Md. Sazzad Hossain | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Md. Sazzad Hossain | Agricultural and Biological Sciences| Best Researcher Award 

Prof. Md. Sazzad Hossain | Bangladesh Agricultural University | Bangladesh

Professor Md. Sazzad Hossain is a distinguished academic in Aquaculture at Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh. With over two decades of teaching, research, and administrative experience, he has contributed significantly to fisheries science, fish nutrition, and aquatic environment research. His career reflects dedication to advancing sustainable aquaculture practices, poverty alleviation, and environmental conservation. He has supervised more than 180 MS students and has published extensively in national and international journals. Widely recognized for his academic and professional excellence, Professor Hossain has represented Bangladesh globally through research collaborations, invited lectures, and international conference presentations, establishing himself as a leader in fisheries science.

Profiles

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Education

Md. Sazzad Hossain built a strong academic foundation through rigorous education in fisheries and aquaculture. He completed his SSC and HSC with first-class results in science, followed by a B.Sc. (Hons.) in Fisheries from Bangladesh Agricultural University, where he earned first-class grades. His outstanding performance led him to pursue an M.S. in Aquacultureat the same institution, graduating with distinction (Grade A). Later, he further advanced his expertise as a Doctoral Research Student at the University of the Ryukyus, Japan, focusing on coral growth and environmental influences on aquatic ecosystems.

Professional Experience

Professor Hossain’s career at Bangladesh Agricultural University spans more than 24 years. Starting as a Part-time Teacher in 2000, he became Lecturer, Assistant Professor, Associate Professor, and finally Professor of Aquaculture (2014–present). His academic responsibilities include teaching aquaculture and fisheries, mentoring postgraduate students, and conducting impactful research projects. He has delivered guest lectures internationally, including at Universitas Negeri Malang, Indonesia, and presented research at global conferences in Japan and Thailand. Additionally, he has held significant administrative roles such as Head of the Department of Aquaculture, Provost, Proctor, and Convenor of the Provost Council, contributing to institutional development and leadership.

Research Focus

Professor Hossain’s research focuses on aquaculture nutrition, fish feed technology, nanoparticle applications, aquatic pollution, and conservation biology. He has conducted pioneering studies on the effects of dietary vitamins, probiotics, and nanoparticles on fish growth, health, and feed utilization. His investigations extend to heavy metal contamination, food safety, and sustainable aquaculture practices, emphasizing environmental management and community well-being. He has led over 20 funded projects, ranging from feed optimization and prebiotic development to coral reef studies and endangered fish conservation. His work integrates innovative scientific approaches with practical solutions to enhance aquaculture productivity, food security, and environmental sustainability in Bangladesh.

Awards and Honors

Professor Hossain has earned recognition for his excellence in research, teaching, and service. He has been invited as a Guest Lecturer internationally, highlighting his global academic impact. His research has attracted competitive funding from prestigious bodies including UGC, MOST, BAURES, BAS-USDA, and ICT Division of Bangladesh. He has supervised a large number of postgraduate students who now serve in fisheries research and management. As a reviewer and editor for reputed international journals, he has contributed to advancing global aquaculture knowledge. His memberships in professional societies such as the Fisheries Society of Bangladesh further reflect his respected standing in the academic community.

Publications Top Notes

Heavy metals accumulation in some important fish species cultured in commercial fish farm of Natore, Bangladesh and possible health risk evaluation — M Alam, MF Rohani, MS Hossain — Emerging Contaminants 9 (4), 100254, 2023 — Citations: 58

Assessment of heavy metals in farmed shrimp, Penaeus monodon sampled from Khulna, Bangladesh: An inimical to food safety aspects — C Biswas, SS Soma, MF Rohani, MH Rahman, A Bashar, MS Hossain — Heliyon 7 (3), 2021 — Citations: 56

Effects of dietary silica nanoparticle on growth performance, protein digestibility, hematology, digestive morphology, and muscle composition of Nile tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus — A Bashar, NA Hasan, MM Haque, MF Rohani, MS Hossain — Frontiers in Marine Science 8, 706179, 2021 — Citations: 43

Environmental effects on the stable carbon and oxygen isotopic compositions and skeletal density banding pattern of Porites coral from Khang Khao Island, Thailand — MDH Sazzad, AR Wijaya, K Tanaka, S Ohde — African Journal of Biotechnology 9 (33), 2010 — Citations: 26

Optimization of BCR microwave from Fe assessment in sediment material in the Gulf of Prigi — AR Wijaya, I Oktaviana, S Wonorahardjo, Y Utomo, M Muntholib , … — IOP Conference Series: Materials Science and Engineering 515 (1), 012091, 2019 — Citations: 21

