Kofi Frimpong-Anin | Sustainable Food Systems | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Kofi Frimpong-Anin | Sustainable Food Systems | Best Researcher Award

Senior Research Scientist at CSIR-Crops Research Institute, Ghana

Kofi Frimpong-Anin, a dedicated Ghanaian entomologist and Senior Research Scientist at CSIR-Crops Research Institute, specializes in pest and pollinator management with over 20 years of academic and research experience . He has contributed significantly to integrated pest control strategies and pollination ecology, helping improve sustainable agriculture in Ghana . Having served in various national and international research projects, including roles with FAO, ICIPE, and CABI, his work bridges field application and scientific research . A frequent speaker and trainer, he actively mentors junior scientists and educates farmers through participatory demonstrations . He has authored numerous peer-reviewed papers, manuals, and book chapters . His work in insect taxonomy, pollinator conservation, and pesticide risk reduction has earned recognition in the agricultural science community . Known for field rigor and scientific integrity, Kofi’s contributions support food security, environmental health, and resilient agricultural ecosystems .

Profile

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🎓 Education 

Kofi Frimpong-Anin holds a Ph.D. in Zoology (Entomology) from the University of Cape Coast, Ghana, and ICIPE, Nairobi (2010) . His doctoral work focused on cocoa pollination and wild pollinator services, pivotal to Ghana’s agriculture . He earned an MPhil in Zoology (Entomology) from the same university in 2005, researching stored-product pests in southern Ghana . His undergraduate degree, a BSc in Zoology, was awarded by the University of Ghana, Legon in 2000 . Over the years, he complemented his formal education with several professional courses including scientific writing, pesticide risk management, and insect taxonomy through institutions like FAO, University of Liverpool, and AWARD. This combination of academic rigor and practical skill-building laid a solid foundation for his prolific career in insect science, sustainable agriculture, and pollinator conservation . His deep academic training continues to inform his work in ecological health and entomological innovation .

🧪Experience 

Frimpong-Anin’s entomology career spans over two decades, with progressive roles in research, training, and consultancy across Ghana . Since 2016, he has served as Senior Research Scientist at CSIR-Crops Research Institute, leading key studies in pest management and pollination . He previously advised the FAO-led Global Pollination Project (2010–2015) and consulted for agro-based organizations like Tete Agro Services and the International Stingless Bees Centre . From early roles as a research assistant on FAO projects and demonstrator at UCC, he rose to coordinate nationwide programs tackling invasive pests like the fall armyworm and tomato leaf miner . His leadership in projects funded by KAFACI, CGIAR, and CABI underscores his global collaboration and field-based research management expertise . He also plays a key role in farmer outreach, organizing training and field demos across multiple Ghanaian regions . His blend of academic, technical, and community work defines his impactful experience .

🏆Awards & Honors 

Kofi Frimpong-Anin was awarded the prestigious ARPPIS Ph.D. Scholarship by the International Centre of Insect Physiology & Ecology (ICIPE), Kenya . This competitive scholarship recognized his promise in entomological research and supported his advanced studies in pollinator ecology . His scientific excellence has earned him invitations to present at top-tier conferences globally, including FAO and international pollination summits . He has been repeatedly selected for specialized training by global institutions such as the University of Liverpool, FAO, and AWARD for his work in taxonomy, pesticide risk, and scientific writing . His contributions have led to multiple technical leadership roles in global agricultural initiatives funded by CABI, CGIAR, KAFACI, and UNEP . He’s also frequently recognized by Ghana’s Research Extension-Farmer Linkage Committee (RELC) for exemplary support in pest advisory services . While not always publicized, his accolades reflect high regard in national and international entomological circles .

