.(2009)
  • Globalization and Development in Africa: An Overview. Journal of African Economies.(2007)
  • The Role of International Organizations in African Development. Development Policy Review.(2005)
  •  HIV/AIDS and the World of Work: The ILO’s Global Programme. International Labour Review.(2004)

Mr Stephen Prah | Agricultural Economics | Best Researcher Award

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.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Prof Mauro De Sanctis | Positioning | Best Researcher Award

Prof Mauro De Sanctis | Positioning| Best Researcher Award

Associate Professor at University of Rome Tor Vergata,Italy

Mauro De Sanctis is an Associate Professor of Telecommunications at the University of Roma “Tor Vergata” (Italy), specializing in Information Theory and Data Science. He has a rich background in telecommunications and has contributed significantly to both academia and industry.Mauro De Sanctis is Associate Professor on Telecommunications at the Department of Electronics Engineering, University of Roma “Tor Vergata” (Italy), teaching “Information Theory and Data Science”. He received the Ph.D. degree in Telecommunications and Microelectronics Engineering in 2006 from the University of Roma “Tor Vergata” (Italy). From the end of 2008 he is Assistant Professor in the Department of Electronics Engineering, University of Roma “Tor Vergata” (Italy). He is founder member of the university spin-off RadioPoints s.r.l.

Profile

Scopus

Education 🎓

Mauro obtained his Ph.D. in Telecommunications and Microelectronics Engineering in 2006 from the University of Roma “Tor Vergata”. His educational foundation laid the groundwork for his extensive research and teaching career.

Current Position:
  • Associate Professor (Electronics Engineering)
    Università degli Studi di Roma Tor Vergata, Roma, Lazio, Italy
    November 2022 – Present

Experience 💼

He has held various research roles, including a post-doctoral fellowship with the European Space Agency (ESA) and participation in numerous European and Italian research projects. As a founder member of the university spin-off RadioPoints s.r.l., he has bridged the gap between research and practical applications in telecommunications.

Research Interests 🔍

His main research interests include wireless terrestrial and satellite communication networks, wireless localization and sensing, and data science and information theory. He has a strong focus on advancing communication technologies for space applications.

Awards 🏆

Mauro has received several accolades, including best paper awards from the International Conference on Advances in Satellite and Space Communications (SPACOMM 2009) and the International Symposium on Wireless Personal Multimedia Communications (WPMC 2022). In 2022, he was recognized among the Top 2% Scientists by Stanford/Elsevier.

Research Interests

  • Electronics engineering, satellite communications, data transmission protocols, localization technologies, and sustainable space technologies.

Top Publications: Positioning

  • Satellite-based positioning enhanced by quantum synchronization – This article explores how quantum synchronization can improve satellite positioning systems, potentially leading to enhanced accuracy and reliability in navigation.
  • Multi-layer NTN architectures toward 6G: The ITA-NTN view – This review discusses the integration of multi-layer non-terrestrial networks (NTNs) in the development of 6G technologies, highlighting architectural considerations and technological advancements.
  • LEO-based network-centric localization in 6G: Challenges and future perspectives – This article examines the challenges and future directions for localization services based on low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites in the context of 6G networks.
  • A Study of DTN for Reliable Data Delivery From Space Station to Ground Station – This study investigates Delay Tolerant Networking (DTN) to ensure reliable communication between space stations and ground stations, addressing issues like long delays and intermittent connectivity.
  • Round Trip Time (RTT) and Doppler Measurements for IoRT Localization by a Single-Satellite – This research presents methods for Internet of Robotic Things (IoRT) localization using RTT and Doppler measurements from a single satellite.
  • A decade of EHF scientific research: Unveiling insights from Alphasat Q/V-band satellite communication experiments – This article reviews a decade of research on Extremely High Frequency (EHF) communications, focusing on findings from the Alphasat satellite.
  • Comparing Positioning Performance of LEO Mega-Constellations and GNSS in Urban Canyons – This study compares the positioning performance of LEO satellite constellations with traditional GNSS systems in challenging urban environments.

Conclusion

Prof. Mauro De Sanctis’s extensive and diverse research portfolio, focus on practical solutions to community health and environmental challenges, and collaborative efforts position him as a strong candidate for the Research for Community Impact Award. His work advances scientific knowledge while addressing real-world problems, ultimately benefiting communities locally and globally.