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

Manoj Semwal | Crop Science | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Manoj Semwal | Crop Science | Best Researcher Award

Chief Scientist at Council of Scientific and Industrial Research | India

Dr. Manoj Semwal is a highly accomplished scientist specializing in Precision Agriculture, Remote Sensing, Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV), Machine Learning, and ICT applications in crop science. He holds degrees including B.Sc. (Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics), PGDCSA, MCA, M.Tech in Remote Sensing and GIS from the Indian Institute of Remote Sensing (ISRO), and a Ph.D. in Precision Agriculture from the Academy of Council of Scientific and Industrial Research. With over two decades of professional experience, he has served in progressive scientific roles at CSIR-CIMAP, culminating in his current position as Chief Scientist at CSIR Headquarters. His research interests span drone-based agri-technologies, smart farming systems, hyperspectral imaging, and data-driven decision tools for crop management. Demonstrating advanced research skills in remote sensing analytics, GIS modeling, and machine learning applications, he has led several national and international projects, including the Aroma Mission and a major Haleon UK-funded initiative on sustainable mint-based agro-technologies. His achievements have been recognized through numerous awards such as the CSIR Technology Award for Life Science, CAIRD Award for Rural Development, and the National Geomatics Award (ISRO, 2024). With over 40 peer-reviewed publications, book chapters, and innovative technology developments, Dr. Semwal’s work embodies scientific excellence and transformative innovation in modern agricultural research.

Profile : Scopus | Google Scholar 

Featured Publications

Bisht, D., Chanotiya, C. S., Rana, M., & Semwal, M. (2009). Variability in essential oil and bioactive chiral monoterpenoid compositions of Indian oregano (Origanum vulgare L.) populations from northwestern Himalaya and their chemotaxonomy. Industrial Crops and Products, 30(3), 422–426.

Kumar, Y., Prakash, O., Tripathi, H., Tandon, S., Gupta, M. M., Rahman, L. U., … (2018). AromaDb: A database of medicinal and aromatic plants’ aroma molecules with phytochemistry and therapeutic potentials. Frontiers in Plant Science, 9, 1081.

Khan, M. S., Semwal, M., Sharma, A., & Verma, R. K. (2020). An artificial neural network model for estimating Mentha crop biomass yield using Landsat 8 OLI. Precision Agriculture, 21, 18–33.

Prasad, N., Semwal, M., & Roy, P. S. (2015). Remote sensing and GIS for biodiversity conservation. In Recent Advances in Lichenology: Modern Methods and Approaches in Lichen Systematics and Culture Techniques (pp. 123–140). Springer.

Lothe, N. B., Mazeed, A., Pandey, J., Patairiya, V., Verma, K., Semwal, M., … (2021). Maximizing yields and economics by supplementing additional nutrients for commercially grown Menthol mint (Mentha arvensis L.) cultivars. Industrial Crops and Products, 160, 113110.

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.

Clara R. Azzam | Plant Genetics | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Dr. Clara R. Azzam | Plant Genetics | Best Researcher Award

Cell Research Department at Agricultural Research Center | Egypt

Prof. Dr. Clara R. Azzam, a distinguished Egyptian scientist, has made significant contributions to plant genetics, cytology, and biotechnology through her long career at the Agricultural Research Center, where she currently serves as Head of the Cell Research Department at the Field Crops Research Institute. She earned her Ph.D. in Agronomy (2001) from Cairo University, focusing on sunflower improvement using both conventional and biotechnological breeding approaches, after completing earlier degrees in plant sciences. With over 30 years of professional experience, she has advanced research in plant tissue culture, molecular breeding, mutation induction, genetic transformation, and crop adaptation to environmental stresses. Her research interests focus on genetic resources, salinity tolerance, mutation breeding, and sustainable agricultural biotechnology. Demonstrating strong scientific impact, she has published 18 documents, accumulated 187 citations across 135 documents, and achieved an h-index of 7. Dr. Azzam possesses advanced research skills in cytogenetics, molecular markers, and crop biotechnology, complemented by leadership in international collaborations with institutions in Germany, Austria, and the USA. She has received multiple honors including the Arab World Lady Medal (2025), Women’s Appreciation Award in Agriculture (2021), and ARC Shields of Excellence. Her achievements reflect outstanding dedication to advancing plant science and agricultural innovation globally.

