Jenifer de Carvalho Lopes Dantas | Plant conservation | Women Researcher Award

Dr. Jenifer de Carvalho Lopes Dantas – Plant conservation – Women Researcher Award

Alignment with Award Category

Dr. Lopes’ extensive research contributions in plant systematics, evolutionary biology, and biogeography position her as a strong candidate for the Women Researcher Award. Her work has significantly advanced the field, and her association with prestigious institutions such as Harvard University highlights her recognition as a leading researcher in her domain.

 Harvard University | United States

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🎓Early Academic Pursuits 

Education and Training

Jenifer C. Lopes has dedicated her career to understanding the evolutionary patterns, systematics, and biogeography of plants in the Neotropics. Her academic journey began at the University of São Paulo, where she earned her Bachelor’s degree in Biology (2005–2009). She further specialized in botany by completing her Master’s degree (2010–2012) and later obtained a Ph.D. in Botany (2012–2018) from the same institution. Throughout her studies, she developed a profound interest in plant systematics, particularly focusing on the Annonaceae family and the biodiversity of the Brazilian flora.

💼Professional Endeavors 

Academic Positions

Jenifer’s professional career has been marked by significant contributions to plant systematics and evolutionary biology. From 2019 to 2023, she worked as a postdoctoral researcher at the University of São Paulo’s Instituto de Biociências, where she deepened her expertise in botany. In September 2023, she joined Harvard University Herbaria as a Research Associate in the Department of Organismic & Evolutionary Biology. Her current work at Harvard is focused on the systematics of Vellozia, a genus native to South American mountaintops, particularly within the biodiversity-rich campos rupestres of Brazil.

📚Contributions and Research Focus on Plant conservation

Lopes’ research has primarily revolved around the systematics, biogeography, and evolutionary history of plant families, particularly Annonaceae and Velloziaceae. She has investigated the historical biogeography of Vellozia, shedding light on range expansion in South American mountaintops following climatic cooling events. Her work has also explored the role of frugivores in the dispersal of Annonaceae from Africa to the Neotropics, leading to multiple transitions across biomes. Additionally, her research on phytotoxicity in Annona coriacea has contributed to understanding the chemical ecology of plant species in tropical ecosystems.

🏆Accolades and Recognition 

Lopes’ contributions have been widely recognized within the scientific community. Her work has been cited extensively, and she has collaborated with leading researchers in the field of botany. She has participated in international research collaborations and contributed to the conservation of endangered plant species through her taxonomic and ecological studies.

🌍 Impact and Influence 

Community Impact

Jenifer C. Lopes’ research has had a profound impact on the fields of systematics, evolutionary biology, and conservation science. Her studies on the diversification and adaptation of plant lineages in response to climatic and ecological changes have provided valuable insights into plant evolution in tropical and subtropical environments. By documenting new species and analyzing their evolutionary history, she has contributed to biodiversity conservation efforts, particularly in South America’s threatened ecosystems.

🔮Legacy and Future Contributions 

As a research associate at Harvard University, Lopes continues to advance the field of plant systematics and evolutionary biology. Her ongoing work on Vellozia and related plant families will likely yield further critical insights into the historical biogeography and adaptive evolution of Neotropical plants. Her research is expected to play a crucial role in shaping conservation strategies for plant species facing habitat loss due to climate change.

 

Conclusion

Dr. Jenifer C. Lopes‘ exceptional contributions to evolutionary biology and plant systematics, her innovative research on Neotropical flora, and her dedication to biodiversity conservation make her an ideal candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Her impactful work, academic excellence, and ongoing research at Harvard University demonstrate her commitment to advancing the field

📚Publications

Vanishing ecosystems: The looming threat of climate change on an iconic genus Vellozia in the Brazilian campos rupestres

Authors:  Rain E. Bugado; Nawal Shrestha; Renato A. Magri; Jefferson Prado; Jenifer C. Lopes

Journals: Global Ecology and Conservation

Historical biogeography of Vellozia (Velloziaceae) reveals range expansion in South American mountaintops after climatic cooling events and increased diversification rates after the occupation of Southern Espinhaço Province

Authors: Renato A Magri; Federico Luebert; Andressa Cabral; Suzana Alcantara; Lúcia G Lohmann; Jefferson Prado; Jenifer C Lopes

Journals: Botanical Journal of the Linnean Society

Unveiling the aftermath of conflict and herbarium specimens’ loss: Typifications of species described by Pohl within the Neotropical genus Vellozia

Authors: Jenifer C. Lopes; Renato A. Magri; Jefferson Prado

Journals: TAXON

Two new critically endangered species of Vellozia (Velloziaceae) from the Campos Rupestres of Espinhaço Range, Brazil

Authors: R.A. MAGRI; A. CABRAL; J. PRADO; J.C. LOPES

Journals: Phytotaxa

Sussy Munialo | Food systems | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Sussy Munialo – Food systems –  Best Researcher Award

Alignment with Award Category

Dr. Munialo’s exemplary work aligns perfectly with the Best Researcher Award , recognizing professionals who have made significant contributions to scientific research, technological advancements, and societal impact. Her research on food fortification and nutritional enhancement has influenced policy formulation and practical applications in the food industry. Furthermore, her commitment to mentoring young scientists and advocating for women in STEM further underscores her eligibility for prestigious recognition.

