Muluken Bantayehu | Environment Economics | Best Researcher Award

Assist Prof Dr. Muluken Bantayehu | Environment Economics | Best Researcher Award

Division Head at Bahirdar University, Ethiopia

Muluken Bantayehu Nigatie is an accomplished Assistant Professor in Plant Sciences at Bahir Dar University, Ethiopia, with extensive expertise in plant breeding and postharvest technology. His academic journey includes a Master’s degree in Plant Breeding from Haramaya University and research experience at KU Leuven, Belgium. Nigatie has significantly contributed to agricultural research, particularly through his studies on banana varieties and malting barley, which have led to the development and release of new crop varieties. His work has practical applications, including community training and the creation of production technology manuals. Nigatie’s publications in esteemed journals and his active role in community outreach reflect his commitment to advancing agricultural practices in Ethiopia. While his research is impactful, expanding his focus to a broader range of crops and increasing international collaboration could further enhance his contributions to the field.

Profile

Education

Muluken Bantayehu Nigatie’s educational background is distinguished by his advanced studies and accomplishments in the field of plant sciences. He earned a Master of Science in Plant Breeding from Haramaya University, Ethiopia, in 2006, graduating with very great distinction. His undergraduate studies were completed at the same institution, where he obtained a Bachelor of Science in Plant Sciences in 2002, graduating with great distinction. Prior to these degrees, he served as a Research Assistant (Pre-doctoral) at KU Leuven in Belgium from 2011 to 2012, further enhancing his expertise and research capabilities. This solid educational foundation, combined with his hands-on research experience, has equipped Nigatie with the skills and knowledge essential for his current role as an Assistant Professor of Plant Sciences at Bahir Dar University, Ethiopia, where he has been contributing significantly to the field of plant breeding and agricultural research.

Professional Experience

Muluken Bantayehu Nigatie brings extensive experience in plant sciences, particularly in plant breeding and postharvest technology. He has served as an Assistant Professor at Bahir Dar University since 2013, where he specializes in plant breeding and contributes to the development and release of new crop varieties. Prior to this role, Nigatie worked as a Research Assistant at KU Leuven in Belgium, enhancing his research skills and international perspective. His career began at Adet Agriculture Research Center, where he worked as an Associate Researcher for over a decade, focusing on plant resource improvement. Throughout his career, Nigatie has been actively involved in community outreach, including training programs and developing production technology manuals for local farmers. His experience reflects a strong commitment to advancing agricultural practices and improving crop varieties, making significant contributions to both academic research and practical applications in Ethiopia.

Research Interest

Muluken Bantayehu Nigatie’s research interests are primarily centered on plant breeding and postharvest technology. His work focuses on developing and improving crop varieties, particularly malting barley and bananas, to enhance agricultural productivity and quality. Nigatie’s research explores the genetic and phenotypic aspects of plant traits, including yield, quality, and adaptation to diverse agroecological conditions. He is also deeply involved in studying postharvest quality traits, ripening behavior, and reducing losses in tropical fruits. His interest extends to community-based applications, where he works on participatory adaptation and extension of improved varietal technologies, providing practical solutions for local farmers. Through his research, Nigatie aims to bridge the gap between scientific advancements and agricultural practices, contributing to food security and sustainable agricultural development in Ethiopia.

Research Skills

Muluken Bantayehu Nigatie possesses a diverse and comprehensive set of research skills that underscore his expertise in plant sciences and agricultural research. His proficiency in quantitative analysis is evident through his extensive use of statistical software such as SAS, SPSS, and Cropstat for analyzing plant breeding data and postharvest quality traits. His expertise in experimental design is highlighted by his work on malting barley and banana varieties, where he has conducted rigorous evaluations of crop performance under various conditions. Nigatie’s skills in community outreach are demonstrated through his development of practical guides and training programs for local farmers, enhancing the application of his research findings. Furthermore, his collaborative approach in participatory research and extension activities reflects his ability to work effectively with both local and international partners, thereby translating scientific research into tangible benefits for agricultural communities.

