Dr. Abiala Alatise Abiala | Agri Training Awards | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Abiala Alatise Abiala | Agri Training Awards | Best Researcher Award 

Dr. Abiala Alatise Abiala, Tai Solarin University of Education, Nigeria

Abiala Alatise Abiala is a Nigerian academic and researcher with a Ph.D. in Agricultural Extension from Tai Solarin University of Education (TASUED), Ogun State. With a strong educational foundation from the University of Ibadan and over 15 years of teaching and research experience, he currently serves as a Lecturer II at TASUED. His expertise lies in agricultural extension, rural development, and the integration of AI in agriculture. He has earned multiple international travel grants, holds several professional certifications—including in AI and STEM education—and has contributed to capacity building in agricultural science across academic and development sectors.

Professional Profile:

ORCID

Summary of Suitability for the Best Researcher Award – Dr. Abiala Alatise Abiala

Dr. Abiala Alatise Abiala stands as a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award due to his emerging academic excellence, interdisciplinary focus, and consistent professional development in the field of Agricultural Extension and Technology-Driven Education. With a Ph.D. in Agricultural Extension (2024) and over 15 years of academic and teaching experience, he bridges the gap between traditional agricultural practices and modern innovations such as AI integration into agriculture and STEM education.

🎓 Education Background

  • 📘 Ph.D. in Agricultural Extension, Tai Solarin University of Education (TASUED), Ogun State — 2024

  • 🌾 M.Sc. Agricultural Extension and Rural Development (Ph.D. Grade), University of Ibadan — 2009

  • 🍃 B.Ed. Agricultural Science Education (Second Class Upper), University of Ibadan — 2004

  • 🎓 WASSCE, Owode Secondary School — 2000

  • 🏫 Primary School Leaving Certificate, African Primary School, Ayetoro — 1992

🧑‍🏫 Work Experience

  • 📍 Lecturer II, TASUED, Ogun State — 2025–Present

  • 📘 Science Teacher, Idomila Comprehensive High School — 2017–2024

  • 🎓 Assistant Lecturer, Ekiti State University (Epe Campus) — 2011–2017

  • 📚 Subject Teacher, Obanta Comprehensive High School — 2007–2017

  • 🏢 Administrative Officer, TASUED — 2007

  • 🧑‍🏫 Graduate Teacher (NYSC), Nnamdi Azikiwe Secondary School — 2006–2007

🏆 Achievements & Certifications

  • 🤖 Certificate in AI Integration into Agriculture2025

  • 🌐 Microsoft Innovative Educator Expert (MIEE)2023

  • 📊 ToT in STEM (World Bank PSI/PMI)2023

  • 🖊️ Master Copywriting Certificate2022

  • 📈 Advanced STEM Developer2019

  • ✝️ Postgraduate Diplomas in Theology2011 & 2018

🥇 Grants & Awards

  • ✈️ CORAF Travel Grant, Symposium in Lome, Togo — 2023

  • 🌍 SCB Travel Grant, Congress in New Zealand — 2011

  • 🍁 SCB Travel Grant, University of Alberta, Canada — 2010

  • 🏯 SCB Travel Grant, Chinese Academy of Sciences, China — 2009

Publication Top Notes:

Assessment of Local Rice Processing, Packaging and Storage Among Rice Processors in Southwestern Nigeria, West Africa

Ms. Maria Nuria Conejero | Agriculture | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Maria Nuria Conejero | Agriculture | Best Researcher Award 

Ms. Maria Nuria Conejero, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, Spain

Mª Nuria Conejero Rodríguez is a Robotics Research Engineer at the Centro de Automática y Robótica (CAR) UPM-CSIC, currently working on the FlexiGroBots project. She holds a Ph.D. position in Automation and Robotics at the Polytechnic University of Madrid, building on her Master’s Degree in Robotics and Automation from Carlos III University of Madrid and a Bachelor’s in Industrial Electronics and Automation Engineering from the Polytechnic University of Valencia. With a passion for robotics and its future potential, she has gained valuable experience through roles such as a Research Fellow at CAR and an internship at Embention Sistemas Inteligentes. Mª Nuria’s dedication to the field is demonstrated by her achievements, including the Cátedra Fundación Torrecid Award for the best Final Degree Project and a top 3 finish in the National Ranking of Industrial Electronic Engineering and Automation. Proficient in a range of technologies, including ROS, Python, and various robotics simulators, she is driven by a strong desire to contribute to innovative research in robotics and automation.

