Yangyang Hu | Agricultural | Innovative Research Award

Dr. Yangyang Hu | Agricultural | Innovative Research Award

Ningbo University | China

Dr. Yangyang Hu is a researcher at Ningbo University, China, specializing in food chemistry, food processing technology, and innovative strategies for enhancing the nutritional quality, safety, and sensory characteristics of meat-based food products. With a growing academic profile supported by 21 publications, 185 citations, and an h-index of 7, he has established himself as an emerging scholar in the field of functional ingredient development and health-oriented food design. Dr. Hu’s work integrates material science, protein chemistry, and molecular interaction analysis to develop advanced solutions for sodium reduction, texture improvement, and flavor optimization. His recent studies, including the preparation and characterization of quaternized chitosan-based hollow salt for sodium reduction in air-dried duck and the dual enhancement of texture and salty perception in reconstructed duck ham using myofibrillar protein–gum Arabic complexes, reflect his commitment to creating healthier meat products aligned with global nutrition priorities and public health needs. Through collaborations with over 33 co-authors, Dr. Hu has contributed to multidisciplinary research that bridges academia and industry, addressing challenges in clean-label product development, functional additive innovation, and consumer-driven food formulation. His work supports improved dietary practices, reduced sodium intake, and more sustainable food processing systems, offering significant societal impact in regions where high-sodium diets are prevalent. By combining scientific rigor with practical application, Dr. Hu continues to advance the field of food science, contributing to innovations that promote better health outcomes, enhance food quality, and foster technological progress across the global food industry.

Profile: Scopus

Featured Publications

Shi, Z., Hu, Y., Zhou, C., & Pan, D. (2025). Preparation and characterisation of novel quaternized chitosan‑based hollow salt and its sodium‑reducing effect in air‑dried ducks. Food Chemistry. Advance online publication. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.foodchem.2025.146799  PubMed+2ScienceDirect+2

Wei, H., Zeng, X., Sun, Y., Zhou, C., Xia, Q., Wu, Z., Yan, H., Hu, Y., & Pan, D. (2025). Dual strengthen of texture and salty perception for reconstructed duck ham via myofibrillar protein–gum Arabic complex. Food Chemistry X, 31, 103200. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fochx.2025.103200

Junior Baudoin Wouokoue Taffo | Agronomy | Best Researcher Award

Dr.Junior Baudoin Wouokoue Taffo | Agronomy| Best Researcher Award

Senior Lecturer | University of Maroua| Cameroon

Dr. Wouokoue Taffo Junior Baudoin is a Cameroonian Botanist and Ecologist specializing in plant systematics, vegetation ecology, and biodiversity conservation, currently serving as a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Biological Sciences at the University of Maroua. He obtained his Ph.D. in Plant Systematics and Ecology from the University of Dschang in 2018, with research focused on the phytosociology of the Bambouto and Mbapit Mountains and the development of allometric models for biomass estimation in woody savannas. Over the past decade, he has authored and co-authored more than 35 peer-reviewed publications in renowned international journals, contributing significantly to the understanding of floristic diversity, carbon dynamics, agroforestry systems, and degraded landscape restoration in tropical and Sahelian ecosystems. His research has also explored the ecological and socio-economic potential of aromatic and medicinal plants, notably through his involvement in the SEP2D project on the valorization of aromatic and cosmetic species under Access and Benefit Sharing (ABS) principles. A member of several professional organizations, including the African Forestry Forum, International Society of Tropical Forestry, and Cameroon Bioscience Society, Dr. Wouokoue actively participates in scientific collaborations and conferences that promote sustainable natural resource management and biodiversity conservation. His work has informed local and regional strategies for ecosystem restoration, climate change mitigation, and rural livelihoods improvement, reflecting a strong commitment to integrating ecological research with sustainable development goals in sub-Saharan Africa

Profiles: Google Scholar | Scopus | ORCID

Featured Publications

Mbogue, C. N. N., Njouonkou, A. L., Temgoua, L. F., Djouda, R., Zangmene, J. B., & Wouokoue Taffo, J. B. (2018). Land-use/land-cover change and anthropogenic causes around Koupa Matapit gallery forest, West Cameroon. Journal of Geography and Geology, 10(2), 201–219.

Mbaiyetom, H., Tientcheu, M. L. A., Ngankam, M. T., & Wouokoue Taffo, J. B. (2021). Diversité floristique et structure de la végétation ligneuse des parcs arborés de la zone soudanienne du Tchad. International Journal of Biological and Chemical Sciences, 15(1), 68–80.

Wouokoue Taffo, J. B., Nguetsop, V. F., & Fonkou, T. (2017). Floristic diversity of Western Highlands savannas of Cameroon. International Journal of Current Research in Biosciences and Plant Biology, 4(4), 7–13.

