Dr. Henlay Magara | Food Security Awards | Innovative Research Award

Dr. Henlay Magara | Food Security Awards | Innovative Research Award 

Dr. Henlay Magara, Madagascar Biodiversity Center, Madagascar

Dr. Henlay Juma Otieno Magara is a Kenyan agricultural entomologist and food security expert currently affiliated with the Madagascar Biodiversity Center. He holds a Ph.D. in Food Security from Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology, where his research focused on edible cricket species, their feed substrates, and nutritional content. He earned his M.Sc. in Agricultural Entomology from Kenyatta University and a B.Sc. in Agricultural Education and Extension from Egerton University. Dr. Magara has extensive experience in academic and research institutions, including serving as a university lecturer, high school teacher, and research fellow. He has also held leadership roles such as Head of Science Departments and Chairperson of a School Board of Management. Beyond academia, he is deeply committed to community service, volunteering as an agricultural extension worker and working to improve the well-being of vulnerable populations. His broad skill set spans scientific research, quality control, education, community outreach, and project management, making him a dedicated contributor to both scientific advancement and societal development.

Professional Profile:

GOOGLE SCHOLAR

ORCID

Summary of Suitability for the Innovative Research Award:

Dr. Henlay Juma Otieno Magara is a highly suitable candidate for the Innovative Research Award owing to his unique and impactful contributions to the field of food security and agricultural entomology. His research on the nutritional profiling and environmental optimization of edible crickets—specifically Scapsipedus icipe—marks a novel approach to alternative protein sources, addressing both food security and sustainable agriculture.

🎓 Education

  • 🥇 Ph.D. in Food Security (2022)
    Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology
    Thesis: Cricket species composition, feed substrates, optimal temperature & nutritional content of edible cricket Scapsipedus icipe

  • 🌾 M.Sc. in Agricultural Entomology (2013)
    Kenyatta University
    Thesis: Effect of Herbivore-Induced Plant Volatiles on maize pest Chilo partellus

  • 🌱 B.Sc. in Agricultural Education and Extension (2004)
    Egerton University – Second Class Honours Upper Division

  • 🧠 Diploma in Human Resource Management (2007)
    Kenya Institute of Management – Upper Credit

  • 💻 Certificate in Computer Systems & Applications (1998)
    Skynet Computer College

  • 🐄 Certificate in Animal Nutrition

💼 Work Experience

  • 🧑‍🏫 University Lecturer – Lecturing and mentoring students

  • 🧬 Research FellowMadagascar Biodiversity Center & icipe

  • 🏫 High School TeacherMoteiribe and Tala High Schools

  • 🌾 Agricultural Extension Officer (Volunteer) – Gucha South Sub-County

  • 🧑‍🔬 Head of Feed Development Department – Madagascar Biodiversity Center

  • 🧑‍🔧 Science Department Head – Multiple high schools

  • 🎓 Board Chairperson – Monianku High School

🏆 Achievements

  • 🧑‍🔬 Mentored students to national & international science fairs

  • 📊 Led quality audits and performance improvements in science departments

  • 🤝 Organized a regional scientific conference for 69+ participants

  • 🌍 Active in community health and agriculture through jigger treatment and farm support

  • 📖 Weekly reading tutor for children with difficulties

  • 🧑‍🏫 Inducted and trained new science teachers

  • 🧠 Led collaborative teams of over 20 professionals

🎖️ Awards & Honors

  • 🏅 Recognized for community service and mentorship in education and agriculture

  • 🏫 Honored leadership roles in school boards and departments

  • 🧑‍🔬 Earned respect as a key researcher in edible insect studies and food security innovation

Publication Top Notes:

Growth Performance and Nutritional Content of Tropical House Cricket (Gryllodes sigillatus (Walker, 1969)) Reared on Diets Formulated from Weeds and Agro By-Products

Weeds and agro by-products for sustainable farming of edible field cricket, Gryllus madagascarensis (Orthoptera: Gryllidae)