Pesticides and heavy metal toxicity in fish and possible remediation – a review — MSH Ghafarifarsani H, MF Rohani, M Raeeszadeh, S Ahani, M Yousefi, M Talebi — Annals of Animal Science 24, 1007–1024, 2024 — Citations: 20

Effects of multispecies probiotics on growth, hematology, and gut health of stinging catfish (Heteropneustes fossilis) in biofloc system — AM Sohel, M Shahjahan, MK Hossain, KR Sumi, MS Hossain, … — Water 15 (14), 2519, 2023 — Citations: 20

Conclusion

Professor Md. Sazzad Hossain exemplifies academic leadership, impactful research, and community service in the field of aquaculture. His pioneering contributions in fish nutrition, environmental conservation, and sustainable aquaculture have significantly advanced fisheries science in Bangladesh and beyond. With extensive publications, global collaborations, and active mentorship, he has shaped the next generation of researchers and professionals. His strong involvement in academic, administrative, and social organizations reflects a balanced commitment to science and society. As a visionary educator and researcher, Professor Hossain continues to influence sustainable fisheries development, making him a role model and an asset to the academic and research community.

Despina Samakovli | Plant Science | Best Researcher Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Despina Samakovli | Plant Science | Best Researcher Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Despina Samakovli | National and Kapodistrian University of Athens | Greece

Dr. Despina Samakovli is an Assistant Professor of Plant Physiology at the Biology Department of the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Greece. With a strong background in molecular plant biology, she has contributed significantly to understanding plant developmental pathways and stress responses. Her research spans prestigious institutions across Greece and Europe, focusing on HSP90 signaling, gene circuitry, and plant adaptation to environmental stress. She has authored numerous high-impact publications and actively participates in academic teaching and mentoring. Her work bridges fundamental science with practical applications in agriculture and biotechnology, positioning her as a leading figure in her field.

Profile

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Education

Dr. Samakovli earned her BSc in Agricultural Biotechnology from the Agricultural University of Athens, followed by an MSc in Plant Biotechnology and a PhD in Plant Molecular Biology from the same institution. Her doctoral research focused on the molecular and subcellular role of HSP90 genes in Arabidopsis thaliana, supported by the PENED program. This rigorous academic foundation enabled her to pursue postdoctoral studies and teaching roles in top-tier universities, enriching her expertise in plant physiology, molecular biology, and biotechnology. Her education laid the groundwork for an impactful career in academic research and instruction.

Professional Experience

Dr. Samakovli has held diverse academic positions across Greece and Europe. She currently serves as Assistant Professor at the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (2023–present). Her postdoctoral work includes extensive research on plant signaling pathways at institutions such as the Agricultural University of Athens, University of Crete, and Palacký University in the Czech Republic. She has contributed to projects on HSP90 protein signaling, plant development, and stress responses under prestigious programs like FP7, INTERREG, and GACR. Her teaching spans BSc and MSc levels, covering subjects like Plant Physiology, Molecular Biology, and Systems Biology across multiple institutions.

Research Focus

Dr. Samakovli’s research focuses on molecular plant physiology, particularly the mechanisms governing plant development, stress adaptation, and signaling pathways. Her work explores post-transcriptional and post-translational regulation, especially involving HSP90 proteins and MAPK cascades in Arabidopsis thaliana. She is also involved in studies aiming to enhance crop resilience and olive oil quality through genetic evaluation and environmental adaptation. Her integrative approach combines molecular biology, biotechnology, and cell signaling to understand plant responses to abiotic stress and developmental cues, contributing to sustainable agriculture and improved crop performance under changing climate conditions.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Samakovli’s distinguished research has earned her involvement in multiple high-impact national and European projects, such as FP7, HFRI, and INTERREG, funded by bodies including GSRT-GR and the Czech Science Foundation. Her article in the Journal of Experimental Botany was featured on the cover, and her work has received F1000 recommendations for excellence. She has been invited as a lecturer in graduate seminars and recognized for her contributions to both teaching and research. Her reputation as a leading plant physiologist is further reinforced by her extensive publication record in internationally reputed journals.

