Seunghan Lee | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Research Excellence Award

Prof. Seunghan Lee | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Research Excellence Award

Assistant Professor | Kunsan National University | South Korea

Prof. Seunghan Lee is an Assistant Professor at Kunsan National University specializing in fish nutrition, aquaculture feed development, and sustainable marine bio-materials, recognized for his contributions to advancing nutritional strategies and health management in aquaculture species. He holds a BS in Aquaculture and an MS and PhD in Fisheries Biology with a specialization in Fish Nutrition from Pukyong National University. His professional career spans research positions in national research institutes, university-affiliated nutrition centers, and an international aquaculture research institute, where he contributed to multidisciplinary projects involving functional feed additives, alternative protein sources, nutrient metabolism, gut health, and immunity in commercially important fish and shrimp species. Prof. Lee’s research focuses on developing environmentally responsible and economically viable aquafeeds, improving fish performance through bioactive compounds, probiotics, and optimized feeding strategies, and evaluating physiological responses using integrated approaches that include growth, immunology, histology, and biochemical assessment. He has authored numerous peer-reviewed publications in prominent SCI(E) journals as both corresponding author and co-author, demonstrating substantial contributions to the fields of aquatic animal nutrition, feed formulation, and sustainable aquaculture systems. His work includes studies on mineral supplements, probiotics, enzyme modulation, functional ingredients, alternative protein utilization, and nutrient-driven health regulation across multiple aquaculture species. In addition to receiving recognition for research excellence, he is actively engaged in scholarly service through participation in collaborative research initiatives, contribution to academic societies in fisheries and aquaculture science, and involvement in professional communities that support innovation in marine resource utilization. Prof. Lee is regarded as an emerging leader whose scientific achievements and dedication to advancing sustainable aquaculture practices continue to support innovation, industry relevance, and global food security.

Profiles: Google Scholar | Scopus

Featured Publications

1. Lee, S., Katya, K., Park, Y., Won, S., Seong, M., & Bai, S. C. (2017). Comparative evaluation of dietary probiotics Bacillus subtilis WB60 and Lactobacillus plantarum KCTC3928 on the growth performance, immunological parameters, gut morphology and … Fish & Shellfish Immunology, 61, 201–210.

2. Won, S., Hamidoghli, A., Choi, W., Bae, J., Jang, W. J., Lee, S., & Bai, S. C. (2020). Evaluation of potential probiotics Bacillus subtilis WB60, Pediococcus pentosaceus, and Lactococcus lactis on growth performance, immune response, gut histology and … Microorganisms, 8(2), 281.

3. Lee, S., Nambi, R. W., Won, S., Katya, K., & Bai, S. C. (2016). Dietary selenium requirement and toxicity levels in juvenile Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus). Aquaculture, 464, 153–158.

4. Lee, S., Katya, K., Hamidoghli, A., Hong, J., Kim, D. J., & Bai, S. C. (2018). Synergistic effects of dietary supplementation of Bacillus subtilis WB60 and mannanoligosaccharide (MOS) on growth performance, immunity and disease resistance in Japanese eel … Fish & Shellfish Immunology, 83, 283–291.

5. Park, Y., Lee, S., Hong, J., Kim, D., Moniruzzaman, M., & Bai, S. C. (2017). Use of probiotics to enhance growth, stimulate immunity and confer disease resistance to Aeromonas salmonicida in rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss). Aquaculture Research, 48(6), 2672–2682.

Prof. Seunghan Lee’s research advances sustainable aquaculture by developing innovative nutritional strategies, functional feed additives, and environmentally responsible protein alternatives that enhance growth, health, and disease resistance in aquatic species. His contributions support global food security, strengthen aquaculture industries, and promote evidence-based practices that improve ecological efficiency and long-term resource sustainability.

Edwin Borja | Agriculture | Collaborative Research Excellence Award

Mr. Edwin Borja | Agriculture | Collaborative Research Excellence Award

Universitat de Valencia | Spain

Mr. Edwin José Borja Borja is an agricultural researcher at the Instituto Nacional de Investigaciones Agropecuarias, specializing in plant pathology, agrobiodiversity, and the sustainable management of musaceae and forest species. He holds advanced academic training culminating in a doctorate in biodiversity and evolutionary biology, supported by prior graduate specialization in biodiversity conservation and undergraduate formation in agronomy. His professional experience includes roles as a research investigator and technical specialist, where he has led and contributed to projects focused on disease etiology in economically important crops, the characterization of microbial agents, the establishment and evaluation of germplasm collections, and the development of biological control strategies. He has participated in nationally funded and internationally supported research initiatives, contributed to multidisciplinary teams, and taught at the university level. His research outputs include publications in high-ranking scientific journals, with contributions addressing ecogeographic characterization, pathogen dynamics, and producer typification in musaceae systems. His work demonstrates rigor in field sampling, laboratory analysis, and statistical assessment, reinforcing his impact within agricultural science. He has been recognized through competitive research appointments and collaborative participation in international development projects, reflecting his growing influence and professionalism within the scientific community.

