Célia Silva | Organic Farming | Best Researcher Award

Assoc Prof Dr Célia Silva | Organic Farming | Best Researcher Award

Associate Professor with Aggregation at Universidade dos Açores, Portugal

Dr. Célia Costa Gomes da Silva is a Portuguese biochemist and academic with a distinguished career in the field of food science and health. She earned her B.Sc. in Biochemistry from the University of Lisbon in 1988, followed by an APCC (equivalent to M.Sc.) in Biochemistry from the University of the Azores in 1993. Dr. Silva completed her Ph.D. in Animal Physiology at the University of Reading, UK, in 1998, and later obtained her Aggregation in Food Technology from the University of the Azores in 2021.

 

Publication Profile:🌟👨‍🎓

🎓 Education:

  • B.Sc. Biochemistry, 1988, University of Lisbon, Portugal.
  • APCC (M.Sc. equivalent) Biochemistry, 1993, University of the Azores, Portugal.
  • Ph.D. Animal Physiology, 1998, University of Reading, UK.
  • Aggregation Food Technology, 2021, University of the Azores

📚 Career Highlights:

  • Director of the Master’s Degree in Technology and Food Safety, University of the Azores (2016-present)
  • Coordinator of the Food Science and Health Group, Institute of Agricultural and Environmental Research and Technologies (IITAA) (2008-present)
  • President, Food Chemistry Division, Portuguese Chemical Society (2007-2009)

Research Focus 📝:

Dr. Célia C.G. Silva’s research spans diverse domains within food science. Her expertise is showcased through a comparative study investigating the bacterial community in organic and conventional cow’s milk, exploring microbial communities in dairy products. With a focus on Portuguese cheeses, she evaluates gamma-aminobutyric acid content in cheeses with protected designation of origin. Dr. Silva’s contributions extend to advancements in edible films and coatings, employing probiotic and bacteriocin-producing lactic acid bacteria. She delves into lactobacilli from breast milk, emphasizing probiotic, technological, and health-related characteristics. Additionally, her work addresses fungal contamination prevention in semi-hard cheeses through innovative whey–gelatin film incorporation. 🌐🥼🔬🧠

 

Publications Top Notes:
  1. Title: Comparative study of the bacterial community of organic and conventional cow’s milk
    • Journal: Food Microbiology
    • Date: 2024-06
    • Contributors: Nuno M.L. Paiva; Susana C. Ribeiro; Henrique J.D. Rosa; Célia C.G. Silva
  2. Title: Microbial communities and microbiomes in dairy products
    • Journal: Frontiers in Microbiology
    • Date: 2023
    • Contributors: Celia C. G. Silva; Susana C. Ribeiro; Benedetta Bottari
  3. Title: Evaluation of gamma-aminobutyric acid content in Portuguese cheeses with protected designation of origin status
    • Journal: Journal of Dairy Research
    • Date: 2023
    • Contributors: Rodrigo J. M. Sousa; Susana C. Ribeiro; Jose A. B. Baptista; Celia C. G. Silva
  4. Title: Recent advances in the use of edible films and coatings with probiotic and bacteriocin-producing lactic acid bacteria
    • Journal: Food Bioscience
    • Date: 2023-12
    • Contributors: Sofia P.M. Silva; José A. Teixeira; Célia C.G. Silva
  5. Title: Probiotic, technological, and health-related characteristics of lactobacilli isolated from breast milk
    • Journal: Journal of Applied Microbiology
    • Date: 2023-06-01
    • Contributors: Vanessa Pires; Susana C Ribeiro; Sofia P M Silva; Dominika Juraskova; Celia C G Silva
  6. Title: Prevention of Fungal Contamination in Semi-Hard Cheeses by Whey–Gelatin Film Incorporated with Levilactobacillus brevis SJC120
    • Journal: Foods
    • Date: 2023-03-25
    • Contributors: Sofia P. M. Silva; José A. Teixeira; Célia C. G. Silva

Christian Thierfelder | Conservation Agriculture | Best Researcher Award

Dr Christian Thierfelder: Conservation Agriculture |  Best Researcher Award

Principal Scientist at  CIMMYT, Zimbabwe

Dr. Christian Thierfelder, a Principal Cropping Systems Agronomist with CIMMYT’s Sustainable Intensification program, has been leading conservation agriculture systems research in Southern Africa since 2009. His focus is on adapting these systems to meet the needs of smallholder farmers, particularly in Malawi, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. Thierfelder’s research includes fine-tuning conservation agriculture for different agro-ecologies, studying farmers’ adoption of new technologies, integrating green manure cover crops and grain legumes into maize-based farming systems, and exploring climate-smart agriculture. His work extends to Namibia as well. Collaborating with national and international partners, Thierfelder emphasizes capacity building for farmers, extension officers, and researchers at all levels.

