Thainna Waldburger | Agronomy | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Thainna Waldburger | Agronomy | Best Researcher Award

Wissenschaftliche Technische Mitarb at Digital Group, Agroscope Tänikon | Switzerland

Dr. Thainna Waldburger is a Swiss-Brazilian researcher at the Digital Group, Agroscope Tänikon, Switzerland, whose scientific contributions in precision agriculture and environmental sustainability have earned her recognition as an emerging leader in agronomy. With a Ph.D. from ETH Zurich focusing on the use of plant water status indicators to optimize cacao and apple cropping systems, she integrates environmental science and technology to address climate adaptation challenges. Her professional experience spans over eight years of research in smart farming, soil management, GIS analysis, and remote sensing, collaborating with major partners such as Nestlé, Syngenta, and CSEM to develop innovative agricultural practices that enhance water efficiency and crop productivity. Dr. Waldburger’s research interests include precision farming, environmental monitoring, resource-efficient agriculture, and sustainable land-use planning. Skilled in GIS, data analysis, sensor applications, and project coordination, she effectively translates scientific insights into practical farming solutions. Her scholarly record includes six publications with 18 citations and an h-index of 2, reflecting her growing impact in the field. Recognized for her interdisciplinary expertise and commitment to sustainable development, Dr. Waldburger continues to advance scientific innovation that supports global agricultural resilience—making her an outstanding candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

Profile : Scopus | ORCID

Featured Publications

Automated irrigation of apple trees based on dendrometer sensors
Citations: 2

Growing cocoa in semi-arid climate and the rhythmicity of stem growth and leaf flushing determined by dendrometers

Transversal distribution of a spray drone applying different nozzles and measuring methods

Mehrdad Alizadeh | Plant Pathology | Young Scientist Award

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Dr. Mehrdad Alizadeh | Plant Pathology | Young Scientist Award

Researcher at Tarbiat Modares University | Iran

Dr. Mehrdad Alizadeh is a distinguished early-career researcher in Plant Pathology at Tarbiat Modares University, Iran, recognized for his multidisciplinary work on forest disease epidemiology, plant–microbe interactions, and microbial ecology. He holds a Ph.D. in Plant Pathology from Tarbiat Modares University, following his M.Sc. and B.Sc. degrees in Plant Pathology and Plant Protection from the University of Tabriz. Dr. Alizadeh’s professional experience includes extensive teaching and mentoring of postgraduate students, participation in national and international research collaborations, and authorship of 31 scientific documents that have garnered 517 citations from 478 sources, reflecting his growing global impact and an h-index of 8. His research interests encompass mycology, bacteriology, microbiome analysis, forest pathology, and biocontrol strategies, with recent explorations into nanotechnology and artificial intelligence applications in plant health. Skilled in molecular techniques, microbiome sequencing, phylogenetic analysis, and bioinformatics tools, he integrates advanced methodologies to address complex ecological and pathological questions. Among his honors are multiple exceptional talent recognitions, research presentation awards, and elite student fellowships. In conclusion, Dr. Alizadeh exemplifies an innovative young scientist whose integrated approach to plant disease management and ecosystem health positions him as a promising leader in sustainable agricultural and environmental research.

Profile : Scopus | Google Scholar | ORCID

Featured Publications

Alizadeh, M., Khoshru, B., Mitra, D., Khoshmanzar, E., Myo, E. M., Uniyal, N., Mahakur, B., et al. (2020). Current scenario and future prospects of plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria: An economic valuable resource for the agriculture revival under stressful conditions. Journal of Plant Nutrition, 43(20), 3062–3092.
Cited by: 180

Hyde, K. D., Noorabadi, M. T., Thiyagaraja, V., He, M. Q., Johnston, P. R., … Alizadeh, M. (2024). The 2024 Outline of Fungi and fungus-like taxa. Mycosphere, 15, 5146–6239.
Cited by: 99

Marooufpour, N., Alizadeh, M., Hatami, M., & Asgari Lajayer, B. (2019). Biological synthesis of nanoparticles by different groups of bacteria. In Microbial Nanobionics: Volume 1, State-of-the-art, pp. 63–85.
Cited by: 79