Profiles: Google Scholar | Scopus | ORCID

Featured Publications

1. Espín, R. D. S., Rivera, M. M. G., Rivera, V. H. G., Santos, F. C., Guerrero, I. E. H., & Borja, E. (2020). Rendimiento y atributos de calidad de mora (Rubus glaucus Benth) de cuatro zonas productoras de Bolívar. Revista de Investigación Talentos, 7(2), 33–45.

2. Borja, E. J. (2017). Caracterización eco-geográfica de Prunus serotina Ehrh. subsp. capuli (Cav.) McVaugh (capulí), en la Región Andina de Ecuador [Master’s thesis].

3. Quinaluisa, E. J. N., Bastidas, C. G. T., Feria, R. J. V., Pérez, Y. C., Pilla, A. H. D., & Borja, E. J. (2018). Caracterización eco-geográfica de melloco (Ullucus tuberosus C.) en la región alto andina del Ecuador. La Técnica: Revista de las Agrociencias, 31–46.

4. Delgado, H., Tapia, C., Borja, E., Naranjo, E., & Martín, J. P. (2022). Phenotypic diversity of Amaranthus quitensis Kunth landraces: A millenary crop of Ecuadorian Andean region. Scientia Agropecuaria, 13(4), 381–393.

5. Delgado Pilla, H., Tapia, C., Naranjo, E., Borja Borja, E. J., & Martín Clemente, J. P. (n.d.). Variación de la agrodiversidad en variedades tradicionales de quinua (Chenopodium quinoa Willd) de la Región Andina de Ecuador.

Mr. The nominee’s work advances agricultural resilience by generating scientific knowledge that strengthens crop health, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable production systems. His research supports farmers, industry stakeholders, and national food security through innovative approaches to plant disease management, germplasm characterization, and ecological understanding, contributing to long-term agricultural innovation and societal well-being.

Afeez Adedayo | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Afeez Adedayo | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Researcher | Western Illinois University Alumni Association | United States

Dr. Afeez A. Adedayo is a multidisciplinary microbiologist and environmental monitoring specialist recognized for his innovative contributions to microbial biotechnology, molecular biology, and quality assurance research. He holds advanced degrees in biology and microbiology, culminating in a doctoral qualification, and has cultivated expertise across academic, industrial, and field environments. Dr. Adedayo has played integral roles in developing and validating microbial assays for cellular therapy, endotoxin testing, bioburden analysis, and high-throughput sequencing applications. His research primarily explores plant–microbe interactions, microbial ecology, metagenomics, and sustainable agricultural biotechnology, contributing significantly to the understanding of soil and rhizosphere microbiomes and their impact on crop health and productivity. With a growing portfolio of impactful publications in high-impact journals and multiple collaborative projects, his work demonstrates a deep commitment to advancing scientific knowledge and practical innovation. As a subject matter expert, he has led and collaborated with multidisciplinary teams, authored technical protocols, and contributed to regulatory and training initiatives. Dr. Adedayo’s scholarly influence is reflected in his citation record, editorial activities, and engagement in professional scientific communities. His outstanding research productivity and leadership in microbiological sciences position him as a distinguished candidate for recognition through the Best Researcher Award.

Profiles: Google Scholar | Scopus

Featured Publications

1. Koza, N. A., Adedayo, A. A., Babalola, O. O., & Kappo, A. P. (2022). Microorganisms in plant growth and development: Roles in abiotic stress tolerance and secondary metabolites secretion. Microorganisms, 10(8), 1528.

2. Adedayo, A. A., & Babalola, O. O. (2023). Fungi that promote plant growth in the rhizosphere boost crop growth. Journal of Fungi, 9(2), 239.

3. Adedayo, A. A., Babalola, O. O., Prigent-Combaret, C., Cruz, C., Stefan, M., Kutu, F., & Glick, B. R. (2022). The application of plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria in Solanum lycopersicum production in the agricultural system: A review. PeerJ, 10, e13405.