🔬Research Focus 

Dr. Kofi Frimpong-Anin’s research centers on integrated pest and pollinator management, pesticide risk reduction, and pollination ecology . He investigates eco-friendly approaches to controlling agricultural pests like fall armyworm, using native bioagents and biorationals . He also focuses on safeguarding beneficial insects like pollinators critical to crops such as cocoa and rice . His work spans insect population dynamics, biodiversity conservation, and development of pest control manuals tailored for African ecosystems . A champion of sustainable agriculture, he blends entomological science with community outreach to promote practical, low-risk pest control solutions . His leadership in national and international research projects contributes to regional food security and climate-resilient farming systems . Kofi’s holistic approach combines field ecology, farmer education, and scientific innovation to ensure agriculture in Ghana remains productive, pollinator-friendly, and environmentally sustainable

🔍 Conclusion

Dr. Kofi Frimpong-Anin is a leading agricultural entomologist whose work on integrated pest management and pollinator conservation has had a transformative impact on sustainable food systems in Ghana and across Africa. His balance of field-based research, community outreach, and international collaboration makes him a highly suitable and deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His profile embodies scientific rigor, innovation, and actionable impact in the domain of agricultural research and development.

Publications 📚

  • Title: Dynamics of insect pollinators as influenced by cocoa production systems in Ghana
    Authors: E.A. Frimpong, B. Gemmill-Herren, I. Gordon, P.K. Kwapong
    Year: 2011
    Citations: 74

 

  • Title: Structure and stability of cocoa flowers and their response to pollination
    Authors: K. Frimpong-Anin, M.K. Adjaloo, P.K. Kwapong, W. Oduro
    Year: 2014
    Citations: 52

 

  • Title: Dynamics of cocoa pollination: tools and applications for surveying and monitoring cocoa pollinators
    Authors: E.A. Frimpong, I. Gordon, P.K. Kwapong, B. Gemmill-Herren
    Year: 2009
    Citations: 52

 

  • Title: Cocoa farmers’ awareness of pollination and its implication for pollinator-friendly practices
    Authors: K. Frimpong-Anin, P.K. Kwapong, I. Gordon
    Year: 2013
    Citations: 22

  • Title: Horizon scanning for prioritising invasive alien species with potential to threaten agriculture and biodiversity in Ghana
    Authors: M. Kenis, L.K. Agboyi, R. Adu-Acheampong, M. Ansong, S. Arthur, P.T. Attipoe, et al.
    Year: 2022
    Citations: 11

 

  • Title: Harnessing technologies for vegetable cultivation: a panacea for food and nutrition insecurity in Ghana
    Authors: M.K. Osei, P.A. Ofori, J. Adjebeng-Danquah, S.O. Nketia, K. Frimpong-Anin, et al.
    Year: 2022
    Citations: 8

 

  • Title: Invasive alien species (IAS) of Ghana
    Authors: M.K. Osei, K. Frimpong‐Anin, J. Adjebeng‐Danquah, B.N. Frimpong, et al.
    Year: 2021
    Citations: 7

 

  • Title: Indigenous natural enemies attacking fall armyworm Spodoptera frugiperda (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) in Ghana
    Authors: U.S. Issa, K. Frimpong-Anin, I. Adama, M.B. Mochiah, H. Braimah, P. Obeng
    Year: 2020
    Citations: 7

 

  • Title: Pollination and yield dynamics of cocoa tree
    Authors: P.K. Kwapong, K. Frimpong-Anin, B. Ahedor
    Year: 2014
    Citations: 7

 

  • Title: Pollinator management and insecticide usage within cocoa agroecosystem in Ghana
    Authors: P.K. Kwapong, K. Frimpong-Anin
    Year: 2013
    Citations: 7

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mohammad Hassan Sayyari Zahan | plant nutrition | Best Researcher Award

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mohammad Hassan Sayyari Zahan | plant nutrition | Best Researcher Award

member of faculty at university of Birjand, Iran

Dr. Mohammad Hassan Sayyari Zahan is an esteemed Iranian soil scientist specializing in soil fertility, plant nutrition, and saline-alkaline soil management. With extensive research in micronutrients, biofertilizers, and soil chemistry, he has significantly contributed to the field of agronomy. His work has been published in numerous international conferences and journals, focusing on soil amendment strategies and nutrient efficiency.