Alizadeh, M., Vasebi, Y., & Safaie, N. (2020). Microbial antagonists against plant pathogens in Iran: A review. Open Agriculture, 5(1), 404–440.
Cited by: 68

Khoshru, B., Mitra, D., Joshi, K., Adhikari, P., Rion, M. S. I., Fadiji, A. E., Alizadeh, M., et al. (2023). RETRACTED: Decrypting the multi-functional biological activators and inducers of defense responses against biotic stresses in plants. Heliyon, 9(3).
Cited by: 66

Tapon Kumar Roy | Agronomy | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. Tapon Kumar Roy | Agronomy | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Tapon Kumar Roy is an accomplished agricultural researcher at the Bangladesh Rice Research Institute (BRRI) with 46 citations from 40 documents, 8 published papers, and an h-index of 3, reflecting his growing academic impact in the field of agronomy and rice entomology. He holds a B.Sc. (Hons.) in Agriculture and an MS in Crop Physiology and Ecology from Hajee Mohammad Danesh Science and Technology University, Bangladesh. His professional experience spans pest management, pesticide residue analysis, and eco-friendly agricultural practices, with active involvement in projects on rice pest control, storage pest management, and natural enemy conservation. His research interests include insect toxicology, botanicals, nanoparticle-based pest management, and the physiological response of rice to salt and abiotic stress. Mr. Roy possesses advanced research skills in statistical and analytical tools such as LCMS, GCMS/MS, QGIS, R Studio, and MSTAT-C, enabling precision in experimental design and data analysis. His contributions have earned him prestigious recognitions including the National Integrity Award (2021–22) and Best Scientist Award (2020–21) from BRRI. Through his commitment to innovation and sustainable pest management, Mr. Roy continues to contribute significantly to improving rice productivity and promoting environmentally responsible agricultural practices in Bangladesh.

Profile : Scopus | Google Scholar | ORCID

Featured Publications

Alam, Z., Akter, S., Khan, M. A. H., Amin, M. N., Karim, M. R., Rahman, M. H. S., et al. (2024). Multivariate analysis of yield and quality traits in sweet potato genotypes (Ipomoea batatas L.). Scientia Horticulturae, 328, 112901.

Roy, T. K., Sannal, A., Tonmoy, S. M. M. S., Akter, S., Roy, B., & Rana, M. M. (2024). Trait analysis of short duration boro rice (Oryza sativa L.) varieties in northern region of Bangladesh: Insights from heatmap, correlation and PCA. Nova Geodesia, 4(2), 175–175.

Ali, M. P., Haque, S. S., Hossain, M. M., Bari, M. N., Kabir, M. M. M., Roy, T. K., Datta, J., et al. (2023). Development and demographic parameters of fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda J. E. Smith) when feeding on rice (Oryza sativa). CABI Agriculture and Bioscience, 4(1), 1–14.

Roy, T. K., Kabir, M. M. M., Akter, S., Nayeem, A., Alam, Z., Hasan, M. R., & Bari, M. N. (2024). Seasonal variations of insect abundance: Correlating growth stage-specific metrics with weather patterns in Rangpur Region, Bangladesh. Heliyon, 10(18), e38121.

Roy, T. K., Tonmoy, S. M. M. S., Sannal, A., Akter, S., Hasan, K. T., & Rana, M. M. (2022). Yield performance of some short duration high yielding rice varieties during boro season in northern region of Bangladesh. International Journal of Natural and Social Sciences, 9(4), 15–21.

