Dr. Mukesh | Soil Pathogens | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Mukesh, ICAR – IIWBR, India

Mukesh is a dedicated plant pathologist currently serving as a Young Professional-II at the ICAR-Indian Institute of Wheat and Barley Research, Regional Station, Flowerdale (Shimla), Himachal Pradesh, India. He holds a Ph.D. in Agriculture (Plant Pathology) from Dr. Yashwant Singh Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, Solan, where his research focused on the etiology and management of wilt disease in pomegranate. With extensive research experience in plant pathology, Mukesh has worked on disease monitoring, pathogen identification, and sustainable disease management strategies. His expertise includes molecular diversity analysis, nematode disease identification, and chemical and biocontrol resource testing. He has actively engaged with farmers to address plant disease issues in apple orchards, organizing awareness programs and training sessions. Mukesh has presented his research at national and international conferences and has contributed to symposiums on plant health management. His current research focuses on wheat rust disease gene postulation and identifying new resistant genes, furthering his commitment to agricultural disease management and food security.

Professional Profile:

ORCID

Suitability for Best Researcher Award

Mukesh has demonstrated outstanding research capabilities in plant pathology, focusing on critical agricultural diseases affecting horticultural crops, particularly pomegranate. His extensive fieldwork, farmer engagement, and innovative disease management strategies highlight his significant contributions to sustainable agriculture. His work on pathogen identification, nematode infestations, and biocontrol solutions, along with participation in national and international conferences, showcases his dedication to advancing scientific knowledge. Given his expertise, hands-on experience, and commitment to solving real-world agricultural challenges, Mukesh is a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

📚 Education:

🎓 Ph.D. (Agriculture) in Plant Pathology

Dr. Yashwant Singh Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, Solan (H.P.), India
Thesis: “Etiology and Management of Wilt Disease of Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.)”
GPA: 7.1/10.0 (March 2023)

🎓 M.Sc. (Agriculture) in Plant Pathology

Dr. Yashwant Singh Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, Solan (H.P.), India
Thesis: “Studies on Cercospora Leaf and Fruit Spot Disease of Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.)”
GPA: 7.3/10.0 (Dec 2017)

🎓 B.Sc. in Horticulture

College of Horticulture and Forestry, Neri, Hamirpur, Dr. Yashwant Singh Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, Solan (H.P.), India
GPA: 7.6/10.0 (June 2015)

💼 Work Experience:

🔬 Senior Research Fellow (May 2, 2022 – Oct 31, 2024)

Project: Himachal Pradesh Horticulture Development Project (Pest Surveillance/Forewarning System)
Organization: Department of Plant Pathology, Dr. Yashwant Singh Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, Solan (H.P.), India

🌾 Young Professional-II (From Feb 17, 2025)

Project: Wheat rust disease gene postulation and identification of new resistant genes
Organization: ICAR-IIWBR, Karnal (Haryana), Regional Station, Flowerdale (Shimla), Himachal Pradesh, India

🏆 Achievements & Contributions:

🌱 Farmer Engagement & Education: Conducted training sessions and awareness programs on pest and disease management in apple orchards across Kullu district.

🔍 Plant Disease Monitoring: Led field surveys, collected soil and plant samples, and diagnosed diseases using cultural, morphological, and molecular techniques.

🦠 Pathogen Identification & Research: Identified and submitted novel pathogen isolates to NCBI GenBank.

🧬 Nematode Disease Diagnosis: Diagnosed root-knot nematode infestations and analyzed larval morphology for accurate identification.

🧪 Chemical & Biocontrol Testing: Evaluated fungicides, nematicides, biocontrol agents, and organic amendments under lab, pot, and field conditions.

📊 Data Analysis & Interpretation: Used OPSTAT and RStudio for statistical analysis of experimental data.

🎖️ Awards & Honors:

Conference & Symposium Presentations:

International Conference (CSATEH-2024, Nainital): Presented research on fungicide efficacy against pomegranate wilt disease.
National Symposium (2018, Nauni, Solan): Developed a specialized culture medium for rapid isolation of Cercospora punicae.
IPS North Zone Meet (2024, Palampur): Identified Fusarium spp. complex in wilt-infected pomegranate plants.

📜 Workshops & Training:

Participated in workshops on plant pathology advancements and entrepreneur development for ripening chambers.

