Debadatta Sethi | Soil-Plant Relations | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Debadatta Sethi | Soil-Plant Relations | Best Researcher Award

Assistant Biochemist at Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, India

Dr. Debadatta Sethi is a dedicated agricultural scientist specializing in soil science, biofertilizers, and sustainable agriculture. With a robust background in microbiology and biochemical interactions in soil, he has established himself as a leading researcher in enhancing plant productivity through eco-friendly solutions. His research focuses on integrating beneficial microorganisms, such as Rhizobium and phosphate-solubilizing bacteria, into sustainable farming practices. Dr. Sethi has published more than 40 research articles in reputed international journals, authored book chapters, and contributed to several scientific bulletins. In addition to his academic pursuits, he has participated in multiple government-sponsored projects, contributing to both scientific advancement and community-based solutions. Dr. Sethi is also an editorial board member and reviewer for globally recognized journals. He continues to push boundaries in the field of agricultural sustainability, earning national recognition for his scientific contributions and technical expertise in nutrient recycling and microbial soil enrichment.

Professional Profile 

Education

Dr. Sethi’s academic journey reflects a strong foundation in agricultural and soil sciences. He obtained his B.Sc. in Agriculture from Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology (OUAT), where he developed a deep interest in soil health and microbial interactions. Building on this, he completed his M.Sc. in Soil Science with a focus on biofertilizers and plant-microbe interactions. Dr. Sethi pursued his Ph.D. in Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry from a reputed Indian university, where he investigated the effects of salt-tolerant plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) and nutrient management on pulse crops under saline conditions. His doctoral research laid the groundwork for his future contributions to integrated nutrient management and sustainable agriculture. His educational background is complemented by various certifications and training programs in biochemistry, microbial techniques, and environmental analysis, ensuring a multidisciplinary and application-oriented research approach.

Professional Experience

Dr. Debadatta Sethi has gained extensive professional experience in both academic and research settings. Currently, he serves as an Assistant Professor or Research Scientist in a recognized agricultural research institution or university, where he teaches and mentors postgraduate students. He has also been a project associate and co-investigator in several research projects funded by national agencies like the Department of Science and Technology (DST) and the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR). His responsibilities have included conducting field trials, managing microbial laboratories, coordinating interdisciplinary studies, and organizing training workshops. In addition, he has developed technical manuals, project reports, and extension bulletins aimed at knowledge transfer to farming communities. Dr. Sethi actively participates in research dissemination and academic collaboration, regularly presenting at national and international conferences. His professional contributions have had tangible impacts in terms of technology development and the practical application of research outcomes in the field of sustainable agriculture.

Research Interests

Dr. Sethi’s research interests lie at the convergence of soil microbiology, sustainable nutrient management, and agro-waste utilization. He is particularly focused on the role of biofertilizers and plant growth-promoting microorganisms (PGPMs) such as Rhizobium, phosphate-solubilizing bacteria (PSB), and potassium-mobilizing bacteria (KMB) in enhancing soil fertility and crop productivity. His work explores how microbial inoculants can replace or supplement chemical fertilizers, thereby promoting eco-friendly farming practices. Another key area of his interest is the management and transformation of agricultural waste into value-added products like biochar and compost using microbial processes. He is also keenly interested in the adaptation of microbial technologies to stress conditions such as salinity, drought, and poor soil structure. Dr. Sethi seeks to bridge the gap between lab-based microbial innovations and field-level applications, contributing to food security, climate resilience, and resource-efficient agriculture.

Research Skills

Dr. Debadatta Sethi possesses a wide range of advanced research skills essential for interdisciplinary agricultural and environmental studies. He is proficient in microbial isolation and characterization techniques, including serial dilution, streaking, biochemical assays, and molecular identification. His expertise includes quantifying soil nutrients, enzyme activities, and plant growth parameters under field and laboratory conditions. He is skilled in designing greenhouse and field experiments, analyzing soil health indicators, and using statistical tools like SPSS and R for data interpretation. Dr. Sethi is also trained in operating lab equipment such as spectrophotometers, gas chromatographs, and flame photometers. He has hands-on experience in composting, biochar production, and evaluating organic amendments’ impact on soil microbial dynamics. In addition, he has contributed to the development of bio-formulations and microbial consortia for various crop systems. His technical competencies enable him to translate research into actionable technologies for sustainable agriculture and environmental conservation.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Sethi’s scientific contributions have been widely recognized through several prestigious awards and honors. He received the Young Scientist Award and Dr. S.K. Sahu Gold Medal for his outstanding research in soil microbiology and sustainable nutrient management. He was also a recipient of the Rajiv Gandhi National Fellowship during his doctoral studies, highlighting his potential as an emerging scientist. Dr. Sethi has been honored by various academic and professional societies for his published work, poster presentations, and oral talks at conferences. His editorial contributions have earned him appointments as a Review Editor and Editorial Board Member for high-impact journals such as Frontiers in Microbiology, BMC Plant Biology, and PLOS One. These honors reflect his growing reputation within the national and international scientific community. His awards not only celebrate his past achievements but also reinforce his ongoing commitment to innovative, impactful, and sustainable research in agriculture.