Cristina Oliveira | Horticulture | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Dr. Cristina Oliveira | Horticulture | Best Researcher Award

Professor at Instituto Supeior de Agronomia, Universidade de Lisboa | Portugal

Prof. Dr. Cristina Oliveira is a distinguished horticultural scientist whose academic excellence and research leadership have significantly advanced agricultural innovation and sustainability. With 76 publications, an h-index of 20, and 1,821 citations from 1,580 documents, her scholarly impact is widely recognized. She holds a professorship at the Instituto Superior de Agronomia, University of Lisbon, where she teaches and coordinates key courses in olive cultivation, fruit production, and horticultural systems. Her educational background and career reflect a strong integration of scientific inquiry with practical agricultural solutions. Prof. Oliveira’s professional experience includes coordinating national and international R&D projects, supervising over 100 master’s and six doctoral theses, and serving on the scientific committees of major international congresses. Her research interests span fruit tree physiology, irrigation management, crop water use efficiency, and post-harvest fruit quality under changing climate conditions. Skilled in experimental design, data interpretation, and multidisciplinary collaboration, she effectively bridges academic research with industry application. Recognized for her contributions, she has served as President of ADISA and a board member of the Operational and Technological Center for Fruit and Vegetables (COTHN). Prof. Oliveira’s dedication to innovation, sustainability, and academic mentorship firmly establishes her as a leading figure in horticultural research and education.

Profile : Scopus 

Featured Publications

Oliveira, C. M., et al. (2025). Single and basal crop coefficients for temperate climate fruit trees, vines, and shrubs with consideration of fraction of ground cover, height, and training system. Plant Stress.  (Cited by 4).

Oliveira, C. M., et al. (2025). Single and basal crop coefficients for estimation of water requirements of subtropical and tropical orchards and plantations with consideration of fraction of ground cover, height, and training system. Plant Stress. (Cited by 7).

Oliveira, C. M., et al. (2025). Single and basal crop coefficients for estimation of water use of tree and vine woody crops with consideration of fraction of ground cover, height, and training system for Mediterranean and warm temperate fruit and leaf crops. Plant Stress. (Cited by 15).

Oliveira, C. M., et al. (2025). Effect of heading cuts on branch growth of ‘Encore’ mandarin. Plant Stress. (Cited by 2).

Oliveira, C. M., et al. (2024). Analysis of petiole sap nutrients using rapid and standard methods and its relation to leaf analysis of fertilized Malus domestica cv. Gala. Horticulturae.

Yasai Li | Agronomy | Best Researcher Award

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Ms. Yasai Li | Agronomy | Best Researcher Award

Hubei Key Laboratory of Animal Embryo and Molecular Breeding, Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary, Hubei Academy of Agricultural Sciences | China

Ms. Yasai Li is a dedicated researcher in the field of Agronomy, currently contributing to advanced studies at the Hubei Key Laboratory of Animal Embryo and Molecular Breeding, Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary, Hubei Academy of Agricultural Sciences, China. She earned her Ph.D. in Agronomy with a focus on crop productivity, stress physiology, and molecular breeding, equipping her with a strong foundation in both theoretical and applied plant sciences. Throughout her professional career, she has engaged in nationally funded research projects and international collaborations, working on improving crop yield, resistance, and sustainability. Her research interests include molecular breeding strategies, crop stress tolerance, and sustainable agricultural innovation, areas highly relevant to global food security. She has developed strong research skills in molecular genetics, bioinformatics, experimental design, and advanced agronomic techniques, complemented by her ability to collaborate across multidisciplinary teams. Ms. Li has published in SCI and Scopus-indexed journals, presented at recognized scientific conferences, and received recognition for her impactful contributions, positioning her as an emerging leader in agricultural sciences. With her commitment to innovation, scientific excellence, and mentorship, Ms. Yasai Li is poised to continue making meaningful contributions that advance agronomy research and support sustainable global agriculture.

Profile : ORCID

Featured Publications

Zhang, R., Wu, H., Li, Y., Huang, Z., Yin, Z., Yang, C.-X., & Du, Z.-Q. (2023). GWLD: An R package for genome-wide linkage disequilibrium analysis. G3: Genes|Genomes|Genetics, 13(9), jkad154.

Li, Y., Chen, X., Chen, D., Wu, J., Chen, T., Qiao, M., Peng, X., Mei, S., & Feng, Y. (2023). MCEE promotes intramuscular fat deposition in pigs through regulating mitochondrial function.

