Elsie Salano | Food Security | Best Researcher Award

Ms Elsie Salano | Food Security | Best Researcher Award

PhD Candidate at  Egerton University, Kenya

Elsie has accumulated valuable work experience as a Part-Time Lecturer at Egerton University since September 2015, where she teaches various courses in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, and related fields. She has also served as a Part-Time Lecturer at the University of Kabianga from January 2017 to April 2019, covering subjects such as Microbial Biochemistry, Biotechnology, and Molecular Genetics. In addition to her teaching roles, Elsie worked as a Research Assistant on the Mycotoxin Research Project at Egerton University from June to December 2015 and gained practical experience at Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital Laboratories in June-July 2008.

 

Publication Profile:🌟👨‍🎓

Education Background

  • 📚 Ph.D. in Plant Biotechnology
    Egerton University, August 2017 – Present (In Progress)
  • 🎓 M.Sc. in Biochemistry
    Egerton University, August 2012 – December 2015
    Graduated on 4th December 2015.
  • 🎓 B.Sc. in Biochemistry (First Class Honours)
    Moi University, August 2005 – May 2009
    Graduated on 10th December 2009.
  • 🏫 Secondary Education
    Moi High School, Kabarak, 2000-2003 (Mean grade A)
  • 🏫 Primary Education
    Musingu Primary School, 1991-1999 (K.C.P.E total score 598 out of 700)

Work Experience

  • 👩‍🏫 Part-Time Lecturer, Egerton University, Kenya
    September 2015 – Present
    Courses Taught: Basic Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Forensic Science, and more.
  • 👩‍🏫 Part-Time Lecturer, University of Kabianga, Kenya
    January 2017 – April 2019
    Courses Taught: Biotechnology, Molecular Genetics, Biochemical Pharmacology, and more.
  • 👩‍🔬 Research Assistant, Mycotoxin Research Project, Egerton University
    June 2015 – December 2015
  • 👩‍🔬 Attachment to Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital Laboratories
    June 2008 – July 2008

Awards

  • 🏆 National Commission for Science, Technology, and Innovation Research Grant
    (NACOSTI/RCD/ST&I 5th Call MSc 085).
  • 🎓 Best Student in the Biochemistry Class
    Moi University, 2009.

🔍 Research Focus:

Elsie Nyangweso Salano’s research primarily centers on the impact of mycotoxins, particularly aflatoxins, in agricultural products. Her recent publication (2023) delves into the differential accumulation of aflatoxins in peanut accessions when challenged by Aspergillus flavus, offering insights for aflatoxin mitigation. In a 2018 study, she collaborated on assessing the perennial and seasonal contamination of maize by aflatoxins in eastern Kenya. Salano’s contributions extend to exploring the diversity of putatively toxigenic Aspergillus species in maize and soil samples, emphasizing the importance of understanding and addressing aflatoxicosis hotspots. Her work showcases a dedication to agricultural sustainability and food safety. 🌾👩‍🔬

 

Publications Top Notes:
  1. 🥜 “Peanut (Arachis hypogea) accessions differentially accumulate aflatoxins upon challenge by Aspergillus flavus: Implications for aflatoxin mitigation”
    Authors: Salano, E.N.; Mulwa, R.M.; Obonyo, M.A.
    Journal: Journal of Agriculture and Food Research, 2024, 15, 100923Abstract: This study investigates the differential accumulation of aflatoxins in peanut accessions when exposed to Aspergillus flavus, offering crucial insights for effective aflatoxin mitigation strategies.
  2. 🌽 “Perennial and seasonal contamination of maize by aflatoxins in eastern Kenya”
    Authors: Obonyo, M.A.; Salano, E.N.
    Journal: International Journal of Food Contamination, 2018, 5(1), pp. 1–5, 6Abstract: Addressing the perennial and seasonal contamination of maize by aflatoxins in eastern Kenya, this research by Obonyo and Salano sheds light on the challenges and potential solutions for enhancing food safety in the region.

 

Noemie David-Rogeat | Food Security | Best Researcher Award

Ms Noemie David-Rogeat |  Food Security |  Best Researcher Award

PhD Student at  University of Nottingham, United Kingdom

Noémie David-Rogeat is a highly motivated PhD student with a focus on agricultural and food security, having completed her doctoral studies at the University of Nottingham and NIAB from 2019 to 2023. During her PhD, she demonstrated strong management skills by hosting two students over an 8-week period. Noémie is adept at knowledge dissemination, as evident from her presentations to various audiences and the successful organization of a month-long research trip to Tanzania.

