André Silva | Agronomy | Innovative Research Award

Published on by Botany Scientist

Innovative Research Award

André Silva

Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil

André Silva
Affiliation Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul
Country Brazil
Scopus ID 53984012900
Documents 29
Citations 341
h-index 12
Subject Area Agronomy
Event Botany Scientist Awards
ORCID 0000-0001-5505-7678

André Silva is an agricultural engineer and Assistant Professor in the Department of Plant Protection at the Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Brazil. His research addresses the control of plant pathogens, epidemiology, induced resistance in plants, seed pathology, and electron microscopy, with additional postdoctoral experience in forest pathology at the Federal University of Viçosa. He is a member of the International Society for Pest Information and serves as Professor and Advisor in the Graduate Program in Crop Science at UFRGS [1]. According to Scopus, his scholarly record includes 29 documents, 341 citations, and an h-index of 12 [2].

Abstract

This article presents an academic profile of André Silva, an agricultural engineer whose research focuses on plant pathology, with emphasis on the control of plant pathogens, epidemiology, induced resistance, seed pathology, and electron microscopy. His postdoctoral work in forest pathology examined plant–pathogen interactions using green fluorescent protein, histopathology, gene expression, and genetic resistance, while also supporting diagnostic activities in a forest pathology laboratory [1]. Bibliometric data from Scopus indicate 29 documents, 341 citations, and an h-index of 12, confirming a consistent scholarly record in agronomy and plant protection [2].

Keywords

  • Plant pathology
  • Epidemiology
  • Induced resistance
  • Seed pathology
  • Forest pathology
  • Biological control
  • Agronomy

Introduction

André Silva is an agricultural engineer and plant pathologist affiliated with the Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul in Brazil. His academic training includes a bachelor’s degree in agronomy from the Federal University of Minas Gerais, a master’s degree and doctorate in plant pathology from the Federal University of Lavras, and postdoctoral research in forest pathology at the Federal University of Viçosa [1]. His research program addresses plant disease control, epidemiology, induced resistance, seed pathology, and the application of microscopy to plant–pathogen interactions. He currently serves as Assistant Professor in the Department of Plant Protection at UFRGS and as Professor and Advisor in the Graduate Program in Crop Science [1]. His Scopus record reports 29 documents, 341 citations, and an h-index of 12 [2].

Research Profile

André Silva’s research profile combines applied plant pathology with molecular and microscopic approaches to plant disease. His work has covered the control of pathogens affecting soybean and eucalyptus, including Asian soybean rust and powdery mildew, as well as seed pathology and the evaluation of induced resistance [3]. Postdoctoral research at the Federal University of Viçosa involved plant–pathogen interactions using green fluorescent protein, histopathology, gene expression, and genetic resistance, alongside technical responsibility for diagnoses in the Forest Pathology Laboratory [1]. He is a member of the International Society for Pest Information and contributes to editorial and peer-review activities in plant science [4].

Research Contributions

André Silva’s contributions include studies on the physiological and metabolic effects of Ceratocystis fimbriata infection in eucalypt plants, the responses of resistant and susceptible Eucalyptus hybrid clones to infection, and the role of limonene in resistance to Austropuccinia psidii [5]. Additional work has examined pre-infection stages of Austropuccinia psidii in Eucalyptus leaves, morphoanatomical changes associated with resistance, and the nutrition-dependent severity of Calonectria leaf blight [6]. His applied research also addresses biological control and seed treatment, including the use of Trichoderma species and Bacillus velezensis against Macrophomina phaseolina in soybean and maize [7].

Publications

André Silva has published full-length articles in journals including Physiological and Molecular Plant Pathology, European Journal of Plant Pathology, Annals of Forest Science, Plant Disease, Forests, Plants, and Plant Physiology and Biochemistry [3]. Representative recent publications include studies on Trichoderma-based seed treatment against charcoal rot in soybean and maize, a new species of Ceratobasidium causing sheath blight on rice in Brazil, and phosphite compounds suppressing soybean anthracnose while stimulating defense mechanisms [7]. Earlier work reported Ceratocystis wilt on Caryocar brasiliense and the effects of temperature and leaf wetness on Phoma tarda in coffee seedlings [8].