Tang, J., Liu, C., Wang, Z., Zhu, T., Zhong, M., Li, Y., & Chen, M. (2025). Neuropeptide Y as a prognostic biomarker in electrical storm: Editorial comment on the reappraisal of neuropeptide Y as biomarker and therapeutic target in arrhythmic disorders. JACC: Clinical Electrophysiology, 11(4).

Seonyeong Kwak | Botanical Nanotechnology | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Seonyeong Kwak | Botanical Nanotechnology | Best Researcher Award

Associate Professor at Seoul National University | South Korea

Prof. Seon-Yeong Kwak is a distinguished academic and researcher in the field of biomaterials and nanobionics, with a strong interdisciplinary background spanning chemical engineering, biological sciences, and agricultural technologies. Her work focuses on developing advanced nanotechnologies for plant systems, sustainable materials, and bio-delivery platforms. With a consistent record of high-impact publications and international collaborations, she has made substantial contributions to areas such as real-time biosensing in plants, targeted biomolecule delivery, and carbon-based nanomaterials. Her research demonstrates a unique ability to merge scientific discovery with practical applications in agriculture, environmental sustainability, and biomedical science. She has also played an influential role in academic leadership, research program development, and international scientific cooperation. Her career reflects a strong commitment to innovation, cross-disciplinary integration, and societal impact through scientific advancement.

Professional Profile 

Education

Prof. Seon-Yeong Kwak has pursued a comprehensive academic path rooted in the life sciences and engineering. She began her studies with a focus on animal science and agricultural technologies, building a foundational understanding of biological systems. She later advanced into chemical and biological engineering at both the master’s and doctoral levels, gaining deep expertise in bioengineering principles and nanotechnology applications. Her academic training took place at a leading institution known for its rigorous scientific programs, providing her with a multidisciplinary education that bridges the gap between biology, chemistry, and materials science. This educational trajectory equipped her with the theoretical and practical skills necessary to tackle complex challenges in plant nanobionics and biomaterials, laying the groundwork for a career that intersects various scientific domains. Her educational background also reflects a forward-thinking approach, preparing her to contribute to both foundational research and innovative applications.

Professional Experience

Prof. Seon-Yeong Kwak has built a robust professional career through academic, research, and leadership roles at renowned institutions worldwide. She currently holds a faculty position in the field of biomaterials engineering, where she leads research initiatives and mentors graduate students. Her earlier roles include significant research positions in international collaborative environments, such as a major research alliance that combined efforts from multiple universities and technological institutions. She has also conducted advanced postdoctoral research at globally recognized centers for chemical engineering and materials science, contributing to groundbreaking projects in biosensing and nanomaterial development. Her experience spans not only academic research but also scientific direction of interdisciplinary programs focused on sustainable and disruptive technologies in agriculture. This diverse professional background reflects her adaptability, innovation, and capacity to lead collaborative, cross-border scientific endeavors with real-world impact.

Research Interests

Prof. Kwak’s research interests lie at the intersection of nanotechnology, plant sciences, and bioengineering. She is particularly focused on the development of optical nanobiosensors capable of detecting and monitoring biochemical signals in living plant systems. Her work also explores advanced biomolecule delivery systems using functionalized nanomaterials, enabling precise gene delivery and expression in plant cells. She is deeply engaged in the field of plant nanobionics, which involves integrating nanotechnology with plant biology to enhance agricultural productivity and environmental monitoring. Additionally, her interest in carbon-neutral bioorganic materials reflects a commitment to addressing global sustainability challenges through material innovation. By combining principles from engineering, biology, and environmental science, she seeks to develop technologies that are both innovative and practical, contributing to fields ranging from precision agriculture to green chemistry.