Publications Profile

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Google Scholar

🎓 Education Details

  • Ph.D. in Soil Science Engineering – Georg-August University (Goettingen University), Germany (2005-2008)

  • M.Sc. in Soil Science Engineering – University of Tarbiat Modares, Tehran, Iran (1992-1996)

  • B.Sc. in Soil Science Engineering – University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran (1987-1991)

  • Diploma in Science – Mustafa Khomeini High School, Mashhad, Iran (1983-1987)

👩‍🔬 Professional Experience

  • Dean, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Birjand (2014 – Present)

  • Associate Dean for Academic Affairs, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Birjand (2012 – 2014)

  • Manager of Free Education and International Students, University of Birjand (2009 – 2011)

  • Head of Department, Agronomy, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Birjand (2000 – 2002)

🌱 Research Interests

  • Soil fertility and plant nutrition

  • Soil chemistry and nutrient uptake kinetics

  • Management of saline and alkaline soils

  • Biofertilizers and micronutrients (Mn, Fe, Zn)

  • Phosphorus availability and soil amendments

🏆 Awards and Honors

  • 1993: Awarded a scholarship by the Iranian Ministry of Science, Research, and Technology for M.Sc. studies

  • 2003: Awarded a scholarship by the Iranian Ministry of Science, Research, and Technology for Ph.D. studies

🔍 Conclusion

Dr. Mohammad Hassan Sayyari Zahan has played a pivotal role in soil science research, particularly in addressing soil salinity, nutrient efficiency, and sustainable soil management. With a strong academic background, leadership roles, and numerous contributions to scientific literature, his work continues to impact soil fertility and agricultural practices globally.

Publications 📚

📄 Short-term changes of soil physicochemical properties affected by organic modifier type and its application method
📕 Archives of Agronomy and Soil Science (2023)
🔗 DOI: 10.1080/03650340.2023.2194639
✍️ Authors: Vahidi, M.J.; Sayyari Zahan, M.H.; Bayat, H.; Parsa, Z.

🌱 A Survey of Soil Carbon Stocks and Effective Soil Properties in Almond Orchards of Borujerd, West of Iran
📘 Journal of Soil Science and Plant Nutrition (2022)
🔗 DOI: 10.1007/s42729-021-00694-8
✍️ Authors: Jami Al-Ahmadi, M.; Byranvand, P.; Mahdavi Damghani, A.; Sayyari Zahan, M.H.

🌸 Influence of some pre and post-harvest practices on quality of saffron stigmata
📗 Scientia Horticulturae (2021)
🔗 DOI: 10.1016/j.scienta.2020.109846
✍️ Authors: Fallahi, H.-R.; Aghhavani-Shajari, M.; Sahabi, H.; Behdani, M.A.; Sayyari-Zohan, M.H.; Vatandoost, S.

🍏 Effects of NaCl salinity on some leaf nutrient concentrations, non-photochemical quenching and the efficiency of the PSII photochemistry of two Iranian pomegranate varieties under greenhouse and field conditions: Preliminary results
📙 Journal of Plant Nutrition (2016)
🔗 DOI: 10.1080/01904167.2016.1201686
✍️ Authors: Khayyat, M.; Tehranifar, A.; Davarynejad, G.H.; Sayyari-Zahan, M.H.

🌳 Vegetative growth, compatible solute accumulation, ion partitioning and chlorophyll fluorescence of ‘Malas-e-Saveh’ and ‘Shishe-Kab’ pomegranates in response to salinity stress
📔 Photosynthetica (2014)
🔗 DOI: 10.1007/s11099-014-0034-9
✍️ Authors: Khayyat, M.; Tehranifar, A.; Davarynejad, G.H.; Sayyari-Zahan, M.H.

🗺 Soil classification and genesis in part of Khorasan province
📖 Developments in Soil Classification, Land Use Planning and Policy Implications (2013) – Book Chapter
🔗 DOI: 10.1007/978-94-007-5332-7_22
✍️ Authors: Hassan Sayyari-Zahan, M.

🌻 Effect of drought stress and zinc sulfate on the yield and some physiological characteristics of sunflower (Helianthus. Annuus L.)
📙 Advances in Environmental Biology (2012)
✍️ Authors: Shahri, Z.B.; Zamani, G.R.; Sayyari-Zahan, M.H.

🌾 Interaction effect of saline irrigation water, mycorrhiza fungi, and phosphorus fertilizer on yield and yield components of common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.)
📘 Advances in Environmental Biology (2011)
✍️ Authors: Motlagh, B.P.; Mahmoodi, S.; Hassan Sayyari-Zahan, M.; Naghizadeh, M.