4. Omomowo, I. O., Adenigba, V. O., Ogunsona, S. B., Adeyinka, G. C., Oluyide, O. O., & Adedayo, A. A. (2020). Antimicrobial and antioxidant activities of algal-mediated silver and gold nanoparticles. IOP Conference Series: Materials Science and Engineering, 805(1), 012010.

5. Adenigba, V. O., Omomowo, I. O., Oloke, J. K., Fatukasi, B. A., Odeniyi, M. A., & Adedayo, A. A. (2020). Evaluation of microalgal-based nanoparticles in the adsorption of heavy metals from wastewater. IOP Conference Series: Materials Science and Engineering, 805(1), 012030.

Dr. Afeez A. Adedayo’s research advances sustainable agriculture and environmental biotechnology through innovative studies on plant–microbe interactions and microbial ecology. His work enhances global food security, promotes eco-friendly biotechnological solutions, and drives scientific innovation in microbial applications for crop productivity and environmental conservation.

Mohamed Dhia Eddine Hammami | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Mohamed Dhia Eddine Hammami | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Mohamed Dhia Eddine Hammami | University of Vigo | Spain

Mr. Mohamed Dhia Eddine Hammami is a distinguished doctoral researcher in Agricultural Sciences affiliated with the University of Vigo, Spain, and the University of Carthage, Tunisia, specializing in maize genetics, drought and heat stress tolerance, and agronomic productivity in Mediterranean environments. He holds an Engineering Degree in Agronomy from the Higher School of Agriculture of Mateur, Tunisia, and completed a preparatory cycle in Biology and Geology at the Higher Institute of Biology and Geology of Soukra, Tunisia. As a researcher, he has led extensive screening of Mediterranean maize landraces across multiple environments, evaluating physiological responses, genetic diversity, and genotype-by-environment interactions, and identifying key agronomic drivers of yield. His work encompasses high-impact research projects such as the PRIMA DROMAMED initiative, and he has collaborated with leading institutions including Mission Biológica de Galicia (MBG-CSIC), INRAE in France, and the National Agronomic Institute of Tunisia. Mr. Hammami has contributed to a significant body of scholarly publications in top-tier journals, including Agronomy, PLoS ONE, and the Italian Journal of Agronomy, advancing understanding of stress adaptation, genetic variability, and yield optimization in maize. He has presented his findings at international conferences, earning recognition such as the Best Presentation Prize at the Young Researchers Workshop in Vigo. Beyond research, he has co-supervised student projects, demonstrating leadership in mentoring emerging scientists. His expertise, innovative contributions, and scholarly achievements position him as an exceptional candidate for recognition in the field of agricultural sciences.

Profiles: Scopus | ORCID

Featured Publications

1. Hammami, M. D. E., Lasram, A., Kthiri, Z., Boukef, S., Hamada, W., Revilla, P., & Karmous, C. (2025). Assessing yield and productivity gaps in Tunisian maize cropping system. Agronomy, 15(2).

2. Hammami, M. D. E., Rashid, M. A. R., Madur, D., Kthiri, Z., Galaretto, A., Nicolas, S. D., Charcosset, A., Combes, V., Karmous, C., & Revilla, P. (2025). Phylogenetic relationships and genetic diversity of Tunisian maize landraces. PLOS ONE, 20(1), e0316185.

Deyin Zhang | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Deyin Zhang | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Deyin Zhang | Lanzhou University | China

Dr. Deyin Zhang has established himself as an emerging researcher in animal genetics, epigenetics, and multi-omics with a particular emphasis on improving livestock production traits. His work integrates advanced genomic and transcriptomic methods to explore genetic regulation, feed efficiency, and adaptation in sheep, thereby contributing to both fundamental understanding and practical applications in sustainable animal agriculture. He has collaborated on projects funded at provincial and national levels, demonstrating recognition of his innovative approaches and ability to address critical challenges in animal science. In addition to his research output, Dr. Zhang actively contributes to the scientific community as a reviewer for reputed journals and as a topic coordinator, showcasing leadership and academic service. His growing international collaborations and consistent scholarly contributions reflect his potential to advance precision breeding and livestock sustainability research on a global scale. Scopus metrics: 72 documents, 748 citations, and h-index 16.

Profile: Scopus |ORCID

Featured Publications

1. D. Zhang, et al., “TNNT1 gene expression and its polymorphism association with growth traits and feed intake in sheep,” Small Ruminant Research, 2025.

2. D. Zhang, et al., “Association analysis of single nucleotide polymorphisms of LMOD3 gene and feed efficiency in sheep,” Small Ruminant Research, 2025.