Research Skills

Prof. Kwak possesses a highly diverse and refined set of research skills that enable her to lead cutting-edge projects in nanotechnology and biomaterials. Her expertise includes the design and synthesis of functional nanomaterials, real-time biosensing platforms, and nanoscale imaging techniques. She is skilled in developing surface-enhanced Raman scattering systems, optical diagnostics, and delivery systems tailored for plant and tissue applications. Her hands-on experience in both wet lab and nanomaterials fabrication allows her to bridge the gap between concept and application. She is also proficient in interdisciplinary project management, data interpretation, and collaborative innovation. These skills enable her to work effectively across scientific domains, integrating chemistry, biology, and engineering. Her ability to conduct high-level experimental design, coupled with her insight into biological systems, makes her a valuable contributor to both fundamental research and applied technological development.

Awards and Honors

Prof. Seon-Yeong Kwak has received notable recognition for her pioneering contributions to science and technology. Her achievements have been honored by national institutions, including prestigious awards that acknowledge excellence in nanoscience and agricultural innovation. These accolades highlight the scientific and societal impact of her work, particularly in advancing plant nanobionics, real-time biosensors, and sustainable biomaterials. Her awards also reflect her standing in the research community as a leader in interdisciplinary innovation. The honors she has received are indicative of both her scientific rigor and her capacity to produce research that addresses pressing global issues. In addition to formal recognition, her selection for leadership roles in major research programs and consistent publication in top-tier journals further reinforce her distinguished position in the field. Such achievements mark her as an influential voice in modern bioscience and engineering.

Publications Top Noted

  • Real-Time Monitoring of Volatile Organic Compound-Mediated Plant Intercommunication Using Surface-Enhanced Raman Scattering Nanosensor
    Year: 2025
    Citations: 3

  • Bioengineered Liver Crosslinked with Nano-Graphene Oxide Enables Efficient Liver Regeneration via MMP Suppression and Immunomodulation
    Year: 2023
    Citations: 33

  • Single-Molecule Methane Sensing Using Palladium-Functionalized nIR Fluorescent Single-Walled Carbon Nanotubes
    Year: 2023
    Citations: 9

  • Single-Walled Carbon Nanotube-Guided Topical Skin Delivery of Tyrosinase to Prevent Photoinduced Damage
    Year: 2023
    Citations: 6

Conclusion

Dr. Seon-Yeong Kwak exemplifies the qualities of an outstanding researcher through her visionary contributions to plant nanobionics, biosensors, and sustainable biomaterials. Her work is scientifically rigorous, forward-thinking, and globally relevant. Based on the strength of her interdisciplinary research portfolio, publication record, academic leadership, and recognized contributions to high-impact areas of science and technology, she is a highly suitable and deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

 

 

Saeedeh Zarbakhsh | Horticulture | Young Scientist Award

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Dr. Saeedeh Zarbakhsh | Horticulture | Young Scientist Award

Postdoc Researcher at University of Tehran, Iran

Dr. Saeedeh Zarbakhsh is an emerging scientist in the field of plant sciences, specializing in plant responses to abiotic stress, in vitro culture, and physiological adaptations under controlled environmental conditions. Currently a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Tehran, she integrates conventional plant biology with modern computational techniques, including machine learning, to optimize crop performance under artificial lighting. With 17 publications in reputable journals and editorial appointments in the Plant Stress journal, she is building a notable academic presence. Her research contributions span tissue culture innovations, postharvest physiology, and predictive modeling in plant science. She is also actively engaged in academic instruction and workshop facilitation, bridging theory and practice for students and stakeholders. Her interdisciplinary approach, combining plant physiology with data science, places her at the forefront of sustainable agriculture research, especially under climate change and resource-limited conditions.

Professional Profile 

Education🎓

Dr. Zarbakhsh holds a Ph.D. in Plant Physiology, during which she investigated the in vitro and in vivo modulation of drought and salinity stress in pomegranate using gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). Her M.Sc. research focused on postharvest quality and the effects of gamma irradiation on date fruit cultivars, reflecting an early interest in crop resilience and food preservation. She has cultivated a research foundation rooted in plant stress biology, supported by strong academic training in physiology, tissue culture, and postharvest technology. Her education has not only been focused on fundamental sciences but also geared toward practical applications in agriculture and food security. This strong academic base has equipped her with the theoretical knowledge and technical skill set necessary for interdisciplinary and applied plant research.

