Kelvin Vulla | Agricultural | Academic Research Impact Award

Mr. Kelvin Vulla | Agricultural | Academic Research Impact Award

Research Assistant at The Nelson Mandela African Institution of Science and Technology, Tanzania

Kelvin E. Vulla is a resourceful and self-motivated Food Scientist and Technologist with a broad academic background and practical expertise in food science, biotechnology, nutrition biochemistry, and food technology. With extensive research and industry experience, Kelvin has honed his skills in product development, research design, data analysis, and quality control. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated the ability to work under pressure and with minimal supervision, consistently delivering innovative solutions. His ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing, has enabled him to contribute meaningfully to the academic community and engage with various stakeholders in the food industry. His research interests focus on sustainable food production, waste valorization, and improving food security, which are reflected in his roles as a research assistant, intern, and volunteer. Kelvin’s drive for continuous learning and commitment to integrity, creativity, and teamwork have earned him recognition and respect within his field, positioning him as a strong candidate for the Academic Research Impact Award.

Professional Profile

Education

Kelvin E. Vulla’s educational background highlights his strong academic foundation and commitment to excellence in food science and biotechnology. He is currently pursuing a Master of Science in Food Science and Biotechnology at the prestigious Nelson Mandela African Institution of Science and Technology (NM-AIST), where he has maintained a remarkable GPA of 4.49. His academic achievements at NM-AIST earned him recognition as the Best Student in the School of Life Science and Bioengineering, as well as an award for his contributions to research and innovation. Prior to this, Kelvin earned his Bachelor of Science in Food Science and Technology from Sokoine University of Agriculture (SUA), where he graduated with a GPA of 4.1. His strong academic track record is complemented by his earlier education, where he completed both the Advanced Certificate of Secondary School Education and Ordinary Certificate of Secondary School Education at Umbwe and Kiwanja Secondary Schools, respectively. These academic achievements reflect Kelvin’s dedication to learning and excellence, providing a solid foundation for his current research and professional endeavors in food science and biotechnology.

Professional Experience

Kelvin E. Vulla has accumulated a wide range of professional experiences that have equipped him with valuable skills in food science, technology, and research. As a current Research Assistant at the Nelson Mandela African Institution of Science and Technology (NM-AIST), he supports senior researchers in various research projects, manages food product production, and ensures compliance with Tanzania Bureau of Standards. Kelvin’s previous work experience includes an internship at the National Research Institute for Agriculture, Food, and Environment (INRAE) in France, where he contributed to research on biotechnological production and optimization of polyphosphate from agri-food wastes. Additionally, Kelvin has worked as a Food Technologist at Sai Energy and Logistics Services, where he oversaw production processes for various food products, ensuring quality control and compliance with manufacturing standards. He also gained significant experience as a Quality Control Officer at Lulowumi Company Limited, where he supervised the production process, conducted quality checks, and reinforced good manufacturing practices. Furthermore, Kelvin has volunteered with multiple organizations, including the Tanzania Agricultural Research Institute (TARI) and the Tanzania Industrial Research and Development Organization (TIRDO), gaining hands-on experience in food microbiological testing, product development, and capacity building for small-scale food entrepreneurs.

Research Interests

Kelvin E. Vulla’s research interests are focused on several key areas within food science and biotechnology, with particular emphasis on food security, waste valorization, and sustainable agricultural practices. His passion for innovation in the food sector has driven him to explore the biotechnological production of polyphosphates from agri-food wastes, aiming to find sustainable solutions to agricultural and food industry challenges. Kelvin is particularly interested in food product development, focusing on creating value-added products from locally available crops such as orange-fleshed sweet potatoes, soybeans, and improved beans. His research aims to improve food security by reducing food waste and enhancing the nutritional quality of food products. He is also committed to exploring how food biotechnology can contribute to the sustainable use of natural resources and the reduction of environmental impacts in food production systems. Kelvin’s broader research interests include enhancing the nutritional biochemistry of food products and utilizing innovative technologies to improve food quality and safety. His ongoing work reflects a deep commitment to addressing global challenges related to food production, sustainability, and waste management.