Effect of Feed on the Growth Performance, Nutrition Content and Cost of Raising the Field Cricket (Gryllus madagascarensis) as a Sustainable Nutrient Source in Madagascar

Impact of temperature on the bionomics and geographical range margins of the two-spotted field cricket Gryllus bimaculatus in the world: Implications for its mass farming

 

Dr. Meinan Wang | Agriculture | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Meinan Wang | Agriculture | Best Researcher Award 

Dr. Meinan Wang, Washington State University, Dep. of Plant Pathology, United States

Dr. Meinan Wang is a plant pathologist with extensive expertise in the biology, genetics, and management of stripe rust in wheat. He earned his Ph.D. in Plant Pathology from Northwest A & F University in China, following a Master’s and Bachelor’s in related agricultural sciences from the same institution. Currently serving as a Research Associate and Laboratory Manager at Washington State University since 2010, Dr. Wang has played a critical role in advancing research on the virulence, population genetics, and genomic structure of the stripe rust pathogen. His work focuses on identifying novel resistance genes, developing disease-resistant wheat germplasms, and conducting genetic mapping of resistance traits. A former associate professor and experienced international collaborator, Dr. Wang is also an active member of the American Phytopathological Society and frequently serves as a reviewer for leading journals in plant science and genetics.

Professional Profile:

GOOGLE SCHOLAR

Summary of Suitability for Best Researcher Award:

Dr. Meinan Wang is a distinguished plant pathologist with over three decades of experience in academic research, specializing in the genetic and molecular study of stripe rust—a devastating disease in wheat. With a Ph.D. in Plant Pathology and a strong track record of contributions at both Northwest A & F University and Washington State University (WSU), Dr. Wang exemplifies the qualities of a high-impact researcher in agricultural biotechnology and crop protection.

🎓 Education

  • 📍 Ph.D. in Plant Pathology – Northwest A & F University, China (2002)

  • 📍 M.S. in Plant Pathology – Northwest Agricultural University, China (1999)

  • 📍 B.S. in Plant Protection – Northwest Agricultural University, China (1992)

💼 Work Experience

  • 🧪 Research Associate & Laboratory Manager
    Washington State University, Pullman, WA, USA (2010–Present)

  • 🌾 Visiting Scholar
    Washington State University, Pullman, WA, USA (2005–2010)

  • 🎓 Associate Professor
    Northwest A & F University, China (2003–2005)

  • 🧬 Lecturer
    Northwest A & F University, China (1998–2002)

  • 🔬 Research Assistant
    Northwest Agricultural University, China (1992–1997)

🏆 Achievements

  • 🧬 Advanced research on stripe rust pathogen biology, genetics, and virulence

  • 🌱 Identified novel resistance genes and developed disease-resistant wheat germplasms

  • 🧫 Conducted genetic and molecular mapping of resistance genes/QTLs in wheat

  • 📚 Reviewer for major journals like Plant Disease, Phytopathology, Molecular Ecology Resources, etc.

🎖️ Awards & Honors

  • 🌎 Member of the American Phytopathological Society

  • 🏅 Recognized expert in plant pathology and crop disease resistance research

Publication Top Notes:

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Mr. Mohammad Mohiuddin | Agriculture | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Mohammad Mohiuddin | Agriculture | Best Researcher Award 

Mr. Mohammad Mohiuddin, Chiitagong University of Engineering & Technology (CUET), Bangladesh