 

Publication Profile:🌟👨‍🎓

Education:

Dr. Christian Thierfelder, PhD 🎓

🌾 MSc in Agriculture from Christian-Albrechts University Kiel, Germany (1998) 🎓 PhD from the University of Hohenheim, Germany (2003) Agricultural expertise grounded in German academia! 🇩🇪🌱

Employment and Experience:

Dr. Christian Thierfelder’s Journey 🌍

🔬 Scientist and Senior Scientist at CIMMYT, Harare (2012-2018) 🌱 Associate Scientist at CIMMYT, Harare (2009-2012) 🌾 Senior Research Fellow at CIAT, Harare (2007-2009) 🔍 Adjunct Scientist and Postdoctoral Fellow at CIMMYT, Harare (2004-2007) A progressive career contributing to agricultural research and development in Harare! 🌾👨‍🔬

Research Expertise:

Dr. Christian Thierfelder’s Expertise 🌱👨‍🔬

🌾 Principal Cropping Systems Agronomist with 22+ years of experience 🌍 Specialized in Conservation Agriculture (CA) systems 🌱 Focus on the impact of CA on soil, plant processes, and climate resilience 🌾 Expert in adapting CA to smallholder farmers’ environments 🌱 Research spans reduced tillage, residue retention, and crop rotations 🚜 Knowledgeable in African cropping systems, weed and soil science 🌽 Expertise in maize-legume systems and genotype x management interactions 🛠️ Adaptation of machinery for smallholder farmers in Africa Agricultural research champion advancing sustainable practices! 🌍🌾

citation:

All Time:

  • Citations: 8917
  • h-index: 48
  • i10-index: 95

Since 2019:

  • Citations: 5764
  • h-index: 42
  • i10-index: 95

Impressive citation metrics reflecting the enduring impact of Dr. Thierfelder’s research in the academic community! 🌟📚

Research Focus 🌱🔬:

As a Principal Cropping Systems Agronomist, Dr. Thierfelder has dedicated his research to advancing Conservation Agriculture (CA) systems over the past 22 years. His work delves into the intricate relationships between CA, soil and plant processes, climate resilience, and long-term soil fertility. With a keen focus on smallholder farmers in Africa, he explores the adaptation of CA principles, including reduced tillage, residue retention, and crop rotations. Dr. Thierfelder’s expertise spans various facets, from agronomic knowledge of African cropping systems to weed and soil science, maize-legume systems, and the nuanced interactions between genotypes and management systems. His impactful research contributes to sustainable farming practices and agricultural resilience. 🌍🌾

 

Publications Top Notes:

Jose Manuel Febles Gonzalez | Agroecology 

Prof Dr Jose Manuel Febles Gonzalez: Leading Research in Agroecology 
Profesor at  Universidad de La Habana, Cuba

🌱🍲 José Manuel Febles González is a distinguished Cuban geographer and Catedrático de Universidad at the University of La Habana. With a wealth of experience, he specializes in Soil Conservation and Environmental Management, holding a UNESCO code in Agronomy. His academic journey includes a 1974 Geology degree from the University of La Habana, a 1989 PhD in Agricultural Sciences, and a 2007 Doctorate in Sciences.Throughout 2013-2020, Febles has contributed significantly to scientific literature, with 48 total articles and 14 book chapter publications. Notably, he has supervised 18 post-doctoral researchers and guided 13 doctoral and 34 master’s theses.📘

Publication Profile:🌟👨‍🎓
📚 Academic Background:
  • Bachelor’s in Geography: University of La Havana, 1974
  • PhD in Agricultural Sciences: Agrarian University of La Havana, 1989
  • Dr. Sc. in Sciences: Agrarian University of La Havana, 2007
📊 Scientific Production (2013-2020):
  • Total Articles: 48
  • Book Chapter Publications: 14
  • Post-Doctoral Supervisions: 18
  • Doctoral Thesis Guidance: 13
  • Master’s Thesis Guidance: 34
  • Citations (SCOPUS): 133
  • h-index (SCOPUS): 9
👨‍🏫 Summary of Career:

Member of the National Commission of Scientific Degrees, Cuba. Full Member of the Cuban Academy of Sciences. Mentor for 14 doctoral theses and over 35 master’s theses. International consultant for FAO, PNUD, GEF, VLIR. Led numerous international projects and university management networks. Conducted courses globally in Switzerland, Sweden, Belgium, Germany, Spain, China, Mexico, USA, Puerto Rico, and more. A distinguished academic, researcher, and influencer in agricultural practices, contributing significantly to Cuba and global agricultural sustainability. 🌱🌍

🌱 Research Focus:

José Manuel Febles González, a distinguished Catedrático de Universidad at the University of La Havana, specializes in the conservation of soils and environmental management, marked by an impressive record of 48 articles and 14 book chapters. His research spans diverse areas, from the characterization of seed banks in Chiapas, Mexico, to the intricate study of karstic-erosive processes in Cuban soils. His work has a global impact, contributing significantly to understanding soil dynamics, nutrient export, and metal accumulation in various environments. Febles González’s expertise lies at the intersection of agriculture, geography, and environmental sustainability. 🌍🌾

 

Publications Top Notes:🌐🔬

 

 