Publications Top Notes

Title: Tight regulation of expression of two Arabidopsis cytosolic Hsp90 genes during embryo development
Authors: C. Prasinos, K. Krampis, D. Samakovli, P. Hatzopoulos
Journal: Journal of Experimental Botany 56 (412), 633–644
Citations: 117
Year: 2005

Title: YODA-HSP90 module regulates phosphorylation-dependent inactivation of SPEECHLESS to control stomatal development under acute heat stress in Arabidopsis
Authors: D. Samakovli, T. Tichá, T. Vavrdová, M. Ovečka, I. Luptovčiak, V. Zapletalová, et al.
Journal: Molecular Plant 13 (4), 612–633
Citations: 85
Year: 2020

Title: Katanin Effects on Dynamics of Cortical Microtubules and Mitotic Arrays in Arabidopsis thaliana Revealed by Advanced Live-Cell Imaging
Authors: G. Komis, I. Luptovčiak, M. Ovečka, D. Samakovli, O. Šamajová, J. Šamaj
Journal: Frontiers in Plant Science 8, 866
Citations: 68
Year: 2017

Title: Brassinosteroid nuclear signaling recruits HSP 90 activity
Authors: D. Samakovli, T. Margaritopoulou, C. Prassinos, D. Milioni, P. Hatzopoulos
Journal: New Phytologist 203 (3), 743–757
Citations: 67
Year: 2014

Title: Hsp90 canalizes developmental perturbation
Authors: D. Samakovli, A. Thanou, C. Valmas, P. Hatzopoulos
Journal: Journal of Experimental Botany 58 (13), 3513–3524
Citations: 61
Year: 2007

Title: Multifaceted roles of HEAT SHOCK PROTEIN 90 molecular chaperones in plant development
Authors: T. Tichá, D. Samakovli, A. Kuchařová, T. Vavrdová, J. Šamaj
Journal: Journal of Experimental Botany 71 (14), 3966–3985
Citations: 56
Year: 2020

Title: HSP90 canonical content organizes a molecular scaffold mechanism to progress flowering
Authors: T. Margaritopoulou, N. Kryovrysanaki, P. Megkoula, C. Prassinos, D. Samakovli, et al.
Journal: The Plant Journal 87 (2), 174–187
Citations: 44
Year: 2016

Title: Complexity of Hsp90 in organelle targeting
Authors: C. Prassinos, K. Haralampidis, D. Milioni, D. Samakovli, K. Krampis, et al.
Journal: Plant Molecular Biology 67 (4), 323–334
Citations: 29
Year: 2008

Title: HSP90 affects root growth in Arabidopsis by regulating the polar distribution of PIN1
Authors: D. Samakovli, L. Roka, A. Dimopoulou, P.K. Plitsi, A. Žukauskaitė, et al.
Journal: New Phytologist 231 (5), 1814–1831
Citations: 24
Year: 2021

Title: KATANIN 1 is essential for embryogenesis and seed formation in Arabidopsis
Authors: I. Luptovčiak, D. Samakovli, G. Komis, J. Šamaj
Journal: Frontiers in Plant Science 8, 728
Citations: 23
Year: 2017

Title: HSP90 chaperones regulate stomatal differentiation under normal and heat stress conditions
Authors: D. Samakovli, T. Tichá, J. Šamaj
Journal: Plant Signaling & Behavior 15 (9), 1789817
Citations: 22
Year: 2020

Conclusion

Dr. Despina Samakovli exemplifies academic excellence in plant physiology and molecular biology through her extensive research, publications, and teaching contributions. Her multidisciplinary experience across leading Greek and European institutions has advanced our understanding of key plant regulatory mechanisms, with practical implications for agriculture and environmental sustainability. Her dedication to education, innovation, and collaborative research underscores her suitability for recognition in scientific and academic communities. With a proven record of leadership and scholarly impact, Dr. Samakovli continues to inspire future researchers while driving progress in plant science and biotechnology.

Wiseman Ndlovu | Agriculture | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Wiseman Ndlovu | Agriculture | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Wiseman Ndlovu, African Wildlife Economy Institute, Stellenbosch University, South Africa.

Dr. Wiseman Ndlovu is a seasoned academic and researcher in rural development and agricultural economics. He holds a PhD from the University of Venda and has extensive experience in project administration, data analytics, and business consulting. Dr. Ndlovu has led various research initiatives, mentored students, and contributed to impactful projects, demonstrating a commitment to knowledge advancement and capacity building.