 

University of Pretoria | South Africa

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🎓Early Academic Pursuits 

Education and Training

Dr. Sussy Munialo, a distinguished agricultural researcher from Kenya, has built an impressive academic foundation that has propelled her into the global arena of agricultural resource management. Born on November 6, 1986, she demonstrated a keen interest in agricultural sciences from an early age. Her academic journey began with a Bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Education and Extension from the University of Nairobi (2005–2009). She further pursued a Master’s degree in Agricultural Resource Management (ARM) at the University of Nairobi (2011–2013), where her research focused on innovative cropping systems for quality indigenous vegetable production.

💼Professional Endeavors 

Academic Positions

Dr. Munialo has amassed over a decade of experience in agricultural research and development. She has worked with various institutions, including the University of Nairobi, World Agroforestry Centre (ICRAF), and the Centre for Tropical Agriculture (CIAT), among others. Her professional roles have ranged from research fellowships to consultancy positions, contributing significantly to agricultural policy, food security, and sustainable land-use systems.

📚Contributions and Research Focus on Food systems

Dr. Munialo’s research interests are diverse, encompassing agricultural resource management, climate-smart agriculture, soil health, carbon measurement, food systems research, and biodiversity conservation. She has contributed to yield gap analysis, remote sensing applications in agriculture, and the development of sustainable land-use systems. Her doctoral research on maize yield gaps in western Kenya has provided critical insights into soil and management-related factors affecting smallholder farmers. She has also worked on promoting indigenous vegetables among smallholder women farmers, enhancing food security and income generation. Her expertise in data analytics, including R-Statistics, machine learning tools, econometric modeling, and GIS applications, has significantly advanced research in agricultural resource management.

🏆Accolades and Recognition 

Dr. Munialo’s contributions have been recognized through several prestigious grants and awards. She received a $50,000 grant from the Swedish Research Council for her Ph.D. studies and a $26,000 grant from RUFORUM for her master’s research. Additionally, she secured a $2,000 grant to promote indigenous vegetable farming in western Kenya.

🌍 Impact and Influence 

Community Impact

Dr. Munialo’s research has had a profound impact on agricultural practices and policies, particularly in Kenya. Her work on maize yield gaps has informed strategies for improving crop productivity through better soil management and field practices. Her involvement in farmer dissemination workshops has directly benefited smallholder farmers by equipping them with knowledge on soil nutrition, field management, and climate adaptation strategies.

🔮Legacy and Future Contributions 

Dr. Munialo’s legacy is marked by her dedication to sustainable agricultural development, policy formulation, and capacity building. Her research continues to shape strategies for improving food security and climate resilience in Africa. As she advances in her career, she is expected to play a pivotal role in bridging the gap between research and practical implementation, ensuring that scientific advancements translate into tangible benefits for farmers and communities.

Conclusion

Dr. Sussy Munialo is a distinguished figure in agricultural research, whose work has significantly contributed to sustainable farming practices, food security, and policy development. Her academic achievements, professional endeavors, and research contributions reflect her commitment to transforming agriculture in Kenya and beyond. With her extensive experience and unwavering dedication, she continues to be a driving force in the advancement of agricultural science and rural development.

📚Publications

Soil and management‐related factors contributing to maize yield gaps in western Kenya

Authors: S Munialo, AS Dahlin, C Onyango M, W Oluoch‐Kosura, H Marstorp

Journals: Food and Energy Security

Micro-spatial analysis of maize yield gap variability and production factors on smallholder farms

Authors: M Sussy, H Ola, FAB Maria, BO Niklas, O M. Cecilia, OK Willis, M Håkan

Journals: Agriculture 

Gaps and opportunities in research on food systems; a micro-institutional analysis of the University of Nairobi

Authors:  S Munialo, CM Onyango, JA Lukachi, OV Wasonga, JG Maina, JM Nzuma, …

Journals: Frontiers in Sustainable Food Systems

Factors influencing Maize yield Gaps on Smallholder farms in Vihiga and Kakamega Counties of Western Kenya

Authors: S Munialo

Journals: University of Nairobi

Systematic Review of the Agro-Ecological, Nutritional, and Medicinal Properties of the Neglected and Underutilized Plant Species Tylosema fassoglense

Authors: S Munialo, A Gasparatos, N Ludidi, AEE Ali, E Keyster, MO Akanbi, …

Journals: Sustainability

Gohar Isakhayan | Business strategies for climate smart agriculture | Best Scholar Award

Dr. Gohar Isakhayan – Business strategies for climate smart agriculture – Best Scholar Award

Stanford University | United States

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📍Current Position

Dr. Gohar Isakhanyan is currently a Senior Scientist specializing in the socio-economic impact of AI, digitalization, and robotics. Since 2023, she has been actively involved in: Setting up research projects and knowledge agendas. Managing and mentoring teams, including supervising Ph.D. and Master’s students. Acquiring large-scale projects such as Top Sectors SMP – PPS, KB, EU Horizon, and Digital Europe. Publishing scientific papers and writing policy advisory reports. Leading themes such as innovative business models, stakeholder analysis, and behavioral change.