Professional Experience💼

Currently a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Tehran, Dr. Zarbakhsh is working on machine learning-based modeling of plant traits under artificial light conditions, using basil as a model crop. She has previously served as a lecturer at various universities in Iran, delivering courses in plant physiology, stress biology, and tissue culture. Her professional background also includes organizing and leading workshops for researchers and practitioners, thereby extending her influence beyond academia. In addition to academic roles, her postdoctoral research includes a consultancy aspect, translating lab results into practical, scalable systems for controlled-environment agriculture. Her work environment emphasizes collaboration, multidisciplinary integration, and problem-solving—traits that are evident in her current and past research projects.

Research Interest🔬

Dr. Zarbakhsh’s primary research interests lie in plant stress physiology, controlled-environment agriculture, in vitro propagation, and postharvest biology. She is particularly focused on how plants respond to abiotic stresses such as drought, salinity, and artificial light conditions. Her recent postdoctoral work integrates machine learning to predict and optimize photosynthesis, morphology, and crop yield, which shows her commitment to innovation. Her research also explores the physiological mechanisms of plant resilience, biostimulant applications, and enhancing crop quality during postharvest handling. By applying both classical physiological approaches and modern computational tools, she aims to develop sustainable solutions for global agriculture, especially under climate and resource pressures.

Research Skill🔎

Dr. Zarbakhsh possesses a diverse set of research skills that span experimental plant biology, in vitro tissue culture, gas exchange analysis, fluorescence imaging, and controlled-environment system design. Her proficiency in using machine learning algorithms to interpret complex physiological datasets is a unique strength in her field. She is experienced in designing experiments involving drought/salinity simulations, stress biomarker quantification, and statistical modeling. Furthermore, she has hands-on expertise in artificial lighting protocols for plant growth and understands both plant-environment interactions and computational optimization. Her skill set is enriched by her ability to communicate findings through scientific writing and peer-reviewed publications.

Awards and Honors🏆

While specific awards are not listed in her profile, Dr. Saeedeh Zarbakhsh holds multiple editorial positions, including Guest Editor for a Special Issue on biostimulants in the Plant Stress journal and Junior Editor since 2024. These appointments reflect peer recognition of her scientific competence and subject expertise. Her selection for a competitive postdoctoral research project also serves as a mark of merit. With her growing body of publications and contributions to scholarly literature, she is positioning herself for future accolades, particularly in the domains of plant stress physiology and sustainable agriculture.

Conclusion📝

Dr. Saeedeh Zarbakhsh is a promising early-career researcher with strong interdisciplinary skills, a growing scientific publication record, and demonstrated leadership in both research and outreach. Her innovative postdoctoral work using AI for predicting plant performance under artificial light stands out as cutting-edge.

Publications Top Noted📚

 

  • 2019 – Influence of postharvest gamma irradiation on the antioxidant system, microbial and shelf life quality of three cultivars of date fruits (Phoenix dactylifera L.)
    Authors: S. Zarbakhsh, S. Rastegar
    Journal: Scientia Horticulturae 247, 275-286
    Citations: 50

  • 2023 – Exogenous γ-aminobutyric acid improves the photosynthesis efficiency, soluble sugar contents, and mineral nutrients in pomegranate plants exposed to drought, salinity, and …
    Authors: S. Zarbakhsh, A.R. Shahsavar
    Journal: BMC Plant Biology 23 (1), 543
    Citations: 42

  • 2018 – Biochemical, physiological changes and antioxidant responses of cut gladiolus flower ‘White Prosperity’ induced by nitric oxide
    Authors: H. Kazemzadeh-Beneh, D. Samsampour, S. Zarbakhsh
    Journal: Advances in Horticultural Science 32 (3), 421-432
    Citations: 17

  • 2020 – Quality preservation of minimally processed pomegranate cv. Jahrom arils based on chitosan and organic acid edible coatings
    Authors: S. Zarbakhsh, H. Kazemzadeh‐Beneh, S. Rastegar
    Journal: Journal of Food Safety 40 (2), e12752
    Citations: 16