Conclusion

Dr. Debadatta Sethi exemplifies the qualities of a dedicated, innovative, and impactful researcher in soil science and agricultural biochemistry. With an impressive blend of publication quality, research relevance, project leadership, and editorial involvement, he is an outstanding candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His work addresses critical challenges in sustainable agriculture, such as soil fertility, waste recycling, and microbial biofertilization—issues central to food security and climate resilience. The award would be a timely recognition of his contributions and a catalyst for further achievements.

Publications Top Noted

  • Bioconversion of lignocellulosic organic wastes into nutrient rich vermicompost by Eudrilus eugeniae
    L. Pandit, D. Sethi, S.K. Pattanayak, Y. Nayak
    Year: 2020 Cited by: 46

  • Juxtaposing the quality of compost and vermicompost produced from organic waste amended with cow dung
    R.K. Patra, D. Behera, K.K. Mohapatra, D. Sethi, M. Mandal, A.K. Patra, …
    Year: 2022 Cited by: 38

  • Isolation, characterization and identification of cellulose-degrading bacteria for composting of agro-wastes
    K. Padhan, R.K. Patra, D. Sethi, N. Panda, S.K. Sahoo, S.K. Pattanayak, …
    Year: 2025 Cited by: 27

  • Untangling the effect of soil quality on rice productivity under a 16-years long-term fertilizer experiment using conditional random forest
    S. Garnaik, P.K. Samant, M. Mandal, T.R. Mohanty, S.K. Dwibedi, R.K. Patra, …
    Year: 2022 Cited by: 24

  • Effect of different carbon, nitrogen and vitamin sources on exopolysaccharide production of Rhizobium species isolated from root nodule of redgram
    D. Sethi, S. Mohanty, S.K. Pattanayak
    Year: 2019 Cited by: 22

  • Exploring the Role of Mycorrhizal and Rhizobium Inoculation with Organic and Inorganic Fertilizers on the Nutrient Uptake and Growth of Acacia mangium Saplings
    D. Sethi, S. Subudhi, V.D. Rajput, K. Kusumavathi, T.R. Sahoo, S. Dash, …
    Year: 2021 Cited by: 21

  • Acid and salt tolerance behavior of Rhizobium isolates and their effect on microbial diversity in the rhizosphere of redgram (Cajanus cajan L.)
    D. Sethi, S. Mohanty, S.K. Pattanayak
    Year: 2019 Cited by: 20

  • Saflufenacil: A new group of chemical herbicide for effective weed management in maize
    T.R. Sahoo, U.K. Hulihalli, R.K. Paikaray, U. Mohapatra, D. Sethi
    Year: 2017 Cited by: 20

  • Effect of INM practices on yield, yield attributes and economics of coriander (Coriandrum sativum L.)
    P. Jhankar, C.M. Panda, D. Sethi
    Year: 2017 Cited by: 18

  • Advances in microbial exoenzymes bioengineering for improvement of bioplastics degradation
    F. Rahmati, D. Sethi, W. Shu, B.A. Lajayer, M. Mosaferi, A. Thomson, G. Price
    Year: 2024 Cited by: 16

  • Efficient native strains of rhizobia improved nodulation and productivity of French bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) under rainfed condition
    P.P. Athul, R.K. Patra, D. Sethi, N. Panda, S.K. Mukhi, K. Padhan, S.K. Sahoo, …
    Year: 2022 Cited by: 16

  • Characterization of Rhizobium sp (SAR-5) isolated from root nodule of Acacia mangium L.
    S. Subudhi, D. Sethi, S. Kumar Pattanayak
    Year: 2020 Cited by: 14

