Liang-De Tang | Agricultural | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Liang-De Tang | Agricultural | Best Researcher Award

Associate professor at Guizhou University, China

Dr. Liang-De Tang is a highly respected entomologist and Associate Professor at Guizhou University, specializing in biological control and integrated pest management (IPM) of horticultural crops. As a Master’s Supervisor and researcher at the State Key Laboratory of Green Pesticides, he has developed innovative pest control strategies that have greatly improved sustainable agriculture, particularly in controlling vegetable thrips. Dr. Tang has authored over 100 scientific papers in peer-reviewed journals and has secured numerous grants from national and provincial research foundations. His research is recognized for its practical applications, combining academic rigor with real-world agricultural needs. He has played a key role in several national research projects and is an influential voice in the scientific community, serving on the Committee of Agricultural Entomology of the Chinese Society of Entomology for two consecutive terms (2018–2023, 2023–present). Additionally, he has been a reviewer for many international journals, reflecting his expertise and reputation in the field. Dr. Tang also has experience in public service, having served as Deputy Mayor of Miyi County, where he applied his scientific knowledge to support local governance. His contributions have been recognized with awards, including the High-level Talent Award in Hainan Province, highlighting both his academic and societal impact.

Professional Profile

Education

Dr. Liang-De Tang’s educational journey reflects a strong commitment to agricultural science and pest management. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree from Hunan Agricultural University in 2003, where he received foundational training in agricultural sciences. Motivated to further deepen his expertise, he pursued a Master of Science degree at Guangxi University, completing it in 2007 with a focus on entomology and pest control in agricultural systems. During his master’s studies, he began to develop a specialization in the biological mechanisms of insect behavior and control methods. His academic pursuits culminated in a Ph.D. from South China Agricultural University in 2010, where he conducted advanced research on insect-plant interactions, olfactory recognition, and biological control agents. His doctoral work laid the foundation for his future contributions to integrated pest management and sustainable agriculture. Each stage of his academic career strengthened his analytical and research capabilities, preparing him for a dynamic career in both academic research and public service. Throughout his education, Dr. Tang was involved in multiple field studies and laboratory experiments that enriched his understanding of entomology. His progression from undergraduate studies to doctoral research reflects a consistent focus on improving agricultural practices through science, positioning him as a knowledgeable and innovative leader in entomology.

Professional Experience

Dr. Liang-De Tang has cultivated a distinguished professional career marked by interdisciplinary expertise, leadership, and innovation. From 2013 to 2015, he served as Assistant and then Associate Researcher at the Environment and Plant Protection Institute, part of the Chinese Academy of Tropical Agricultural Sciences. During this period, he led critical research into biological pest control strategies, focusing on sustainable and eco-friendly approaches to crop protection. From 2016 to 2018, he continued his work as an Associate Researcher, further advancing projects on integrated pest management and contributing to national-level initiatives. In a unique blend of science and governance, Dr. Tang served as Deputy Mayor of Miyi County in Sichuan from 2019 to 2021. This role allowed him to apply scientific knowledge in a governmental context, promoting agricultural development and public policy rooted in ecological science. Since 2021, he has held the position of Associate Professor at Guizhou University, where he mentors graduate students, leads cutting-edge research, and collaborates on national and provincial projects. He also contributes to the State Key Laboratory of Green Pesticides, focusing on thrips management and insect olfaction. His diverse experiences across academia, research, and government reflect his capacity to integrate science with public service and innovation.