Professional Profile:

SCOPUS
ORCID

Summary of Suitability for Best Researcher Award

Maria Nuria Conejero Rodríguez is a highly talented and dedicated researcher in the field of Robotics and Automation, with a strong foundation in industrial electronics, robotic systems, and control systems. Her academic background, combined with her impressive research experience and hands-on work with advanced robotic projects, makes her an exceptional candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

🎓 Education

  • PhD in Automation and Robotics
    Polytechnic University of Madrid | 09/2023-Present

  • Master’s Degree in Robotics and Automation
    Carlos III University of Madrid | 09/2020 – 06/2022

  • Degree in Industrial Electronics and Automation Engineering
    Polytechnic University of Valencia | 09/2016 – 06/2020
    ARA Group (High Academic Achievement)

  • Erasmus Stay
    University of Skövde, Sweden | 09/2019 – 01/2020

💼 Work Experience

  • Robotics Researcher Engineer
    Centro de Automática y Robótica (CAR) UPM-CSIC | 08/2022-Present
    Project: FlexiGroBots

  • Research Fellow
    Centro de Automática y Robótica (CAR) UPM-CSIC | 10/2021-06/2022
    JAE Fellowship Intro 2021

  • Internship at Embention Sistemas Inteligentes, SL
    Alicante, Spain | 07/2019-08/2019
    Control Area

🏆 Achievements

IT Skills:

  • Programming & Software: ROS, Python (+OpenCV), Matlab, C/C++, GitHub, Arduino, LaTeX, Robot Simulators (Gazebo, OpenRave), RobotStudio, Mathematica, Blender, Motive

  • Machine/Deep Learning, Proteus, Microsoft Office

Languages:

  • English: Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE)

🏅 Awards and Honors

  • Cátedra Fundación Torrecid Award
    For the Best Final Degree Project (2019/2020 academic year)

  • 3rd Position
    National Ranking of Industrial Electronic Engineering and Automation 2020 of the Spanish Society of Academic Excellence

  • Best University Entrance Record
    Award for students with the best university entrance record (2016/2017 academic year)

Publication Top Notes:

A collaborative robotic fleet for yield mapping and manual fruit harvesting assistance

Collaborative Harvest Robot

Shri Rangassami Silambiah Ramasamy | Crop Cultivation award | Best Researcher Award

Assoc Prof Dr. Shri Rangassami Silambiah Ramasamy | Crop Cultivation award | Best Researcher Award

Associate Professor at Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, India

S.R. Shri Rangasami, a dedicated agricultural scientist from Tamil Nadu, India, specializes in agronomy. Born on March 15, 1973, he has dedicated his career to enhancing crop productivity and sustainable farming practices. With a strong academic background, he obtained his Ph.D. from Tamil Nadu Agricultural University. Rangasami has held various academic positions, including Assistant and Associate Professor, significantly contributing to agricultural research and education. His commitment to community training and extension programs highlights his passion for agricultural development.

Profile:

Scopus Profile

Strengths for the Award:

  1. Academic Excellence: Shri Rangasami has an impressive academic background, holding a Doctorate and Master’s in Agronomy from a prestigious institution (Tamil Nadu Agricultural University), showcasing his strong foundation in the field.
  2. Extensive Experience: With over 14 years of experience in various roles as an Assistant and Associate Professor, he has contributed significantly to teaching, research, and extension services, indicating a deep commitment to agricultural education and practice.
  3. Diverse Teaching Portfolio: His experience in teaching various courses related to agronomy demonstrates his versatility and ability to convey complex concepts effectively to students, fostering the next generation of agricultural scientists.
  4. Research Contributions: His publications in reputable journals on topics like nutrient management, crop productivity, and sustainable practices highlight his active engagement in research and contribution to advancing agricultural science. The presence of multiple articles with citations indicates that his work is recognized and valued in the academic community.
  5. Training and Extension Activities: Shri Rangasami’s extensive involvement in organizing off-campus training and workshops reflects his dedication to community outreach and knowledge transfer, which is crucial for practical applications of agricultural research.
  6. Participation in Seminars and Workshops: His attendance at various training programs and workshops emphasizes his commitment to continuous learning and staying updated with the latest developments in agricultural research and education.

Areas for Improvement:

  1. Publication Output: While he has a number of publications, increasing the frequency and diversity of research outputs could enhance his visibility and impact within the research community. Focusing on high-impact journals could further strengthen his profile.
  2. Collaboration and Networking: Engaging in more interdisciplinary research and collaborations with other institutions could open up new avenues for innovation and enhance the scope of his research.
  3. Grant Acquisition: Seeking funding for research projects could provide opportunities to conduct larger studies, increase research output, and potentially lead to groundbreaking discoveries in the field of agronomy.
  4. Mentorship: Expanding his role in mentoring graduate students and junior researchers could enhance his leadership skills and contribute to the academic community’s growth.

