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.

Prof Dr Yonas Bahta | Agricultural Economics | Best Researcher Award

Prof Dr Yonas Bahta | Agricultural Economics | Best Researcher Award

Professor at University of the Free state; Department of Agricultural Economics, South Africa

Full Professor Yonas Tesfamariam Bahta, born on June 28, 1972, in Eritrea, is an esteemed researcher and educator in Agricultural Economics at the University of the Free State, South Africa. With over 28 years of experience in academia and international organizations, he specializes in economic analysis, modeling, and food security. He is dedicated to mentoring future leaders in the field.

Profile

Orcid

Scopus

Google Scholar

Academic Background🎓

  • PhD in Agricultural Economics
    University of the Free State, South Africa (2007)
  • MSc with Distinction in Agricultural Economics
    University of the Free State, South Africa (2004)
  • BSc in Agricultural Economics
    Alemya University of Agriculture, Ethiopia (1994)

Professional Experience🏢

  • Full Professor (2024 – Present)
    Department of Agricultural Economics, University of the Free State

    • Responsibilities include teaching, mentoring, and conducting research.
  • Associate Professor (2021 – 2023)
    Department of Agricultural Economics, University of the Free State
  • Senior Researcher/Lecturer (2018 – 2020)
    Department of Agricultural Economics, University of the Free State
  • Researcher (2014 – 2017)
    Department of Agricultural Economics, University of the Free State
  • Consultant (2009 – 2011)
    Various organizations, focusing on agricultural performance analysis

Research Interests🔍

  • Applied development economics
  • Economic modeling (SAM-CGE, I-O models)
  • Food security and saving mobilization
  • Trade analysis and policy evaluation
  • Socioeconomic analysis and forecasting

 Achievements🏆

  • NRF C2 rating and ranked in the top 2% of researchers globally (2024).
  • Published over 82 peer-reviewed articles and received multiple awards for research output.
  • Supervised over 35 postgraduate students, with numerous accolades for student performance.

Skills📈

  • Proficient in econometric software (GAMS, Stata, SPSS).
  • Strong quantitative and qualitative research skills.
  • Expertise in research methodology and proposal writing.

Publication Top Notes📝

  • Musara, J.P., Bahta, Y.T., Mapuranga, R., Musiniwa, F., Abu Hatab, A., & Owusu‑Sekyere, E. (2024). Agriculture and Food Security.
  • Bahta, Y.T., & Nyaki, S.A. (2024). Hydrology.
  • Pfunzo, R., Bahta, Y.T., & Jordaan, H. (2024). Data.
  • Pfunzo, R., Bahta, Y.T., & Jordaan, H. (2024). Agriculture.
  • Monteiro, M.A., Bahta, Y.T., & Jordaan, H. (2024). Water.
  • Kotze, H.C., Qotoyi, M.S.M.A., Bahta, Y.T., Jordaan, H., & Monteiro, M.A. (2024). Resources.
  • Pilane, P.M., Jordaan, H., & Bahta, Y.T. (2024). Hydrology.
  • Ume, C., & Bahta, Y.T. (2024). Organic Agriculture.
  • von Maltitz, L., & Bahta, Y.T. (2024). Frontiers in Public Health.
  • Mokati, J.T.W., Ncube, A., & Bahta, Y.T. (2024). Journal of Asian and African Studies.
  • Marais, M., Jordaan, H., Lombard, W.A., & Bahta, Y.T. (2024). AIMS Agriculture and Food.
  • Muhame, C., Ncube, A., & Bahta, Y.T. (2024). Jàmbá: Journal of Disaster Risk Studies.
  • Muhame, C., Ncube, A., & Bahta, Y.T. (2023). Journal of Sustainability Research.
  • von Maltitz, L., & Bahta, Y.T. (2023). Data in Brief.
  • Bahta, Y.T., & Lombard, W.A. (2023). Atmosphere.
  • Bahta, Y.T., & Mbai, S. (2023). Resources.
  • Bahta, Y.T., & Musara, J.P. (2023). Climate.
  • van den Heever, M.J.J., Lombard, W.A., Bahta, Y.T., & Maré, F.A. (2023). Agriculture.
  • Myeki, L.W., Matthews, N., & Bahta, Y.T. (2023). Sustainability.
  • Mare, F., & Bahta, Y.T. (2023). AIMS Agriculture and Food.
  • Nohamba, S., Musara, J.P., Bahta, Y.T., & Ogundeji, A.A. (2022). Agriculture.
  • Bahta, Y.T., & Musara, J.P. (2022). Land.
  • Abafe, E.A., Bahta, Y.T., & Jordaan, H. (2022). Sustainability.
  • Myeki, L.W., Bahta, Y.T., & Matthews, N. (2022). Agriculture.
  • Bahta, Y.T. (2022). Scientific African.
  • Ncube, A., & Bahta, Y.T. (2022). Journal of International Migration and Integration.