Research Impact

According to Scopus, André Silva’s work has received 341 citations across 29 documents, with an h-index of 12 [2]. Highly cited contributions include the 2020 study in Annals of Forest Science on responses of Eucalyptus urophylla × Eucalyptus grandis hybrids to Ceratocystis fimbriata, which has accumulated citations in subsequent literature [5]. Additional cited work addresses limonene-related resistance in Eucalyptus and the physiological and metabolic effects of Ceratocystis fimbriata infection [6]. This citation record supports an assessment of sustained research influence in agronomy and plant protection.

Award Suitability

The Botany Scientist Awards recognize contributions in plant science, and André Silva’s profile aligns with the event’s scope through research on plant–pathogen interactions, disease control, and crop protection [4]. His combination of applied plant pathology, molecular and microscopic analysis, and teaching in graduate programs supports consideration for recognition in agronomy and plant protection [1]. Bibliometric indicators, including 29 documents, 341 citations, and an h-index of 12, provide objective support for award suitability [2].

Conclusion

André Silva’s academic profile reflects a sustained contribution to plant pathology and agronomy through research on disease control, epidemiology, induced resistance, seed pathology, and forest pathology [1]. His publication record and citation metrics indicate a consistent scholarly presence, while his teaching and advisory roles support the training of future researchers [2]. Considered together, these elements make his work relevant to the objectives of the Botany Scientist Awards and to broader developments in crop protection [4].

References

  1. Elsevier. (n.d.). Scopus author details: André Silva, Author ID 53984012900. Scopus.
    https://www.scopus.com/authid/detail.uri?authorId=53984012900
  2. Scopus. (2026). Scholarly metrics: 341 citations, 29 documents, h-index 12. Scopus.
    https://www.scopus.com/authid/detail.uri?authorId=53984012900
  3. da Silva, A. C., de Oliveira Silva, F. M., Milagre, J. C., Omena-Garcia, R. P., Abreu, M. C., Mafia, R. G., Nunes-Nesi, A., & Alfenas, A. C. (2018). Eucalypt plants are physiologically and metabolically affected by infection with Ceratocystis fimbriata. Plant Physiology and Biochemistry, 123, 170–179.
    https://doi.org/10.1016/j.plaphy.2017.12.015
  4. Botany Scientist Awards. (n.d.). Award website and event information. Botany Scientist.
    https://botanyscientist.com/
  5. Silva, A. C., Betancourth, B. M. L., Ferreira, D. C., Elerati, T. L., Rodrigues, F. Á., & Alfenas, A. C. (2020). Responses of resistant and susceptible hybrid clones of Eucalyptus urophylla × Eucalyptus grandis to infection by Ceratocystis fimbriata. Annals of Forest Science, 77, 1–19.
    https://doi.org/10.1007/s13595-020-00951-3
  6. Silva, R. R., Silva, A. C., Rodella, R. A., Marques, M. O. M., Zanuncio, A. J. V., Soares, M. A., Serrão, J. E., Zanuncio, J. C., & Furtado, E. L. (2019). Limonene, a chemical compound related to the resistance of Eucalyptus to Austropuccinia psidii. Plant Disease, 104, 414–422.
    https://doi.org/10.1094/PDIS-05-19-0943-RE
  7. da Veiga, J. D., Bristot, G., de Oliveira, A. M. R., Radunz, L. L., & da Silva, A. C. (2026). Seed treatment with Trichoderma asperelloides, alone or in combination with Bacillus velezensis, attenuates Macrophomina phaseolina-induced physiological stress and promotes maize growth. Physiological and Molecular Plant Pathology, 147, 103539.
    https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pmpp.2026.103539
  8. da Veiga, J. D., Ludwig, J., Chitolina, S. F., et al. (2026). Trichoderma endophyticum, T. asperellum, and T. harzianum suppress charcoal rot in soybean seeds infected by Macrophomina phaseolina. European Journal of Plant Pathology.
    https://doi.org/10.1007/s10658-026-03192-8