 

📝Publication Achievements

Dr. Gohar Isakhanyan has an impressive list of peer-reviewed publications. Her works contribute significantly to: AI Robotics and IoT applications in sustainability. Socioeconomic impacts of digitalization. Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) and the European Green Deal.

 

🔍Ongoing Research

Currently, Dr. Isakhanyan is exploring: The Socioeconomic Impact of Digitalization: Investigating AI adoption and its transformative effects. Innovative Business Models in the Big Data Economy: Understanding digital value chains. Behavioral Change and Stakeholder Analysis: Analyzing human adaptability to emerging technologies.

 

🔬 Research Interests

Dr. Gohar Isakhanyan’s core interests include: AI, Robotics, and Digitalization in sustainability. User acceptance and data sharing in IoT ecosystems. Sustainable Business Models and their impact on socio-economic systems. Behavioral sciences, focusing on stakeholder interactions and scenario analysis.

 

🎓Academic Background

  • Ph.D. in Management Studies
    • Institution: Wageningen University, The Netherlands.
    • Dissertation: Inter-organizational Collaboration in Bio-Based Business: Sustainability-Oriented Networks.
    • Completion: June 15, 2016.
  • MSc in Management, Marketing, and Consumer Studies
    • Institution: Wageningen University.
    • Research Focus: Institutional design and stakeholder analysis of agroparks.
  • BSc + MSc in Management and Economics (Cum Laude)
    • Institution: Armenian State University of Economics.
    • Focus: Public governance and economic transitions.

 

🏆Scholarships and Awards

Dr. Isakhanyan has received multiple scholarships and recognitions for her academic and professional contributions, including opportunities to lead high-impact EU and Dutch projects.

 

🌐Professional Associations 

Active member in EU Horizon and Digital Europe initiatives. Contributor to Journal of Smart Agricultural Technology. Key collaborator in PPP and Top Sectors programs.

 

 📚Training & Workshops 

Dr. Gohar Isakhanyan continuously enhances her skills through: Strategic Project Management (2024). Professional supervision, R-Studio Training, and Mediatraining (2023). Courses on Social Network Analysis, Atlas.ti, and SPSS as part of her Ph.D.

 

🎤Oral Presentations and🗣️Thought Leadership 

Dr. Isakhanyan has presented her findings at prestigious international conferences on topics such as: AI Robotics for sustainability. Digitalization’s role in achieving the SDGs. Socioeconomic impacts of IoT and behavioral change.

 

🧑‍🔬Tasks Completed as a Researcher 

Led EU-funded projects during her Ph.D. Designed and managed advanced management courses. Conducted large-scale research on marine park feasibility for the Dutch Ministry of Economic Affairs. Published high-impact scientific reports and policy recommendations.

 

🚀Success Factors 

Dr. Isakhanyan’s success stems from: Her ability to bridge technology, business, and societal impact. Leadership in multi-disciplinary teams. Expertise in quantitative and qualitative analysis for complex projects.

 

🧪Publications & Laboratory Experience

Published extensively on AI-driven sustainability solutions. Proficient in advanced tools such as SPSS, R-Studio, and Atlas.ti for research data analysis. Long-term program development for digitalization and robotics at Wageningen Economic Research.

 

🔍 Conclusion

Dr. Gohar Isakhanyan stands as a visionary researcher and leader in AI, Robotics, and Digitalization. Her academic journey, combined with decades of professional achievements, positions her as a key contributor to sustainable innovation and socio-economic development.

 

📚Publications

Business strategies towards climate‐smart agriculture in Europe: A literature review

 Author: Gohar Isakhanyan; Christopher Jr. Galgo; Marilena Gemtou; Søren Marcus Pedersen  

 Journal: Business Strategy and the Environment

Farmers’ Transition to Climate-Smart Agriculture: A Systematic Review of the Decision-Making Factors Affecting Adoption

Author: Marilena Gemtou; Konstantina Kakkavou; Evangelos Anastasiou; Spyros Fountas; Soren Marcus Pedersen; Gohar Isakhanyan; Kassa Tarekegn Erekalo; Serafin Pazos-Vidal

An interdisciplinary approach to artificial intelligence in agriculture

Author: Gohar Isakhanyan; Bedir Tekinerdogan

Sustainable agriculture by the Internet of Things – A practitioner’s approach to monitor sustainability progress

Author: Sjaak Wolfert; Gohar Isakhanyan

A smart web of firms, farms and internet of things (IOT): enabling collaboration-based business models in the agri-food industry