Juan Francisco López Rubio | Agricultural Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Published on 18/06/202518/06/2025 by Academic Awards

Mr. Juan Francisco López Rubio | Agricultural Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Juan Francisco López Rubio, Castilla La Mancha University. E.T.S. INGENIERÍA AGRONÓMICA Y DE
MONTES Y BIOTECNOLOGÍA. Dpto. Ciencia y Tecnología Agroforestal y
Genética, Spain

Mr. Juan Francisco López Rubio (b. July 9, 1980, Spain) is a regenerative agriculture expert, researcher, and international educator. He is currently pursuing a PhD in biofertilisers at Castilla La Mancha University and holds a Master’s in Ecosystem Restoration 🌍. With decades of hands-on experience across Europe, Africa, Asia, and the Americas, he has led projects on soil health, organic farming, and ecosystem design 🌾. He has authored books and scientific publications on bioinputs and agroecology 📘. Juan collaborates with global institutions like SEO/BirdLife and FIRE, promoting sustainable agriculture through teaching, consulting, and field research

Publication Profile

Google Scholar

🎓 Academic Training

Mr. Juan Francisco López Rubio is currently pursuing his PhD (2023–present) at Castilla La Mancha University, focusing on the preparation of biofertilisers and their impact on vine and grape quality 🍇🔬. He holds a Master’s degree (2020–2022) in Ecosystem Restoration from a consortium of top Spanish universities including Alcalá de Henares, Rey Juan Carlos, Politécnica, and Complutense 🌿🏞️. His academic journey began with a Technical Agricultural Engineering degree (1998–2009) from Castilla La Mancha University, specializing in Agricultural Exploitation 🚜🌱. This strong academic foundation supports his impactful work in regenerative agriculture and sustainable land management globally

💼 Professional Experience

Mr. Juan Francisco López Rubio brings extensive experience in regenerative agriculture and land restoration 🌾🌍. Since 2022, he has served as a technical coordinator for the “Secanos Vivos” project with SEO/BirdLife 🐦. He is also a freelance researcher and advisor with the International Foundation for Ecosystem Restoration (FIRE) 🔬. Since 2017, he has taught and advised globally on soil health, bioinputs, and sustainable farming across four continents 🌱🌎. His past roles include Research Programme Manager and Organic Farm Manager in England, as well as positions in topography, gardening, and farm maintenance in Spain

🔬 Research Focus

Mr. Juan Francisco López Rubio’s research primarily focuses on regenerative agriculture, soil ecology, and biofertiliser development 🌱🧪. His academic work includes evaluating ecological soil integrity in olive groves under contrasting agricultural practices 🌿🫒 and producing liquid fertilisers through anaerobic fermentation to enhance plant and soil health 💧🧫. His studies merge sustainability, microbiology, and organic farming to promote soil restoration and productivity 🍇🌾. By integrating traditional agricultural knowledge with modern scientific techniques, he aims to support resilient ecosystems and climate-smart agriculture worldwide 🌍♻️. His work is impactful in both academic and practical regenerative farming contexts

Publication Top Notes

📄 “Evaluación de la integridad ecológica del suelo en olivares con prácticas agrícolas contrastadas” – JF López Rubio | 📅 2022 | 🔁 Cited by: 1

📄 “Preparation and Characterization of Liquid Fertilizers Produced by Anaerobic Fermentation” – JF López-Rubio et al. | 📅 2025

Zishan Ahmad Wani | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Young Scientist Award

Published on 10/10/202410/10/2024 by Academic Awards

Zishan Ahmad Wani | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Young Scientist Award

Dr Zishan Ahmad Wani, Baba Ghulam Shah Badshah University ,India

Dr. Zishan Ahmad Wani’s academic achievements, research experience, and contributions, he is highly suitable for the Research for Young Scientist Award. Here is an overview of his qualifications:

Publication Profile

Google Scholar

Education

Dr. Zishan Ahmad Wani completed his Ph.D. in Botany in 2023 from Baba Ghulam Shah Badshah University, Rajouri, Jammu and Kashmir. He also holds an M.Sc. in Botany from Hemvati Nandan Bahuguna Garhwal University and a B.Sc. from the University of Kashmir.

Research Skills and Interests

Dr. Wani specializes in floristics, plant ecology, species distribution modeling, and biodiversity conservation. He is proficient in data analysis tools such as SPSS, R, and ArcGIS. His research also explores ethnobotany, ecosystem services, and natural resource management.

Post-Ph.D. Experience

Dr. Wani worked as a Senior Research Associate at the Ashoka Trust for Research in Ecology and Environment, Bangalore. He has also taught ecology and environmental sciences at undergraduate and postgraduate levels.