Professional Profile

SCOPUS ID

ORCID ID

🎓 Education

  • PhD in Rural Development/Agriculture Economics – University of Venda 🎓
  • South African National Research Foundation – Doctoral Scholarship (2017-2020) 🎓
  • EXAKT4YOU Hackathon Bar camp, Tanzania – 2020 🌍
  • Baden-Württemberg STIPENDIUM, Germany – Doctoral Study (2019) 🇩🇪
  • EXAKT4YOU Innovation Workshop Award – Tanzania/Germany – 2018 🌍💡
  • University of Venda Work-study Programme – Teaching and Tutoring (2015, 2017) 📚
  • South African National Research Foundation (2014, 2016) 🏅

🔬Research Contributions On Agriculture

Dr. Wiseman Ndlovu’s research contributions span rural development, agricultural economics, and business analytics. He has led high-impact projects, including wildlife value chain analysis and the commercialization of medicinal plants. His work bridges academia and industry, showcasing his expertise in data analytics, project coordination, and fostering innovation in economic and environmental development. His research continues to influence both sectors.

💼Experience

Dr. Wiseman Ndlovu has extensive experience in research, project coordination, and consultancy. He has worked as Programmes Director at the African Wildlife Economy Institute and held roles in Redpoint Consulting and Gold Class Group. His expertise includes business analytics, leadership coaching, and mentoring, with a focus on rural development, economic growth, and data-driven solutions.

Professional Roles:

  • Programmes Director: African Wildlife Economy Institute, Stellenbosch University (Jan 2023 – Present) 🦁
  • Associate Consultant: Redpoint Consulting Pty Ltd (Sept 2021 – Present) 💼
  • Associate Consultant & Business Development Partner: Gold Class Group Pty Ltd (March 2018 – Present) 📊
  • Research Technical Expert: Innovation Champions for Local Economic Development Project (Feb 2020 – Dec 2020) 📝
  • Project Coordinator: Institute for Rural Development (Jul 2018 – Dec 2019) 🌱
  • Project Monitoring & Support: United Nations Development Programmes (Sept 2017 – Jul 2018) 🌍
  • Research Assistant: In on Africa Consulting Firm (Feb 2016 – May 2016) 🔍
  • Research Assistant: Institute for Rural Development, University of Venda (May 2016 – Dec 2016) 🧑‍🎓
  • Student Supervision: Over 6 years of supervising Honours, Masters, and PhD students 🎓

🏅Awards and Recognition

  • South African National Research Foundation Doctoral Scholarship (2017-2020): Awarded for his exceptional academic performance and groundbreaking research in Rural Development and Agricultural Economics.
  • EXAKT4YOU Hackathon Bar Camp Award (2020): Honored for his innovative approach in business analytics and project management during the highly competitive Hackathon event in Tanzania.
  • Baden-Württemberg STIPENDIUM, Germany (2019): Awarded the prestigious scholarship for his doctoral studies, facilitating academic exchange and research excellence.
  • EXAKT4YOU Innovation Workshop Award (2018): Recognized for his contributions to innovation and business development at the global workshop in Tanzania and Germany.

📚Publication Top Notes

“Opportunities and challenges in the commercialisation of medicinal plants used in village chicken health management”

Co-authors: Chidembo, R., Mwale, M., Obadire, O., Francis, J.

Published: 2023

Citations: 2

Journal: Journal of Medicinal Plants for Economic Development 🌱🐔

“Using a structural equation model to evaluate the roles of traditional institutions in rural agriculture success and sustainability”

Co-authors: Mwale, M., Zuwarimwe, J.

Published: 2022

Citations: 0

Journal: Asian Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development 🌾🌍

“Challenges and critical success factors for rural agrarian reforms in Limpopo province, South Africa”

Co-authors: Mwale, M., Zuwarimwe, J.

Published: 2021

Citations: 2

Journal: Agraris 🌾🔑

“Profiling village chickens, predators, parasites, and medicinal plants used to control the parasites”

Co-authors: Mwale, M., Iwara, I.O., Obadire, O.S., Francis, J.

Published: 2021

Citations: 4

Journal: Revista Brasileira de Ciencia Avicola / Brazilian Journal of Poultry Science 🐔🌿

“Organisational culture and turnover intentions among academics: a case of a rural-based university”

Co-authors: Mashile, D.A., Munyeka, W.

Published: 2021

Citations: 19

Journal: Studies in Higher Education 🎓🏫

“Gender diversity, ethnic diversity and employee performance in a South African higher education institution”

Co-authors: Zhuwao, S., Ngirande, H., Setati, S.T.

Published: 2019

Citations: 24

Journal: SA Journal of Human Resource Management 💼👩‍🏫

“Exploring the role of students in the attainment of Africanisation and internationalisation in post-apartheid South Africa”

Co-authors: Iwara, I.O., Enaifoghe, A.O., Obadire, O.S., Maduku, H.

Published: 2018

Citations: 1

Journal: African Renaissance 🌍🎓