Education:

Dr. S.R. Shri Rangasami completed his Doctor of Philosophy in Agronomy from Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, in 2004, earning a distinction of 9.05. He also holds a Master of Science in Agriculture, with a specialization in Agronomy, obtained in 1997 with a remarkable score of 9.47. His Bachelor of Science in Agriculture was completed in 1994. Additionally, he qualified the National Eligibility Test in 2000, further cementing his expertise in agronomy and agricultural sciences.

Experience:

With over 14 years of teaching and research experience, Dr. Rangasami has worked at various prestigious institutions. He started as an Assistant Professor at the Oilseeds Research Station in Tindivanam and has progressively taken on roles at ICAR-Krishi Vigyan Kendras, Agro Climatic Research Centres, and the Rice Research Station. He currently serves as an Associate Professor in the Department of Forage Crops at Tamil Nadu Agricultural University. His extensive experience encompasses research guidance, curriculum development, and community training programs aimed at improving agricultural practices.

Research Focus:

Dr. Rangasami’s research primarily revolves around agronomy, focusing on enhancing crop productivity and sustainable farming practices. His work includes studying the effects of different nutrient management strategies, crop diversification, and the System of Rice Intensification. He aims to develop efficient farming techniques that benefit both the environment and agricultural yields. His research also addresses challenges faced by farmers, including weed management and resource optimization, to foster sustainable agriculture.

Publications Top Notes:

  • Quantitative Variables Analysis, Growth and Yield of Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) under Different Weed Management Practices
  • Numerical Variables Analysis and Improving Phosphorus Use Efficiency in Groundnut with Microbial Cultures in Coastal Zone of Puducherry
  • Growth Performance, Quantitative Analysis and Economics of Broiler Chickens as Influenced by Herbal Dietary Additives as Alternative Growth Booster
  • Forage Nutritive Quality, Yield and Quantitative Analysis of Leguminous Fodder Cowpea-Maize System as Influenced by Integrated Nutrient Management in Southern Zone of India
  • Productivity and Econometric Analysis of Leguminous Monkey-nut (Arachis hypogaea L.) as Influenced by Growth Retardant
  • Growth and Yield Attributes of Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) as Influenced by Tank-mix Application of Early Post Emergence Herbicides
  • Prevalence of bone mineral density abnormalities and factors affecting bone density in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in a tertiary care hospital in Southern India

Conclusion:

S.R. Shri Rangasami demonstrates a robust profile as a researcher with significant contributions to agronomy, extensive teaching experience, and active community engagement. His commitment to agricultural education and research, coupled with a solid track record of publications, positions him as a strong candidate for the “Best Researcher Award.” By addressing the identified areas for improvement, he could further enhance his impact and recognition in the field. His passion for agronomy and dedication to both teaching and research make him an asset to the academic and agricultural communities.

Dr. Bingwen Qiu | Crop Monitoring Award | Women Researcher Award

Dr. Bingwen Qiu | Crop Monitoring Award | Women Researcher Award 

Dr. Bingwen Qiu, Fuzhou University, China.

Dr. Qiu Bingwen is a Research Professor at the Key Laboratory of Spatial Data Mining & Information Sharing of the Ministry of Education, based at Fuzhou University in Fujian, China. He holds a Ph.D. in Cartology and GIS from the Graduate School of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, where he conducted multi-scale analyses of regional land use patterns. Dr. Qiu’s research interests center on mapping cropping systems at large scales using optical and radar time series datasets, integrating spatial data for environmental assessment. He has held visiting scholar positions at the Carnegie Institution for Science and the University of Cambridge, working under renowned scientists such as Joe Berry and Robert Haining. His academic background includes a Master’s degree in Environmental Engineering from Huazhong Agricultural University and a Bachelor’s degree in Soil Science from Hunan Agricultural University.

Professional Profile:

SCOPUS

Summary of Suitability for Women Researcher Award:

Dr. Qiu Bingwen, a Research Professor with extensive experience in GIS, cartology, and environmental engineering, has significantly contributed to mapping large-scale cropping systems using optical and radar datasets. She has multiple high-impact publications in the fields of agricultural systems, crop mapping, and sustainability, indicating a strong research portfolio. Dr. Qiu’s academic path includes a Ph.D. from the Chinese Academy of Sciences and multiple visiting scholar appointments at prestigious institutions like the Carnegie Institution for Science and the University of Cambridge.