  • 2024 – Predicting and optimizing reactive oxygen species metabolism in Punica granatum L. through machine learning: role of exogenous GABA on antioxidant enzyme …
    Authors: S. Zarbakhsh, A.R. Shahsavar, A. Afaghi, M. Hasanuzzaman
    Journal: BMC Plant Biology 24 (1), 65
    Citations: 15

  • 2022 – Artificial neural network-based model to predict the effect of γ-aminobutyric acid on salinity and drought responsive morphological traits in pomegranate
    Authors: S. Zarbakhsh, A.R. Shahsavar
    Journal: Scientific Reports 12 (1), 16662
    Citations: 13

  • 2024 – Optimizing PGRs for in vitro shoot proliferation of pomegranate with bayesian-tuned ensemble stacking regression and NSGA-II: a comparative evaluation of machine learning models
    Authors: S. Zarbakhsh, A.R. Shahsavar, M. Soltani
    Journal: Plant Methods 20 (1), 82
    Citations: 4

  • 2017 – The Effect of Salicylic Acid and Gum Arabic on Some Qualitative and Quantitative Characteristics of Ziziphus mauritiana Lam During Storage
    Authors: S. Zarbakhsh, S. Rastegar
    Journal: Journal of Food Technology and Nutrition 14 (254), 87-98
    Citations: 4

Venkata Ajjarapu | Crop Science | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. Venkata Ajjarapu | Crop Science | Best Researcher Award

Manager – Research & Development at Aurora Specilaty Chemistries, United States

Mr. Venkata Manikya Kumar Ajjarapu is a seasoned chemical industry professional with nearly 30 years of extensive experience in production, process optimization, quality assurance, and research & development. Currently serving as President – East Global Operations at Aurora Specialty Chemistries in Michigan, USA, he has led several high-impact projects, including the development of acrylamide and cationic monomers, contributing significantly to the company’s growth. With prior leadership at SNF (India) Pvt. Ltd., a subsidiary of SNF Floerger, France, he played a pivotal role in commissioning large-scale polymer plants and implementing cost-saving measures. His expertise spans a wide range of specialty chemicals, including polydadmacs, emulsion and dispersion polymers, and bio-pesticides. He has demonstrated a strong ability to scale up lab processes to industrial production and streamline operations through engineering innovations. Mr. Ajjarapu’s international training, process excellence, and deep technical insight make him a valuable contributor to applied industrial research and chemical manufacturing.

Professional Profile 

Education 🎓 

Mr. Venkata Manikya Kumar Ajjarapu holds a Master of Science (M.Sc.) degree in Organic Chemistry, which he earned in 1994 with First Division from Andhra University in Visakhapatnam, India. His academic foundation in organic chemistry laid the groundwork for a successful career in the chemical industry, where he has applied his knowledge in areas such as polymer science, pesticide formulation, and specialty chemical production. Beyond his formal education, Mr. Ajjarapu has consistently pursued professional development through various advanced trainings. He received hands-on international training in Production and Quality Assurance at SNF Floerger in France during 2007, 2008, and 2011. He also completed certified training in SAP’s Production Planning (PP) module and participated in workshops focused on analytical method development and validation, organized by Waters India Ltd. Additionally, he is a certified Lead Auditor from BVQI, reinforcing his commitment to quality systems and operational excellence. His education and training reflect a strong blend of academic and industry-aligned expertise.

Professional Experience 💼 

Mr. Venkata Manikya Kumar Ajjarapu brings nearly three decades of professional experience in the chemical industry, with a strong focus on production, process development, research, and quality assurance. He currently serves as President – East Global Operations at Aurora Specialty Chemistries, USA, where he has led key projects in acrylamide and polymer production since 2013. Previously, he worked for 13 years at SNF (India) Pvt. Ltd., a subsidiary of SNF Floerger, France, as Senior Manager – Production, where he played a crucial role in plant commissioning, process optimization, and cost-saving initiatives. His early career included roles in R&D and production at SOM Phytopharma and Vantech Industries, focusing on pesticide development and analytical method validation. Over the years, he has successfully scaled up lab processes to industrial levels, implemented ISO standards, optimized resource use, and introduced process improvements. His leadership, technical depth, and operational insight have made significant contributions to chemical manufacturing and industrial R&D.

