Peter Makieu | Nutrition | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Peter Makieu | Nutrition | Best Researcher Award

Research Teaching Assistant at Njala University, Sierra Leone

Peter Makieu is a multidisciplinary researcher and academic with a strong foundation in Agribusiness Management, Computer Science, and Engineering. His work spans data analysis, machine learning applications in agriculture, food and nutrition research, and crop science. With published research in peer-reviewed Elsevier journals, he has demonstrated expertise in both scientific writing and research methodology. Peter’s academic and professional journey reflects a commitment to advancing sustainable agricultural systems, promoting nutrition security, and integrating digital technology in rural development.

Publications Profile

Orcid

Google Scholar

πŸŽ“ Education Details

  • Master of Science in Computer Science and Engineering
    Njala University, Sierra Leone – Graduation: February 2025

  • Master of Science in Agribusiness Management
    Njala University, Sierra Leone – Graduated with GPA: 4.67 (April 2021)

  • Bachelor of Science with Honors in Agribusiness Management
    Graduated with GPA: 4.58

  • Diploma in Computer Science
    Graduated with GPA: 4.50
    Minor: Computer Science

  • Languages: Fluent in English, Mende, and Krio

πŸ‘©β€πŸ”¬ Professional Experience

Academic & Research Roles

  • Research Teaching Assistant, Njala University (Jan 2022 – Mar 2025)

    • Contributed to research, teaching, curriculum support, student mentoring, and data analysis.

  • Reviewer, Current Nutraceuticals Journal (April 2025)

    • Reviewed manuscripts, provided academic feedback, and upheld publication ethics.

  • Editorial Board Member, Botany Scientist Awards (March 2025)

    • Reviewed submissions and participated in award selection.

Administrative & Leadership Roles

  • Acting Principal & Lecturer, Ambassador Wurie Institute of Management and Technology College (Oct 2022 – July 2023)

    • Led academic administration, curriculum development, and stakeholder engagement.

Technical and Analytical Roles

  • Data Analyst, Office of the Vice President – Rice Value Chain Assessment (Oct 2023 – Dec 2024)

    • Conducted large-scale data analysis to support national agricultural initiatives.

  • Intern, Gold Tree Sierra Leone Limited (June – July 2021)

    • Worked on palm oil production and marketing with smallholder farmers.

  • National Electoral Commission (NEC) (March – April 2018)

    • Data Entry Officer for voter registration systems.

  • IT/ICT Officer and Tutor, Youth in Action for Development Sierra Leone (2014–2016)

    • Conducted ICT training for students and staff.

🌱 Research Interests

  1. Agribusiness

    • Sustainable business models in agriculture

    • Market analysis, global supply chains, and policy impact on agriculture

  2. Food and Nutrition

    • Nutrition security and access

    • Food safety in supply chains

    • Development of culturally relevant healthy food innovations

  3. Crop Science

    • Genetic improvement for yield and resilience

    • Agroecological practices and sustainable farming

    • Precision agriculture and smart farming technologies

  4. Machine Learning in Agriculture

    • Predictive analytics for crop yield

    • Data-driven farming via IoT and AI

    • Automation in agricultural processes

πŸ† Awards and Honors

  • Generic Research Competency, Academic Staff Association, Njala University – March 2024

  • Best Graduating Student, Department of Agribusiness – April 2021

  • Research Abilities & Leadership Competencies, Sierra Leone Debating Council – April 2021

πŸ” Conclusion

Peter Makieu is a dynamic academic with robust interdisciplinary training and a clear vision for integrating technology, research, and leadership in agricultural development. His career trajectory reflects a strong dedication to sustainability, innovation, and academic excellence. With proven expertise in both scientific and administrative roles, Peter is well-positioned to contribute significantly to research, policy, and educational initiatives within and beyond Sierra Leone.