Research Skills

Kelvin E. Vulla has developed a strong skill set in various research methodologies and technical skills related to food science and biotechnology. His academic and professional experiences have provided him with expertise in research design, data collection, and analysis, particularly in the areas of food microbiology, food chemistry, and product development. Kelvin is proficient in performing food microbiological tests, including Total Plate Count, E. coli, Salmonella spp., and Yeast and Moulds, following standard operating procedures. He also conducts proximate chemical analysis of food samples, measuring key parameters such as moisture content, protein, fat, and carbohydrates. In addition to his technical laboratory skills, Kelvin is adept at managing research projects and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. His experience as a Research Assistant and Intern has sharpened his ability to work on complex research projects, from hypothesis formulation to data interpretation and dissemination of findings. Furthermore, Kelvin is skilled in the use of software tools for data analysis, including statistical tools, which allows him to derive meaningful insights from experimental data. His broad research skills, combined with his analytical mindset, make him a valuable contributor to any research team focused on food science and biotechnology.

Awards and Honors

Kelvin E. Vulla’s academic excellence and professional contributions have been recognized through various awards and honors. His exceptional academic performance at the Nelson Mandela African Institution of Science and Technology (NM-AIST) earned him the title of Best Student in the School of Life Science and Bioengineering. He was also honored for his outstanding contributions to research and innovation at the institution, underlining his commitment to advancing knowledge in food science and biotechnology. Kelvin’s achievements during his undergraduate studies at Sokoine University of Agriculture (SUA) were similarly recognized, where he consistently demonstrated academic excellence and a deep passion for food science. These accolades reflect Kelvin’s dedication to his field and his ability to excel in both theoretical and applied aspects of food science. His awards and honors serve as a testament to his hard work, creativity, and leadership in research, setting him apart as a promising scholar and professional in the food science sector.

Conclusion

Kelvin E. Vulla is a highly promising scholar and professional in the field of food science and biotechnology, with a track record of academic excellence, research innovation, and impactful professional experience. His strong educational background, including his current pursuit of a Master of Science in Food Science and Biotechnology, combined with his diverse research and industry experiences, positions him as a leader in addressing critical challenges in food security, sustainability, and waste management. Kelvin’s research interests, which focus on value-added food products, waste valorization, and sustainable agricultural practices, reflect his dedication to creating positive societal impact through science. His research skills, including expertise in microbiological and chemical food testing, data analysis, and product development, further strengthen his ability to contribute to the advancement of food science and biotechnology. With numerous awards and honors recognizing his academic and professional achievements, Kelvin is well on his way to making a lasting impact in his field. His dedication to learning, innovation, and teamwork, coupled with his capacity to communicate effectively, makes him an ideal candidate for the Academic Research Impact Award.

Publication Top Notes

  1. Unlocking Potential Benefits on Applications of Probiotics in Inland Aquaculture Industry: A Review
    • Authors: KE Vulla, FP Mmanda, BP Nyangoko, EE Makule
    • Year: 2024
  2. Spatial Distribution of Schistosomiasis and its Associated Risk Factors among Preschool Aged Children in Temeke District, Tanzania
    • Authors: B Francis, G Shirima, KE Vulla, K Said, J Hella
    • Year: 2023
  3. Climate-smart Aquaculture in Tanzania: Assessment of Transitional and Heavy Metals Concentrations in a Commonly Used Local Feed Ingredient for Tilapia Farming
    • Authors: K Vulla, F Mmanda, E Makule
    • Year: 2023
  4. The Role of Aquatic Foods in Combating Malnutrition and Food Insecurity: An Integrative Review
    • Authors: W Kilemile, KE Vulla, FP Mmanda, R Nicholaus
    • Year: Not specified (please provide if known).

 

 

Awanish Kumar | Pharmacology | Scientific Excellence Achievement Award

Dr. Awanish Kumar | Pharmacology | Scientific Excellence Achievement Award

Associate Professor at  NIT Raipur, India

Dr. Awanish Kumar is a highly accomplished academic with a solid foundation in Biotechnology. He completed his Ph.D. in Biotechnology in 2009 from Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), New Delhi, in collaboration with the Central Drug Research Institute (CDRI), Lucknow. Prior to that, he earned his M.Sc. in Biotechnology in 2004 from Devi Ahilya University, Indore, graduating with distinction and an impressive 75.9% score.

