Nyasha Chiuraise | Crop protection | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Nyasha Chiuraise | Crop protection | Best Researcher Award

Doctoreta at Seed Co Ltd Zimbabwe

Summary:

Dr. Nyasha Chiuraise, a 39-year-old plant pathologist from Harare, Zimbabwe, has over nine years of experience in crop protection within the private sector. He currently works with SeedCo Group, a leading seed company operating across 17 African countries. Dr. Chiuraise’s expertise includes breeding for disease resistance and integrated pest, weed, and disease management. His work is instrumental in improving crop resilience and supporting sustainable agricultural practices in Africa.

Profile:

Scopus

šŸŽ“Education:

  • Ph.D. in Plant Pathology
    University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, South Africa, 2023
  • M.Sc. in Plant Breeding, cum laude
    University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa, 2015
  • B.Sc. Honours in Plant Pathology
    University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa, 2012
  • B.Sc. Honours in Biological Sciences
    Midlands State University, Gweru, Zimbabwe, 2007

šŸ„šŸ‘Øā€šŸ«Professional Experience:

Plant Pathologist SeedCo Group, Harare, Zimbabwe June 2015 ā€“ Present Responsible for diagnosing fungal, bacterial, and viral diseases of cereals and vegetables through morphological, serological, and molecular techniques. Applies KASP SNP genotyping for plant disease resistance breeding and collaborates with global breeding teams. Develops strategies for field and controlled environment research on various crops, conducts fungicide and insecticide field trials, and provides technical expertise in plant health to seed producers and farmers. Maintains relationships with academia and the agricultural industry globally. Field Plant Pathologist Plant Health Products, Nottingham Road, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa January 2015 ā€“ June 2015 Developed, tested, and commercialized biocontrol products for field crops and pasture species. Conducted insect rearing and pathogen culturing for bioassays, tested biocontrol product compatibility with pesticides, and isolated and identified plant pathogens using various techniques.

Research Interests:

Dr. Chiuraise’s research focuses on breeding for disease resistance and integrated management of pests, weeds, and diseases in wheat and maize. He is particularly interested in the application of advanced genotyping techniques for plant disease resistance and the development of biocontrol strategies for sustainable agriculture.

Publications Top Notes šŸ“:

1. Occurrence and characterization of Puccinia triticina in Zimbabwe

  • Journal: Canadian Journal of Plant Pathology
  • Year: 2024 (In Press)
  • Contributors: N. Chiuraise, B. Visser, A. MarĆ©, W. Boshoff

2. First Report of Puccinia striiformis f. sp. tritici, Causing Stripe Rust of Wheat, in Zimbabwe

  • Journal: Plant Disease
  • Year: 2020
  • Volume: 104
  • Issue: 1
  • Contributors: W.H.P. Boshoff, B. Visser, C.M. Lewis, N. Chiuraise, Z.A. Pretorius
  • Citations: 11

3. Comparative evaluation of commercial rhizobial inoculants of soybean

  • Journal: South African Journal of Plant and Soil
  • Year: 2016
  • Volume: 33
  • Issue: 2
  • Pages: 157ā€“160
  • Contributors: B.J. Sivparsad, N. Chiuraise, M.D. Laing
  • Citations: 3

4. Progress in stacking aflatoxin and fumonisin contamination resistance genes in maize hybrids

  • Journal: Euphytica
  • Year: 2016
  • Volume: 207
  • Issue: 1
  • Pages: 49ā€“67
  • Contributors: N. Chiuraise, J. Derera, K.S. Yobo, A. Nunkumar, N.F.P. Qwabe
  • Citations: 7

5. Seed treatment with Trichoderma harzianum strain kd formulation reduced aflatoxin contamination in groundnuts

  • Journal: Journal of Plant Diseases and Protection
  • Year: 2015
  • Volume: 122
  • Issue: 2
  • Pages: 74ā€“80
  • Contributors: N. Chiuraise, K.S. Yobo, M.D. Laing
  • Citations: 11

 

Assist Prof Dr. Jared Spackman | Nutrient Management | Best Researcher Award

Assist Prof Dr. Jared Spackman | Nutrient Management | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Assist Prof Dr. Jared Spackman is an Assistant Professor and Endowed Barley Agronomist at the University of Idaho, specializing in soil science and agronomy. Holding a Ph.D. and M.S. from the University of Minnesota, and a B.S. from Brigham Young Universityā€“Idaho, Assist Prof Dr. Jared Spackman has extensive experience in teaching, research, and extension. Key research includes nitrogen response in wheat and barley, with published works in prominent journals like Crops and Soils. Recognized with prestigious fellowships, Dr. [Your Name] is committed to advancing agricultural practices through innovative research and education.