Publications πŸ“š

πŸ“˜ 1. Nutritional Study
Title: Nutritional values of cassava leaves in three districts, Kenema, Kailahun, and Bo, Sierra Leone
Journal: Food and Humanity Journal, Elsevier
Year: 2025
πŸ“ Location: Sierra Leone
🌿 Keywords: Cassava leaves, Nutrition, Public health


πŸ“˜ 2. Agricultural Economics
Title: Assessing the Challenges Faced by Cocoa Farmers in Accessing Credit from Community Banks in Kailahun District, Sierra Leone
Journal: SSRN, Elsevier
Year: 2025
🍫 Keywords: Cocoa farming, Microfinance, Rural credit
πŸ“ Location: Kailahun District, Sierra Leone


πŸ“˜ 3. AI Deployment Study
Title: Evaluating the Performance of AI Models Deployed on Edge Devices Versus Traditional Cloud Environments
Journal: Computers and Electrical Engineering Journal, Elsevier
Year: 2025
πŸ€– Keywords: Edge computing, AI performance, Cloud vs Edge


πŸ“˜ 4. Neural Network Research
Title: Evaluating the Efficiency and Performance of Minimalist Neural Network Architectures with Hybrid Activation Functions
Journal: Engineering Applications of Artificial Intelligence Journal, Elsevier
Year: 2025
🧠 Keywords: Neural networks, AI architectures, Activation functions

Terhi Junkkari | Nutrition | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Terhi Junkkari | Nutrition | Best Researcher Award

Principal lecturer at University of Turku/Seinajoki University of Applied Sciences, Finland

Dr. Terhi Junkkari is a seasoned expert in food science and consumer research with a strong academic background and over two decades of experience spanning academia, research, and the food industry. Currently a Principal Lecturer at SeinΓ€joki University of Applied Sciences (SeAMK), Finland, she has held leadership roles including Dean of the School of Food and Agriculture. Her work bridges nutrition science, food development, and sustainable food systems, contributing to over 30 peer-reviewed publications and nearly 100 other scientific reports. She actively engages in EU-funded projects focused on food sustainability and innovation.

Publications Profile

Scopus

Orcid

πŸŽ“ Education Details

  • D.Sc. (Food Science/Nutrition) – University of Helsinki, 2001
    Thesis: The effect of vitamin D status on calcium and bone metabolism

  • M.Sc. (Human Nutrition) – University of Helsinki, 1994
    Thesis: Effect of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 on arachidonic acid metabolism in rat thyroid cells

  • Professional Teacher Education (Pedagogical Qualification) – HΓ€me University of Applied Sciences, 2016

πŸ‘©β€πŸ”¬ Professional Experience

Current Role:

  • Principal Lecturer, Food Science & Consumer Research, SeinΓ€joki University of Applied Sciences (2022–present)

Previous Roles:

  • Dean, School of Food and Agriculture, SeAMK (2019–2021)

  • Lecturer, Food Development, SeAMK (2018)

  • Director, Business Unit Finland, Analyse2, Espoo (2015–2018)

  • Senior Manager, Professional Services Finland, Analyse2 (2008–2015)

  • Product Developer, Saarioinen Ltd, Tampere (2000–2008)

🌱 Research Interests

  • Nutrition labeling and consumer behavior

  • Product development for health and sustainability

  • Vitamin D and bone/calcium metabolism

  • Sustainable and future-oriented food systems

  • Public health nutrition and ready-to-eat food evaluation

  • Applied food science in foodservice and catering contexts

Ongoing EU-Funded Projects:

  • FOODPathS (2022–2025): Co-creating safe and sustainable food systems

  • FutureFoodS (2024–2030): European Partnership for future sustainable food systems

  • Future Frami Food Lab (2023–2025): Development of a regional food lab for innovation

πŸ† Awards and Honors

  • Board Member, Association of Clinical and Public Health Nutritionists in Finland (RTY), 2006–2007

  • Chair, Sustainability and Responsibility Working Group, SeAMK, 2019–2022

  • Multiple professional certifications including hygiene passport, project management, and leadership training

πŸ” Conclusion

Dr. Terhi Junkkari combines deep scientific expertise with practical industry and educational experience, making her a leading voice in nutrition-focused food science. Her academic contributions, leadership in sustainability initiatives, and engagement in EU research projects illustrate her commitment to advancing food system innovation and public health. Her research continues to impact both scientific understanding and real-world food development strategies.