Profile:

Education

Dr. Kumar earned his Ph.D. in Biotechnology from Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), New Delhi, in 2009, in collaboration with the Central Drug Research Institute (CDRI), Lucknow. Before that, he completed his M.Sc. in Biotechnology from Devi Ahilya University, Indore, in 2004, graduating with distinction and achieving an impressive score of 75.9%.

Work Experience

Dr. Kumar has held several prominent positions throughout his career. He is currently an Associate Professor at NIT Raipur since April 2022, where he guides Ph.D. students on innovative projects, including antifungal peptides and microneedle patches for drug delivery. Prior to this, he served as an Assistant Professor at NIT Raipur from April 2013 to October 2022, successfully guiding five Ph.D. theses on various topics, including drug delivery systems and bioengineering. His earlier roles include Post-doctoral Fellow at JNU, where he researched the antifungal activity of curcumin against Candida albicans, and Research Associate for a CSIR-funded project on nuclear receptors in chromatin.

Skills

Dr. Kumar possesses expertise in several areas, including biotechnology, drug delivery systems, bioengineering, antifungal research, and the functional implications of nuclear receptors. His skills extend to project guidance, academic leadership, and organizing international conferences and workshops.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Kumar has received numerous accolades, including being ranked among the top 2% of scientists worldwide from 2020 to 2024, as per Stanford University’s analysis. He has been honored with the Dr. P.D. Sethi Memorial Annual National Award for the best research paper on HPTLC in both 2021 and 2023, and he received the Best Researcher Award at NIT Raipur in 2021, among several other prestigious awards.

Membership

Dr. Kumar is an active member of various academic and professional organizations related to biotechnology and drug research, contributing to the advancement of knowledge and practices in his field.

Teaching Experience

With extensive teaching experience, Dr. Kumar has played a pivotal role in educating students at NIT Raipur. His commitment to academic excellence is demonstrated through his guidance of Ph.D. candidates and his involvement in curriculum development.

Research Focus

Dr. Kumar’s research focus encompasses antifungal peptides, drug delivery systems, and redox nanomaterial-based biomaterials. His work aims to address significant challenges in drug delivery and develop innovative solutions for medical applications, particularly in the context of fungal infections and drug-target interactions.

Publication Top Notes
    1. Ultrasonic Synthesis of Ag@CNT-Based Metal-Organic Framework (MOF) for Enhanced Synergetic Antimicrobial Activity Against Staphylococcus aureus
      Year: 2024
      Journal: JOM, 76(10), pp. 5626–5642
    2. Combinatorial therapeutic enzymes to combat multidrug resistance in bacteria
      Year: 2024
      Journal: Life Sciences, 353, 122920
    3. Engineered nanoparticles in non-invasive insulin delivery for precision therapeutics of diabetes
      Year: 2024
      Journal: International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, 275, 133437
    4. Study the combined effect of electric field and variable viscosity on the stability of dielectric nanofluid (CuO + water) within a Hele–Shaw cell
      Year: 2024
      Journal: Proceedings of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, Part E: Journal of Process Mechanical Engineering, 238(4), pp. 2017–2027
    5. Acetaminophen induces mitochondrial apoptosis through proteasome dysfunctions
      Year: 2024
      Journal: Life Sciences, 349, 122732
    6. Nanomaterials-Based Hybrid Bioink Platforms in Advancing 3D Bioprinting Technologies for Regenerative Medicine
      Year: 2024
      Journal: ACS Biomaterials Science and Engineering, 10(7), pp. 4145–4174
    7. Development of the dynamic approach for detection of Salmonella Typhi biofilm via optimizations of interaction with safranin dye
      Year: 2024
      Journal: Biologia, 79(7), pp. 2299–2309
    8. Synchronization of Mycobacterium life cycle: A possible novel mechanism of antimycobacterial drug resistance evolution and its manipulation
      Year: 2024
      Journal: Life Sciences, 346, 122632

     

Rajendra Kumar Yadav | Agricultural | Best Researcher Award | 13216

Rajendra Kumar Yadav | Agricultural  | Best Researcher Award

Assistant Professor at  Agriculture University, Kota , India

Dr. Rajendra Kumar Yadav is an Assistant Professor (Soil Science) at the Agricultural Research Station, Kota, affiliated with Agriculture University, Kota, Rajasthan. His expertise lies in soil chemistry, fertility, plant nutrition, agricultural microbiology, soil carbon sequestration, irrigation water management, and fertigation techniques for high-value crops. He actively contributes to agricultural research and development through teaching, research, and guiding students.