Wouokoue Taffo, J. B., Avana Tchoumtchoua, M. L., Froumsia, M., Hamawa, Y., Mbogue, C. N. N., & Nguetsop, V. F. (2020). Savannas highlands of Cameroon: Floristic composition, functional traits and conservation status. Asian Journal of Research in Botany, 4(4), 81–99.

Djeuga, Y. M. K., Sonkoué, N. P., Kenfack, C. P., Wouokoue Taffo, J. B., Tacham, W. N., & Fonkou, T. (2022). Knowledge and traditional uses of some aromatic and cosmetic plant species in the Western Highlands of Cameroon. Open Journal of Applied Sciences, 12(10), 1698–1718.

Wouokoue Taffo, J. B., Nguetsop, V. F., & Fonkou, T. (2017). Floristic diversity of the savannah ecosystems in three altitudinal zones of the Bambouto Mountains, West Cameroon. Cameroon Journal of Biological and Biochemical Sciences, 25, 52–59.

 

Dr. Wouokoue Taffo Junior Baudoin’s research advances the understanding and sustainable management of tropical ecosystems through innovative studies on plant diversity, biomass modeling, and landscape restoration. His work supports biodiversity conservation, climate change mitigation, and sustainable agroforestry practices, contributing directly to ecological resilience and rural livelihood improvement in sub-Saharan Africa.

Kannan Pandian | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Kannan Pandian | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Associate Professor at Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, India

Dr. Kannan Pandian is an accomplished researcher in Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry with expertise in dryland soil resource management, carbon sequestration, and nutrient efficiency enhancement. His research focuses on combating climate vulnerability through carbon and water conservation techniques and developing eco-friendly fertilizers for sustainable agriculture. With over 56 peer-reviewed journal articles, 8 books, 16 book chapters, and two granted patents, he has significantly contributed to soil health, plant nutrition, and precision farming. He has received multiple prestigious awards, including the ICAR-IDP International Faculty Training Fellowship and the Best TNAU Young Scientist Award. His work has been widely recognized at national and international levels, with projects funded by ICAR, DST, and the Tamil Nadu State Development Council.

Professional Profile 

Education

Dr. Kannan Pandian earned his Ph.D. in Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry from Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU), Coimbatore, India, in 2007. He completed his Master of Science in the same field from TNAU in 2004 and obtained his Bachelor of Science in Agriculture from TNAU in 2002. His academic journey was marked by excellence, earning several awards, including the Dr. K.K. Krishnamurthy and Dr. G. Selvakumari Medal for Best Doctoral Student and the Prof. T. Balakrishnan Medal for Best Master’s Student. Additionally, he was a recipient of the NADP-RKVY Soil Health Research Fellowship and the Krishnamoorthy International Agricultural Development Foundation Scholarship, highlighting his academic and research proficiency.

Professional Experience

Dr. Kannan Pandian currently serves as an Associate Professor at the Department of Soils and Environment, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU). Previously, he held positions as an Assistant Professor at TNAU, a Scientist at the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), a Research Associate at the Centre for Soil and Crop Management Studies (CSCMS), and a Senior Research Fellow at TNAU. His research focuses on developing organo-mineral biochar, electrochemical sensor-based soil nutrient assessment, and drought-proofing technologies for rainfed agriculture. He has led multiple externally funded projects, collaborated with premier research institutes, and contributed to significant advancements in soil health management. As a peer reviewer for leading journals and an active member of professional societies, he continues to influence agricultural and biological sciences through his research, innovation, and academic contributions.

Research Interests

Dr. Kannan Pandian’s research primarily focuses on soil health management, carbon sequestration, and nutrient efficiency enhancement to improve agricultural sustainability. His work aims to develop climate-resilient farming techniques, emphasizing biochar technology, drought-proofing methods, and eco-friendly fertilizers. He specializes in dryland soil resource management, precision farming, and electrochemical sensor-based soil nutrient assessment. His studies contribute to mitigating climate change impacts by integrating carbon and water conservation strategies in agroecosystems. Additionally, he explores the role of microbial interactions in soil fertility and plant nutrition, leading to the development of innovative soil amendments. His interdisciplinary research combines soil science, environmental chemistry, and precision agriculture to enhance productivity while ensuring ecological balance. Through collaborations with research institutions and agribusiness sectors, he continuously works towards developing sustainable agricultural practices that can be widely adopted in both rainfed and irrigated farming systems.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Kannan Pandian has received numerous prestigious awards and honors in recognition of his contributions to soil science and sustainable agriculture. He was honored with the Best Young Scientist Award by Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU) for his innovative work on climate-resilient soil management. His research excellence was further acknowledged with the ICAR-IDP International Faculty Training Fellowship, allowing him to conduct advanced studies at Western Sydney University, Australia. He has also been awarded the Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Best Teacher Award for his exceptional mentorship and academic contributions. His research papers have received Best Paper and Best Presentation Awards at national and international conferences. Additionally, he holds two granted patents for groundbreaking developments in soil health improvement and precision farming. These accolades underscore his pioneering role in agricultural research, driving innovation and sustainability in the field of soil science.

