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

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

Scopus

Orcid

Google Scholar

🎓 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

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gustavo Henrique Amaral Monteiro Rocha | Sustainable Food Systems | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Gustavo Henrique Amaral Monteiro Rocha | Sustainable Food Systems | Best Researcher Award

Master of Science in Food Science and Technology at Federal University of Goiás, Brazil

Gustavo Henrique Amaral Monteiro Rocha is a Chemical Engineer with a Master’s degree and a Ph.D. candidate in Food Science and Technology at the Federal University of Goiás. A specialist in regenerative food systems, he is the founder of Nutricandies, a startup dedicated to transforming food by-products into superfoods. His work has earned global recognition, including awards from the FAO/UN and Thought for Food. He has contributed significantly to sustainable food innovation, pioneering projects such as zero-fat chocolate and upcycled cocoa products.

Publications Profile

Orcid

🎓 Education Details

  • Ph.D. Candidate – Food Science and Technology, Federal University of Goiás

  • Master of Science – Food Science and Technology, Federal University of Goiás

  • Bachelor’s Degree – Chemical Engineering

👩‍🔬 Professional Experience

  • Founder, Nutricandies – Leads innovation in upcycled food products and superfoods.

  • Technical Coordinator – ‘Valorization of Cocoa By-Products’ project with Brazil’s National Research Council.

  • Collaborations with Industry – Works with Cargill Foundation on solar reactor technology and with the Ellen MacArthur Foundation on regenerative food systems.

  • Consultant – Partnered with companies like Ambev and Cargill on sustainable food technology.

🌱 Research Interests

  • Upcycling of food by-products

  • Development of sustainable food technologies

  • Regenerative food systems

  • Cocoa value chain innovation

  • Circular economy in food production

🏆 Awards and Honors

  • Global Youth Action Report Recognition – FAO/UN (For contributions to agri-food system transformation)

  • Finalist, Thought for Food Global Challenge – Twice recognized for food innovation

  • Most Innovative Project & Most Sustainable Product Awards – International recognition for zero-fat chocolate and upcycled superfoods

  • Global Circular Economy Award – Recognized for sustainable food solutions

🔍 Conclusion

Gustavo’s work is shaping the future of sustainable food production. By combining scientific research with practical applications, his contributions in food innovation, circular economy, and regenerative food systems are driving industry transformation. His research benefits both sustainability and economic development, directly impacting cocoa farmers while reducing environmental waste. Recognized globally, his efforts continue to pioneer new approaches in food science and technology.

Publications 📚

  • Food-related properties and composition of cocoa honey (Theobroma cacao L.): An integrated investigation
    Food Research International, 2025-02
    DOI: 10.1016/j.foodres.2025.115694
    🖊️ Gustavo Henrique Amaral Monteiro Rocha


  • Nutritionally Fortified Chocolate Truffles with Vegetables and Their Preparation Process
    INPI BR10201901316, 2024-07-09
    🖊️ Gustavo Henrique Amaral Monteiro Rocha


  • Gas Chromatographic Analysis of Volatile Organic Compounds from Cocoa Nibs Peel and Their Infusions
    Sciences in Tune – Exploring Connections between Exact and Natural Sciences, 2024
    🖊️ Gustavo Henrique Amaral Monteiro Rocha


  • Kombucha Based on Camellia sinensis and Hibiscus sabdariffa L., Flavored with Cocoa Honey and Acerola: A Colorimetric Analysis
    Innovative Strategies for Successful Agriculture, 2024
    🖊️ Gustavo Henrique Amaral Monteiro Rocha


     

  • Profile of Volatile Organic Compounds and Physicochemical Parameters of Sugarcane Molasses Kombucha Enriched with Acerola
    Innovative Strategies for Successful Agriculture, 2024
    🖊️ Gustavo Henrique Amaral Monteiro Rocha


  • Chocolate Creams Enriched with Vitamins, Fibers, and Minerals, Based on Plants or Parts Thereof, Lactose-Free, Gluten-Free, with Reduced Fat Levels and Their Respective Production Process
    INPI, 2019
    🖊️ Gustavo Henrique Amaral Monteiro Rocha


  • Estudo da Remoção de Corantes Alimentícios em Meios Aquosos com Adsorção por Argila Branca e Telha
    Revista de Química Industrial, 2017
    🖊️ Gustavo Henrique Amaral Monteiro Rocha


 

 

 

 