Profile

Scholar

šŸŽ“ Education Beyond High School:

Ph.D., University of Minnesota, Twin Cities, MN, 2020, Soil ScienceM.S., University of Minnesota, Twin Cities, MN, 2018, Soil ScienceB.S., Brigham Young Universityā€“Idaho, Rexburg, ID, 2014, Agronomy

šŸ§‘ā€šŸ« Experience:

Assistant Professor, Endowed Barley Agronomist, University of Idaho, Department of Plant Sciences, 2020 ā€“ presentGraduate Research Assistant, Nutrient Management Research Group, University of Minnesota, Department of Soil, Water, and Climate, 2014 ā€“ 2020Teaching Assistant, SOIL 3416: Plant Nutrients in the Environment, University of Minnesota, Department of Soil, Water and Climate, 2019

Publications Top Notes šŸ“

Soil texture and precipitation influence optimal time of nitrogen fertilization for corn

Authors: JA Spackman, FG Fernandez, JA Coulter, DE Kaiser, G Paiao

Journal: Agronomy Journal

Details: 111(4), 2018-2030

Citations: 35

Year: 2019

Ground-based optical canopy sensing technologies for corn-nitrogen management in the Upper Midwest

Authors: GD Paiao, FG FernƔndez, JA Spackman, DE Kaiser, S Weisberg

Journal: Agronomy Journal

Details: 112(4), 2998-3011

Citations: 17

Year: 2020

šŸ“ Other Publications:

Nitrogen fertilizer rate, source, and application timing effects on soil nitrogen and corn yield

Authors: JA Spackman

Journal: University of Minnesota

Citations: 8

Year: 2018

Capture efficiency of four chamber designs for measuring ammonia emissions

Authors: JR Alexander, JA Spackman, ML Wilson, FG FernƔndez, RT Venterea

Journal: Agrosystems, Geosciences & Environment

Details: 4(3), e20199

Citations: 4

Year: 2021

Microplot design and plant and soil sample preparation for 15nitrogen analysis

Authors: JA Spackman, FG Fernandez

Journal: JoVE (Journal of Visualized Experiments)

Details: e61191

Citations: 4

Year: 2020

Fate of Pre-Plant and Split-Applied 15Nitrogen Enriched Urea in Corn

Authors: JA Spackman

Journal: University of Minnesota

Citations: 3

Year: 2020

Integrating canopy sensing and soil nitrogen for improved corn nitrogen management

Authors: GD Paiao, FG FernƔndez, JA Spackman, DE Kaiser, S Weisberg

Journal: Agronomy Journal

Details: 113(2), 1996-2005

Citations: 2

Year: 2021

šŸ”¬ Recent Contributions:

Models and sufficiency interpretation for estimating critical soil test values for the Fertilizer Recommendation Support Tool

Authors: NA Slaton, A Pearce, L Gatiboni, D Osmond, C Bolster, F Miquez, J Clark, …

Journal: Soil Science Society of America Journal

Year: 2024

Corn 15N uptake and partitioning in response to fertilizer application rate and timing

Authors: JA Spackman, FG FernƔndez, GD Paiao, RT Venterea, JA Coulter

Journal: Agronomy Journal

Year: 2024

Malt Barley Yield and Soil Test Response to Phosphorus, Potassium, and Micronutrient Fertilizers

Authors: JA Spackman, J Bevan

Event: ASA, CSSA, SSSA International Annual Meeting

Year: 2023

Optimizing Nitrogen Fertilizer Rates for Annual Cereal Forage Production

Authors: J Pandey, JA Spackman, J Sagers, R Findlay

Event: ASA, CSSA, SSSA International Annual Meeting

Year: 2023

Optimizing Nutrient Management in Irrigated Culinary Mustard for Spice Production

Authors: J Pandey, JA Spackman

Event: ASA, CSSA, SSSA International Annual Meeting

Year: 2023

The Journey to Defining the Critical Soil Test Value for Frst.

Authors: NA Slaton, L Gatiboni, A Pearce, DL Osmond, CH Bolster, J Clark, …

Event: ASA, CSSA, SSSA International Annual Meeting

Year: 2023

Precipitated Calcium Carbonate As a Lime Amendment in Southern Idaho Soils

Authors: JA Spackman, J Bevan

Event: ASA, CSSA, SSSA International Annual Meeting

Year: 2023

Malt Barley Response to Sulfur Fertilizer Products and Rates

Authors: JA Spackman, J Bevan, G Loomis

Event: ASA, CSSA, SSSA International Annual Meeting

Year: 2023

Urea ammonium nitrate as the carrier for preplant burndown herbicides

Authors: KL Mookodi, JA Spackman, AT Adjesiwor

Journal: Agrosystems, Geosciences & Environment

Details: 6(3), e20404

Year: 2023

Nitrogen Fertilizer Rate and Timing Implications for Hard Red, Hard White, and Soft White Spring Wheat Production in Southern Idaho.