Mohammad Mohiuddin is an emerging academic and engineering professional with a strong background in Electrical and Electronic Engineering, currently serving as an Adjunct Lecturer at the Chittagong Institute of Engineering and Technology (CIET). He holds an M.Sc. in Electronics and Telecommunication Engineering from Chittagong University of Engineering & Technology (CUET), where he graduated with a perfect CGPA of 4.00 and received a Postgraduate Scholarship. He also earned his B.Sc. in Electrical and Electronic Engineering from East Delta University, graduating Summa Cum Laude with several academic distinctions, including the Chairman’s Outstanding Student Award. Mohammad has teaching experience in both theoretical and practical courses, particularly in areas such as Digital Electronics, Machine Learning, Circuit Design, and Power Electronics. Alongside his academic career, he works as a Communication Engineer at Total Marine & Safety Solution Ltd., where he specializes in satellite and radio communication systems, onboard networking, and technical training. His research interests span a wide range of modern technological areas, including the Internet of Things (IoT), machine learning, signal processing, smart grids, and biomedical applications. His postgraduate thesis focused on intelligent fault diagnosis using deep learning techniques. Mohammad is passionate about advancing science and technology through education, research, and hands-on technical expertise.

Professional Profile:

ORCID

🏆 Summary of Suitability for Best Researcher Award

Mohammad Mohiuddin is an emerging researcher and academician with a strong foundation in Electrical and Electronic Engineering (EEE) and a growing research portfolio in Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, and Biomedical Applications. While he is in the early stages of his research career, his dedication, academic excellence, and potential make him a promising candidate for future recognition. Below is an assessment of his suitability for the Research for Best Researcher Award

🎓 Education

  • M.Sc. in Electronics & Telecommunication Engineering (ETE)
    📍 Chittagong University of Engineering & Technology (CUET)
    🗓️ Passed: 26 November 2023
    📈 CGPA: 4.00/4.00
    🏅 Achievement: PG Scholarship

  • B.Sc. in Electrical & Electronics Engineering (EEE)
    📍 East Delta University
    🗓️ Passed: 2020
    📈 CGPA: 3.91/4.00
    🏆 Achievements:

    • Summa Cum Laude

    • Chairman’s Outstanding Student Award

    • Vice Chancellor’s List

    • Dean’s List

  • Diploma in Engineering (Electrical Technology)
    📍 Chittagong Technical College
    🗓️ Passed: 2016
    📈 CGPA: 3.93/4.00
    🎖️ Achievements:

    • Principal’s Outstanding Student Award

    • World Bank Scholarship

  • Secondary School Certificate (SSC)
    📍 Uttar Rangunia High School
    🗓️ Passed: 2012
    📈 GPA: 4.88/5.00

💼 Work Experience

  1. Adjunct Lecturer – CIET (Chittagong Institute of Engineering and Technology)
    🗓️ March 1, 2023 – Present
    📚 Department: Electrical and Electronic Engineering (EEE)
    👨‍🏫 Responsibilities:

    • Conducted theory and lab classes

    • Estimation and requisition of lab materials

    • Administrative and academic coordination

  2. Communication Engineer – Total Marine & Safety Solution Ltd.
    🗓️ October 26, 2022 – Present
    🚢 Responsibilities:

    • Conducted training on marine telecommunication

    • Worked with satellite (VSAT, STARLINK) & onboard radio systems

    • Maintained CCTV and networking equipment

    • Prepared technical specs and documentation

  3. Instructor – Chittagong Technical College (CTC)
    🗓️ November 1, 2019 – May 1, 2020
    🛠️ Department: Electrical
    📚 Responsibilities:

    • Conducted electrical classes and workshops

    • Supervised lab activities and requisition processes

🏅 Awards & Honors

  • 🏆 PG Scholarship – CUET

  • 🏆 Summa Cum Laude – East Delta University

  • 🥇 Chairman’s Outstanding Student Award

  • 📜 Vice Chancellor’s and Dean’s List

  • 🎓 Principal’s Outstanding Student Award – CTC

  • 🌍 World Bank Scholarship

Publication Top Notes:

A Novel Deep Learning Technique for Brain Tumor Detection and Classification Using Parallel CNN with Support Vector Machine

Internet of Things (IoT)-Based Smart Agriculture Irrigation and Monitoring System Using Ubidots Server

Feature Optimization for Machine Learning Based Bearing Fault Classification

Hybrid model-based Brain Tumor Detection and Classification using Deep CNN-SVM

Intelligent Fault Diagnosis of Rolling Element Bearings Based on Modified AlexNet