Education:

  • Ph.D. in Cartology and GIS
    Institute of Geographic Sciences and Natural Resources Research, Graduate School of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
    Sept 2002 – Jun 2006
    Dissertation: Multi-scale analysis of regional land use patterns and its change modeling
    Supervisor: Tianhe Chi
  • Master of Science in Environmental Engineering
    Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
    Sept 1997 – Jun 2000
    Thesis: Water & Land Resource analysis and Assessment in South Lake and Shizi Mountain area of Wuhan city Based on GIS
  • Bachelor of Agronomy in Soil Science
    Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, China
    Sept 1993 – Jun 1997

Work Experience:

  • Visiting Scholar
    Carnegie Institution for Science, Department of Global Ecology
    Sept 2018 – March 2021
    Supervisors: Joe Berry, Gregory P. Asner
  • Visiting Scholar
    University of Cambridge, Department of Geography
    Aug 2009 – Aug 2010
    Supervisor: Robert Haining

Publication top Notes:

National-scale 10-m maps of cropland use intensity in China during 2018–2023

A temporal-spatial deep learning network for winter wheat mapping using time-series Sentinel-2 imagery

National-scale 10 m annual maize maps for China and the contiguous United States using a robust index from Sentinel-2 time series

Mapping upland crop–rice cropping systems for targeted sustainable intensification in South China

Unveiling grain production patterns in China (2005–2020) towards targeted sustainable intensification

Where is tea grown in the world: A robust mapping framework for agroforestry crop with knowledge graph and sentinels images

 

 

Dr. Jyotirmay Mahapatra | Agriculture Award | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Jyotirmay Mahapatra | Agriculture Award | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Jyotirmay Mahapatra, College of Agricultural Engineering and Technology, OUAT, Bhubaneswar, India

Dr. Jyotirmay Mahapatra is an accomplished agricultural engineer with a Ph.D. in Agricultural Engineering, specializing in Farm Machinery and Power Engineering (FMPE) from the Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI), New Delhi. He holds a Master of Technology degree in the same field from Maharana Pratap University of Agriculture and Technology (MPUAT), Udaipur, and a Bachelor’s degree from Orissa University of Agriculture and Technology (OUAT), Bhubaneswar. His academic journey is marked by excellence, having secured top honors at each educational level. With a strong passion for teaching, research, and extension activities in farm mechanization, Dr. Mahapatra has served as an Assistant Professor at Centurion University of Technology and Management (CUTM), Paralakhemundi, Odisha, and has guided numerous undergraduate research projects. His research focuses on optimizing design parameters for agricultural machinery, as evidenced by his published works in various national and international peer-reviewed journals. Notably, he has explored topics such as precision seeding, moisture-dependent properties of grains, and the development of specialized agricultural equipment.

Professional Profile:

Summary of Suitability for Best Researcher Award

Dr. Jyotirmay Mahapatra is a highly qualified candidate for the Best Researcher Award, given his extensive academic background, research achievements, and contributions to the field of Agricultural Engineering.

Education:

  1. High School Certificate Examination – Board of Secondary Education (BSE), Odisha, 2009.
    • Class: First
    • Marks: 89.16%
  2. Higher Secondary Examination Certificate – Council of Higher Secondary Education (CHSE), Odisha, 2011.
    • Class: First
    • Marks: 66.00%
  3. Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech) in Agricultural Engineering – Orissa University of Agriculture and Technology (OUAT), Bhubaneswar, 2015.
    • Class: First
    • Marks: 76.00%
  4. Master of Technology (M.Tech) in Agricultural Engineering, Specialization in Farm Machinery and Power Engineering (FMPE) – Maharana Pratap University of Agriculture and Technology (MPUAT), Udaipur, 2017.
    • Class: First
    • Marks: 81.50%
    • Master’s Research Topic: Optimization of Design Parameters of Power Tiller Rotavator Blade for Dry Land Operation using FEA Technique.
  5. Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Agricultural Engineering, Specialization in FMPE – Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI), New Delhi, 2023.
    • Class: First
    • Marks: 78.50%
    • Doctoral Research Topic: An Investigation into the Performance of Material Coated Metering Plates for a DC Motor Operated Pneumatic Planter.

Work Experience:

  • Assistant Professor – Centurion University of Technology and Management (CUTM), Paralakhemundi, Odisha.
    • Organized and participated in farmers’ fairs.
    • Guided six B.Tech students in a research project titled “Design of Chaff Cutter for Mushroom Cultivation.”
  • Guest Faculty – College of Agricultural Engineering and Technology (CAET), Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar, Odisha.

Skills:

  • Software Proficiency: Windows 10/8/7, C, MS Office, Solid works, Ansys, EDEM, Design Expert, SAS.
  • Communication and Presentation: Strong communication and presentation skills with experience in publishing articles in national and international journals and presenting research work at conferences.

Publication top Notes:

An Adjustable Pneumatic Planter with Reduced Source Vibration for Better Precision in Field Seeding

An Adjustable Pneumatic Planter with Reduced Source Vibration for Better Precision in Field Seeding