Research Interest

Dr. Liang-De Tang’s research interests lie at the intersection of entomology, ecology, and agricultural sustainability. His primary focus is on biological control and integrated pest management (IPM) of horticultural crops, especially concerning thrips species such as Megalurothrips usitatus and Frankliniella intonsa. He is particularly interested in the ecological interactions between pests, natural enemies, and host plants, exploring how these relationships can be leveraged for more effective pest control. A major theme in his work is the olfactory recognition mechanisms in insects, which plays a key role in their behavior and can be manipulated for pest monitoring or disruption. Dr. Tang also investigates the application of trap plants, parasitoids, and predatory mites as part of environmentally-friendly pest management strategies. He is committed to developing science-based solutions that reduce dependence on chemical pesticides, thereby contributing to safer food production and environmental protection. His interests extend to understanding the genetic and biochemical basis of insect resistance, parthenogenesis, and detoxification metabolism. Through extensive field and lab-based studies, Dr. Tang continuously explores innovative biocontrol methods, combining traditional ecological approaches with modern molecular tools. His research aims to bridge the gap between theoretical entomology and practical agricultural implementation, ultimately supporting global food security.

Research Skills

Dr. Liang-De Tang possesses a wide range of advanced research skills that reflect his interdisciplinary expertise in entomology and pest management. He is proficient in designing and conducting laboratory and field experiments to evaluate the efficacy of biological control agents, such as parasitoids, predators, and entomopathogenic fungi. He is experienced in rearing and handling economically significant insect species under controlled conditions, which is vital for studying their life cycles, population dynamics, and interactions with control agents. His work often incorporates the use of life table analysis and functional response models to assess the population impact of various biocontrol strategies. In molecular entomology, Dr. Tang is skilled in transcriptomic analysis, particularly in identifying and characterizing olfactory-related genes like odorant-binding proteins (OBPs) and chemosensory proteins (CSPs). He utilizes advanced tools such as gene expression profiling and biochemical assays to explore insect behavior and detoxification processes. Additionally, he is adept in integrated pest management planning, pest surveillance, and the development of IPM guidelines tailored to specific crops and regions. His skills also extend to scientific writing, grant application preparation, and collaborative research coordination, which have enabled him to publish widely and lead numerous research projects funded at national and provincial levels.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Liang-De Tang has received multiple awards and recognitions that reflect his excellence in scientific research, leadership, and service to both academia and society. One of the most notable is the High-level Talent Award in Hainan Province, which acknowledges his outstanding contributions to agricultural innovation and sustainable pest management. His work has been instrumental in enhancing regional agricultural practices, particularly through the implementation of biological control programs in tropical and subtropical regions. In recognition of his achievements, Dr. Tang has been appointed to serve on the Committee of Agricultural Entomology of the Chinese Society of Entomology for two consecutive terms (2018–2023, 2023–present), highlighting his leadership in the national entomological community. His projects have been consistently selected for funding by prestigious institutions, including the National Natural Science Foundation of China and various provincial science foundations, demonstrating continued trust in his scientific direction and capacity for impactful research. His role as a peer reviewer for international journals further attests to his standing in the global research community. These honors and his career trajectory illustrate not only his academic success but also his meaningful contributions to agricultural sustainability, public policy, and the development of young scientists in the field of entomology.

Conclusion

Dr. Liang-De Tang’s career embodies the integration of scientific innovation, public service, and academic excellence. With a solid foundation in entomological research and a proven record of leadership in both academic and governmental roles, he continues to make significant contributions to the advancement of sustainable agriculture in China and beyond. His focus on biological control and integrated pest management is particularly relevant in the current global shift toward environmentally friendly and economically viable agricultural practices. By combining traditional field-based research with molecular tools, Dr. Tang bridges the gap between fundamental entomological science and practical applications that directly benefit farmers, ecosystems, and public health. His work not only enhances crop protection strategies but also contributes to long-term ecological balance and food security. Through teaching, mentoring, and active participation in professional societies, he is shaping the next generation of scientists while fostering international collaboration and innovation. As he continues to lead research projects, publish impactful studies, and contribute to national agricultural development, Dr. Tang stands as a prominent figure in entomology whose career serves as a model for how science can inform policy and transform practice for sustainable development.