Profile:

Education

Dr. Yadav completed his Ph.D. in Soil Science & Agricultural Chemistry from ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, in 2019. His doctoral research focused on developing a stability index for soil organic carbon in major soil groups of India. Prior to that, he earned his Master’s degree in the same field from the same institution in 2015, studying long-term manuring and fertilization impacts on soil organic matter in potato-based cropping systems. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture from the University of Agricultural Sciences, Bangalore, Karnataka (2013).

Professional Experiences 

 Since 2018, Dr. Yadav has been working as an Assistant Professor (Senior Scale) at the Agricultural Research Station, Kota. He is actively involved in several research projects, including studies on irrigation water management, agro-techniques for crops like quinoa and chia, organic production systems, and fertilizer refinement for major field crops in Rajasthan. His professional activities involve participating in and presenting at numerous national and international conferences and workshops.

Research Interests

Dr. Yadav’s research focuses on soil science, with particular attention to soil quality, organic carbon stability, irrigation water management, and sustainable agricultural practices. He has been involved in several significant research projects aimed at improving crop productivity and soil health, particularly in the Hadoti region of Rajasthan.s

 

Professional skills 

Dr. Yadav’s research skills encompass soil fertility management, soil biology, agricultural microbiology, and irrigation management. He is proficient in analytical techniques related to soil and plant analysis and has contributed to practical manuals on soil fertility, nutrient management, and problematic soil management.

Awards and Honors

Over the years, Dr. Yadav has received several prestigious awards. He was awarded the ICAR-IARI JRF (2013) and SRF (2015), the Best Ph.D. Thesis Award by the Society for Scientific Development in Agriculture and Technology, the Young Scientist Award by SVPSS, and the Scientist of the Year Award 2023 by the National Environmental Science Academy. Additionally, he received multiple appreciation awards from the Vice-Chancellor of Agriculture University, Kota, for his contributions to the university.

Membership

Dr. Yadav is a member of multiple professional societies, including the Indian Society of Soil Science, the Indian Society of Agronomy, the Indian Society of Agriculture Sciences, and the National Environmental Science Academy. He is also a life member of the Samagra Vikas Evam Paryavaran Sanrakshan Samiti (SVPSS), Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh.

Teaching Experience

Dr. Yadav has extensive teaching experience at the College of Agriculture, Kota, where he teaches courses related to manure, fertilizer, soil fertility management, soil biology, soil physics, and agricultural microbiology. He has supervised six M.Sc. students as a major advisor and 25 as a minor advisor. Additionally, he has served as a minor advisor for five Ph.D. students.

Publication Top Notes
  • Strategies for improving nitrogen use efficiency: A review
    • Year: 2017
    • Journal: Agricultural Reviews, 38(1)
  • Dependence of temperature sensitivity of soil organic carbon decomposition on nutrient management options under conservation agriculture in a sub-tropical Inceptisol
    • Year: 2019
    • Journal: Soil and Tillage Research, 190
  • Long-term impact of manuring and fertilization on enrichment, stability, and quality of organic carbon in Inceptisol under two potato-based cropping systems
    • Year: 2017
    • Journal: Science of the Total Environment, 609
  • Conservation Agriculture and Soil Quality – An Overview
    • Year: 2017
    • Journal: International Journal of Current Microbiology and Applied Sciences, 6
  • Role of biochar in mitigation of climate change through carbon sequestration
    • Year: 2017
    • Journal: International Journal of Current Microbiology and Applied Sciences, 6(4)
  • Mechanistic Understanding of Leakage and Consequences and Recent Technological Advances in Improving Nitrogen Use Efficiency in Cereals
    • Year: 2023
    • Journal: Agronomy, 13(2)
  • Long-term effect of legume intensified crop rotations and tillage practices on productivity and profitability of maize vis-a-vis soil fertility in North-Western Indo-Gangetic Plains
    • Year: 2017
    • Journal: Legume Research: An International Journal, 40(2)
  • Performance of Maize under Conservation Tillage – A Review
    • Year: 2016
    • Journal: International Journal of Agriculture Sciences
  • Fluorescein Diacetate activity as affected by residue retention and P fertilization in maize under maize-wheat cropping system
    • Year: 2017
    • Journal: International Journal of Current Microbiology and Applied Sciences, 6(5)
  • Impact of legume intensified crop rotations and tillage practices on maize productivity vis-à-vis C and N dynamics of a sandy loam soil in north-western Indo-Gangetic Plains
    • Year: 2017
    • Journal: Legume Research: An International Journal, 40(6)