3. D. Zhang, et al., “Genome-wide association study identifies novel loci associated with feed efficiency traits in Hu lambs,” Journal of Integrative Agriculture, 2025.

4. D. Zhang, et al., “Spatial heterogeneity determines the gastrointestinal microbiome signatures and ecological processes that govern bacterial community assembly in sheep,” Microbiology Spectrum, 2025.

5. D. Zhang, et al., “Analysis of ANO5 gene polymorphism and its association with fat deposition traits in Hu sheep,” Acta Agriculturae Boreali Sinica, 2025.

Éva Salamon-Albert | Agricultural | Best Researcher Award

Assoc Prof Dr. Éva Salamon-Albert | Agricultural | Best Researcher Award

university lecturer, University of Pécs/Biological Institute/Department of Plant Biology, Hungary

Éva Salamon-Albert is a Hungarian vegetation scientist and associate professor at the University of Pécs, Hungary 🌱. With a career spanning over three decades, she has made significant contributions to the field of plant biology, focusing on plant taxonomy, ecophysiology, and environmental assessments. Her expertise extends to teaching, research, and ecological studies, particularly in the conservation and study of native plant species in Hungary 🌍.

Publication Profile

ORCID

Education

Éva completed her biology-chemistry teaching degree at Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, in 1990 🎓. She earned her Ph.D. in Vegetation Science from the University of Pécs in 1998 and later received habilitation from the University of Sopron in 2015 🌿. Her educational background has equipped her with a deep understanding of functional plant ecology and environmental biology.

Experience

Since 1991, Éva has been a valuable member of the University of Pécs Faculty of Sciences 🌿. Starting as an assistant professor at the Department of Botany, she became an associate professor in the Department of Plant Taxonomy and Geobotany in 2005 and the Department of Plant Biology in 2013. She teaches various courses in plant taxonomy, botany, and ecophysiology, providing both theoretical and practical knowledge 🌾. Her passion for education is evident through her development of computer-assisted presentations and field-based training.

Research Focus

Éva’s research delves into the functional ecology of plant ecosystems, particularly in understanding how plant species acclimate and adapt to their environments 🌱. Her studies span forest communities, wet meadows, and the responses of different plant species to environmental changes. Her work contributes to advancing our knowledge of environmental assessments, especially in Hungary 🌍.

Awards and Honors

Éva has been involved in numerous national and international research projects and grants, leading and contributing to groundbreaking studies 🌿. Her work on projects such as forest understory diversity, ecological indicator values, and bioindication in wet meadows highlights her commitment to advancing vegetation science and environmental conservation 🌻.

Publications

Éva has an extensive list of publications covering various topics in vegetation science and plant ecology. Her research articles are published in respected journals, including Photosynthetica, Forests, and Community Ecology 🌿. To view her full list of publications, visit her MTMT profile 📚.

Small-Scale Environmental Heterogeneity Enhances Tree Recruitment through Carbon Recharge and Water Use Diversification

Functional fingerprinting estimates renewal opportunities for tree species in a mixed Turkey oak forest

Estimated seasonal daily evapotranspiration rates for a horizontal subsurface flow constructed wetland

Sodipe Solaja | Agricultural Environmental Economics | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Sodipe Solaja | Agricultural Environmental Economics | Best Researcher Award

Lecturer II, Landmark University, Omu Aran, Nigeria

Solaja Sodipe Oluwaseun, born on March 21, 1986, in Ijebu Igbo, Nigeria, is a dedicated academic currently serving as a Lecturer II at Landmark University. With a strong background in Agricultural Economics, he has contributed significantly to the field through teaching, research, and publications. Married and deeply rooted in his Christian faith, Solaja is committed to advancing agricultural practices and policies in Nigeria.

Profile

Orcid

Evaluation for Best Researcher Award: Solaaja Sodipe Oluwaseun

Strengths:

  1. Academic Qualifications and Experience:
    • Solaaja Sodipe Oluwaseun holds a PhD in Agricultural Economics from Landmark University, with additional degrees from the University of Ibadan and Olabisi Onabanjo University.
    • His academic tenure at Landmark University as a Lecturer II, coupled with previous teaching and professional experiences, showcases a strong foundation in agricultural economics and education.
  2. Research and Publications:
    • Oluwaseun has a commendable track record of research, with publications in reputable journals such as Heliyon, Open Agriculture, and ASUU Journal of Social Sciences. His research topics cover critical areas like climate change, food security, and agricultural efficiency, which are pivotal for sustainable development.
    • Notable publications include studies on the impact of credit use on rice farmers, climate change impacts, and economic performance of soybean production. His work has both academic and practical significance, addressing pressing agricultural issues.
  3. Professional Membership and Conference Participation:
    • He is an active member of professional bodies such as the Farm Management Association of Nigeria and the Nigerian Association of Agricultural Economists.
    • Oluwaseun has presented papers at various national and international conferences, indicating his active engagement with the academic community and contribution to the dissemination of knowledge.
  4. Leadership and Service:
    • Oluwaseun has held several leadership roles during his academic career, such as Director General and General Secretary of the Agricultural Economics Students’ Association. His service as a Special Marshal with the Federal Road Safety Corps highlights his commitment to community service and leadership.

