Ananta Vashisth | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Ananta Vashisth | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute New Delhi | India

Dr. Ananta Vashisth is a Principal Scientist at the Division of Agricultural Physics, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi. She is an eminent researcher, educator, and extension specialist who has contributed significantly to the advancement of agricultural physics and climate-resilient farming systems. With more than two decades of professional excellence, she has developed innovative approaches in crop-weather modeling, yield forecasting, and weather-based agricultural advisories. Her work bridges the gap between scientific research and field-level applications, ensuring that farmers benefit directly from cutting-edge knowledge in agricultural sciences.

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Education

Dr. Ananta Vashisth pursued her higher education with distinction and excellence, consistently standing out as a meritorious scholar. She completed her graduation and post-graduation from H.N.B. Garhwal University, Uttarakhand, where she earned recognition as a gold medalist at both levels. She later earned her doctoral degree from the ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi. Her doctoral research on the “Biophysical Characterization of Seeds Subjected to Magnetic Field” combined innovation with practical applications, establishing a strong foundation for her future scientific endeavors.

Professional Experience

Dr. Ananta Vashisth has devoted her professional career to agricultural research, teaching, and extension. She began her journey as a scientist and steadily progressed to the position of Principal Scientist at ICAR-IARI. Over the years, she has worked extensively in the field of crop-weather relationships, agrometeorological services, and climate risk management. She has actively designed and delivered training programs for agricultural professionals, scientists, and farmers, equipping them with the latest tools in agrometeorology and resource management. Her contributions extend beyond research to include teaching and mentoring of postgraduate students and capacity building of agricultural extension personnel. Through her long service, she has not only advanced knowledge but also strengthened the interface between science and society.

Research Interests

The research interests of Dr. Ananta Vashisth focus on crop-weather modeling, micrometeorology, remote sensing applications, and yield forecasting under diverse climatic conditions. She has a deep commitment to addressing the challenges posed by climate variability and change on agriculture. Her studies have improved understanding of how micro-environmental management strategies can enhance crop productivity and sustainability. She has been a pioneer in integrating advanced simulation models, statistical techniques, and agrometeorological tools for providing real-time advisories. Her work has continuously emphasized the translation of scientific results into actionable practices that directly benefit farmers and policymakers.

Awards and Recognition

Dr. Ananta Vashisth has received widespread recognition for her outstanding scientific achievements and leadership in the field of agricultural physics. She has delivered invited lectures at international and national platforms, served as a resource person in training programs, and contributed to several collaborative initiatives across institutions. She has been entrusted with responsibilities in major national projects and has actively represented ICAR-IARI in high-level scientific and policy forums. Her leadership in developing climate-smart agriculture strategies, together with her role in advancing weather-based advisory services, has established her reputation as a leading scientist dedicated to sustainable agricultural development.

Selected Publications

Dr. Ananta Vashisth has published extensively in reputed journals of international and national repute. Her publications are widely cited, reflecting the significance of her research contributions. A selection of her impactful works includes:

Title: Effect on germination and early growth characteristics in sunflower (Helianthus annuus) seeds exposed to static magnetic field
Journal: Journal of Plant Physiology
Published on: 2010
Citation: 608

Title: Exposure of seeds to static magnetic field enhances germination and early growth characteristics in chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.)
Journal: Bioelectromagnetics: Journal of the Bioelectromagnetics Society
Published on: 2008
Citation: 314

Title: Growth characteristics of maize seeds exposed to magnetic field
Journal: Bio electro magnetics
Published on: 2017
Citation: 84

Title: Modelling soil water balance and root water uptake in cotton grown under different soil conservation practices in the Indo-Gangetic Plain
Journal: Agriculture, Ecosystems & Environment
Published on: 2017
Citation: 81

Title: Characterization of water distribution and activities of enzymes during germination in magnetically-exposed maize (Zea mays L.) seeds
Journal: Indian Journal of Biochemistry & Biophysics
Published on: 2010
Citation: 55