Profile : Scopus | Google Scholar | ORCID

Featured Publications

Abou-Sreea, A. I. B., Azzam, C. R., Al-Taweel, S. K., Abdel-Aziz, R. M., Belal, H. E. E., … (2021). Natural biostimulant attenuates salinity stress effects in chili pepper by remodeling antioxidant, ion, and phytohormone balances, and augments gene expression. Plants, 10(11), 2316.

Azzam, C. R., Al-Taweel, S. K., Abdel-Aziz, R. M., Rabea, K. M., Abou-Sreea, A. I. B., … (2021). Salinity effects on gene expression, morphological, and physio-biochemical responses of Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni in vitro. Plants, 10(4), 820.

Al-Taweel, S. K., Azzam, C. R., Khaled, K. A., & Abdel-Aziz, R. M. (2021). Improvement of Stevia (Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni) and steviol glycoside through traditional breeding and biotechnological approaches. SABRAO Journal of Breeding and Genetics, 53(1), 88–111.

Azzam, C. R., Zaki, S. N. S., Bamagoos, A. A., Rady, M. M., & Alharby, H. F. (2022). Soaking maize seeds in zeatin-type cytokinin biostimulators improves salt tolerance by enhancing the antioxidant system and photosynthetic efficiency. Plants, 11(8), 1004.

Awaad, H., Abu-hashim, M., & Negm, A. (2021). Mitigating environmental stresses for agricultural sustainability in Egypt. In Springer International Publishing.

Tetsuji Tanaka | Agronomy | Best Research Article Award

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Tetsuji Tanaka | Agronomy | Best Research Article Award

Associate Professor at Meiji Gakuin University, Japan

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Tetsuji Tanaka is a globally engaged academic specializing in agricultural economics, climate policy, and computable general equilibrium (CGE) modeling. With a Ph.D. in Finance and Management from the University of London (SOAS), he brings interdisciplinary insight into food-energy-climate dynamics. Currently a faculty member at Meiji Gakuin University, Japan, Dr. Tanaka has established himself as a thought leader in food security and sustainable development. He has held academic, research, and advisory roles in Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States, including serving as a Food Policy Advisor for the Scottish Government. His publication record includes over 40 peer-reviewed articles, four academic books, and contributions to IPCC reports, underscoring his impact on both academia and policy. He is also actively involved in major research collaborations with universities such as Aberdeen and Maryland, and has worked with international organizations including the Inter-American Development Bank. Dr. Tanaka’s research not only drives scientific innovation but also addresses real-world policy challenges, making him a vital contributor to the global sustainability discourse. 🌍📘

Professional Profile 

🎓 Education

Dr. Tetsuji Tanaka holds a Ph.D. in Finance and Management from the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS), University of London, a prestigious institution known for its focus on global economic and developmental issues. His doctoral studies focused on the intersection of economic modeling and policy analysis, equipping him with deep theoretical and practical tools in computable general equilibrium (CGE) models and policy impact assessment. Prior to his doctoral journey, Dr. Tanaka completed his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in economics and management-related disciplines from reputable Japanese institutions, forming a strong foundation in quantitative analysis, policy research, and economic theory. Throughout his academic journey, he has received high academic distinctions and has participated in multiple international training and certification programs that enhanced his competencies in data analytics, agricultural policy, and environmental economics. His educational background reflects a clear commitment to bridging economic theory with sustainable policy action, positioning him to contribute meaningfully to issues of global food, energy, and climate policy. 🎓📊