Publication Top Notes:

Understanding the dynamics of Meloidogyne incognita infestation in pomegranate orchards of Himachal Pradesh, India (year 2018, 2019 and 2021) and its management strategies

Prof Fabio Terribile | Soil Science | Top Research Award

professor at Università di Napoli Federico II,Italy

Fabio Terribile is a distinguished Italian soil scientist and full professor at the University of Naples Federico II. He is an expert in soil micromorphology, pedology, and land management, with a career spanning over three decades. Fabio’s work has significantly impacted soil science research, land management policy, and the development of decision-support systems for sustainable soil and land use planning. His contributions extend to various international scientific bodies, making him a key figure in soil science globally.

Publication Profile

Early Academic Pursuits 📚

Fabio Terribile’s academic journey began with his pursuit of a University Degree in Agricultural Sciences (Scienze Agrarie) at the University of Naples, where he graduated with honors in 1987. His deep interest in soil science led him to the University of Aberdeen (UK), where he obtained his PhD in Soil Science in 1996. During his early years, he focused on pedology, micropedology, and soil science, while also developing skills in Earth observation, GIS, and land degradation assessment. These foundational studies set the stage for his extensive career in soil science.

Professional Endeavors and Contributions 🌍

Since 2002, Fabio has held the position of Full Professor in Pedology at the University of Naples Federico II, where he has significantly influenced both academia and soil science. His professional roles have extended beyond academia, including leadership positions in numerous research initiatives and soil-related projects. As the President of the Soil Morphology and Micromorphology Commission of the International Union of Soil Sciences, Fabio has contributed to advancing global research in soil science. His leadership in projects such as the EU Horizon 2020 LANDSUPPORT and the Soil Monitor initiative has further solidified his position as a key figure in the field.

Research Focus and Impact 🌱

Fabio’s research has been driven by two core objectives: transforming soil science knowledge into practical, accessible tools for land management, and advocating for soil policy legislation. He has worked to develop web-based systems that provide land managers with decision-support systems (SDSS) for sustainable land planning and management. His research has spanned topics like soil micromorphology, clay mineralogy, and andosolization, and has had significant applications in hydrology, climate studies, and viticulture. This transdisciplinary approach has made his work highly impactful both within scientific communities and in broader societal contexts.

Accolades and Recognition 🏆

Throughout his career, Fabio Terribile has received numerous accolades in recognition of his contributions to soil science. Notably, the LANDSUPPORT Horizon 2020 project, which he coordinated, was awarded the “success story” title by the European Commission, highlighting its significant impact. In 2022, Fabio was also named the global winner of the prestigious Falling Walls competition. These awards underscore his leadership in both scientific research and soil policy.

Influence and Legacy 🌟

Fabio’s influence extends far beyond his research activities. His involvement in the development of soil policy, including his leadership in the Italian Soil Framework Law proposal, has had lasting effects on national and European soil management policies. He has also played a key role in convening international conferences on soil science, ensuring that soil issues continue to receive global attention. His contributions to soil science have not only shaped research but also catalyzed significant policy changes that will benefit future generations.

Future Contributions and Vision 🌍✨

As Fabio continues to build on his extensive career, his focus remains on advancing soil science and its integration into global environmental policy. His future contributions are likely to include further development of innovative decision-support systems and continued leadership in international soil policy. With a legacy of scientific achievement and global influence, Fabio Terribile is poised to continue making transformative contributions to the field of soil science for years to come.

Publications 📚

Terribile, F., et al. (2020). “Soil Micromorphology and Land Management: New Insights for Environmental Protection.” Soil Science Journal, 182(4), 245-262.

Cited by: 45 articles.

Terribile, F., et al. (2019). “Development of an Integrated Land Decision Support System for Agriculture and Environment.” Land Use Policy, 84, 122-134.

Cited by: 56 articles.

Terribile, F., et al. (2016). “Soil Vulnerability to Nitrate Pollution in Agricultural Regions.” Environmental Pollution, 212, 323-334.

Cited by: 32 articles.

Terribile, F., et al. (2014). “Implementing Sustainable Soil Management through Web-Based Decision Support Systems.” European Journal of Soil Science, 65(3), 191-204.

Cited by: 60 articles.

Terribile, F., et al. (2012). “Clay Mineralogy and Soil Aggregation: Implications for Soil Conservation.” Geoderma, 171, 34-43.

Cited by: 72 articles.