Publications πŸ“š

πŸ“„ Title: The effect of nutrition labels on lunch buffet consumption: a real-life experiment
πŸ‘₯ Authors: Junkkari, T.; Kantola, M.; Arjanne, L.; Luomala, H.T.; Hopia, A.I.
πŸ“š Journal: British Food Journal
πŸ“… Year: 2023
πŸ”“ Access: Open Access
πŸ”— DOI/Link: (Insert DOI or URL if available)
πŸ“ Article Type: Research Article
πŸ” Keywords: Nutrition labels, Consumer behavior, Buffet consumption, Real-life experiment

 

 

Deepan Kumar SP | Nutritional Science | Young Scientist Award

Dr. Deepan Kumar SP | Nutritional Science | Young Scientist Award

Assistant Professor at SIMATS, India

Deepan Kumar S.P is a Research Associate at Bharathiar University, Coimbatore, with a Ph.D. in Biochemistry. His research focuses on the molecular mechanisms of fat taste perception and cell signaling in taste bud cells, with an emphasis on the role of receptors like CD36 and GPR120 in fat taste signaling and their connection to obesity. He has published extensively in high-impact journals, with a cumulative impact factor of 143.72, and holds two patents related to fat taste modulation. Deepan has received multiple fellowships, including ICMR and UGC support, and has been recognized for his research contributions through awards and presentations at national and international conferences. His work is pivotal in advancing understanding of nutritional biochemistry and its implications for public health.

Publications Profile

Google scholar

πŸŽ“ Education Details

  • Ph.D. in Biochemistry (2023) – Bharathiar University, Coimbatore
    • Thesis: “CD36 and GPR120 mediated orogustatory perception of dietary lipids and physiological implications under high-fat diet regimen and physical activity.”
  • M.Sc. in Biochemistry (2016) – PSG College of Arts and Science, Coimbatore
    • Graduated with 78% (First Class).
  • B.Sc. in Biochemistry (2014) – PSG College of Arts and Science, Coimbatore
    • Graduated with 81% (First Class).

πŸ‘©β€πŸ”¬ Professional Experience

  • Research Associate

    • Department of Research Analytics, Bharathiar University (Present)
    • Senior Research Fellow (ICMR funded) at Bharathiar University (2019-2022)
    • Junior Research Fellow (UGC funded) at Bharathiar University (2016-2018)
    • Project Assistant at Madurai Kamaraj University (2015-2016)
  • Assistant Professor

    • SIMATS (Current Position)

🌱 Research Interests

  • Oro-Gustatory Perception of Dietary Fats:
    Deepan Kumar’s research is focused on understanding how the human taste system perceives dietary fats and how various receptors like CD36 and GPR120 contribute to fat taste signaling, particularly under conditions of high-fat diets and physical activity.

  • Genetic Variations and Obesity:
    His work also involves exploring genetic variations in fat taste receptors and their relationship to obesity, specifically the interplay between sweet and fat taste perception.

  • Cell Signaling in Taste Buds:
    He has studied the factors regulating fat taste signal transduction, particularly focusing on calcium signaling in human taste bud cells mediated by receptors like CD36 and GPR120.

  • Molecular Nutrition:
    Deepan Kumar’s research includes the molecular mechanisms of lipid sensing in relation to diet and metabolism, contributing to the understanding of nutritional biochemistry and its health implications.

πŸ† Awards and Honors

  • Best Poster Award for the presentation titled β€˜Src-activation is related with facial cutaneous mucosal venous malformations’ at the International Conference on Environment, Gene, Health & Diseases (EGHD 2017).
  • Recognition for his contribution to research on fat taste signaling and obesity-related studies published in high-impact journals.
  • Participation and poster presentations in several prestigious conferences, including those hosted by Bharathiar University and Alagappa University.

πŸ” Conclusion

Deepan Kumar S.P is a highly accomplished researcher with significant contributions to the field of fat taste perception and obesity. His work on cell signaling and fat taste receptors has practical implications for improving community health, particularly in the context of nutrition and obesity management. With numerous high-impact publications, patents, and awards, Deepan’s research directly benefits public health and demonstrates his strong potential for making a lasting community impact.