🧑‍🏫 Professional Experience

Dr. Tanaka’s professional journey is marked by academic distinction, international collaboration, and policy-level impact. He currently serves as an Associate Professor at Meiji Gakuin University, where he lectures and mentors students in the fields of agricultural economics, sustainability, and policy modeling. His prior appointments include academic and research roles in the UK and the US, highlighting his ability to navigate and contribute to diverse educational environments. One of his most notable roles was as a Food Policy Advisor for the Scottish Government, where he applied his research directly to policy design. In addition to his academic responsibilities, Dr. Tanaka has led eight major research projects under Japan’s JSPS (Kaken) funding framework, collaborating with institutions such as the University of Aberdeen and the University of Maryland. His experience also spans consultancy work for international organizations like the Inter-American Development Bank and TÜSIAD, showcasing his engagement with industry and government stakeholders. Dr. Tanaka’s diverse experiences reflect his commitment to applying research for public good and sustainable policy innovation. 📘🌐📈

🌱 Research Interests

Dr. Tanaka’s research interests lie at the intersection of food security, environmental sustainability, and economic modeling. He focuses on computable general equilibrium (CGE) modeling to simulate and evaluate the effects of policy changes on food and energy markets, particularly under the pressures of climate change. His work explores critical global questions such as the impact of biofuel policies on agricultural production, the food-energy-water nexus, and the volatility of commodity markets in response to geopolitical and environmental factors. He is deeply invested in exploring the socioeconomic implications of environmental policy and how integrated models can offer better tools for sustainable decision-making. A consistent thread across his research is the development of data-driven strategies for climate-resilient agriculture, carbon mitigation, and food systems transformation. His contributions are vital in shaping evidence-based policies that aim to reconcile economic growth with environmental stewardship. 🌾♻️📊

🛠️ Research Skills

Dr. Tetsuji Tanaka brings a robust suite of research skills that underpin his academic excellence. He is an expert in Computable General Equilibrium (CGE) modeling, a powerful quantitative approach used to assess policy impacts across sectors. His technical competencies extend to statistical software, economic simulation tools, and data analysis platforms (e.g., STATA, GAMS, R), which he uses to model complex relationships among climate, energy, and food systems. Dr. Tanaka is also skilled in policy impact assessment, particularly in evaluating the socioeconomic effects of climate interventions. He has conducted multidisciplinary research involving agriculture, energy markets, trade, and environmental sustainability, showing his ability to synthesize knowledge across domains. As an editor of academic publications and a reviewer for international journals, he has a strong command of scientific writing, peer review, and editorial processes. Moreover, his collaborative work with government agencies and international bodies has honed his skills in policy translation, stakeholder engagement, and project management. Together, these capabilities position him as a leading researcher in the field of sustainable development and food systems transformation. 📐📚🌍

🏅 Awards and Honors

Dr. Tetsuji Tanaka’s contributions have been recognized through multiple academic honors and international engagements. He has received eight research grants from the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS) under its prestigious Kaken program, acknowledging his role as a principal investigator in high-impact projects. He has also been invited as a contributor to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) reports—one of the highest recognitions in climate-related science. His selection as an Editor for a Special Issue in the journal Sustainability further reflects his leadership and standing in the academic community. Additionally, his consulting roles for organizations like the Inter-American Development Bank and TÜSIAD underscore international trust in his expertise. Dr. Tanaka’s work has been consistently cited and acknowledged by researchers and policymakers globally, as evidenced by his Google Scholar citation count exceeding 800. These accolades reflect not only his scientific productivity but also his real-world influence in shaping food and climate policies. 🏆📜🌐

📝 Conclusion

Dr. Tetsuji Tanaka demonstrates outstanding scholarly and policy-oriented achievements in agricultural economics and food security, backed by strong publications, global collaborations, and impactful modeling work. While the nomination would benefit from emphasizing one specific research article that exemplifies his excellence for this award category, his overall record makes him a highly suitable and deserving nominee for the Best Research Article Award, especially if the award committee allows evaluation of cumulative research excellence within a focused theme.