Rolling Element Bearing Faults Detection and Classification Technique Using Vibration Signals

MRI-Image based Brain Tumor Detection and Classification using CNN-KNN

Air Quality Monitoring in Chittagong by a Low Cost IoT Based Air Quality Monitoring System

 

Angelo Azevedo | Internet of Things | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Angelo Azevedo | Internet of Things | Best Researcher Award

A PhD student at ESALQ / USP, Brazil

Angelo Tiago Azevedo is a dedicated researcher and educator specializing in Agricultural Systems Engineering. He graduated with a degree in Agricultural and Environmental Engineering from UFRRJ in 2019 and earned his Master’s from ESALQ – USP in 2021, focusing on irrigation. Currently, he is pursuing his Ph.D. in Agricultural Systems Engineering at the same institution, working under the guidance of Rubens Duarte Coelho. His research interests lie in agricultural automation, irrigation management, and the integration of technology in agriculture. Azevedo is also actively involved in teaching at the Instituto Federal de Educação, Ciência e Tecnologia do Rio de Janeiro, where he imparts knowledge in irrigation, hydraulics, and geoprocessing. His commitment to sustainable agricultural practices is reflected in his ongoing projects and collaborations.

Profile:

Scopus Profile

Strengths for the Award:

  1. Strong Educational Background: Angelo Tiago Azevedo has an impressive academic trajectory, with a Bachelor’s degree in Agricultural and Environmental Engineering, a Master’s in Agricultural Systems Engineering, and ongoing PhD studies at a prestigious institution (ESALQ – USP). His solid foundation in agrarian sciences and engineering enhances his research credibility.
  2. Focused Research Contributions: Azevedo’s research is highly specialized in irrigation, agricultural automation, and instrumentation. His work on automatic irrigation management systems and energy partitioning in crops demonstrates his commitment to addressing critical challenges in modern agriculture.
  3. Diverse Project Involvement: He has participated in multiple research projects that explore various aspects of agricultural productivity, such as evaluating crop adaptability under different irrigation regimes and developing innovative irrigation systems. This breadth of experience showcases his versatility and ability to tackle diverse agricultural issues.
  4. Teaching and Mentorship: As a teacher in technical and technological education, Azevedo actively contributes to the development of future professionals in his field. His involvement in guiding students through research projects highlights his commitment to education and mentorship.
  5. Recognition and Awards: Azevedo has received accolades for his work in scientific research, including recognition for his presentations at academic conferences. This indicates that his peers value his contributions and insights.
  6. Editorial and Peer Review Roles: His position on the editorial board of a scientific journal and as a referee for academic publications demonstrates his recognition as a knowledgeable figure in his field, contributing to the quality and rigor of agricultural research.

Areas for Improvement:

  1. Publication Volume: While Azevedo has published significant work, increasing the volume of publications in high-impact journals could enhance his visibility and influence within the scientific community.
  2. Language Proficiency: Although he has reasonable comprehension of English and Spanish, improving his fluency in these languages could broaden his opportunities for international collaboration and dissemination of research findings.
  3. Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Engaging more with researchers from related fields, such as environmental science, technology, and data science, could lead to innovative approaches and enhance the applicability of his research.
  4. Outreach and Communication: Developing skills in science communication could help him effectively share his research findings with broader audiences, including policymakers and practitioners, increasing the impact of his work.

Education:

Angelo Tiago Azevedo holds a Bachelor’s degree in Agricultural and Environmental Engineering from the Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro (UFRRJ), completed in 2019. He further pursued a Master’s in Agricultural Systems Engineering at ESALQ – USP, where he graduated in 2021, specializing in irrigation management. Currently, he is a Ph.D. candidate in Agricultural Systems Engineering at ESALQ – USP, focusing on automation and instrumentation in agriculture, particularly irrigation systems. His academic journey has been marked by significant contributions to research, supported by grants from the Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior (CAPES). Azevedo has also enhanced his expertise through various complementary courses, including advanced training in irrigation systems and programming languages, positioning him as a knowledgeable figure in the fields of agronomy and agricultural engineering.