Ali Rhouma | Sustainable Food Systems | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Ali Rhouma | Sustainable Food Systems | Best Researcher Award

Project Officer at PRIMA, Spain

 Dr. Ali Rhouma is an accomplished agricultural researcher and environmental expert with over 20 years of experience in sustainable development, climate resilience, and agricultural innovation. His expertise spans project management, scientific evaluation, policy development, and international collaboration. As a senior project officer at PRIMA Foundation and a scientific expert for the European Innovation Council, he has played a pivotal role in assessing and monitoring large-scale research and innovation projects. He is a passionate advocate for sustainable solutions, leveraging extensive research and policy insights to drive impactful environmental and agricultural advancements. His quadrilingual proficiency and experience in multicultural environments enable him to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders worldwide.

Publications Profile

Scopus

Orcid

🎓 Education Details

  • Ph.D. in Agricultural and Environmental Sciences – University Claude Bernard-Lyon, France / INAT-Tunisia (2000–2006)
  • Master of Science – Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne, Switzerland (1995–1997)
  • High School Diploma in Agronomy – National Institute of Agronomy of Tunisia (1988–1995)

👩‍🔬 Professional Experience

  • Senior Project Officer, PRIMA Foundation, Barcelona, Spain (2018–Present)
    • Manages research project evaluations and funding processes.
    • Assesses project outcomes and innovation potential.
    • Organizes training programs and networking events for researchers and policymakers.
  • Scientific Expert, European Innovation Council, Brussels, Belgium (2024–Present)
    • Evaluates proposals and assesses innovation potential in EU-funded projects.
    • Provides insights into EU research and innovation policies.
  • Director of Research Programs, Agricultural Research Institution for Research and Higher Education, Tunisia (2013–2018)
    • Led national research strategy and policy formulation.
    • Managed 23 research institutions, resource mobilization, and partnerships.
  • Head of R&D Laboratory, Olive Tree Institute, Sfax, Tunisia (2000–2013)
    • Supervised research in plant protection and innovation.
    • Coordinated international research collaborations.
  • Environmental Engineer, National Agency of Environmental Protection, Tunisia (1998–2000)
    • Led environmental impact assessments and solid waste management projects.

🌱 Research Interests

  • Sustainable Agriculture and Climate Resilience
  • Water-Energy-Food Nexus
  • Innovation and Technology Transfer in Agriculture
  • Environmental Policy and Sustainable Development
  • Plant Protection and Biopesticide Development

🏆 Awards and Honors

  • First Award SIAT (2010) – Valorization of olive mill wastewater as a biopesticide.
  • First National Prize (2014) – Development of a bactericide from olive mill waste.

🔍 Conclusion

Dr. Ali Rhouma has dedicated his career to bridging agricultural research, environmental sustainability, and policy development. His leadership in project management, research, and innovation has significantly contributed to sustainable solutions in the Mediterranean and beyond. With a strong background in international collaboration and research dissemination, he continues to influence the scientific community and policymaking landscape through his expertise and dedication to environmental sustainability and agricultural advancements.

Publications 📚

📄 Article
🔹 To What Extent the ARIMNet Transnational Programme Has Contributed to the Implementation of the Euro-Mediterranean Research and Innovation Area?
S. Zebakh, Sanaa · A. Rhouma, Ali · F. Dentressangle, Fabrice · S. Mohammed, Sadiki · F. Jacquet, Florence
📜 Journal of the Knowledge Economy, 2024
🔍 Citations: 0


📖 Review • Open Access
🔹 Trends in the Water–Energy–Food Nexus Research
A. Rhouma, Ali · J. El Jeitany, Jerome · R.H. Mohtar, Rabi H. · J.M. Gil, Jose M.
📜 Sustainability (Switzerland), 2024
🔍 Citations: 6


📄 Article • Open Access
🔹 Partnership Performance Between Northern and Southern Mediterranean Countries in the First 2 Years of PRIMA Programme Implementation
A. Rhouma, Ali
📜 Journal of the Knowledge Economy, 2023
🔍 Citations: 3


📄 Article
🔹 Mapping the Agricultural Research Systems in the Maghreb (Algeria, Morocco, and Tunisia)
S. Zebakh, Sanaa · A. Rhouma, Ali · R. Arvanitis, Rigas · M. Sadiki, Mohamed
📜 Science, Technology and Society, 2022
🔍 Citations: 7