Publications Top Noted

  • Tanaka, T. (2025) – Estimating the embodied carbon emissions and economic impacts of the EU carbon border adjustment mechanism and China’s retaliatory measures – Journal of Environmental Management

  • Tanaka, T. (2025) – Energy-food interconnectedness in Africa: A dynamic analysis of price transmission and the roles of logistics efficiency and food self-sufficiency – Journal of Agriculture and Food Research

Antonios Koutelidakis | Horticulture | Botany Scientist Excellence Award

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Prof. Antonios Koutelidakis | Horticulture | Botany Scientist Excellence Award

Associate Professor at Aegean University, Greece

Professor Antonios E. Koutelidakis is an Associate Professor of Human Nutrition at the University of the Aegean and Director of the MSc Program “Nutrition, Well-being and Public Health.” He holds a PhD in Human Nutrition, with research focusing on the bioactivity of food components, especially plant-based infusions like tea. His work centers on functional foods and their impact on human health, disease prevention, and nutritional interventions. He has authored over 70 international journal articles, 10 book chapters, and led or participated in numerous European and national research projects. Prof. Koutelidakis has received several awards, including recognition in the international Aristides Daskalopoulos Foundation competition and national student innovation contests. He actively collaborates with the food industry and supervises PhD and postdoctoral researchers. A member of multiple scientific committees and boards, he contributes significantly to the fields of nutrition science and public health through research, teaching, and academic leadership.

Professional Profile 

Education 🎓

Professor Antonios E. Koutelidakis began his academic journey at the Agricultural University of Athens, where he earned his degree in Food Science and Nutrition in 2005. He continued at the same institution for his postgraduate studies, completing a master’s program in Human Nutrition from 2005 to 2007. In 2010, he was awarded a PhD from the Department of Food and Nutrition Science, with his doctoral research focusing on the effects of nutritional factors on the bioactivity of foods, particularly tea infusions. His academic performance and research potential were recognized with a scholarship from the State Scholarship Foundation (IKY). In 2014, he further advanced his expertise as a postdoctoral researcher at the Agricultural University of Athens, working on a project related to bioactive food components and their influence on disease biomarkers. His solid educational background laid the foundation for his distinguished career in nutrition science and functional food research.

Professional Experience 💼

Professor Antonios E. Koutelidakis has extensive professional experience in academia and research, primarily in the field of Human Nutrition. From 2011 to 2013, he served as a Scientific Associate at the Department of Nutrition and Dietetics at the T.E.I. of Crete and as an instructor at the I.E.K. Heraklion. Between 2013 and 2017, he held a teaching position under contract at the University of the Aegean, where he taught a range of nutrition-related courses. In 2018, he was appointed Assistant Professor and promoted to Associate Professor in 2023 in the Department of Food Science and Nutrition. He has led or contributed to numerous national and European research projects and has served as a scientific or deputy manager in several of them. He also coordinated the postgraduate program “Nutrition, Well-being and Public Health.” In addition to teaching and research, he has held key administrative and leadership roles, including ethics committee chair and internship coordinator.

Research Interest 🔬

Professor Antonios E. Koutelidakis’s research interests lie at the intersection of human nutrition and the health-promoting properties of functional foods. His work focuses on the study of bioactive components in plant-based foods and their physiological effects, particularly in relation to disease prevention, nutritional interventions, and overall human well-being. He is deeply engaged in exploring how dietary factors influence metabolic health, inflammation, and disease biomarkers. A significant part of his research investigates the nutritional value of traditional and novel food products, aiming to enhance their functional properties. He is particularly interested in clinical and nutritional intervention studies that examine the impact of bioactive compounds on human health. His applied research often involves collaboration with the food industry to develop innovative, health-oriented food products. Through both laboratory and clinical research, Professor Koutelidakis contributes to advancing evidence-based knowledge in nutrition science, with a strong emphasis on translating findings into practical dietary recommendations and food innovations.

Research Skill🔎

Professor Antonios E. Koutelidakis possesses a diverse and advanced set of research skills in the field of human nutrition, with particular expertise in the analysis of bioactive food components and their effects on health. He is proficient in designing and conducting both laboratory-based and clinical nutritional studies, including nutritional interventions that evaluate disease prevention and health outcomes. His skills encompass food chemistry, biomarker analysis, and the development of functional foods with enhanced nutritional profiles. He is experienced in coordinating multidisciplinary research teams and managing large-scale national and European research projects. Additionally, he has strong competencies in scientific writing, data interpretation, and dissemination of research through publications, conferences, and collaborations with the food industry. Professor Koutelidakis also demonstrates expertise in mentoring graduate and postgraduate students, fostering innovation, and applying research findings to real-world challenges in nutrition and public health. His ability to bridge academic research with applied product development further enhances his research profile.