Tatek Wondimu Negash | Agronomy | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Botany Scientist

Mr. Tatek Wondimu Negash | Agronomy | Best Researcher Award

Agricultural Researcher at Ethiopia Institute Of Agricultural Research | Ethiopia

Mr. Tatek Wondimu Negash is a highly dedicated and results-oriented water resources and irrigation engineer with over eight years of professional experience in agricultural water management, hydrology, irrigation system design, and climate change adaptation. Based in Adama, Ethiopia, he serves as a researcher at the Ethiopia Institute of Agricultural Research (EIAR), where he integrates scientific research with practical solutions for sustainable agriculture. Tatek has led and contributed to various projects that enhance water use efficiency, improve irrigation technologies, and support farmers with tailored agricultural interventions. His work emphasizes the integration of scientific tools such as ArcGIS, ArcSWAT, and Aquacrop in real-world irrigation design and scheduling. Known for his collaborative approach, he works closely with farmers, development organizations, and academic institutions across Africa. Tatek’s strong publication record, combined with his international training exposure and technical skills, reflects his growing influence in the field of water management and agricultural sustainability.

Professional Profile 

Education

Mr. Tatek Wondimu Negash holds a Bachelor of Science (BSc) degree in Water Resources and Irrigation Engineering from Hawassa University, Ethiopia, completed. He further advanced his education by earning a Master of Philosophy (MPhil) in Irrigation and Drainage Engineering from the University for Development Studies (UDS), Ghana. supported by a World Bank-funded scholarship through the African Centre of Excellence Impact Project (ACE Impact). His MPhil thesis focused on the “Impact of Land Use and Land Cover Change on Watershed Hydrology,” showcasing his research capacity in addressing environmental and hydrological challenges. Throughout his education, Tatek demonstrated excellence in academic performance, practical fieldwork, and interdisciplinary research. He has also enriched his qualifications through several professional certifications and short courses in data analysis, hydrological modeling, eco-hydrology, and integrated water resource management in collaboration with international universities and research centers in India, the Netherlands, and beyond.

Professional Experience

Since 2016, Mr. Tatek Wondimu Negash has served as a Water Resources and Irrigation Engineer and Researcher at the Melkassa Agricultural Research Center, part of the Ethiopia Institute of Agricultural Research (EIAR). His responsibilities include designing and supervising irrigation systems, evaluating water-saving technologies, and conducting research on soil-water-climate interactions. Tatek has led efforts in optimizing irrigation scheduling for various crops under different climatic and topographic conditions. He is deeply involved in applied field research, including establishing furrow lengths, irrigation times, and flow rates tailored to specific crops and soils. In addition, he provides technical supervision for infrastructure projects such as small dams, canals, and drainage systems. His work also involves capacity building—facilitating training workshops for local stakeholders and collaborating with development agencies. With his strong technical knowledge and problem-solving approach, Tatek contributes meaningfully to the development of sustainable and climate-resilient agricultural practices across Ethiopia’s arid and semi-arid regions.

Research Interests

Mr. Tatek Wondimu Negash’s research interests focus on the intersection of agricultural water management, climate change, land use, and irrigation system optimization. He is particularly interested in understanding how changing land cover and climate variability affect hydrological responses in semi-arid watersheds. His work includes evapotranspiration estimation, crop water requirement analysis, and precision irrigation for improved crop yields. Tatek is passionate about developing efficient water allocation strategies that maximize productivity while ensuring sustainability and resilience in farming systems. He has conducted extensive research on crops such as tomato, maize, sorghum, haricot bean, and pepper, evaluating their water needs and economic returns under varied irrigation regimes. His scientific contributions help promote climate-smart agriculture by integrating hydrological modeling, geospatial analysis, and on-ground experiments. Tatek is also interested in scaling up practical, low-cost irrigation technologies for smallholder farmers, ensuring that research outcomes have a tangible impact on livelihoods and food security.