Title: Germination characteristics of seeds of maize (Zea mays L.) exposed to magnetic fields under accelerated ageing condition
Journal: Journal of Agricultural Physics
Published on: 2009
Citation: 53

Title: Weather based agromet advisories for enhancing the production and income of the farmers under changing climate scenario
Journal: International Journal of Agriculture and Food Science Technology
Published on: 2013
Citation: 47

Title: Wheat yield prediction based on weather parameters using multiple linear, neural network and penalised regression models
Journal: Journal of Agrometeorology
Published on: 2022
Citation: 43

Conclusion

Dr. Ananta Vashisth is a visionary researcher whose contributions have greatly advanced the understanding and application of agricultural physics and agrometeorology. Her career embodies a rare combination of academic brilliance, scientific rigor, and practical outreach to farming communities. By integrating modern technologies with field-based research, she has developed innovative solutions to address the challenges of climate change, sustainability, and food security. With her vast experience, scholarly impact, and commitment to agricultural advancement, Dr. Ananta Vashisth is a highly deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

Abdolah Ghasemi Pirbalouti | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Abdolah Ghasemi Pirbalouti | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University | Iran

Prof. Abdolah Ghasemi Pirbalouti is a globally recognized professor, researcher, and consultant specializing in organic farming, medicinal plants, and plant-based functional foods. With extensive academic, industrial, and leadership experience, he has contributed significantly to the development of herbal-based nutraceuticals, sustainable agricultural systems, and functional food innovations. His vision combines scientific rigor with practical applications, positioning him as a bridge between research and industry. Known for his integrity, patience, and inclusive leadership style, Prof. Abdolah Ghasemi Pirbalouti has established a reputation as an innovator whose work improves community health and advances global agricultural knowledge.

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Education

Prof. Abdolah Ghasemi Pirbalouti holds academic degrees in Agronomy and Plant Breeding, Agronomy, and Agroecology from leading Iranian universities. His education was further enriched by advanced research training in medicinal and aromatic plants at the University of Massachusetts, USA. This blend of national and international education gave him both technical depth and a global outlook, enabling him to contribute effectively to agricultural science, biotechnology, and functional food research.

Experience

Throughout his career, Prof. Abdolah Ghasemi Pirbalouti has advanced from lecturer to professor, holding multiple leadership roles in universities, research centers, and innovation hubs. He has served as Head of Department, Chancellor, and Chief Editor of international journals, where he has influenced research strategies, promoted faculty development, and elevated institutional rankings. His leadership extended beyond academia into agricultural enterprises, where he has worked as a consultant to improve crop yields, develop natural food additives, and guide startups in medicinal plants. He has also played a pivotal role in establishing innovation and technology centers, mentoring young scientists, and guiding product development from laboratory findings to market-ready solutions.

Research Interests

Prof. Abdolah Ghasemi Pirbalouti’s primary research interests lie in organic farming systems, medicinal and aromatic plants, ethnobotany, and plant-based functional foods. He focuses on the bioactivity of plant compounds, their applications in pharmaceutical and food industries, and their role in sustainable agriculture. His work explores how natural elicitors, bio-fertilizers, and organic systems influence plant growth, essential oil profiles, and secondary metabolites. By merging traditional knowledge with modern agricultural biotechnology, his research addresses global challenges related to food security, health, and environmental sustainability.

Awards

Prof. Abdolah Ghasemi Pirbalouti has earned numerous national and international awards, recognizing his exceptional contributions to science, teaching, and innovation. He has been consistently acknowledged among the top scientists worldwide, honored with prestigious national researcher titles, and celebrated for his publications and patents. His awards include distinctions for research excellence, authorship of influential books, innovation in agricultural products, and academic leadership. These accolades underscore his impact in both academic and applied sciences, while affirming his standing as one of the leading voices in agricultural and medicinal plant research.