Publications and Citations

With 223 citations, an h-index of 9, and an i10-index of 6, Dr. Wani has published numerous peer-reviewed articles. His recent works include studies on cultural vegetation value, greenhouse gas emissions, and biodiversity in the Himalayan region.

Memberships and Professional Activities

Dr. Wani is a member of the IUCN-Commission of Environmental, Economic, and Social Policy (CEESP) and has presented at various national and international seminars. He is also a reviewer for respected journals such as Global Ecology and Conservation and Flora.

Publication Top Notes

Ethnobotanical study of the plants used by the local people of Gulmarg and its allied areas, Jammu & Kashmir, India

Elevation, aspect, and habitat heterogeneity determine plant diversity and compositional patterns in the Kashmir Himalaya

Pattern of β-diversity and plant species richness along vertical gradient in Northwest Himalaya, India

Ethnomedicinal study of plants used to cure skin diseases and healing of wounds in Gulmarg Wildlife Sanctuary (GWLS), Jammu & Kashmir

Akash Ethnobotanical Study of Some Threatened Plants in District Baramulla, Kashmir, Jammu and Kashmir, India

Changing Climatic Scenarios Anticipate Dwindling of Suitable Habitats for Endemic Species of Himalaya—Predictions of Ensemble Modelling Using Aconitum heterophyllum as a Model …

Impact of Vermicomposting on greenhouse gas emission: a short review

Habitat suitability modeling of Buxus wallichiana Bail. an endemic tree species of Himalaya

Conclusion

Dr. Zishan Ahmad Wani’s diverse research and teaching experience, combined with his dedication to advancing knowledge in botany and ecology, make him a strong candidate for this award.

Thupstan Tsewang | Post-Harvest Technology Award | Best Researcher Award

Published on 14/03/202414/03/2024 by Academic Awards

Mr. Thupstan Tsewang | Post-Harvest Technology Award | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Thupstan Tsewang, Panjab University Chandigarh, India

Thupstan Tsewang, a dedicated researcher in plant biology, specializes in post-harvest nutritional changes in onions and passive post-harvest technology in Ladakh’s high-altitude trans-Himalayan region. With a Ph.D. from Panjab University and DRDO, his work focuses on enhancing onion shelf life and productivity. He’s published extensively, including research on traditional storage methods and hydroponic techniques. Awarded for his contributions, Tsewang possesses diverse skills from fieldwork to statistical analysis. Outside academia, he enjoys fitness activities and meditation. Fluent in English and Hindi, he excels in both independent work and team collaboration. 🌱🔬

Publication Profile

Orcid

Education

📚 Thupstan Tsewang’s academic journey reflects a strong foundation in the biological sciences. He secured his CSIR NET qualification in LIFE SCIENCE in 2017, demonstrating expertise in the field. His M.Sc in Botany, earned from the prestigious Hemvati Nandan Bahuguna Garhwal University, saw him delve deeper into research, particularly focusing on Hippophae rhamnoides (Seabuckthorn) during his dissertation at DIHAR/DRDO. Prior to this, he completed his B.Sc in Life Science from Govt. Gandhi Memorial Science College, Jammu, in 2014, setting the stage for his illustrious career in plant biology. 🌿

Work Experience

🌿 Thupstan Tsewang embarked on his Ph.D. journey from 2018 to 2023, delving into plant biology at Panjab University Chandigarh and DRDO’s Defence Institute of high-altitude research in India. His thesis, titled “AGRO-TECHNOLOGICAL INTERVENTIONS FOR PRODUCTION AND PHYSIOCHEMICAL CHANGES UNDER STORAGE CONDITIONS IN Allium cepa L. DURING EXTREME WINTER MONTHS AT HIGH ALTITUDE TRANS-HIMALAYAN LADAKH REGION,” was guided by Dr. Somen Acharya, a Scientist “E” in the vegetable science division at DIHAR/DRDO, and Dr. Sunita Kapila, a Professor at Panjab University Chandigarh’s Botany Department. 📚

Research Focus

Thupstan Tsewang’s research focus lies within the realm of agricultural science, particularly in the optimization of plant growth and productivity under challenging environmental conditions. His work, such as the study on the foliar application of Zinc and Boron in onions published in the Journal of Plant Nutrition, showcases his dedication to enhancing crop physiology and shelf life. Collaborative endeavors, like the comparative evaluation of tomato varieties in hydroponic systems versus soil cultivation, demonstrate his commitment to exploring innovative techniques for sustainable agriculture. Through his research, Tsewang strives to cultivate resilient crops 🌱 capable of thriving in diverse agricultural landscapes, especially in high-altitude regions like the trans-Himalayas.