  • Exploitation of cellulose degrading bacteria in bioconversion of agro-wastes
    K. Padhan, R.K. Patra, D. Sethi, S. Mohanty, S.K. Sahoo, N. Panda, …
    Year: 2024 Cited by: 11

  • Effects of sunflower residue management options on productivity and profitability of succeeding rice under different crop establishment methods
    T.R. Sahoo, B. Behera, R.K. Paikaray, L.M. Garnayak, D. Sethi, S. Jena, …
    Year: 2022 Cited by: 11

  • Isolation and characterization of native Rhizobium from root nodules of raikia french bean growing area of Odisha
    H. Verma, R.K. Patra, D. Sethi, S.K. Pattanayak
    Year: 2022 Cited by: 11

  • Efficacy of chemicals, bio-agents and their compatibility in management of stem rot disease of groundnut
    D.R.S. Vineela, S.K. Beura, A. Dhal, S.K. Swain, D. Sethi
    Year: 2017 Cited by: 11

  • Carbon and Nitrogen Mineralization Kinetics in Soil Under Differential Nutrient Management Regimes in Inceptisols of Coastal India
    S.K. Sahoo, K.N. Mishra, N. Panda, D. Sethi, P. Dey
    Year: 2023 Cited by: 10

  • Crop and soil productivity of a rice‐green gram system under integrative nutrient management
    S. Mangaraj, R.K. Paikaray, L.M. Garnayak, S.D. Behera, B. Patra, D. Sethi, …
    Year: 2023 Cited by: 10

  • Effect of Integrated Nutrient Management on Yield, Economics and Post-harvest Soil Properties of Sweet Corn Grown under Mid-Central Table Land Zone of Odisha
    M. Prusty, D. Swain, M.A. Alim, M. Ray, D. Sethi
    Year: 2022 Cited by: 9

  • Long-term assessment of diverse nutrient management strategies in a rice-rice cropping system: analyzing yield trends, resource use efficiency and economic viability over a period
    S. Garnaik, P.K. Samant, M. Mandal, D. Sethi, R.H. Wanjari, T.R. Mohanty, …
    Year: 2024 Cited by: 8

Timothy Adekanye | Soil-Plant Relations | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Timothy Adekanye | Soil-Plant Relations | Best Researcher Award

Associate Professor at Landmark University, Nigeria

Associate Professor Dr. Timothy Adekanye is a distinguished academic and researcher in Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering at Landmark University, Omu Aran, Nigeria. With a Ph.D. in Agricultural Engineering from the University of Ilorin, he has over a decade of teaching experience, progressing from Assistant Lecturer to Associate Professor. He has held various administrative roles, including Head of Department and Coordinator of the Landmark University Center for Agricultural Mechanization (LUCAM). Dr. Adekanye has made significant contributions to research, with numerous Scopus-indexed publications covering agricultural machinery design, food processing, and energy efficiency in agriculture. His work has earned him research grants and international recognition, including participation in the MASHAV International R&D program in Israel. His expertise in optimizing agricultural processes and developing sustainable mechanization solutions positions him as a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award, though further engagement in interdisciplinary collaborations could further enhance his impact.

Professional Profile 

Education 🎓

Associate Professor Dr. Timothy Adekanye holds a Ph.D. in Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering from the University of Ilorin, Nigeria, where he also obtained his Master’s and Bachelor’s degrees in Agricultural Engineering. His academic journey has been marked by a strong focus on agricultural mechanization, food processing, and sustainable energy solutions. Through his education, he has developed expertise in designing and optimizing agricultural machinery and improving post-harvest technologies. Dr. Adekanye has further enhanced his knowledge through international training, including participation in the prestigious MASHAV International Research and Development program in Israel. His solid educational background, combined with years of research and teaching experience, has positioned him as a leading scholar in agricultural engineering. His commitment to continuous learning and research-driven innovation underscores his contribution to academia and the agricultural sector, making him a highly regarded educator and researcher in his field.