Experience: 

Angelo Tiago Azevedo has extensive experience in agricultural research and education. He has worked as a consultant in Agri-Environmental Systems and has participated in various research projects, including the development of automatic irrigation systems and agricultural automation technologies. Azevedo has served as a research assistant at both UFRRJ and ESALQ – USP, contributing to significant projects such as the automatic weight control system for beehives. Currently, he is a researcher and educator at the Instituto Federal de Educação, Ciência e Tecnologia do Rio de Janeiro, where he teaches courses on irrigation, hydraulics, and geoprocessing. His professional experience also includes coordinating research activities related to irrigation management, crop productivity, and resource optimization. Azevedo’s active involvement in research projects showcases his commitment to advancing agricultural practices and enhancing the efficiency of irrigation systems.

Awards and Honors:

Angelo Tiago Azevedo has been recognized for his contributions to agricultural science through various awards and honors. In 2018, he received accolades for his outstanding work presented at the VI Reunião Anual de Iniciação Científica da UFRRJ, specifically for projects on hydraulic conductivity and automation in soil analysis. His innovative research has been acknowledged for its practical applications in irrigation management. Azevedo was also awarded an Honorable Mention in the 7th Mathematics Olympiad (OBMEP) in 2011, reflecting his strong analytical skills. These achievements highlight his commitment to excellence in research and education, motivating him to contribute further to the field of agricultural engineering. His dedication to sustainability and efficiency in agriculture continues to earn him recognition within the academic community.

Research Focus:

Angelo Tiago Azevedo’s research focus is centered on agricultural automation and instrumentation, particularly within irrigation management. His work aims to optimize water usage and enhance crop productivity through advanced technologies and systems. Azevedo explores the development of automated irrigation systems that integrate climate and soil data to improve resource efficiency. His current projects include evaluating the adaptability of various crop cultivars under different irrigation techniques and developing intelligent systems for precision agriculture. He also investigates the effects of water quality on crop yield, specifically examining the impacts of high electrical conductivity on lettuce production. Azevedo’s research contributions are vital in promoting sustainable agricultural practices and improving the overall efficiency of irrigation systems, addressing the growing challenges of water scarcity and food security.

Publications Top Notes:

  • Development of an Automatic Weather Station for Irrigation Management via IoT
  • Water Use Efficiency and Canopy Temperature Response of Soybean Subjected to Deficit Irrigation

Conclusion:

Angelo Tiago Azevedo is a strong candidate for the Research for Best Researcher Award, with a robust educational background, focused research initiatives, and a commitment to teaching and mentorship. His contributions to agricultural engineering and irrigation management are significant and impactful. By addressing areas for improvement, such as increasing publication volume and enhancing language skills, Azevedo can further solidify his reputation and influence in the field. His dedication to innovation in agricultural practices positions him as a valuable asset to the scientific community and the agricultural sector.

Gelana Urgesa Ayana | Agroforestry System award | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Gelana Urgesa Ayana | Agroforestry System award | Best Researcher Award

PhD candidate at Shanghai Ocean University, Ethiopia

Gelana Urgesa Ayana is a dedicated academician from Ethiopia, passionate about education and societal betterment. With a love for football and reading, he balances personal interests with his commitment to knowledge. Currently a PhD candidate at Shanghai Ocean University, Gelana focuses on aquatic disease diagnosis and prevention. His work aims to positively impact the agricultural and veterinary fields, demonstrating his dedication to improving the future for his community and beyond. Through teaching and research, Gelana fosters an inclusive learning environment, helping students excel while building trust and relationships.