Award and Recognition

Muluken Bantayehu Nigatie has garnered significant recognition for his impactful contributions to plant sciences, particularly in plant breeding and postharvest technology. As an Assistant Professor at Bahir Dar University, his innovative research on banana varieties and malting barley has advanced agricultural practices in Ethiopia. His work has led to the development and release of new crop varieties, directly benefiting local farmers. Nigatie’s dedication extends beyond research; he has actively engaged in community outreach by training seed multipliers and developing educational materials for farmers. His scholarly contributions are well-documented in numerous publications across reputable journals. The recognition of his efforts is evident from his continued involvement in pivotal agricultural research projects and his role in enhancing food security and agricultural productivity. His achievements underscore his excellence and commitment to advancing agricultural sciences, making him a deserving candidate for prestigious awards and honors.

Conclusion

Muluken Bantayehu Nigatie is a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award due to his significant contributions to plant sciences, practical applications of his research, and active engagement with the agricultural community. While there are areas where his research scope could be broadened, his existing achievements and community impact make him a noteworthy nominee for this award.

Publication Top Notes

  1. Efficacy of Postharvest Technologies on Ripening Behavior and Quality of Banana Varieties Grown in Ethiopia
    • Authors: Bantayehu, M., Alemayehu, M.
    • Journal: International Journal of Fruit Science
    • Year: 2020
    • Volume: 20
    • Issue: 1
    • Pages: 59–75
    • Citations: 9
  2. Genotypic and phenotypic correlation and path coefficient analysis for yield and yield-related traits in advanced bread wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) lines
    • Authors: Baye, A., Berihun, B., Bantayehu, M., Derebe, B.
    • Journal: Cogent Food and Agriculture
    • Year: 2020
    • Volume: 6
    • Issue: 1
    • Article ID: 1752603
    • Citations: 57
  3. Estimation of pre and postharvest losses of tropical fruits in Ethiopia
    • Authors: Bantayehu, M., Alemayehu, M., Abera, M., Bizuayehu, S.
    • Journal: International Journal of Postharvest Technology and Innovation
    • Year: 2019
    • Volume: 6
    • Issue: 1
    • Pages: 46–56
    • Citations: 5

 

Naveen Kumar Reddy Bogireddy | Environmental Remediation | Sustainable Engineering Leadership Award

Dr. Naveen Kumar Reddy Bogireddy | Environmental Remediation | Sustainable Engineering Leadership Award

Associate Investigator at Physical Science Institute (ICF), National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM), Mexico.

Dr. Naveen Kumar Reddy Bogireddy is an Associate Researcher at the Institute of Physical Sciences, National Autonomous University of Mexico (ICF-UNAM). His research focuses on advanced nanomaterials for environmental applications, particularly in the green synthesis of metallic nanoparticles and quantum dots to detect and eliminate toxic contaminants. With over eight years of experience, Dr. Bogireddy has published over 30 high-impact articles in renowned journals and has presented his work at numerous international conferences. He has received a Ph.D. in Engineering and Applied Sciences with honors from CIICAp-UAEM and ICF-UNAM. His notable projects include catalytic removal of organic contaminants using sustainable nanoparticles. Dr. Bogireddy’s contributions extend to collaborative efforts with institutions like Penn State University and the Mexican Institute of Water Technology. His work has earned him recognition in environmental health and vector control, underscoring his commitment to sustainable engineering.