 

Meisam Zargar | Crop Protection | Best Researcher Award

Prof Dr. Meisam Zargar | Crop Protection | Best Researcher Award

Professor of RUDN University, Russia.

Meisam Zargar, born on August 17, 1984, is a Professor of Crop Protection at the Department of Agrobiotechnology, RUDN University, Moscow. He holds a D.Sc. (2022) and Ph.D. (2014) in Crop Protection from RUDN University, an M.S. in Agronomy (2009), and a B.S. in Plant Production (2007). His professional journey at RUDN University began in 2012, progressing from Acting Assistant Professor to his current role. He also served as a Senior Researcher during a sabbatical at Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman and holds consultative and supervisory positions. His research interests encompass field crop production, pest management, nanotechnology in plant protection, and sustainable crop production. He has received awards including the Quality of Research Discovery Award and multiple best paper recognitions. Dr. Zargar is proficient in Persian, English, Russian, and Turkish and is actively involved in several research projects and editorial boards. 🌾🔬📚

Professional Profiles:

Education

Meisam Zargar holds a distinguished academic background in crop protection and agronomy. He earned his D.Sc. in Crop Protection from RUDN University’s Department of Agrobiotechnology in June 2022, following a Ph.D. in the same field from RUDN University in May 2014. His academic journey began with a B.S. in Plant Production, completed in September 2007, and an M.S. in Agronomy, completed in September 2009. These qualifications have laid a solid foundation for his expertise in field crop production, pest management practices, and sustainable crop production. Dr. Zargar’s education has equipped him with a comprehensive understanding of crop management under environmental stress conditions, the application of nanotechnology in plant protection, and the principles of organic and low-input farming. His academic achievements have significantly contributed to his role as a Professor of Crop Protection at RUDN University, where he continues to advance research in agrobiotechnology. 🌱🎓

Professional Experience

Meisam Zargar boasts extensive professional experience in the field of crop protection and agronomy. He currently serves as a Professor in the Department of Agrobiotechnology at the Institute of Agricultural Sciences, RUDN University, Moscow, a position he has held since 2024. Prior to this, he was an Associate Professor at the same department from 2017 to 2024, and an Assistant Professor from 2014 to 2017. His early career included a role as Acting Assistant Professor from 2012 to 2014. Dr. Zargar has also been a Senior Researcher on sabbatical at the Research and Technology Institute of Plant Production, Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman, Iran, from 2021 to 2022. Additionally, he has served as a scientific consultant for the Agriculture and Natural Resources Organization of Tehran province, Iran, and as a consultant supervisor for Ph.D. candidates at S. Seifullin Kazakh Agrotechnical University since 2023. 🌾🔬

Research Interest

Meisam Zargar’s research interests span several critical areas in agronomy and crop protection. He focuses on field crop production and pest management practices, particularly under environmental stress conditions. His expertise includes the application of nanotechnology in plant protection and promoting sustainable crop production methods, such as low-input and organic farming. Dr. Zargar is also deeply involved in weed biology and management, alongside agro-ecological studies. His research aims to enhance agricultural productivity while minimizing environmental impacts, ensuring a balance between effective crop management and ecological sustainability. His innovative approaches contribute significantly to advancing knowledge in the fields of agronomy and crop protection. 🌱🔬🌾