Award and Honor🏆

Professor Antonios E. Koutelidakis has received several prestigious awards and honors in recognition of his contributions to nutrition science and functional food research. Early in his career, he was awarded a scholarship from the State Scholarship Foundation (IKY) for his outstanding doctoral research on the bioactivity of food components, particularly tea infusions. In 2009, his research was internationally recognized with a distinction in the 2nd International Competition for Young Scientists organized by the Aristides Daskalopoulos Foundation. He has also led and mentored student teams that achieved top placements in major innovation competitions, including first prize in the national Ecotrophelia competition and second prize at the European level in 2020 for the development of innovative food products. These accolades reflect his strong commitment to academic excellence, applied research, and mentorship. His leadership in research programs and contribution to scientific knowledge continues to earn him recognition within the academic and professional nutrition communities.

Conclusion📝

Antonios E. Koutelidakis is a highly accomplished academic and researcher in Human Nutrition, with a significant and valuable focus on plant-based functional foods. His contributions are highly relevant to applied plant science, particularly regarding how plant-derived compounds affect human health.

However, for a Botany Scientist Excellence Award, which typically emphasizes classical botanical disciplines (e.g., taxonomy, systematics, plant ecology, physiology, biodiversity), his work, while tangentially related, does not align closely enough with core botanical research criteria.

Publications Top Noted📚

  • “How Screen Time Affects Greek Schoolchildren’s Eating Habits and Functional Food Consumption?—A Cross-Sectional Study”

    • Authors: Votsi, I.C.; Koutelidakis, A.E.

    • Journal: Nutrients

    • Year: 2025

  • “Hydration Status, Dietary Habits, and Functional Food Consumption Preferences of Football Athletes: A Cross-Sectional Pilot Study”

    • Authors: Papaoikonomou, G.; Kandyliari, A.; Vlassopoulos, A.; Malisova, O.; Koutelidakis, A.E.

    • Journal: Nutrients

    • Year: 2025

  • “Navigating Burnout: The Mediating Role of Mindfulness and the Mediterranean Lifestyle in Fostering Job Satisfaction and Well-Being”

    • Authors: Christodoulou, E.; Dimitriadou, M.E.; Mpali, T.; Koutelidakis, A.E.

    • Journal: Psychiatry International

    • Year: 2025

  • “Towards a Thriving Workplace: A Feasibility Study on Mindfulness and the Mediterranean Lifestyle for Corporate Wellness”

    • Authors: Christodoulou, E.; Poutli, E.; Andreou, D.; Kourkoutas, Y.; Koutelidakis, A.E.

    • Journal: Healthcare (Switzerland)

    • Year: 2025

    • Citations: 1

  • “Sustainable Development of an Innovative Spreadable Plant-Based Product of High Added Value through the Valorization of an Agro-Food By-Product”

    • Authors: Vardakas, A.T.; Giannakas, A.E.; Dimitrakouda, M.; Koutelidakis, A.E.; Andritsos, N.D.

    • Journal: Applied Sciences (Switzerland)

    • Year: 2024

  • “Functional Foods, Gut Microbiome and Association with Obesity and Metabolic Syndrome: A Literature Review”

    • Authors: Koumpouli, D.; Koumpouli, V.; Koutelidakis, A.E.

    • Journal: Not specified

    • Year: Not specified

    • Citations: 2

  • “Effect of Vitamin C, D3, Ca Supplements and Olive Paste Enriched with Mountain Tea on Health Biomarkers in Postmenopausal Women with Osteopenia or Osteoporosis: A Prospective Interventional Study”

    • Authors: Konstantinidi, M.; Stoupi, S.; Anastasiou, I.; Tsakotos, G.A.; Koutelidakis, A.E.

    • Journal: Applied Sciences (Switzerland)

    • Year: 2024

    • Citations: 1

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