Research Skills

Dr. Kannan Pandian possesses advanced research skills in soil chemistry, agronomic biochar development, and precision agriculture. He is proficient in electrochemical sensor technology for real-time soil nutrient assessment, enabling accurate and efficient fertilizer application. His expertise in carbon sequestration and climate-smart agriculture allows him to develop strategies for mitigating greenhouse gas emissions in farmlands. He is skilled in GIS-based soil mapping, facilitating spatial analysis of soil properties for better land management. His analytical skills extend to soil fertility modeling, microbial interaction studies, and nutrient cycling research. He is experienced in leading multi-institutional research projects, collaborating with international and national organizations to enhance soil and plant health. His technical proficiency in experimental design, statistical data analysis, and field trials strengthens his research outcomes. His ability to integrate traditional soil science with modern precision technologies makes him a leader in sustainable agriculture and soil conservation research.

Conclusion

Dr. Kannan Pandian is an exceptional candidate for the Best Researcher Award, given his extensive contributions to soil science, sustainable agriculture, and climate resilience. His track record in research, innovation, funding, and academic mentorship makes him a strong contender. Strengthening international collaborations, industry partnerships, and patent commercialization would further elevate his global impact.

Publications Top Noted

  • Towards an operational SAR-based rice monitoring system in Asia: Examples from 13 demonstration sites across Asia in the RIICE project
    Authors: A Nelson, T Setiyono, AB Rala, ED Quicho, JV Raviz, PJ Abonete, …
    Year: 2014
    Citations: 197

  • Effect of biochar amendment on soil physical, chemical and biological properties and groundnut yield in rainfed Alfisol of semi-arid tropics
    Authors: K Pandian, P Subramaniayan, P Gnasekaran, S Chitraputhirapillai
    Year: 2016
    Citations: 178

  • Zinc deficiency in Indian soils with special focus to enrich zinc in peanut
    Authors: P Arunachalam, P Kannan, G Prabukumar, M Govindaraj
    Year: 2013
    Citations: 99

  • Biochar from green waste for phosphate removal with subsequent disposal
    Authors: DK Veni, P Kannan, TNJI Edison, A Senthilkumar
    Year: 2017
    Citations: 94

  • Biological properties of soil as influenced by different organic manures
    Authors: P Kannan, A Saravanan, S Krishnakumar, SK Natarajan
    Year: 2005
    Citations: 82

  • Applying both biochar and phosphobacteria enhances Vigna mungo L. growth and yield in acid soils by increasing soil pH, moisture content, microbial growth and P availability
    Authors: P Kannan, M Paramasivan, S Marimuthu, C Swaminathan, J Bose
    Year: 2021
    Citations: 73

  • Drought assessment and monitoring through remote sensing and GIS in western tracts of Tamil Nadu, India
    Authors: D Muthumanickam, P Kannan, R Kumaraperumal, S Natarajan, …
    Year: 2011
    Citations: 57

  • Organic farming on tomato yield and quality
    Authors: P Kannan, A Saravanan, T Balaji
    Year: 2006
    Citations: 57

  • Rice crop monitoring and yield estimation through COSMO Skymed and TerraSAR-X: A SAR-based experience in India
    Authors: S Pazhanivelan, P Kannan, P Christy Nirmala Mary, E Subramanian, …
    Year: 2015
    Citations: 38

  • Implication of micronutrients in agriculture and health with special reference to iron and zinc
    Authors: M Govindaraj, P Kannan, P Arunachalam
    Year: 2011
    Citations: 36

Tesfaye Lishan | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Mr Tesfaye Lishan | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Lecturer and Researcher at Mizan Tepin University, Ethiopia

Mr. Tesfaye Lishan Gebrehana, born in September 1994 in Mechara, Ethiopia, is a dedicated lecturer and researcher with a strong academic background. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Natural Resource Management and a Master of Science in Land Resource Management and Environmental Protection from the University of Gondar. Currently serving as a lecturer at Mizan-Tepi University, he focuses on teaching, research development, and project organization. Tesfaye has authored several publications on crucial topics, including soil properties and integrated fertilizer use, contributing to agricultural sustainability in Ethiopia. He is proficient in English, Amharic, and Oromiffa, facilitating effective communication across diverse audiences. With extensive research skills and experience in statistical software, Tesfaye demonstrates a creative problem-solving approach and strong interpersonal skills. His ongoing commitment to research and education positions him as a valuable asset to the academic community and the field of environmental management.