Publications Top Notes

  1. Title: Diapause in parasitoids: a systematic review

    • Authors: Zhen Z. Shen, Liangde L. Tang, Nicolas N. Desneux, Liansheng L. Zang

  2. Title: Controlling the clutch size of Trichogramma wasps on the factitious host of Antheraea pernyi to improve their breeding quality and pest control potential

    • Authors: Mingyue M. Mu, Zhipeng Z. Zou, Liangde L. Tang, Nicolas N. Desneux, Liansheng L. Zang

    • Year: 2025

  3. Title: Chromosome-level genome assembly and sex chromosome identification of the pink stem borer, Sesamia inferens (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)

    • Authors: Xiao Rui X.R. Yu, Xu X. Chen, Qingrong Q. Bai, Guy G. Smagghe, Liansheng L. Zang

  4. Title: Light intensity differentially mediates the life cycle of lepidopteran leaf feeders and stem borers

    • Authors: Tingting T. Xu, Xian X. Wu, Zhenbao Z. Luo, Junyi J. Gao, Liansheng L. Zang

    • Year: 2024

Fatemeh Razzaghi | Agricultural Water Management | Best Researcher Award

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Assoc. Prof.  Dr. Fatemeh Razzaghi | Agricultural Water Management | Best Researcher Award 

Faculty member, Shiraz University, Iran.

Fatemeh Razzaghi is an accomplished Associate Professor in the Water Engineering Department at Shiraz University, Iran, and a researcher at the Drought Research Center. With a focus on agricultural water management, she has contributed significantly to understanding the effects of abiotic stress on crop performance. Razzaghi holds a Ph.D. from Aarhus University, where her dissertation explored quinoa acclimatization to salinity and drought. Her extensive research in irrigation efficiency and crop yield optimization has positioned her as a leading expert in her field, particularly in semi-arid regions. Passionate about sustainable agriculture, Razzaghi aims to enhance water use efficiency in farming practices through innovative research and education.

Profile

Scopus

Google Scholar

ORCID

Education 🎓

Fatemeh Razzaghi’s educational journey reflects her dedication to agricultural water management. She earned her Ph.D. in Agricultural Water Management from Aarhus University (2008–2011), focusing on the agronomic performance of quinoa under stress conditions. Her Master’s degree in Agricultural Engineering: Irrigation and Drainage was completed at Shiraz University (2004–2007), where she calibrated evapotranspiration equations for local conditions. Razzaghi also holds a Bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Engineering: Irrigation from Shiraz University (2000–2004). This solid academic foundation has equipped her with the expertise to tackle complex challenges in water management and crop resilience in arid climates.

Experience 💼

Fatemeh Razzaghi’s professional experience spans over a decade in academic and research settings. Currently, she serves as an Associate Professor at Shiraz University, where she teaches courses on water management and irrigation practices. Additionally, her role at the Drought Research Center involves conducting pivotal research on drought mitigation strategies in agriculture. Razzaghi has collaborated with various national and international institutions, contributing her expertise in agricultural water management. Her research has led to significant advancements in understanding crop responses to environmental stresses, particularly in semi-arid regions, and has influenced water management policies in Iran.

Research Interests 🔍

Razzaghi’s research interests center on agricultural water management, focusing on improving crop resilience against abiotic stresses such as drought and salinity. She is particularly interested in the evaluation of irrigation strategies to optimize water use efficiency and enhance crop yields. Her work often involves the integration of modeling tools like AquaCrop to predict crop performance under varying water conditions. Razzaghi also explores the physiological mechanisms of crops like quinoa, faba bean, and sugar beet in response to environmental challenges. By merging theoretical insights with practical applications, she aims to develop sustainable agricultural practices that can be implemented in water-scarce regions.

Awards 🏆

Fatemeh Razzaghi has received several awards recognizing her contributions to agricultural water management and research. Her dedication to advancing knowledge in her field has been acknowledged through various academic honors, including research grants and invitations to present at international conferences. Razzaghi’s innovative research on crop adaptation strategies has also earned her accolades from peer organizations. These recognitions reflect her commitment to enhancing agricultural practices in Iran and beyond, emphasizing the importance of sustainable water use in farming.