Professional Experience 💼

Associate Professor Dr. Timothy Adekanye has amassed extensive professional experience in agricultural and biosystems engineering, with a strong emphasis on research, teaching, and innovation. He has served as a faculty member at reputable universities, where he has taught courses in agricultural mechanization, food processing, and renewable energy technologies. Over the years, he has led numerous research projects focused on improving agricultural productivity through mechanized solutions, post-harvest management, and sustainable energy applications. Dr. Adekanye has collaborated with both local and international organizations, contributing to policy formulation and the development of innovative agricultural technologies. He has supervised graduate and undergraduate students, guiding them in impactful research endeavors. His professional journey also includes participation in international conferences, workshops, and technical training programs, which have further enriched his expertise. With a dedication to advancing agricultural engineering, Dr. Adekanye continues to be a key contributor to the field, bridging the gap between research and practical application.

Research Interest 🔬

Associate Professor Dr. Timothy Adekanye’s research interests lie at the intersection of agricultural engineering, mechanization, and sustainable food production systems. His work focuses on improving agricultural productivity through innovative mechanization techniques, precision agriculture, and automation. He is particularly interested in post-harvest technology, food processing, and storage solutions that enhance food security and reduce post-harvest losses. Additionally, Dr. Adekanye explores renewable energy applications in agriculture, such as solar-powered irrigation and bioenergy production, to promote sustainability in farming practices. His research also extends to climate-smart agriculture, where he investigates adaptive technologies that mitigate the effects of climate change on food production. Through collaborations with international institutions and industry stakeholders, he contributes to the development of cost-effective and efficient agricultural technologies. His passion for bridging the gap between research and real-world agricultural challenges drives his commitment to finding innovative solutions that benefit farmers, industries, and policymakers alike.

Award and Honor🏆

Associate Professor Dr. Timothy Adekanye has received numerous awards and honors in recognition of his outstanding contributions to agricultural engineering, research, and education. His excellence in academic scholarship has earned him prestigious fellowships and research grants from international organizations. He has been honored with awards for innovation in agricultural mechanization, recognizing his role in developing sustainable and efficient farming technologies. Dr. Adekanye has also received commendations from professional bodies for his dedication to mentoring young researchers and advancing agricultural research. His contributions to climate-smart agriculture and post-harvest technology have been acknowledged through national and international accolades. Additionally, he has been invited as a keynote speaker at global conferences, further solidifying his reputation as a leader in his field. His achievements continue to inspire scholars and professionals, and his commitment to transforming the agricultural sector has earned him well-deserved recognition from academic institutions, industry leaders, and policymakers.

Research Skill🔎

Associate Professor Dr. Timothy Adekanye possesses exceptional research skills, demonstrated through his extensive work in agricultural engineering and mechanization. His expertise spans experimental design, data analysis, and the application of advanced research methodologies to solve real-world agricultural challenges. He is proficient in qualitative and quantitative research, utilizing statistical tools and software to analyze complex data and generate impactful insights. Dr. Adekanye excels in interdisciplinary research, collaborating with experts from various fields to develop innovative solutions for sustainable farming and post-harvest technology. His ability to secure research funding and grants highlights his strategic proposal writing and project management skills. Additionally, his strong technical writing abilities enable him to publish in high-impact journals, furthering scientific knowledge. His mentoring of students and young researchers in research methodologies and best practices underscores his leadership in academia. Dr. Adekanye’s research skills continue to contribute significantly to agricultural advancements and food security initiatives.

Conclusion📝

Dr. Timothy Adesoye Adekanye is a highly qualified and prolific researcher with significant contributions to agricultural engineering, food storage, and mechanization. His extensive publication record, leadership roles, and grant achievements make him a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Strengthening international collaborations, technology commercialization, and student mentorship could further enhance his research impact.

Publications Top Noted📚

  • Effect of biochar on soil properties, soil loss, and cocoyam yield on a tropical sandy loam Alfisol

    • Authors: AO Adekiya, TM Agbede, A Olayanju, WS Ejue, TA Adekanye, TT Adenusi, …

    • Journal: The Scientific World Journal

    • Year: 2020

    • Citations: 182

  • Assessing mechanical properties of natural fibre reinforced composites for engineering applications

    • Authors: DS Olusegun, A Stephen, TA Adekanye

    • Journal: Journal of Minerals and Materials Characterization and Engineering

    • Year: 2012

    • Citations: 174

  • An assessment of cassava processing plants in Irepodun local government areas, Kwara state, Nigeria

    • Authors: TA Adekanye, SI Ogunjimi, AO Ajala

    • Journal: World Journal of Agricultural Research

    • Year: 2013

    • Citations: 86

  • Evaluation of an active evaporative cooling device for storage of fruits and vegetables