Professional Profile

Education

Mr. Tesfaye Lishan Gebrehana has a robust educational background, laying a strong foundation for his career in academia and research. He began his academic journey at the University of Gondar, where he earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Natural Resource Management, completing it in July 2018. Following this, he pursued further studies at the same institution, obtaining a Master of Science degree in Land Resource Management and Environmental Protection in June 2019. This advanced education has equipped him with the knowledge and skills necessary to address critical environmental issues, particularly those affecting agricultural practices in Ethiopia. His academic training emphasizes sustainable resource management, which is reflected in his research focus on soil properties and integrated agricultural practices. Overall, Mr. Tesfaye’s educational qualifications not only demonstrate his commitment to the field but also provide a strong basis for his ongoing contributions to environmental research and education.

Professional Experience

Mr. Tesfaye Lishan Gebrehana has accumulated valuable professional experience as a lecturer and researcher at Mizan-Tepi University in Ethiopia. In this role, he is responsible for teaching undergraduate students, developing innovative research projects, and organizing various academic initiatives. His position allows him to contribute significantly to the academic community while fostering the next generation of scholars in natural resource management and environmental protection. Through his teaching, Tesfaye emphasizes the importance of sustainable practices and environmental stewardship, guiding students to understand the relevance of their studies in real-world contexts. Additionally, he actively engages in research, focusing on critical issues such as soil properties and agricultural sustainability, with several published works to his credit. This combination of teaching and research positions Tesfaye as an influential figure in his field, highlighting his commitment to enhancing both academic rigor and practical applications of environmental science in Ethiopia.

Research Interest

Mr. Tesfaye Lishan Gebrehana’s research interests primarily revolve around natural resource management and environmental protection, with a specific focus on agricultural sustainability in Ethiopia. His work explores the interplay between soil properties, integrated fertilizer use, and sustainable farming practices, aiming to enhance crop yields and soil health. Tesfaye has contributed to numerous research publications, investigating topics such as the effects of bio-fertilizers on crop yield, soil property changes due to land use variations, and the efficacy of farmyard manure in improving soil quality. His studies emphasize the importance of sustainable agricultural practices, particularly in the context of Ethiopia’s diverse ecosystems. Tesfaye’s research not only seeks to address local agricultural challenges but also aims to provide insights that can benefit broader environmental management strategies. Through his ongoing research efforts, he is committed to advancing knowledge and promoting sustainable practices that contribute to the resilience of agricultural systems in Ethiopia.

Award and Honor

Mr. Tesfaye Lishan Gebrehana has garnered recognition for his significant contributions to agricultural and environmental research. Although specific awards and honors were not detailed, his active engagement in research and his impressive publication record highlight his commitment to excellence in the field. His work, which focuses on sustainable agricultural practices and soil health, reflects a dedication to addressing critical challenges faced by farmers in Ethiopia. Tesfaye’s research findings have the potential to inform best practices in resource management, ultimately benefiting both local communities and the broader agricultural sector. Additionally, his role as a lecturer at Mizan-Tepi University enables him to inspire students and cultivate a culture of inquiry and research. Through his academic efforts and outreach initiatives, Tesfaye is establishing a strong reputation as a researcher and educator, positioning himself as an influential figure in the agricultural sciences community and contributing positively to the field’s advancement.

Conclusion

Tesfaye Lishan Gebrehana is a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award due to his solid educational background, significant research contributions, and professional experience as a lecturer. His skills in research and communication are commendable and enhance his suitability for the award. To strengthen his profile further, he may consider broadening his research focus, enhancing the diversity of his publications, and pursuing collaborative opportunities. With these improvements, he can become an even more impactful researcher in the field of environmental management and agricultural science.

Publication top noted

  • 📄 Elucidating sole application of farmyard manure and blended NPSB fertilizer effects on soil properties at Bench Shako and West Omo zone, South West Ethiopia
    • Authors: Lishan, T., Alemu, F.
    • Year: 2024
    • Journal: Heliyon
    • Volume: 10(1)
    • Citation: e22908
  • 📄 The response of haricot bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) to integrated use of phosphorus and manure, Eastern Ethiopia
    • Authors: Lishan, T., Girmay, G., Teka, K., Tadesse, T.
    • Year: 2023
    • Journal: Tropical Agriculture
    • Volume: 100(1)
    • Citation: pp. 1–10
  • 📄 Effects of bio-fertiliser and inter-row spacing on yield and yield components of faba bean (Vicia faba L.) in south western Ethiopia
    • Authors: Lishan, T., Alemu, W., Wondimu, W., Mekonnen, G.
    • Year: 2022
    • Journal: Tropical Agriculture
    • Volume: 99(3)
    • Citation: pp. 196–208