Areas for Improvement:

  1. Broader Impact Publications:
    • While Oluwaseun has published extensively, aiming for higher-impact journals could enhance the visibility and impact of his research. Collaborating with international researchers and submitting to top-tier journals can elevate his research profile.
  2. Grant Acquisition:
    • Securing research grants from prestigious funding agencies would provide additional resources for his research and validate the importance of his work. Focused efforts on grant applications and proposal writing can help achieve this goal.
  3. Collaborative Research:
    • Increasing collaborative efforts with researchers from diverse disciplines and international institutions could enrich his research output. Such collaborations can bring in varied perspectives and methodologies, leading to more comprehensive studies.
  4. Professional Development:
    • Engaging in further professional development activities, such as advanced workshops, training in emerging agricultural technologies, and participation in global research networks, would keep him abreast of the latest trends and enhance his research skills.

 

🎓 Education:

Solaja holds a Ph.D. in Agricultural Economics from Landmark University (2024), an M.Sc. in Agricultural Economics from the University of Ibadan (2016), and a B.Agric. in Agricultural Economics from Olabisi Onabanjo University (2010). His academic journey has equipped him with extensive knowledge and expertise in agricultural economics, particularly in enhancing farm household resilience and food security.

💼 Experience:

Solaja’s professional career spans over a decade, with roles ranging from teaching to commercial enforcement. He has been a Lecturer II at Landmark University since 2019, imparting knowledge and guiding students in Agricultural Economics. Prior to this, he worked as a Commercial Enforcement Officer at Mactay/Ikeja Electric and taught Agriculture and Economics at various schools, including Cornerstone Comprehensive College and Pat International College.

🔬 Research Interests:

Solaja’s research interests lie in agricultural economics, focusing on economic shocks, resilience, and food security of farm households in Nigeria. He is also interested in the efficiency of agricultural inputs, climate change impacts on agriculture, and the economic performance of smallholder farmers.

🏆 Awards and Recognitions:

Throughout his career, Solaja has been recognized for his contributions to agricultural economics and education. He is an active member of the Farm Management Association of Nigeria (since 2019) and the Nigerian Association of Agricultural Economist (since 2023), reflecting his commitment to professional development and excellence.

📚 Publications Top Notes:

  1. Olagunju F.I, Afolabi, O.M., Solaja, S. O., Ayojimi W. (2020). “Effect of the Use of Credit on the Output and Technical Efficiency of Small–Scale Ofada Rice Farmers in Ijebu North East Local Government Area, Ogun State, Nigeria.” ASUU Journal of Social Sciences, 7(1), pp. 54-77. Link to article
    Cited by articles on agricultural finance and efficiency.
  2. Okon, E. M., Falana, B. M., Solaja, S. O., Yakubu, S. O., Alabi, O. O., Okikiola, B. T., … & Edeme, A. B. (2021). “A systematic review of climate change impact research in Nigeria: implication for sustainable development.” Heliyon, 7(9), e07941. Link to article
    Cited by articles on climate change and sustainable agriculture.
  3. Oyenpemi L.O, Solaja S.O, Fadeyi B.O., Awe T. E., Ayojimi W., Etta-Oyong S.O., Okonta O.W., Oriade O.A. (2023). “Economic Performance of Smallholder Soya Beans Production in Kwara State, Nigeria.” Open Agriculture, 8(1), 20220100. Link to article

Conclusion:

Solaaja Sodipe Oluwaseun is a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award due to his solid academic background, extensive research contributions, active professional involvement, and leadership roles. His work in agricultural economics addresses critical issues relevant to food security, climate change, and agricultural productivity, demonstrating both academic rigor and practical relevance. By focusing on publishing in higher-impact journals, securing research grants, fostering international collaborations, and continuing professional development, Oluwaseun can further strengthen his candidacy and make even more significant contributions to the field of agricultural economics.