    • Authors: TA Adekanye, KO Babaremu

    • Journal: Agricultural Engineering International: CIGR Journal

    • Year: 2019

    • Citations: 35

  • Evaluation of a soybean threshing machine for small-scale farmers

    • Authors: ABOIEO Timothy Adesoye Adekanye

    • Journal: CIGR

    • Year: 2016

    • Citations: 33

  • Pyrolysis of maize cob at different temperatures for biochar production: Proximate, ultimate and spectroscopic characterization

    • Authors: T Adekanye, O Dada, J Kolapo

    • Journal: Research in Agricultural Engineering

    • Year: 2022

    • Citations: 31

  • Performance evaluation of motorized and treadle cowpea threshers

    • Authors: AA Timothy, JO Olaoye

    • Journal: Agricultural Engineering International: CIGR Journal

    • Year: 2013

    • Citations: 30

  • Energy and exergy analyses of okra drying process in a forced convection cabinet dryer

    • Authors: AA Okunola, TA Adekanye, E Idahosa

    • Journal: Research in Agricultural Engineering

    • Year: 2021

    • Citations: 25

  • Biochemical conversion of fruit rind of Telfairia occidentalis (fluted pumpkin) and poultry manure

    • Authors: SO Dahunsi, S Oranusi, VE Efeovbokhan, S Zahedi, JO Ojediran, …

    • Journal: Energy Sources, Part A: Recovery, Utilization, and Environmental Effects

    • Year: 2018

    • Citations: 22

  • Soil properties, okra performance and nutrient compositions as affected by tillage and maize cob ash

    • Authors: AO Adekiya, TM Agbede, CM Aboyeji, KA Adegbite, O Dunsin, …

    • Journal: Journal of Crop Science and Biotechnology

    • Year: 2019

    • Citations: 18

  • Development and evaluation of a rotary power weeder

    • Authors: JO Olaoye, TA Adekanye

    • Journal: Proc. Nigerian Society of Agricultural Engineering

    • Year: 2011

    • Citations: 17

  • Drying Characteristics, Kinetic Modeling, Energy and Exergy Analyses of Water Yam (Dioscorea alata) in a Hot Air Dryer

    • Authors: AA Okunola, TA Adekanye, CE Okonkwo, M Kaveh, M Szymanek, …

    • Journal: Energies

    • Year: 2023

    • Citations: 16

  • Performance evaluation of an indigenous rotary power weeder

    • Authors: JO Olaoye, OD Samuel, TA Adekanye

    • Journal: Energy and Environmental Engineering Journal

    • Year: 2012

    • Citations: 15

  • Evaluation of the degree of agricultural mechanization index on the performance of some farm settlement schemes in southwestern Nigeria

    • Authors: JO Olaoye, TR Amusa, TA Adekanye

    • Journal: Ethiopian Journal of Environmental Studies & Management

    • Year: 2017

    • Citations: 14

  • Properties influencing cracking and separation of palm nuts in a mechanical cracker cum separator

    • Authors: JO Olaoye, TA Adekanye

    • Journal: Croatian Journal of Food Science and Technology

    • Year: 2018

    • Citations: 13

  • The significance of active evaporative cooling system in the shelf life enhancement of vegetables (red and green tomatoes) for minimizing post-harvest losses

    • Authors: KO Babaremu, TA Adekanye, IP Okokpujie, J Fayomi, OE Atiba

    • Journal: Procedia Manufacturing

    • Year: 2019

    • Citations: 12

  • Evaluation of a portable watermelon juice extracting machine

    • Authors: TA Adekanye, OJ Adelakun

    • Journal: Agricultural Engineering International: CIGR Journal

    • Year: 2017

    • Citations: 12

  • Assessment of rice processing operations in Ekiti State, Nigeria

    • Authors: AA Okunola, TA Adekanye, AD Adewumi, F Asamu

    • Journal: International Journal of Civil Engineering and Technology (IJCIET)

    • Year: 2019

    • Citations: 11

  • Design, fabrication and testing of cocoa depodding machine

    • Authors: MO Iyanda, EA Alhassan, TA Adekanye

    • Journal: Mindanao Journal of Science and Technology

    • Year: 2018

    • Citations: 10

  • Comparative energy use in cassava production under different farming technologies in Kwara State of Nigeria

    • Authors: T Adekanye, KC Oni

    • Journal: Environmental and Sustainability Indicators

    • Year: 2022

    • Citations: 9