Research Skills

Mr. Tatek Wondimu Negash brings a wide array of research and technical skills to his field. He is proficient in geospatial tools such as ArcGIS, ArcSWAT, and ERDAS Imagine for watershed analysis, land use classification, and hydrological modeling. Additionally, he uses crop simulation tools like AquaCrop, CROPWAT, DSSAT, and software such as AutoCAD and EPANET for irrigation design and water distribution analysis. Tatek has hands-on experience conducting field experiments, managing large datasets, and performing statistical analyses to inform evidence-based recommendations. He also excels in stakeholder collaboration, facilitating training programs, and engaging in multidisciplinary teamwork with farmers, government agencies, and researchers. His ability to merge scientific modeling with practical design solutions makes him a valuable contributor to applied agricultural research. Moreover, his publication record in peer-reviewed journals highlights his strong academic writing, data interpretation, and research dissemination capabilities, reinforcing his role as an emerging leader in water and irrigation engineering.

Awards and Honors

Mr. Tatek Wondimu Negash has received several notable awards and honors recognizing his academic excellence and research contributions. Most prominently, he was awarded a Master’s Scholarship by the West African Centre for Water, Irrigation and Sustainable Agriculture (WACWISA) under the World Bank’s ACE Impact Project—a competitive scholarship granted to promising researchers in Africa. He is also a Certificate-holding Editorial Board Member of the 5th Edition of the International Analytical Chemistry Awards, demonstrating his engagement with the broader scientific community. In addition, he has earned multiple certifications in Python programming, Jupyter tools, and data analysis from 365 Data Science and Udacity, reflecting his commitment to continuous learning and data-driven research. Tatek’s participation in international workshops and short courses organized by institutions from India, the Netherlands, and Ghana further highlights his proactive involvement in global academic networks. These recognitions affirm his potential as a forward-thinking researcher in sustainable water management.

Publications Top Noted

  • Optimal irrigation water allocation for enhanced productivity of haricot bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) and economic gain: An experiment conducted in the semi-arid area of Ethiopia

    • Year: 2025

  • Optimal Irrigation Water Allocation for Enhanced Productivity of Pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) and Economic Gain: Evidence From the Semi‐Arid Region of Ethiopia

    • Year: 2025

  • Evapotranspiration and Crop Coefficient for Haricot Bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) Using Nonweighing Lysimeter Under Semiarid Climate of Melkassa, Ethiopia

    • Year: 2025

  • Irrigation Water Allocation for Enhanced Productivity and Economic Gain of Haricot Bean (Phaseolus vulgaris): A Study in Semi-arid Region of Ethiopia

    • Year: 2025

  • Maize (Zea mays L., 1753.) evapotranspiration and crop coefficient in semi-arid region of Ethiopia

    • Year: 2024

  • Determination of Evapotranspiration and Crop Coefficient for Tomato by Using Non-Weighing Lysimeter in Semiarid Region

    • Year: 2024

  • Nitrogen and Soil Moisture Optimization for Tomato Crops in Semi-Arid Areas of Ethiopia

    • Year: 2024

  • Evapotranspiration and Crop Coefficient of Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L.) at Melkassa Farmland, Semi-Arid Area of Ethiopia

    • Year: 2023

  • Impact of land-use and land-cover change on watershed hydrology: a case study of Mojo watershed, Ethiopia

    • Year: 2022

Conclusion

Tatek Wondimu Negash is a highly capable, technically proficient, and impactful researcher in the field of agricultural water management and irrigation engineering. His consistent publication record, applied research expertise, and contributions to capacity building in Ethiopia and beyond make him a strong and deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Continued international collaboration and scaling up his research impact will further solidify his standing as a leader in the field.