Profile

Education

Dr. Naveen Kumar Reddy Bogireddy is a distinguished researcher in the field of advanced nanomaterials, specializing in their environmental applications. With over eight years of experience, he has focused on green synthesis techniques to detect and eliminate toxic contaminants from the environment. His impressive portfolio includes over 30 scientific publications in high-impact journals such as Nature Partner Journal, Cell Press, and ACS. Dr. Bogireddy’s work has garnered more than 76 citations, reflecting his significant contributions to the field. He has received accolades such as an Honorary Mention for his doctoral work and is a member of the SNI (National Research System) Level 1 until December 2025. Currently, he serves as an Associate Researcher at ICF-UNAM, where he leads innovative projects on catalytic removal of contaminants and the development of nanosensors. His dedication to research, combined with his extensive publication record, underscores his impact in environmental nanotechnology.

Research Contributions

Dr. Naveen Kumar Reddy Bogireddy has made significant contributions to the field of advanced nanomaterials, focusing on green synthesis methods to address environmental pollution. His research primarily involves the development of metallic nanoparticles and quantum dots for detecting and removing toxic contaminants. His work is well-documented through more than 30 high-impact publications in renowned journals, including Nature Partner Journal, Cell Press, and ACS. His contributions are exemplified by his research on catalytic reduction of pollutants, which has earned him over 76 citations and an h-index of 15.

Geographic Impact

Dr. Bogireddy’s research has had a broad geographic impact, spanning multiple countries and institutions. His collaborations include positions and projects at esteemed institutions such as Pennsylvania State University, Universidad Autónoma de San Luis Potosí, and Instituto de Física at UNAM. His work contributes to global efforts in addressing environmental contamination and has implications for sustainable engineering practices across diverse regions.

Collaborative Efforts

Dr. Bogireddy has demonstrated strong collaborative skills through his work with various research groups and institutions. His postdoctoral research at UNAM involved developing bimetallic plasmonic nanoparticles in collaboration with Dr. Raúl Herrera Becerra and other researchers. Additionally, his role in coordinating with institutions such as QIT (India) and IMTA showcases his commitment to fostering international research partnerships and knowledge exchange.

Applied Research

His applied research focuses on practical solutions for environmental problems, particularly in the area of waste water treatment and contaminant detection. Projects like the development of nanosensors for toxic pollutant detection and the catalytic removal of organic pollutants from water demonstrate the practical impact of his research. His work not only advances scientific knowledge but also provides actionable solutions for environmental challenges.

Specific Projects and Publications

Dr. Bogireddy has led and participated in numerous research projects with notable outcomes. His project on “Catalytic Elimination of Organic Contaminants in Real Waters Using Sustainable Metallic Nanoparticles” has received funding under the 2024 Call for Support for Research and Technological Innovation Projects. His publications, including studies on carbon dots and nanoparticle synthesis, highlight his expertise in creating innovative materials for environmental applications.

Environmental Health

Dr. Bogireddy’s research has significant implications for environmental health by addressing pollution through advanced materials. His work on the removal of contaminants like 4-nitrophenol and organic dyes directly contributes to improving water quality and reducing environmental hazards. This focus on pollution mitigation aligns with global efforts to protect environmental and public health.

Vector Control

Although Dr. Bogireddy’s primary research does not directly address vector control, his expertise in nanomaterials could potentially be applied to this field. Advanced materials and sensors developed through his research might be adapted for monitoring and controlling vectors in environmental settings.

Parasitology and Infectious Diseases

Dr. Bogireddy’s research does not directly involve parasitology or infectious diseases. However, the principles of nanomaterial synthesis and application could have indirect benefits in these fields, particularly in developing diagnostic tools or treatments through advanced materials.

Awards and Recognition

Dr. Bogireddy’s achievements have been recognized with several awards and honors, including the Mención Honorífica for his doctoral work and an impressive citation index reflecting his influence in the field. His extensive publication record and contributions to international conferences further highlight his recognition in the scientific community.

Conclusion

Dr. Naveen Kumar Reddy Bogireddy is a highly qualified candidate for the Research for Sustainable Engineering Leadership Award. His innovative research on nanomaterials, strong collaborative efforts, and significant contributions to addressing environmental pollution underscore his leadership in sustainable engineering. His work not only advances scientific knowledge but also provides practical solutions for global environmental challenges.