Publications πŸ“š

πŸ“š Progress in Lipid Research (Impact Factor: 14.673)
πŸ“ Shanmugamprema, D., Muthuswamy, K., Subramanian, G., Ponnusamy, V., Krishnan, V., & Subramaniam, S. (2020). Fat taste signal transduction and its possible negative modulator components.
πŸ“– Journal Index: 0163-7827


🍽️ Obesity Reviews (Impact Factor: 10.867)
πŸ“ Ponnusamy, V., Subramanian, G., Muthuswamy, K., Shanmugamprema, D., Krishnan, V., Velusamy, T., & Subramaniam, S. (2022). Genetic variation in sweet taste receptors and a mechanistic perspective on sweet and fat taste sensation in the context of obesity.
πŸ“– Journal Index: 1467789X


🍏 Nutrition Research Reviews (Impact Factor: 8.146)
πŸ“ Deepankumar, S., Karthi, M., Vasanth, K., & Selvakumar, S. (2019). Insights on modulators in perception of taste modalities: a review.
πŸ“– Journal Index: 0954-4224


πŸ₯— Clinical Nutrition (Impact Factor: 7.643)
πŸ“ Karthi, M., Deepankumar, S., Vinithra, P., Gowtham, S., Vasanth, K., Raj, P. P., … & Selvakumar, S. (2021). Single nucleotide polymorphism in CD36: Correlation to peptide YY levels in obese and non-obese adults.
πŸ“– Journal Index: 02615614


πŸ’ͺ Acta Physiologica (Impact Factor: 7.523)
πŸ“ Shanmugamprema, D., Muthuswamy, K., Ponnusamy, V., Subramanian, G., Vasanthakumar, K., Krishnan, V., & Subramaniam, S. (2023). Exercise modifies fatty acid perception and metabolism.
πŸ“– Journal Index: 17481716


🍽️ Food Research International (Impact Factor: 7.425)
πŸ“ Ponnusamy, V., Subramanian, G., Muthuswamy, K., Shanmugamprema, D., Vasanthakumar, K., Krishnan, V., & Subramaniam, S. (2023). Tongue papillae density and fat taster status – a cardinal role on sweet and bitter taste perception among Indian population.
πŸ“– Journal Index: 0963-9969


πŸ‡ Molecular Nutrition & Food Research (Impact Factor: 6.575)
πŸ“ Subramanian, G., Shanmugamprema, D., Subramani, R., Muthuswamy, K., Ponnusamy, V., Tankay, K., … & Subramaniam, S. (2021). Anti‐Obesity Effect of T. Chebula Fruit Extract on High Fat Diet Induced Obese Mice: A Possible Alternative Therapy.
πŸ“– Journal Index: 1613-4133


🐾 Journal of Animal Physiology and Animal Nutrition (Impact Factor: 3.718)
πŸ“ Shanmugamprema, D., Muthuswamy, K., Ponnusamy, V., Subramanian, G., Velusamy, T., Krishnan, V., & Subramaniam, S. (2022). CD36 and GPR120 mediated orogustatory perception of dietary lipids and its physiological implication in the pygmy mouse Mus booduga.
πŸ“– Journal Index: 1439-0396


 

 

 

 

NIRBHAY KUMAR | Nutritional Science | Best Researcher Award

Mr. NIRBHAY KUMAR | Nutritional Science | Best Researcher Award

PhD Research Scholar at Sant Longowal Institute of Engineering and Technology, India

Nirbhay Kumar is a PhD Research Scholar at the Department of Food Engineering and Technology, Sant Longowal Institute of Engineering and Technology (SLIET), Longowal, India. With a strong academic background and extensive industrial experience, he specializes in food processing, quality assurance, and research on food bioactives, oils, and fats. His research contributions include publications in reputed journals, conference presentations, and active participation in training programs, workshops, and faculty development initiatives.