Publications 📚

Razzaghi has a prolific publication record in renowned journals, reflecting her significant contributions to agricultural water management research. Key publications include:

Conclusion

Dr. Fatemeh Razzaghi’s exceptional research contributions, innovative methodologies, and commitment to improving agricultural sustainability in arid regions make her a strong candidate for the Research for Best Researcher Award. Her work not only advances academic knowledge but also addresses critical challenges faced by farmers in water-scarce environments. By recognizing her achievements, we can acknowledge the profound impact of her research on sustainable agriculture and food security.

 

Zhenzhong Si | Sustainable Food Systems | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Zhenzhong Si | Sustainable Food Systems | Best Researcher Award

Research Manager at Wilfrid Laurier University, Canada.

Dr. Zhenzhong Si is a dedicated researcher and academic professional with a wealth of experience in sustainable food systems, food security, and rural development. His journey in academia has seen him hold various positions, including Project Research Manager at Wilfrid Laurier University and Adjunct Faculty at the University of Waterloo. With a Ph.D. in Geography from the University of Waterloo, Dr. Si’s research interests span across sustainable food systems, food security, alternative food networks, and rural development. He has received numerous awards and scholarships for his academic excellence and has successfully led and participated in several research projects funded by prestigious organizations. Dr. Si’s teaching experience includes instructing courses on topics such as global food governance, food ethics, and sustainability. His diverse skill set encompasses research methodology, project management, grant writing, and proposal development, making him a valuable asset in addressing critical challenges in food systems and agriculture.

Professional Profiles:

Education:

Dr. Zhenzhong Si pursued his academic journey with a keen focus on Geography, culminating in a PhD from the University of Waterloo, Canada, where he delved into the intricacies of Alternative Food Networks and Rural Development Initiatives in China. Under the guidance of Dr. Steffanie Scott, his research explored the characterization, contestations, and interactions within these networks. Prior to his doctoral studies, he obtained a Master’s in Land Management from Beijing Normal University, China, where his research investigated the opportunity cost of food production input in Beijing’s countryside. He also holds a Bachelor’s degree in Science, specializing in Resource Management and Urban-Rural Planning, from the same institution. Through these educational pursuits, Dr. Si has developed a deep understanding of geographical phenomena, particularly in the context of sustainable food systems and rural development initiatives.

Professional Experience:

Dr. Zhenzhong Si brings a rich blend of academic expertise and research acumen to his professional endeavors. Currently serving as a Project Research Manager at Wilfrid Laurier University, he spearheads initiatives aimed at advancing knowledge in sustainable food systems. With previous roles as an Adjunct Faculty at the University of Waterloo and a Sessional Lecturer at the University of Toronto, Dr. Si has actively contributed to the education and training of future scholars. His journey in academia began as a Postdoctoral Fellow at Wilfrid Laurier University, where he made significant research contributions. Additionally, his experience as a Research Associate at the University of Waterloo underscores his commitment to scholarly inquiry. As a Queen Elizabeth Jubilee Scholar, Dr. Si was recognized for his dedication to research excellence. Through these diverse roles, Dr. Si continues to make meaningful contributions to the fields of sustainable food systems, food security, and rural development.

Research Interest:

Dr. Zhenzhong Si’s research interests span several critical areas within the realm of sustainable development and food systems. His primary focus lies in exploring sustainable food systems, delving into issues of food security and safety. Dr. Si is particularly interested in alternative food networks and their role in fostering resilience in rural communities. His research also extends to the intersection of food systems with broader themes such as rural development and environmental sustainability. Through his work, Dr. Si aims to contribute to the development of innovative solutions that address contemporary challenges in food production, distribution, and consumption, ultimately promoting more equitable and sustainable food systems globally.