 

Publication Profile:🌟👨‍🎓

🎓 Education:

Ph.D. in Agricultural & Food Security, University of Nottingham & NIAB (2019-2023) Developed strong management skills while hosting 2 students for 8 weeks Organized a successful month-long research trip to Tanzania. MSc in Biotechnology & Biological Sciences, Imperial College London (2018-2019) Attained a distinction in a literature review on genetic improvement of the photosynthetic system. Erasmus Year at KTH (2017-2018) Adapted to new teaching methods and actively participated in student associations. Bachelor in Life Sciences, EPFL (2015-2018) Vice-president of the student association, tutored algebra, attended diverse lectures

🏆 Awards:

  • Winner of the David Miller Award 2023
  • Recipient of a £1500 travel grant
  • Finalist in the 3 Minute Thesis competition

👩‍🔬 Work Experience:

Intern at Rothamsted Research (Jan 2022 – Mar 2022) Explored innovative ways of presenting data and facilitated collaborations. Tutor at EPFL (Jan 2016 – May 2016) Guided first-year students in algebra, organized weekly summaries for better understanding

💻 Skills:

  • Coding proficiency in C++, Java, and R
  • Fluent in French (mother tongue)
  • Expertise in Microsoft Word package
  • Strong communication and presentation skills

🔍 Research Focus:

Noémie David-Rogeat is a dedicated researcher specializing in agricultural and food security 🌾. Her diverse research contributions include investigating the interactive impacts of drought and heatwave on African eggplants, highlighted in the paper with DOI: 10.1016/j.envexpbot.2024.105670 🌿. Additionally, her work delves into the effects of heat and salinity stress on the African eggplant cultivar F1 Djamba, showcased in the publication with DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2024.1323665 🍆. Noémie’s interest extends to biostimulants’ potential in enhancing stress tolerance in Solanum crops, explored in the review paper with DOI: 10.9734/IJPSS/2023/v35i183411 🌱. She has also contributed to the field of food digestion engineering in a book chapter (DOI: 10.1016/B978-0-12-822714-5.00010-3) 📘.

 

Publications Top Notes:

 

Yasmeen  Saleem | Crop Production | Best Researcher Award

Dr Yasmeen  Saleem | Crop Production |  Best Researcher Award

Dr. Yasmeen Saleem is a highly skilled professional with a Ph.D. in Botany from the University of Sargodha, Sargodha. She specializes in plant tissue culture and has a strong background in investigating the genetic basis of abiotic/biotic stresses in plants. Her expertise extends to the development of resistance through tissue culture techniques and proficiency in statistical analyses.

 

Publication Profile:🌟👨‍🎓

Education:

🎓 PhD in Plant Tissue Culture, University of Sargodha, Sargodha
📜 M.Phil. in Botany (2014), University of Agriculture Faisalabad
📜 M.Sc. in Botany (2007), BZU Multan
📜 B.Sc. in Botany, Zoology, Chemistry (2004), BZU Multan

Skills:

👩‍🏫 Teaching at graduate and post-graduate level
🧬 Investigation of genetic basis of abiotic/biotic stresses in Plants
🌱 Development of Resistance through Tissue Culture technique
📊 Statistical analyses

Research Experience:

🔬 M.Phil. Thesis: “Interactive effect of nickel and proline on growth and physiological attributes on two wheat genotypes”

📚 PhD Thesis (2016-2022): “In vitro screening of Lead (Pb) toxicity by morphological and biochemical characterization of callus in sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum L.)”

Teaching Experience:

🏫 COMAND College Sahiwal (May 2007 – August 2008)
🏫 College Teacher Intern (CTI) at Govt. Post-Graduate College, Sahiwal (September 2008 – May 2011)
🏫 Minhaj University of Lahore (Visiting Faculty, October 2014 – October 2015)

Dr. Yasmeen Saleem is a dedicated botanist with expertise in plant tissue culture, genetic studies, and teaching. With a strong research background focusing on stress tolerance and resistance development in plants, she contributes significantly to the field of botany. 🌿

🔍 Research Focus:

Dr. Yasmeen Saleem’s research primarily focuses on enhancing the resilience and productivity of sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum L.) under various conditions. 🌱 Her work includes investigating the ameliorative effects of ascorbic acid on lead toxicity in sugarcane under in vitro conditions, contributing to environmental science and pollution research (IF 5.1). Additionally, she explores the synergetic effects of different plant growth regulators on micropropagation of sugarcane, highlighting advancements in agricultural practices (IF 3.4). Dr. Saleem also conducts a comparative in vitro study on lead tolerance in sugarcane genotypes, emphasizing the importance of plant tolerance mechanisms (IF 4.2). Her upcoming research delves into the relationship of digital ground cover with seed morphometric and yield-related traits in wheat varieties, addressing agricultural sustainability in semi-arid regions. 🌾

 

 

Jiaxun Xin | Crop Production | Best Scholar Award

Mr Jiaxun Xin | Crop Production | Best Scholar Award

Undergraduate student at  Minzu University of China

Jiaxun Xin, a 22-year-old male from Minzu University of China, is an undergraduate student specializing in Landscape Ecology and Sustainable Crop Production. Under the mentorship of landscape ecologist Yu Peng, he has devoted two years to researching macro ecology using remote sensing, big data, and machine learning. Currently pursuing his studies, Jiaxun has authored six SCI papers, including a significant contribution as the first author to the paper titled “Both class- and landscape-level patterns influence crop yield,” published in the European Journal of Agronomy.

 

Publication Profile:🌟👨‍🎓

📚 Academic Journey:

Jiaxun embarked on his research journey in the second semester of his sophomore year, delving into macro ecology using cutting-edge technologies like remote sensing, big data, and machine learning.

🌾 Expertise:

Jiaxun’s expertise lies in evaluating the intricate relationship between landscape metrics, climate variables, and crop yields for maize, rice, and wheat in China. His findings suggest that shaping both class- and landscape-level patterns can be instrumental in enhancing crop yield, providing valuable insights for global food security.

🏆 Awards and Recognition:

Jiaxun Xin has been recognized as a Young Scientist, reflecting his dedication and contributions to the field of ecology.

Research Focus:

Jiaxun Xin’s research endeavors predominantly center around the intricate interplay of landscape patterns and their profound impact on crop yield and plant diversity. His work spans diverse categories, including:

  1. Landscape Ecology 🏞️: Jiaxun explores the effects of landscape patterns on plant species diversity globally, shedding light on the dynamic relationships that shape ecosystems.
  2. Crop Yield and Climate Change 🌾🌍: With a keen focus on sustainable crop production, he delves into understanding how both class- and landscape-level patterns influence crop yield, offering crucial insights in the face of climate change challenges.
  3. Spatial Dynamics in Plant Communities 🌐🌿: Jiaxun investigates the global patterns and drivers of spatial autocorrelation in plant communities within protected areas, contributing to our understanding of biodiversity conservation.
  4. Functional Traits and Climate Factors 🍃🌧️: His work extends to linking leaf functional traits with soil and climate factors in forest ecosystems, providing valuable knowledge for ecosystem management.

Jiaxun Xin’s diverse research categories showcase his commitment to addressing complex ecological challenges, making significant contributions to the fields of landscape ecology, crop yield sustainability, and biodiversity conservation.

Publications Top Notes:

 

 

Baber Ali | Crop Production | Best Researcher Award

Dr Baber Ali | Crop Production | Best Researcher Award

Research Fellow at  Western Sydney University, Australia

Baber Ali is a Pakistani plant scientist with expertise in various fields, including Plant Breeding, Plant-Microbe Interactions, Plant-Soil Interactions, and Stress Physiology. He earned his M. Phil. in Plant Sciences from Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, with a remarkable 4.0/4.0 CGPA and a Distinction, focusing on the screening and assessment of Plant Growth-Promoting Traits of Halo-tolerant Rhizobacteria to mitigate salinity stress for sustainable agriculture.

 

Publication Profile:🌟👨‍🎓

📚 Education:

  • M. Phil. in Plant Sciences (2020-2022) from Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, with a remarkable 4.0/4.0 CGPA.
  • Thesis: “Preliminary Investigations on Screening and Assessment of PGP Traits of Halo-tolerant Rhizobacteria to Mitigate Salinity Stress for Sustainable Agriculture.”
  • BS (Hons.) in Botany (2015-2019) from Government College University, Lahore, showcasing excellence with a 3.20/4.0 CGPA.
  • BS (Hons.) Thesis: “Comparative Investigation of Mycorrhization Helper Bacterial Diversity Associated with Some Pines of Laam Leek Forest, Kumrat Valley, KPK, Pakistan.”