Publications Top Notes

  1. Exfoliated MXene-AuNPs hybrid in sensing and multiple catalytic hydrogenation reactions
    • Authors: Kumar, Y., Thomas, T., Pérez-Tijerina, E., Bogireddy, N.K.R., Agarwal, V.
    • Journal: Nanotechnology
    • Year: 2024
    • Volume: 35(20)
    • Pages: 205703
    • Citations: 1
  2. Chemical- and green-precursor-derived carbon dots for photocatalytic degradation of dyes
    • Authors: Kaur, I., Batra, V., Bogireddy, N.K.R., Kumar, Y., Agarwal, V.
    • Journal: iScience
    • Year: 2024
    • Volume: 27(2)
    • Pages: 108920
    • Citations: 2
  3. Advances in 4-Nitrophenol Detection and Reduction Methods and Mechanisms: An Updated Review
    • Authors: Cardoso Juarez, A.O., Ivan Ocampo Lopez, E., Kesarla, M.K., Bogireddy, N.K.R.
    • Journal: ACS Omega
    • Year: 2024
    • Volume: N/A
  4. Porous silicon structures passivated with 10-undecenoic acid for possible ethanol sensing
    • Authors: Ospina-Delacruz, C.A., Castillo-Gallardo, V., Ariza-Flores, D., Bogireddy, N.K.R., Agarwal, V.
    • Journal: Materials Letters
    • Year: 2023
    • Volume: 352
    • Pages: 135117
    • Citations: 1
  5. Carbon Dots as a Novel Detection Material for Food Additives and Pesticides: A Mini Review
    • Authors: Kaur, I., Batra, V., Bogireddy, N.K.R., Kumar, Y., Agarwal, V.
    • Journal: Microscopy and Microanalysis
    • Year: 2023
    • Volume: 29(1)
    • Pages: 4–8
    • Citations: 2
  6. PDDA induced step-pyramidal growth of nickel-platinum (Ni-Pt) nanoparticles for enhanced 4-nitrophenol reduction
    • Authors: Bazán-Díaz, L., Pérez, A., Bogireddy, N.K.R., Herrera-Becerra, R., Mendoza-Cruz, R.
    • Journal: Chemical Communications
    • Year: 2023
    • Volume: 59(45)
    • Pages: 6845–6848
    • Citations: 3
  7. Pyridinic N anchored Ag and Au hybrids for detoxification of organic pollutants
    • Authors: Bogireddy, N.K.R., El Hachimi, A.G., Mejia, Y.R., Becerra, R.H., Agarwal, V.
    • Journal: npj Clean Water
    • Year: 2022
    • Volume: 5(1)
    • Pages: 40
    • Citations: 13
  8. The identification of byproducts from the catalytic reduction reaction of 4-nitrophenol to 4-aminophenol: A systematic spectroscopic study
    • Authors: Reddy Bogireddy, N.K., Mejia, Y.R., Aminabhavi, T.M., Ariza Flores, A.D., Agarwal, V.
    • Journal: Journal of Environmental Management
    • Year: 2022
    • Volume: 316
    • Pages: 115292
    • Citations: 28
  9. Reduction of 4-nitrophenol using green-fabricated metal nanoparticles
    • Authors: Mejía, Y.R., Reddy Bogireddy, N.K.
    • Journal: RSC Advances
    • Year: 2022
    • Volume: 12(29)
    • Pages: 18661–18675
    • Citations: 76
  10. Synthesis of α and γ phase of aluminium oxide nanoparticles for the photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue under sunlight: A comparative study
    • Authors: Kumar Anna, K., Kumar Reddy Bogireddy, N., Agarwal, V., Ramírez Bon, R.
    • Journal: Materials Letters
    • Year: 2022
    • Volume: 317
    • Pages: 132085
    • Citations: 11