Publication Top Notes

Foliar application of Zinc and Boron improved physiological traits, productivity and shelf life of onion

Comparative evaluation of physico-chemical response of tomato varieties under hydroponic technique vs soil cultivation in natural ventilated greenhouse at trans-Himalayan India

Kristina Marquardt | Rural studies | Best Researcher Award

Published on 23/01/202423/01/2024 by Academic Awards

Assoc Prof Dr.Kristina Marquardt | Rural studies | Best Researcher Award

PhD at Swedish University of Agricultural Sciencs, Sweden

Assoc Prof Dr. Kristina Marquardt earned her PhD in Rural Development from the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU) in 2008. Her groundbreaking thesis, titled “Burning Changes,” focused on action research with farmers and swidden agriculture in the Upper Amazon (Doctoral Thesis No. 2008:42). As an Associate Professor, she continues to contribute to the field, combining academic rigor with practical insights. 🌱 Passionate about sustainable development, Dr. Marquardt’s expertise lies in fostering positive changes in rural communities, emphasizing a holistic approach. Her work exemplifies a commitment to bridging academia and real-world challenges in the realm of rural development.

Publication Profile :

Scopus

Orcid

Qualifications :

Dr. Kristina Marquardt, an accomplished scholar, holds a 2008 PhD in Rural Development from the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU). Her pioneering doctoral thesis, “Burning Changes,” delved into action research with farmers and swidden agriculture in the Upper Amazon, making a significant impact. Earlier, in 1998, she earned an MSc in Agriculture, specializing in soils and plants, from SLU. Her master’s thesis, “Traditional agriculture,” explored the role of traditional farming practices in preventing soil degradation in the province of San Martín, Peru. 🌱 Dr. Marquardt’s dual expertise showcases a lifelong commitment to sustainable agricultural development.

Employment :

Dr. Kristina Marquardt is an accomplished researcher and Vice Head at the Department of Rural and Urban Development, SLU, since 2012. Currently leading the project ‘The practice of resilience in mountain landscapes’ in rural Nepal, she’s at the forefront of exploring risk and landscape investments. Her extensive academic career includes leading projects funded by Swedish Research Council and FORMAS, investigating topics such as smallholder forest futures in Peru’s Amazon and ecosystem service management in Brazil and Nepal. As a dedicated educator, she imparts knowledge on land use systems and agrarian change. 🌍 Dr. Marquardt’s rich experience also extends to consultancies on ecosystem services and environmental impacts, demonstrating her commitment to sustainable practices.

Grants :

Dr. Kristina Marquardt is a prolific researcher securing multiple grants for her impactful projects. As the Project Leader, she recently obtained a Swedish Research Network Links grant for the project “Living with uncertainty in South Asia Mountains.” Notably, she leads projects exploring farming-wildlife conflicts in the Himalayas and smallholder forest futures in Peru, backed by FORMAS and VR grants. Her commitment to understanding the dynamics of land claims and the micro-politics of secondary forests in commodity frontiers is evident in her leadership of a VR-funded project. These grants, along with numerous others, highlight her dedication to advancing knowledge in environmental and rural development. 🌱💡

Research Focus :

Dr. Kristina Marquardt’s research spans diverse topics, showcasing her expertise in environmental and rural development. Her focus on “De-agrarianisation and re-agrarianisation in patches” in Nepalese smallholder landscapes explores micro-level land use change processes, offering insights crucial for sustainable development 🌱. In “Towards a Deeper Understanding of Agricultural Production Systems in Sweden,” she links farmers’ logics with environmental consequences, contributing to a nuanced understanding of agricultural practices. Additionally, her work on “Is REDD+ More of an Institutional Affair than a Market Process?” delves into the social and cultural consequences of REDD+ projects in Tanzania. Dr. Marquardt’s research also extends to “Forest Dynamics in the Peruvian Amazon,” providing valuable insights into processes of change in this vital ecosystem. 🌳

Publication Top Notes :

De-agrarianisation and re-agrarianisation in patches: understanding microlevel land use change processes in Nepalese smallholder landscapes

Towards a Deeper Understanding of Agricultural Production Systems in Sweden – Linking Farmer’s Logics with Environmental Consequences and the Landscape

Is REDD+ More of an Institutional Affair than a Market Process? The Concealed Social and Cultural Consequences of an Ongoing REDD+ Project in Kolo Hills, Tanzania

Publication Profile

🎓 Academic Training

💼 Professional Experience

🔬 Research Focus

Publication Top Notes

Publication Profile

Education

Research Skills and Interests

Post-Ph.D. Experience

Publications and Citations

Memberships and Professional Activities

Publication Top Notes

Conclusion

Publication Profile

Education

Work Experience

Research Focus

Publication Top Notes

Publication Profile :

Qualifications :

Employment :

Grants :

Research Focus :

Publication Top Notes :

De-agrarianisation and re-agrarianisation in patches: understanding microlevel land use change processes in Nepalese smallholder landscapes

Re-reading Nepalese landscapes: labour, water, farming patches and trees