Award and Honors

Meisam Zargar has received several prestigious awards and honors throughout his career. He was honored with the Quality of Research Discovery Award by the Iranian Association of Talented Young Scientists in 2017. He received a Postdoctoral Fellowship from RUDN University in Russia. His paper was awarded the Best Paper in the International Conference on Agricultural and Biological Sciences in Osaka, Japan, in 2017, and the Best Paper in the International Conference on Healthcare & Life-Science Research in 2018. Additionally, he was appointed as the most influential researcher in agricultural science, earning the title of Leader of Publication Activity. These accolades highlight his significant contributions and outstanding achievements in the field of agricultural sciences. 🏆🎓📜

Research Skills

Meisam Zargar possesses a wide range of research skills essential for his field. He is proficient in field crop production and pest management, focusing on crop management under environmental stress conditions. His expertise includes nanotechnology applications in plant protection and sustainable crop production practices, such as low-input and organic farming. He is skilled in weed biology and management, as well as conducting agro-ecological studies. His analytical skills are evident in his ability to perform statistical analysis in agricultural experiments. Furthermore, he has experience in developing and optimizing methods for detecting and identifying phytopathogens, particularly those affecting export and import of agricultural products. His research skills are complemented by his capability to apply advanced techniques and innovative approaches to enhance agricultural productivity and sustainability. 🌾🔬📊

Publications

  1. In vitro evaluation of antibacterial and antifungal activity of biogenic silver and copper nanoparticles: The first report of applying biogenic nanoparticles against Pilidium
    Authors: M. Bayat, M. Zargar, E. Chudinova, T. Astarkhanova, E. Pakina
    Year: 2021
    Citations: 52
  2. Phyto-assisted green synthesis of zinc oxide nanoparticles and its antibacterial and antifungal activity
    Authors: M. Bayat, E. Chudinova, M. Zargar, M. Lyashko, K. Louis, F. K. Adenew
    Year: 2019
    Citations: 51
  3. Evaluation of Phoma sp. Biomass as an Endophytic Fungus for Synthesis of Extracellular Gold Nanoparticles with Antibacterial and Antifungal Properties
    Authors: M. Soltani Nejad, N. Samandari Najafabadi, S. Aghighi, E. Pakina, M. Zargar
    Year: 2022
    Citations: 46
  4. Rice vegetative response to different biological and chemical fertilizers
    Authors: M. J. Shakouri, A. V. Vajargah, M. G. Gavabar, S. Mafakheri, M. Zargar
    Year: 2012
    Citations: 43
  5. Ameliorating seed germination and seedling growth of nano-primed wheat and flax seeds using seven biogenic metal-based nanoparticles
    Authors: M. Bayat, M. Zargar, K. M. S. Murtazova, M. R. Nakhaev, S. I. Shkurkin
    Year: 2022
    Citations: 42
  6. Postemergence herbicide applications impact Canada thistle control and spring wheat yields
    Authors: M. Zargar, M. Bayat, M. Lyashko, B. Chauhan
    Year: 2019
    Citations: 40
  7. Nine strains of Pseudomonas fluorescens and P. putida: Effects on growth indices, seed and yield production of Carthamus tinctorius L.
    Authors: Y. Naserzadeh, D. Kartoolinejad, N. Mahmoudi, M. Zargar, E. Pakina
    Year: 2018
    Citations: 39
  8. Weed mapping technologies in discerning and managing weed infestation levels of farming systems
    Authors: N. J. Kavhiza, V. Vvedenskiy, A. Behzad, M. Bayat, M. H. Kargar, M. Zargar
    Year: 2020
    Citations: 38
  9. Agronomic evaluation of mechanical and chemical weed management for reducing use of herbicides in single vs. twin-row sugarbeet
    Authors: S. M. A. N. D. M. S. Meisam Zargar, Hossein Najafi, Kiumars Fakhri
    Year: 2011
    Citations: 36
  10. Review on agro-nanotechnology for ameliorating strawberry cultivation
    Authors: M. Bayat, E. Pakina, T. Astarkhanova, A. N. Sediqi, M. Zargar, V. Vvedenskiy
    Year: 2019
    Citations: 35