Ivelina Nikolova | Crop Production

Prof Dr Ivelina Nikolova: Leading Research in Crop Production
scientist at  Institute of Forage Crops, Bulgaria

🌱🔬Ivelina Nikolova is a distinguished professor with a Ph.D. in Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, specializing in Plant Protection (Entomology). Born on May 26, 1973, in Rousse, Bulgaria, she has a rich academic career, starting with her master’s degree from Agricultural University, Plovdiv, in 1996.With over 21 years of scientific experience, Professor Nikolova has made significant contributions to the understanding of entomofauna in forage crops, insect pest activity, tolerance/resistance, and organic insecticides. Her major achievements include research on species composition, population dynamics, and economic importance of insect pests in leguminous forage crops.🌍🌾

Publication Profile:🌟👨‍🎓

📚 Education:

Agricultural University, Plovdiv (1991–1996) Speciality: Plant protection and agroecology Qualification degree: Master

🎓 Academic Career:

  • Professor (2016 – Present)
  • Assos. Professor (2012)
  • Academic Research Degree “Doctor” (2007)
  • Assistant Professor (2010)
  • Researcher I, II, III degree (2006, 2003, 2001)

🏆 Major Achievements:

  • Explored insect pests in forage crops
  • Developed environmentally friendly pest management
  • Studied the impact of forage crop management on entomofauna
  • Analyzed chemical composition and nutritional value of forage

🌍 International Experience:

Staff Mobility for Teaching in North Macedonia (2022), Czech Republic (2017), Latvia (2016). Specialization in Ukraine (2008)

👩‍🏫 Academic Leadership:

Head of three research projects. Participation in over twenty research projects. Director of the Institute of Forage Crops, Pleven (Feb 2021 – Present)

🌐 Membership and Positions:

Member of Scientific Organizations Editorial board member of International Journal of Agriculture Science and Food Technology Head of Department and Member of the Board of Directors at IFC-Pleven.

🌱 Research Focus:

Dr. Ivelina Nikolova’s research stands at the forefront of entomological exploration, with a keen focus on sustainable agriculture and pest management. Her pioneering work delves into the markers of resistance against the pea aphid, Acyrthosiphon pisum Harris, within Pisum sativum L. accessions. Additionally, she examines the intricate relationship between biopesticides, the spotted alfalfa aphid (Therioaphis trifolii Monell), and its predator, Coccinella septempunctata L.Furthermore, Dr. Nikolova explores the impact of natural products on Acyrthosiphon pisum density in Pisum sativum L., emphasizing the dual benefits of pest control and enhanced forage quality. Her work reflects a commitment to understanding and promoting ecological balance in agricultural ecosystems. 🐜🌿

Publications:🌐🔬

Johnny Mugisha | Sustainable Crop Production Systems

Prof Johnny Mugisha: Leading Researcher in Sustainable Crop Production Systems
Professor at  Makerere University,  Uganda

🌱🔬Johnny Mugisha is a distinguished Ugandan Agricultural Economist holding the position of Professor at Makerere University. Born on October 17, 1964, he earned his PhD from Justus-Liebig University Giessen, Germany, in 1999, with a focus on the impact of structural adjustment policies on the Ugandan agricultural economy.Throughout his academic journey, Mugisha has been actively involved in teaching and research. He has held various roles at Makerere University, progressing from Assistant Lecturer to his current position as Professor in the Department of Agribusiness and Natural Resource Economics.🌍🌾

Publication Profile:🌟👨‍🎓
👨‍🎓 Education:
  • PhD in Agricultural Economics from Justus-Liebig University, Germany (1999)
  • M.Sc. in Agricultural Economics from Makerere University (1994)
  • B.Sc. Agric. (2nd Class Honours-Upper Division) from Makerere University (1991)
🏫 Professional Position:

Professor at Makerere University, Department of Agribusiness & Natural Resource Economics (Since April 2013)

👨‍🏫🎓 Academic & Administrative Roles:

Dean, School of Agricultural Sciences (2013–2021).Deputy Director, Environment Development Initiative (EfD) Makerere Centre (2019–Present).Head, Department of Agribusiness and Natural Resource Economics (2008–2013). 🌱🔍

🔬 Research Experience:

Leading projects on food diversity, sustainable agriculture, and rural development.PI on projects like EVaPoSIL and Making Potato Value Chain Enhance Productivity

Research Focus 🌱🔬

Johnny Mugisha’s extensive research spans agricultural sustainability, economic analysis, and the impact of external factors on local economies. His work in smallholder farmers’ typologies in seed potato production reflects a dedication to understanding and improving agricultural practices. Additionally, he explores the socioeconomic effects of COVID-19 on fresh food market vendors and delves into the economic analysis of insecticide use among cassava growers. Mugisha’s studies on potato growth factors, intercropping arrangements, and dietary patterns in Uganda showcase a holistic approach to agriculture, nutrition, and environmental sustainability. His work embodies a commitment to enhancing livelihoods, biodiversity, and food systems in Uganda.🌱👨‍🔬