Publications

Prof. Abdolah Ghasemi Pirbalouti has authored more than 150 peer-reviewed papers across high-impact international journals. His publications cover topics such as organic farming practices, biochemical traits of medicinal plants, and applications of herbal extracts in food and pharmaceutical sciences. Some representative works include:

  • Interactive effects of drought stress and chitosan application on physiological characteristics and essential oil yield of Thymus daenensis Celak
    Journal: The Crop Journal
    Published on: 2017
    Citation: 363

  • Essential oil and chemical compositions of wild and cultivated Thymus daenensis Celak and Thymus vulgaris L.
    Journal: Industrial Crops and Products
    Published on: 2013
    Citation: 318

  • Ethnobotanical study of medicinal plants used by Kurd tribe in Dehloran and Abdanan districts, Ilam province, Iran
    Journal: African Journal of Traditional, Complementary and Alternative Medicines 
    Published on: 2013
    Citation: 295

  • Effects of drying methods on qualitative and quantitative properties of essential oil of two basil landraces
    Journal: Food Chemistry
    Published on: 2013
    Citation: 285

  • Exogenous application of chitosan on biochemical and physiological characteristics, phenolic content and antioxidant activity of two species of basil
    Journal: Scientia Horticulture
    Published on: 2017
    Citation: 238

  • Antioxidant and antibacterial activities of the essential oils obtained from seven Iranian populations of Rosmarinus officinalis
    Journal: Industrial Crops and Products
    Published on: 2017
    Citation: 196

  • Dehydration behaviour, mathematical modelling, energy efficiency and essential oil yield of peppermint leaves undergoing microwave and hot air treatments
    Journal: Renewable and Sustainable Energy
    Published on: 2016
    Citation: 186

Conclusion

Prof. Abdolah Ghasemi Pirbalouti is an exceptional academic leader whose research has transformed the understanding and application of medicinal plants, organic farming, and functional foods. With a remarkable publication record, impactful patents, and global recognition, he has consistently demonstrated innovation, academic excellence, and dedication to advancing science for societal benefit. His sustained contributions position him as an outstanding candidate for prestigious research awards.

Curtis VanderSchaaf | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Curtis VanderSchaaf | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Mississippi State University | United States

Dr. Curtis Lee Vanderschaaf is a Certified Forester® with a prolific career spanning research, academia, and forest resource management. Currently serving as an Assistant Professor at Mississippi State University, he is widely recognized for his work in forest biometrics, growth and yield modeling, and forest carbon markets. With decades of dedication across multiple states, including Minnesota, Texas, Louisiana, and Mississippi, Dr. Vanderschaaf has become a leading figure in forestry extension and decision support systems. His cross-sector expertise bridges technical innovation and on-the-ground forest management, positively impacting both landowners and the academic community.

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Strengths for the Awards✨

Curtis Lee Vanderschaaf, Certified Forester® and Assistant Professor at Mississippi State University, stands out as a deeply accomplished forest biometrician and silvicultural modeler. His extensive academic background—Ph.D. in Forest Biometrics from Virginia Tech, M.S. in Forest Management from the University of Idaho, and a B.S. from Stephen F. Austin State University—has laid a rigorous foundation for over two decades of high-impact contributions. His career includes academic positions and applied research roles with organizations like the Minnesota Division of Forestry, the Texas Forest Service, and Louisiana Tech University.

Curtis’s research strengths lie in growth and yield modeling, carbon sequestration modeling, forest inventory systems, and timber decision support systems (TDSSs). He has developed and implemented numerous advanced forest modeling tools, including LONGeOFIELD, LOBtech, and others for pine species management. His work has supported both academic communities and forest industries, ensuring sustainable forest productivity through applied science.

🎓 Education

Dr. Vanderschaaf earned his Ph.D. in Forest Biometrics from Virginia Tech University (2006), where he specialized in modeling size-density relationships in loblolly pine plantations under the guidance of Dr. Harold Burkhart. His Master’s in Forest Management was completed at the University of Idaho (1999), focusing on operational fertilization effects on understory vegetation. He began his academic journey with a B.Sc. in Forest Management from Stephen F. Austin State University (1996), where he received an academic scholarship from the International Society of Arboriculture.