Professional Journey:

  • Research Fellow at Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad (Feb 2020-Feb 2022), contributing to the project on screening and assessing PGP traits of Halo-tolerant Rhizobacteria.
  • Researcher at Government College University, Lahore (July 2018-July 2019), engaged in the project exploring Mycorrhization Helper Bacterial Diversity in Kumrat Valley.

Certifications and Scholarships:

  • Proud recipient of the “GCU Endowment Fund Trust Scholarship.”
  • Acknowledged for outstanding contributions in academic and extracurricular activities.

Lab Expertise and Skills:

  • Proficient in chemical analysis, molecular methods (including CRISPR/Cas), cell culture, microscopy, and physiological and biochemical testing.
  • Adept at scientific writing, report writing, and possessing leadership and management skills.

Reviewer and Editorial Member:

  • Serving as a reviewer for esteemed journals like Algal Research, Environmental Pollution, and PLoS ONE.
  • Editorial member for the Turkish Journal of Agriculture and Forestry.

 

Research Focus 🌱🔬:

Baber Ali is a prolific researcher focusing on the intersection of plant-microbe interactions and sustainable agriculture. His research spans diverse areas, including the amelioration of oxidative damage in maize under salinity stress using Bacillus thuringiensis (🌽🦠), genomics-assisted breeding for harmony between agriculture, the environment, and food security (🧬🌱🌍), and the modulation of salt tolerance in maize through plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) (🌱🤝🧪). His contributions extend to bacterial-mediated salinity stress tolerance in maize and the characterization of advanced bread wheat lines for yield and stripe rust resistance (🍞🌾). Baber Ali’s diverse research portfolio reflects his commitment to sustainable and resilient agricultural practices. #PlantScience #SustainableAgriculture #Microbiology

 

Citations:

With 1,663 citations across 581 documents, Baber Ali has demonstrated a substantial impact in the academic realm. His h-index, standing at 24, reflects the significance of his research output. This metric indicates that Baber Ali has authored at least 24 papers, each of which has been cited at least 24 times. Such a robust citation record underscores the influence and recognition of his work within the scholarly community. Baber Ali’s contributions have left a lasting mark in the field, as evidenced by the impressive number of citations and documents associated with his research. 📚🔬 #ResearchImpact #Citations #ScholarlyAchievement

Publications Top Notes:

  1. Title: Zinc and amino acids improve the growth, physiological, and biochemical attributes of corn under different irrigation levels
    • Authors: Elshamly, A.M.S., Iqbal, R., Ali, B., …, Mustafa, A.E.-Z.M.A., Hamed, M.H.
    • Journal: Rhizosphere
    • Year: 2024
    • Volume: 29
    • Page: 100820
  2. Title: Maximizing wheat yield through soil quality enhancement: A combined approach with Azospirillum brasilense and bentonite
    • Authors: Iqbal, R., Valipour, M., Ali, B., …, Ali, M.A., Farah, M.A.
    • Journal: Plant Stress
    • Year: 2024
    • Volume: 11
    • Page: 100321
  3. Title: Molecular characterization of genes involved in tolerance of cadmium in Triticum aestivum (L.) under Cd stress
    • Authors: Rasheed, A., AL-Huqail, A.A., Ali, B., …, Al-Qthanin, R.N., Soudy, F.A.
    • Journal: Journal of Hazardous Materials
    • Year: 2024
    • Volume: 464
    • Page: 132955
  4. Title: Prospects of the sustainability of traditional and ethnic foods and their applications for basic health care in human society
    • Authors: Anwar, T., Qureshi, H., Naeem, H., …, Iqbal, R., Paray, B.A.
    • Journal: Journal of King Saud University – Science
    • Year: 2024
    • Volume: 36(2)
    • Page: 103016
  5. Title: Mitigating chromium toxicity in rice (Oryza sativa L.) via ABA and 6-BAP: Unveiling synergistic benefits on morphophysiological traits and ASA-GSH cycle
    • Authors: Alwutayd, K.M., Alghanem, S.M.S., Alwutayd, R., …, Gómez-Oliván, L.M., Abeed, A.H.A.
    • Journal: Science of the Total Environment
    • Year: 2024
    • Volume: 908
    • Page: 168208

These publications reflect Baber Ali’s diverse research interests and contributions to areas such as crop growth, soil quality enhancement, molecular characterization, and mitigation of environmental stress in crops. 📚🌱🔬 #ResearchPublications #PlantScience #AgriculturalInnovation

 

 

 

 

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.🌱👨‍🔬