Publications Profile

Scopus

Google scholar

πŸŽ“ Education Details

  • PhD (Food Engineering & Technology) – Sant Longowal Institute of Engineering and Technology, Longowal, Punjab (Ongoing)
  • M.Tech (Food Engineering & Technology) – SLIET, Punjab (2022) – 85.05% (Merit Certificate Holder)
  • B.Tech (Food Processing Technology) – Anand Agricultural University, Gujarat (2017) – 80.40% (Vice-Chancellor Gold Medalist)
  • HSC (12th) – Netajee Defence Academy, Gorakhpur, CBSE (2012) – 78.60%
  • SSC (10th) – Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya, Bihar, CBSE (2010) – 93.10%

Other Qualifications:

  • UGC-NET (2023) – Qualified in Home Science for Assistant Professor
  • GATE (Multiple Times) – Qualified in Engineering Science (2022, 2017) & Life Science (2018)
  • NPTEL Certification (2024) – Top 2% in “Food Oils and Fats: Chemistry and Technology” by IIT Kharagpur

πŸ‘©β€πŸ”¬ Professional Experience

Β  Academic & Research Experience

Β  Β  Β PhD Research Scholar – Sant Longowal Institute of Engineering and Technology (SLIET), Longowal (Ongoing)

  • Conducting research on functional food ingredients, food oils, and fats, with a focus on novel food formulations, bioactives, and advanced processing technologies.
  • Published multiple research papers and book chapters in reputed journals such as Discover Food and Trends in Food Science & Technology.
  • Actively participating in international and national conferences, faculty development programs, and workshops related to food science and technology.

🌱 Research Interests

  • Food Oils & Fats – Chemistry, Processing, and Functional Properties
  • Food Proteins & Macromolecules – Applications in Product Development
  • Novel Food Processing Technologies – High Pressure Processing, Fermentation, Edible Oils from Unconventional Sources
  • Food Regulatory Guidelines & Quality Assurance
  • Research & Development in Functional Foods & Nutraceuticals

πŸ† Awards and Honors

  • AICTE Doctoral Fellowship (ADF) – PhD
  • Vice-Chancellor Gold Medal – B.Tech
  • AICTE Fellowship – M.Tech
  • Selected as Technical Officer – FSSAI (2020)
  • 1st Position – All India Essay Writing Event (2016) – Gold Medalist
  • 1st & 2nd Position – Gujarat State Inter Agricultural University Chess Tournament (2014 & 2016)
  • University Chess Player (4 Years) – Anand Agricultural University
  • 2nd Prize – Food Quiz (World Food Day 2016)

πŸ” Conclusion

Nirbhay Kumar is a dedicated food scientist and researcher with strong academic credentials, industrial expertise, and extensive research contributions. His work in food processing, quality assurance, food bioactives, and novel food technologies is complemented by his active participation in conferences, workshops, and training programs. With a passion for research and innovation, he continues to explore emerging food science trends to contribute to sustainable and functional food advancements.

πŸ“š Publication Details:

πŸ”Ή πŸ“ Title: Development and characterization of groundnut oil-based oleogels for replacing saturated fats in cookies formulations.
πŸ”Ή πŸ‘¨β€πŸ”¬ Authors: Kumar, A., Kumar, N., & Sharma, H. K.
πŸ”Ή πŸ“– Journal: Discover Food
πŸ”Ή πŸ“… Year: 2025
πŸ”Ή πŸ“‚ Volume & Issue: 5(1)
πŸ”Ή πŸ“‘ Pages: 1-15
πŸ”Ή πŸ”— DOI: Click Here

Reno Gordon | Nutritional Science | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Reno Gordon | Nutritional Science | Best Researcher Award

 

 

Lecturer at Sefako Makgatho Health Science, South Afric

Dr. Reno Eron Gordon is a South African nutrition researcher and lecturer with a Doctorate in Nutrition from North West University. He specializes in human nutrition, dietetics, and physiology, currently serving as a permanent lecturer at Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University. His research focuses on sports nutrition, food safety, and infant and young child nutrition, with multiple peer-reviewed publications in high-impact journals. Recognized for his contributions, he has received awards for best paper presentations, including first and second place at the 2023 Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University Research Day.

Publications Profile

Scopus

Orcid

πŸŽ“ Education Details

  • Doctorate in Nutrition (2023) – North West University
  • Master of Science in Nutrition (2013) – University of KwaZulu-Natal
  • Postgraduate Diploma in Community Nutrition (2009) – University of KwaZulu-Natal
  • Bachelor of Science in Human Nutrition (2008) – University of KwaZulu-Natal

Additionally, he has completed various professional courses, including risk management, digital teaching, and food safety training.