🧑‍💼 Experience

Dr. Vanderschaaf’s diverse professional experience includes academia, government, and extension. At Mississippi State University, he leads forest modeling initiatives, teaches landowner workshops, and develops forest carbon market tools. Previously, he held a faculty role at Louisiana Tech University, where he taught forestry courses and developed various Timber Decision Support Systems (TDSS). He served as a biometrician with the Minnesota Division of Forestry, contributing to state-level forest management plans using strategic models like Remsoft Woodstock. Earlier, at the Texas Forest Service, he worked on forest inventory systems and bioenergy economics.

🔬 Research Interests On Agricultural and Biological Sciences

Dr. Vanderschaaf’s research centers on forest growth and yield modeling, forest carbon accounting, biometric analyses, and decision support tools for landowners. He actively develops simulators for southern pine species and works on carbon estimation in different pools—biomass, soil, and harvested wood products. His work spans from optimizing thinning and reforestation to integrating forest economics and climate resilience into long-term management.

🏆 Awards

  • 2012 Conservation Enhancement Employee Recognition Commissioner’s Award, MN DNR Extended Rotation Forestry Policy Team

  • Twice nominated for Louisiana Tech’s College of Applied and Natural Sciences Teaching and Research Awards

  • Recipient of the International Society of Arboriculture Academic Scholarship
    These accolades reflect his unwavering commitment to advancing sustainable forest management and education.

📚 Publications

  • Regional mixed-effects height–diameter models for loblolly pine (Pinus taeda L.) plantations
    Authors: G. Trincado, C.L. VanderSchaaf, H.E. Burkhart
    Year: 2007
    Citations: 163

  • Comparison of methods to estimate Reineke’s maximum size-density relationship species boundary line slope
    Authors: C.L. VanderSchaaf, H.E. Burkhart
    Year: 2007
    Citations: 90

  • The effect of density on the height-diameter relationship
    Authors: B. Zeide, C. Vanderschaaf
    Year: 2002
    Citations: 90

  • A multilevel individual tree basal area increment model for aspen in boreal mixedwood stands
    Authors: Y. Yang, S. Huang, S.X. Meng, G. Trincado, C.L. VanderSchaaf
    Year: 2009
    Citations: 77

  • Evaluation of population-averaged and subject-specific approaches for modeling the dominant or codominant height of lodgepole pine trees
    Authors: S.X. Meng, S. Huang, Y. Yang, G. Trincado, C.L. VanderSchaaf
    Year: 2009
    Citations: 55

  • Assessing the impacts of species composition, top height and density on individual tree height prediction of quaking aspen in boreal mixedwoods
    Authors: S. Huang, D.P. Wiens, Y. Yang, S.X. Meng, C.L. Vanderschaaf
    Year: 2009
    Citations: 51

  • Determining productivity gains from herbaceous vegetation management with ‘age-shift’ calculations
    Authors: D.B. South, J.H. Miller, M.O. Kimberley, C.L. Vanderschaaf
    Year: 2006
    Citations: 50

  • Using segmented regression to estimate stages and phases of stand development
    Authors: C.L. VanderSchaaf, H.E. Burkhart
    Year: 2008
    Citations: 36

  • Winter nitrogen fertilization of loblolly pine seedlings
    Authors: C. VanderSchaaf, K. McNabb
    Year: 2004
    Citations: 32

  • Growth of graded sweetgum 3 years after root and shoot pruning
    Authors: K. McNabb, C. VanderSchaaf
    Year: 2005
    Citations: 29

✅ Conclusion

Dr. Curtis Lee Vanderschaaf is a visionary forest scientist whose expertise spans academic research, practical forestry, and landowner education. His dedication to advancing forest biometrics, sustainable forest management, and carbon market readiness makes him a compelling nominee for the Best Researcher Award. His career demonstrates a perfect blend of quantitative modeling, community service, and applied forest science that supports both policy and practice.