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.

 

 

 

 

 

Franco P. Mbise | Crop Protection Measures | Best Scholar Award

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Dr. Franco P. Mbise | Crop Protection Measures | Best Scholar Award

Senior Lecturer, The University of Dodoma, Dodoma, Tanzania

Dr. Franco Peniel Mbise is a Tanzanian scholar specializing in natural resources management and biodiversity conservation. Born on May 16, 1989, in Arumeru District, Arusha, Tanzania, he currently serves as a Senior Lecturer at the University of Dodoma (UDOM). With a deep passion for conservation science, he has made significant contributions to research, policy, and education. Over the years, Dr. Mbise has mentored numerous students and published extensively in high-impact journals. His leadership extends beyond academia, having held key administrative roles at UDOM, including Acting Head of Department and Postgraduate Studies Coordinator. His research explores human-wildlife conflict, community conservation, and biodiversity management. Recognized for his scholarly excellence, he has received prestigious awards for his impactful research. Fluent in Swahili and English, Dr. Mbise is dedicated to applying multidisciplinary approaches to solve pressing conservation challenges in Africa and beyond.

Profile

📘 Education

Dr. Franco Mbise’s academic journey reflects a strong foundation in conservation and natural resources management. He earned his PhD in Natural Resources Management and Biodiversity Conservation from the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) (2015–2018), following an MSc in Natural Resources Management from the same institution (2013–2015). His undergraduate degree, a BSc in Wildlife Management and Conservation, was obtained from Sokoine University of Agriculture (2009–2012). Prior to higher education, he attended Mukidoma High School (2007–2009), Nshupu Secondary School (2003–2006), and Seela Primary School (1996–2002) in Arusha, Tanzania. His academic pursuits have been driven by a commitment to wildlife conservation, human-wildlife coexistence, and ecosystem sustainability. He further honed his expertise through postdoctoral research at NTNU (2019–2020), deepening his understanding of biodiversity conservation and environmental policy.

👨‍🏫 Experience

Dr. Mbise has extensive experience in academia and conservation. He is currently a Senior Lecturer in Natural Resources Management at the University of Dodoma (2023–Present), previously serving as a Lecturer (2019–2022) and Assistant Lecturer (2016–2018). His leadership roles at UDOM include Acting Head of Department (2023) and Postgraduate Studies Coordinator (2023–Present). Before joining academia, he worked as a Research Assistant at the Tanzania Wildlife Research Institute (TAWIRI) under the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES) (2012–2013). His early fieldwork includes roles as a tour guide in Serengeti National Park (2011) and in game patrol and security intelligence at Selous Game Reserve (2010). Throughout his career, he has contributed to biodiversity conservation, human-wildlife conflict mitigation, and sustainable environmental management, making a lasting impact through research and mentorship.

🏆 Awards & Honors

Dr. Mbise’s contributions to conservation science have earned him notable recognition. In 2023, he received the Research Excellence Award from the Tanzanian Ministry of Education, Science, and Technology, acknowledging his outstanding publications in high-impact journals. His extensive scholarly work, including 23 international scientific papers, has positioned him as a leading researcher in natural resource management. Beyond research, his commitment to student mentorship and academic leadership has been widely recognized within academic circles. He has played a crucial role in supervising PhD, MSc, and undergraduate students, guiding them toward impactful careers in conservation science. His role as a reviewer for top journals, including Society & Natural Resources, Biological Conservation, and Global Ecology and Conservation, further highlights his academic influence. Through his achievements, Dr. Mbise continues to shape the future of conservation research and education.

🔬 Research Focus

Dr. Mbise’s research revolves around human-wildlife interactions, biodiversity conservation, and community-based natural resource management. His studies have explored livestock depredation by carnivores, community attitudes toward conservation, and the socio-economic impacts of protected areas. He has examined the effectiveness of conservation incentives, the influence of education on conservation awareness, and the role of ecological surveys in wildlife management. His work extends to carnivore ecology, species conservation, and the impact of human activities on ecosystems. He integrates Geographic Information Systems (GIS), statistical modeling (R & SPSS), and interdisciplinary approaches to address conservation challenges. His findings contribute to policy-making and sustainable management strategies for Tanzania’s national parks and protected areas. As a dedicated mentor, he fosters research that balances conservation efforts with local community needs, ensuring biodiversity thrives alongside human development.

📚 Publications 

1️⃣Human–carnivore conflict over livestock in the eastern Serengeti ecosystem 🦁🐑
2️⃣ Livestock depredation by wild carnivores in the Eastern Serengeti Ecosystem 🐆🐄
3️⃣ Factors influencing communities’ attitudes toward protected area conservation in Myanmar 🏞️🌏
4️⃣ The role of education in biodiversity conservation 🎓🌱
5️⃣ Attitudes of Maasai pastoralists toward large carnivore conservation in Loliondo 🏕️🦊
6️⃣ Can enhanced awareness change school children’s knowledge of carnivores in Tanzania? 📖🐾
7️⃣ Foraging vultures and scavengers responding to auditory cues in Africa 🦅🦴
8️⃣ Attacks on humans and retaliatory killing of wild carnivores in Serengeti 🦏⚖️
9️⃣ Human habituation reduces hyrax flight initiation distance in Serengeti 🐿️🌍
🔟 Do carnivore surveys match pastoralists’ reports in Eastern Serengeti? 🔬🐺
1️⃣1️⃣ Conservation incentives and willingness to coexist with large carnivores 🌍💰
1️⃣2️⃣ Community education and appreciation of conservation benefits in Tanzania 🏡📚
1️⃣3️⃣ Awareness of urban communities on biodiversity conservation in Tanzania 🌳🏙️
1️⃣4️⃣ Impact of protected areas on local livelihoods in Tanzania 🏕️💼
1️⃣5️⃣ Community dependency on protected areas in Myanmar 🌳🏠
1️⃣6️⃣ The threat of COVID-19 to Tanzanian national parks 🦠🏞️
1️⃣7️⃣ Impact of outreach programs on community-park relationships in Tarangire 🎤🌿
1️⃣8️⃣ Local people’s knowledge and illegal hunting of topi in Serengeti 🦌🏹
1️⃣9️⃣ Do hyraxes benefit from human presence in Serengeti? 🤔🐿️
2️⃣0️⃣ Resettlement of Maasai communities from the Ngorongoro Landscape in Tanzania 🏠🚜