Profile:

Strengths for the Award:

  1. Academic Background and Expertise: Gelana holds a PhD candidacy in Aquatic Disease Diagnosis, Prevention, and Control, complemented by an MSc in Fishery Development. This strong academic foundation demonstrates a deep understanding of his field.
  2. Research Contributions: He has authored and co-authored several significant journal articles, including investigations into the bactericidal activity of compounds against pathogens and the role of probiotics in sustainable poultry production. His diverse research topics reflect both breadth and depth of knowledge.
  3. Community Engagement: Gelana has actively participated in community service initiatives, training programs, and vaccination campaigns, indicating a commitment to applying his research for societal benefit.
  4. Continuous Professional Development: He has pursued various training and workshops, enhancing his skills in microbiology, disease management, and academic pedagogy. This commitment to lifelong learning is crucial for a researcher.
  5. Collaborative Skills: His experience in collaborative research projects highlights his ability to work well in teams and contribute to collective goals, which is essential in the research community.
  6. Multilingual Proficiency: His proficiency in multiple languages, including English, Afan-Oromo, and Amharic, facilitates communication and collaboration in diverse settings, broadening his research impact.

Areas for Improvement:

  1. Broader Research Networking: While he has a solid foundation, expanding his research network internationally could lead to more collaborative opportunities and increased visibility in the global research community.
  2. Funding Applications: Engaging more actively in grant writing and funding applications could provide the resources necessary to support larger research initiatives and enhance his project scope.
  3. Publishing Frequency: Increasing the frequency of publications and exploring high-impact journals could further elevate his research profile and impact.
  4. Public Speaking and Presentation Skills: Developing these skills could enhance his ability to communicate research findings effectively at conferences and workshops, thereby increasing his influence and visibility.

Education:

Gelana holds a BSc in Veterinary Laboratory Technology from Wollega University, where he explored parasitic disease diagnosis. He then earned an MSc in Fishery Development from Nanjing Agricultural University, focusing on aquatic disease management with a thesis on the bactericidal activity of emodin. Currently, he is pursuing a PhD at Shanghai Ocean University, concentrating on aquatic disease diagnosis, prevention, and control. His education has equipped him with the knowledge and skills to address critical challenges in veterinary medicine and sustainable aquaculture, preparing him for impactful research and teaching roles.

Experience:

Since September 2017, Gelana has served as the Chief Laboratory Assistant at Jimma University’s College of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine. His responsibilities include lecturing BSc students, conducting practical laboratory sessions, and assisting MSc and PhD students in microbiology. Gelana actively engages in research collaborations with faculty, focusing on animal disease diagnosis and data analysis. He is also dedicated to community service, providing training and support to improve local veterinary practices. His diverse experiences in teaching, research, and community involvement reflect his commitment to advancing knowledge and practice in agriculture and veterinary medicine.

Research Focus:

Gelana’s research focuses on aquatic disease diagnosis, prevention, and control, particularly within the fields of veterinary science and aquaculture. His current work includes investigating the bactericidal effects of natural compounds on pathogenic bacteria, contributing to sustainable disease management strategies. Through collaborative projects, he aims to develop effective interventions to enhance animal health and production. His recent studies on probiotics in poultry production and biosecurity reflect his commitment to integrating innovative approaches into veterinary practice. Gelana’s research is poised to make a significant impact on food security and public health in Ethiopia and beyond.

Publications Top Notes:

  • Effect of Rice–Carp Coculture on Phytoplankton and Microzooplankton Community Composition in Paddy Water during Different Rice Growth Stages 🌾🐟
  • Probiotics in Disease Management for Sustainable Poultry Production 🐔🔬
  • Natural Sunlight-Mediated Emodin Photoinactivation of Aeromonas hydrophila 💡🔬
  • Probiotics in Disease Management for Sustainable Poultry Production 📄🐔
  • Bacteriological Identification among Patients Attending at Jimma University Veterinary Clinic 🧪🐾

Conclusion:

Gelana Urgesa Ayana exemplifies the qualities of an exemplary researcher through his strong academic background, substantial contributions to the field of aquatic disease management, and dedication to community service. His ongoing commitment to professional development and collaboration positions him well for the Research for Best Researcher Award. Addressing identified areas for improvement could further enhance his research profile and broaden his impact in the academic community.