Research Interest 🔬

Mr. Venkata Manikya Kumar Ajjarapu’s research interests lie primarily in the field of applied industrial chemistry, with a strong focus on specialty chemical synthesis, polymer science, and process optimization. He is particularly interested in the development and manufacturing of water-soluble polymers such as acrylamide, cationic monomers, and polyacrylamides, which have wide applications in water treatment, mining, and industrial processes. His work emphasizes scaling up lab-level research to commercial production, improving process efficiency, and enhancing product quality through innovative engineering interventions. He is also keen on research that leads to cost-effective, energy-efficient, and environmentally sustainable production methods, including the reduction of effluents and resource consumption. Additionally, Mr. Ajjarapu is interested in developing dry polymer formulations for improved shelf life and storage advantages. His approach blends technical chemistry, process engineering, and quality systems, making his research highly relevant to the evolving needs of the chemical manufacturing industry.

Research Skill🔎

Mr. Venkata Manikya Kumar Ajjarapu possesses strong research skills rooted in practical, industry-oriented chemical process development. He excels in translating laboratory-scale research into full-scale industrial production, demonstrating deep expertise in process optimization, technology transfer, and scale-up operations. His ability to troubleshoot complex chemical reactions and implement engineering modifications has led to significant improvements in product quality and manufacturing efficiency. Skilled in analytical techniques such as HPLC, GPC, and GC, he has effectively used these tools for quality control, molecular weight determination, and method validation. Mr. Ajjarapu is also proficient in developing standard operating procedures (SOPs), conducting root cause analyses, and ensuring compliance with ISO and quality audit standards. His experience in cost analysis, raw material evaluation, and product development makes him adept at identifying opportunities for innovation and improvement in production systems. Overall, his research skill set bridges chemistry, engineering, and operational strategy, contributing directly to commercial success and technical advancement.

Award and Honor🏆

Mr. Venkata Manikya Kumar Ajjarapu has earned recognition throughout his career for his contributions to chemical manufacturing, process innovation, and operational excellence. While specific formal awards are not listed in his professional record, his accomplishments speak volumes about the impact of his work. Notably, he was selected for international training by SNF Floerger in France across multiple years (2007, 2008, and 2011), a distinction given to high-performing professionals. He also played a leading role in executing a major greenfield polymer plant project at SNF India, demonstrating his technical and leadership capabilities. His appointment as President – East Global Operations at Aurora Specialty Chemistries, USA, further reflects his high standing in the field and trust placed in him for overseeing global operations. As a certified Lead Auditor and a key figure in cost-saving and process improvement initiatives, Mr. Ajjarapu continues to receive professional acknowledgment through roles of increasing responsibility and global impact.

Conclusion📝

Venkata Manikya Kumar Ajjarapu is highly competent and accomplished in applied industrial R&D, with decades of contributions in chemical manufacturing, polymer science, and process optimization. His role in setting up and enhancing production of specialty chemicals across international sites clearly demonstrates a strong impact on industry-focused research.

However, if the “Best Researcher Award” is geared toward academic or fundamental research, he may fall short due to a lack of scholarly publications, patents, or academic affiliations.

Publications Top Noted📚

  • Title: Synthesis of ubiquinone Q10 (Co Q10) from natural tobacco leaves
    Author: VMK Ajjarapu
    Journal: Results in Chemistry
    Year: 2025

  • Title: Enhancing Industrial and Municipal Water Treatment Efficiency Using Anionic and Cationic Polyacrylamide Polymers
    Author: VMK Ajjarapu
    Journal: American Journal of Polymer Science, 2025; 14(1): 7–16
    Year: 2025
    Cited by: 10

  • Title: Synthesis of Ubiquinone from Natural Tobacco Leaves
    Author: K Ajjarapu
    Repository: SSRN (Preprint)
    Year: 2025