Award and Honors:

Dr. Zhenzhong Si has garnered significant recognition throughout his academic and professional journey, marked by a series of prestigious awards and honors. His contributions to academia and research have been acknowledged with distinctions such as the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Scholarship-Advanced Scholars and the Outstanding Achievement in Graduate Studies Award from the University of Waterloo. Dr. Si’s excellence extends beyond his research endeavors; he has also been recognized for his teaching prowess, evident in his appointments as Adjunct Faculty at the University of Waterloo and Sessional Lecturer at the University of Toronto. Additionally, his success in securing research grants, including those from the New Frontiers in Research Fund, CIHR Operating Grant, and SSHRC Partnership Grant, underscores his commitment to advancing knowledge in critical areas such as sustainable food systems and food security. These accolades reflect Dr. Si’s dedication, expertise, and profound impact in his field.

Teaching Experience:

Dr. Zhenzhong Si has demonstrated his passion for education through his extensive teaching experience at various academic institutions. Serving as an instructor at Wilfrid Laurier University and the University of Toronto, he has designed and delivered courses on topics ranging from global governance to sustainable food systems. In these roles, Dr. Si developed comprehensive syllabi, conducted lectures, facilitated seminars, and supervised student projects. His teaching style emphasizes interactive learning, incorporating participatory activities and discussions to engage students effectively. Moreover, Dr. Si’s commitment to fostering a stimulating learning environment is evident in his efforts to provide constructive feedback and support to students throughout their academic journey. Through his teaching endeavors, Dr. Si not only imparts knowledge but also inspires and empowers the next generation of scholars and practitioners in fields related to global governance, food ethics, and sustainability.

Research Skills:

Dr. Zhenzhong Si possesses a diverse set of research skills honed through his extensive academic and professional experience. His proficiency encompasses various methodological approaches and analytical techniques crucial for conducting rigorous research in the fields of sustainable food systems, food security, alternative food networks, and rural development. Dr. Si is adept at qualitative and quantitative research methods, including data collection, analysis, and interpretation. He demonstrates proficiency in conducting literature reviews, qualitative interviews, surveys, and statistical analyses to generate insightful findings and contribute to scholarly knowledge. Moreover, Dr. Si has strong skills in research project management, grant writing, and proposal development, as evidenced by his successful involvement in securing research funding from prestigious organizations. His interdisciplinary background and collaborative approach enable him to engage with complex research questions effectively and produce impactful research outcomes that address pressing global challenges in food systems and agriculture.

Publications:

  1. “Contradictions in state-and civil society-driven developments in China’s ecological agriculture sector” by S Scott, Z Si, T Schumilas, A Chen
    • Citations: 180
    • Year: 2014
  2. “Characterizing alternative food networks in China” by Z Si, T Schumilas, S Scott
    • Citations: 162
    • Year: 2015
  3. “The transformation of trust in China’s alternative food networks: disruption, reconstruction, and development” by RY Wang, Z Si, CN Ng, S Scott
    • Citations: 77
    • Year: 2015
  4. “Achieving urban food security through a hybrid public-private food provisioning system: the case of Nanjing, China” by T Zhong, Z Si, J Crush, S Scott, X Huang
    • Citations: 62
    • Year: 2019
  5. “COVID-19 containment and food security in the Global South” by J Crush, Z Si
    • Citations: 61
    • Year: 2020
  6. “Wet markets, supermarkets and alternative food sources: consumers’ food access in Nanjing, China” by Z Si, S Scott, C McCordic
    • Citations: 60
    • Year: 2018
  7. “The convergence of alternative food networks within “rural development” initiatives: the case of the New Rural Reconstruction Movement in China” by Z Si, S Scott
    • Citations: 58
    • Year: 2015
  8. “Organic Food and Farming in China: Top-down and Bottom-up Ecological Initiatives” by S Scott, Z Si, T Schumilas, A Chen
    • Citations: 52
    • Year: 2018
  9. “The Impact of Proximity to Wet Markets and Supermarkets on Household Dietary Diversity in Nanjing City, China” by T Zhong, Z Si, J Crush, Z Xu, X Huang, S Scott
    • Citations: 43
    • Year: 2018
  10. “Food safety in urban China: Perceptions and coping strategies of residents in Nanjing” by Z Si, J Regnier-Davies, S Scott
    • Citations: 35
    • Year: 2017