🥦 Manganese efficiency and manganese-uptake kinetics of raya (Brassica juncea), wheat (Triticum aestivum), and oat (Avena sativa) grown in nutrient solution and soil
📕 Journal of Plant Nutrition and Soil Science (2009)
🔗 DOI: 10.1002/jpln.200800149
✍️ Authors: Sayyari-Zahan, M.H.; Sadana, U.S.; Steingrobe, B.; Claassen, N.

 

 

 

 

 

Kayise Maseko | Cellular agriculture | Best Scholar Award

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Ms. Kayise Maseko | Cellular agriculture | Best Scholar Award

Tshwane University of Technology, South Africa

Kayise Hypercia Maseko is a dedicated food scientist and PhD candidate at Tshwane University of Technology, specializing in sustainable food production systems and cellular agriculture. With a background in Food Technology, her research focuses on alternative protein sources, functional foods, and food preservation techniques. Her work in fungi-based meat analogues and mushroom mycelia optimization contributes to the advancement of lab-grown food technologies. She has collaborated with Agricultural Research Council (ARC-TSC) and WildBio on projects related to food processing and cultivated meat alternatives. A passionate educator, she has worked as a tutor and assistant lecturer, mentoring future food scientists. Kayise is an active member of SACNASP and SAAFoST, with multiple peer-reviewed journal publications and international conference presentations (SAAFoST 2023, IUFoST 2024). Her commitment to food security and biotechnology innovation is evident in her ongoing research contributions, aiming to address global challenges in sustainable food production.

Profile

Orcid

Education 

🎓 PhD in Food Technology (2023 – Present)
Tshwane University of Technology

  • Research Topic: Evaluation of biomaterials for mycelium production and development of hybrid cell-cultured meat.

🎓 Master of Agricultural Science (M-Tech in Food Technology) (2019 – 2022)
Tshwane University of Technology

  • Research Topic: Screening the functional properties of unripe banana flour from 35 varieties based on their genomic and sub-genomic groups.
  • Research Conducted at: Agricultural Research Council – Tropical and Subtropical Crops (ARC-TSC).

🎓 B-Tech in Food Technology (2018)
Tshwane University of Technology

  • Research Topic: Commercial Traditional-type, source of fibre mageu.

Research Focus

🔬 Sustainable Food Production Systems – Investigating eco-friendly and efficient food production methods to enhance global food security.

🌱 Cellular Agriculture – Developing innovative approaches to cultivated meat, focusing on hybrid cell-based meat analogues using fungi-based protein sources.

🥦 Alternative Protein Sources – Exploring mushroom mycelia and plant-based proteins as viable meat substitutes for sustainable diets.

🛡️ Food Preservation Techniques – Researching novel food preservation and processing methods to enhance nutritional value and shelf life.

🍌 Functional Foods & Biomaterials – Studying unripe banana flour functional properties and biomaterials for food production to improve food formulations.

🏭 Industry Collaboration – Working with WildBio on cultivated animal cell biomass and hybrid fungi-based meat alternatives.

📢 Academic Outreach – Presenting research at international conferences (SAAFoST 2023, IUFoST 2024) and mentoring students in food science.

Publications 

📜 Mushroom mycelia as sustainable alternative proteins for the production of hybrid cell‐cultured meat: A review – Journal of Food Science (2025) 🔗 [DOI: 10.1111/1750-3841.70060]

🍌 Musa species variation, production, and the application of its processed flour: A review – Scientia Horticulturae (2024) 🔗 [DOI: 10.1016/j.scienta.2023.112688]

🍄 Effect of Culture Media on the Yield and Protein Content of Pleurotus ostreatus (Jacq.) Kumm Mycelia – International Journal of Food Science (2024) 🔗 [DOI: 10.1155/ijfo/5562732]

🧪 Discrimination of Musa banana genomic and sub-genomic groups based on multi-elemental fingerprints and chemometrics – Journal of Food Composition and Analysis (2021) 🔗 [DOI: 10.1016/j.jfca.2021.104334]