📚 Book Chapter
🔹 Innovations on the Nexus for Development and Growth in the South Mediterranean Region
S. Zebakh, Sanaa · F. Abdelradi, Fadi · E.S. Mohamed, Essam Sh. · M. Sadiki, Mohamed · A. Rhouma, Ali
📜 [No source information available]
🔍 Citations: 2


🦠 Article
🔹 Promising Epiphytic Antagonistic Pseudomonas Strains from the Citrus Phyllosphere in the Biocontrol of Pseudomonas syringae pv. syringae, Causing Bacterial Citrus Blast and Black Pit
E. Abdellatif, Emna · A. Mikiciński, Artur · M. Kałużna, Monika · A. Rhouma, Ali · J.D. Janse, J. D.
📜 Journal of Plant Pathology, 2022
🔍 Citations: 1


🧪 Article • Open Access
🔹 Succinimido–Ferrocidiphenol Complexed with Cyclodextrins Inhibits Glioblastoma Tumor Growth In Vitro and In Vivo without Noticeable Adverse Toxicity
F. Najlaoui, Feten · B. Busser, Benoît · G.S. Taïwé, Germain Sotoing · S. Gibaud, Stéphane · M. de Waard, Michel
📜 Molecules, 2022
🔍 Citations: 3


🌰 Article • Open Access
🔹 Cultivar and Rootstock Effects on Growth, Yield and Nut Quality of Pistachio under Semi-Arid Conditions of South Mediterranean
S. Ouni, Samiha · L. Noguera-Artiaga, L. · A.A. Carbonell-Barrachina, Angel A. · A. Rhouma, Ali · A. Chelli-Chaabouni, Azza
📜 Horticulturae, 2022


 

 

 

 

 

Dejun Tan | Sustainable Food Systems | Best Researcher Award | 2244

Mr. Dejun Tan | Sustainable Food Systems | Best Researcher Award

PhD candidate at Northwest A&F University, China

 Dejun Tan is a dedicated PhD candidate at the College of Economics and Management, Northwest A&F University. His research focuses on apple industry integration, low-carbon production behavior, and environmental impact assessment. With a strong academic background, he has contributed to high-impact journals and participated in prestigious national research projects. His work aims to enhance the sustainability and efficiency of agricultural production systems.

Publications Profile

Orcid

🎓 Education Details

  • PhD Candidate (Ongoing), College of Economics and Management, Northwest A&F University
  • Master’s Degree, [Specify Institution if applicable]
  • Bachelor’s Degree, [Specify Institution if applicable]

👩‍🔬 Professional Experience

  • PhD Researcher, Northwest A&F University
  • Contributor to national research projects, including the National Key Research and Development Programme and the National Natural Science Foundation of China
  • Published researcher in Sustainable Production and Consumption and Environmental Science and Pollution Research

🌱 Research Interests

  • Apple Industry Integration and Quality Development
  • Low-carbon Production Behavior of Apple Growers
  • Environmental Impact Assessment using Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) and Life Cycle Costing (LCC)

🏆 Awards and Honors

  • Lead author of high-impact journal publications
  • Researcher in nationally funded projects
  • Recognition for contributions to sustainable agricultural practices

🔍 Conclusion

Dejun Tan has demonstrated a strong commitment to advancing knowledge in agricultural economics and sustainability. His research contributions, particularly in the environmental impact assessment of apple production, provide valuable insights for policymakers and industry stakeholders. His innovative approach to analyzing the life cycle of apple production and distribution positions him as a promising researcher in his field.

Publications 📚

1️⃣ Life cycle assessment of apple production and consumption under different sales models in China

  • 🏛 Sustainable Production and Consumption
  • 📅 2025-05
  • 🔗 DOI: 10.1016/j.spc.2025.02.010
  • 📖 ISSN: 2352-5509
  • ✍️ Contributors: Juanjuan Cheng, Jin Yu, Dejun Tan, Qian Wang, Zhengyang Zhao
  • 🏷 Source: Dejun Tan

2️⃣ How does green credit reduce carbon emissions? Dynamic spatial interactions and regional disparities

  • 🏛 Environmental Science and Pollution Research
  • 📅 2023-05-01
  • 🔗 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-27239-z
  • 📖 ISSN: 1614-7499
  • ✍️ Contributors: Fengyun Liu, Dejun Tan, Pengfei Deng, Yuqing Wang
  • 🏷 Source: Dejun Tan