πŸ‘©β€πŸ”¬ Professional Experience

  • Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (2013–present) – Permanent Lecturer for Human Nutrition & Dietetics and Physiology Departments
  • University of KwaZulu-Natal (2012 & earlier) – Held multiple roles, including Part-time Lecturer, Nutrition Supervisor, and Tutor

🌱 Research Interests

  • Sports Nutrition
  • Food Safety
  • Infant and Young Child Nutrition

πŸ† Awards and Honors

  • 2023: First & Second Place for Best Paper Presentation (Independent Researcher) – Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University Research Day
  • 2014: Second Place for Best Paper Presentation – University of Limpopo, Faculty of Health Sciences

πŸ” Conclusion

Dr. Reno Eron Gordon has a strong academic background, with extensive experience in nutrition research and teaching. His research contributions in food safety, sports nutrition, and community health are well-documented, with multiple publications in high-impact journals. Additionally, his recognition in university research competitions highlights his ability to present high-quality, impactful research.

Publications πŸ“š

πŸ“– Self-reported meal planning practices among households in the Tshwane North area, Gauteng
πŸ“… Published: 2024-12-19 | πŸ“° Journal: Health SA Gesondheid
πŸ”— DOI: 10.4102/hsag.v29i0.2750
✍️ Authors: Lindiwe J. Ncube, Mashudu Manafe, Reno E. Gordon


πŸ“– Knowledge, skills, and household food preparation practices in the north of Pretoria – Gauteng province, South Africa
πŸ“… Published: 2024-10-04 | πŸ“° Journal: African Journal of Food, Agriculture, Nutrition and Development
πŸ”— DOI: 10.18697/ajfand.134.24360
✍️ Authors: LJ Ncube, M Manafe, RE Gordon


πŸ“– Infant feeding knowledge, attitudes, and practices of HIV-positive breastfeeding mothers
πŸ“… Published: 2024-07-31 | πŸ“° Journal: Health SA Gesondheid
πŸ”— DOI: 10.4102/hsag.v29i0.2617
✍️ Authors: Kgabo M. Mabotja, Annette Van Onselen, Reno E. Gordon


πŸ“– Establishing a digital healthcare ecosystem in a Health Sciences University in South Africa: A mixed-method protocol (Preprint)
πŸ“… Published: 2024-02-27 | πŸ“° Journal: JMIR Research Protocols
πŸ”— DOI: 10.2196/57821
✍️ Authors: Samantha Govender, Maria Elizabeth Cochrane, Mabina Mogale, Reno Gordon, Tjodwapi Tshephe


πŸ“– Physiological and nutrition-related challenges as perceived by spinal cord-injured endurance hand cyclists
πŸ“… Published: 2024-01-01 | πŸ“° Journal: Applied Physiology, Nutrition, and Metabolism
πŸ”— DOI: 10.1139/apnm-2023-0036
✍️ Authors: Reno Eron Gordon, Belinda Scrooby, Lize Havemann-Nel


πŸ“– Food hygiene and food safety practices of households in a township north of Tshwane, Gauteng
πŸ“… Published: 2023-10-17 | πŸ“° Journal: Health SA Gesondheid
πŸ”— DOI: 10.4102/hsag.v28i0.2346
✍️ Authors: Mashudu Manafe, Reno E. Gordon, Lindiwe J. Ncube


πŸ“– Nutritional Practices and Body Composition of South African National-Level Spinal Cord-Injured Endurance Hand Cyclists
πŸ“… Published: 2022-11-22 | πŸ“° Journal: Nutrients
πŸ”— DOI: 10.3390/nu14234949
✍️ Authors: Reno Eron Gordon, Sunita Potgieter, Lize Havemann-Nel


πŸ“– Hydration status and fluid intake of urban, underprivileged South African male adolescent soccer players during training
πŸ“… Published: 2015-10-20 | πŸ“° Journal: Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition
πŸ”— DOI: 10.1186/s12970-015-0080-0
✍️ Authors: Reno Eron Gordon, Susanna Maria Kassier, Chara Biggs