Authors: JA Spackman, J Bevan, OS Walsh, A Adjesiwor, O Adeyemi, J Sagers, …

Event: ASA, CSSA, SSSA International Annual Meeting

Year: 2022

Soil Testing Calibrations to Maximize Nutrient Uptake and Yield Potential Oral

Authors: AD Moore, MV Nathan, JA Spackman, NA Slaton

Event: ASA, CSSA, SSSA International Annual Meeting

Year: 2022

Use of Remote Sensing Tools for Yield and Protein Estimation in Spring Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.)

Authors: R Lamichhane, OS Walsh, JA Spackman, E Nambi, EO Ansah, …

Event: ASA, CSSA, SSSA International Annual Meeting

Year: 2022

Comparison of Sulfur Fertilizer Products and Their Effects on Malt Barley Production

Authors: O Adeyemi, JA Spackman, J Bevan

Event: ASA, CSSA, SSSA International Annual Meeting

Year: 2022

Zahrabeigom Moradi Shakoorian | Agriculture sustainability | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Zahrabeigom Moradi Shakoorian | Agriculture sustainability | Best Researcher Award

šŸ‘Øā€šŸ«Profile Summary

An innovative and forward-thinking expert with a passion for sustainable food production. Offering over 7 years of specialized experience in indoor farms and vertical farming systems. Proficient in leveraging cutting-edge technology and automation to optimize crop yield, conserve resources, and reduce environmental impact. Skilled in plant physiology, hydroponics, aeroponics, and controlled environment agriculture techniques. Demonstrated strong project management abilities, evidenced by successful execution of vertical farming projects from conception to completion. Additionally, possess a history of presenting scientific articles in reputable journals. Seeking opportunities to apply expertise and spearhead advancements in vertical farming for a greener and more efficient future of agriculture. šŸŒæšŸŒ

šŸŒ Professional Profiles

šŸŒ±Work History:

Scientist, Aerofarms, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates (03/2023 ā€“ 09/2023) Conducted research to improve the characteristics of specialty crops in controlled environment agriculture. Experimented with plant responses to environmental stress to enhance quality and yield. Collaborated with team members and departments to stay updated on research developments. Presented research findings internally and to partners. Grower, FKP Group, Tehran, Iran (01/2015 – 02/2023) Managed technical procedures and controlled environmental factors to optimize crop growth. Conducted physiological research and implemented horticultural methods to improve crop characteristics. Directed research and development projects focusing on crop enhancement techniques. Advisor, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran (01/2022 – 01/2023) Advised master’s thesis on investigating the morphological response of ornamental plants to drought stress. Research Scholarship, Georgia University, Georgia State, USA (09/2017 – 01/2018) Investigated onion seed priming techniques and enzymatic changes during seed priming. Explored modeling of seed germination and the effects of abiotic stress on germination. Deputy Botanic Products Improvement, Agriculture Organization of Tehran, Baharestan, Iran (01/2007 – 12/2014) Managed horticulture department and led projects related to greenhouses and mushrooms. Effectively managed projects from planning to implementation, ensuring successful outcomes. Established collaborative networks with academia and research institutions.

 

Achievements: šŸ†

Identified methodologies for seed priming and evaluated their impact on onion seed quality. Disseminated research findings in authentic journals. Managed critical projects and established academic collaborations resulting in meaningful research outcomes.

Skills:

  • Project management
  • Experimental design
  • Analytical thinking
  • Research and analysis (SAS, SPSS, Sigma plot)
  • Techniques for working with HPLC, Spectrophotometer, Plate reader
  • Microsoft Office proficiency
  • GPS mapping expertise

šŸŽ“Education:

Doctor’s Degree: Postharvest Physiology and Technology of Horticultural Crops, University of Tehran Master’s Degree: Horticulture, University of Bu Ali Sina, Bachelor’s Degree: Horticulture, University of Bu Ali Sina

 

šŸ“šTop Noted Publication

  1. Moradi Shakoorian, Z., Delshad, M., Diaz-Perez, JC., Askari-Sarcheshmeh, M.-A., Nambeesan, S., Mamedi, A. (2023). Onion (Allium cepa L.) seed germination affected by temperature and water potential: hydrothermal time model. Journal of Applied Research on Medicinal and Aromatic Plants, 35, 100495. DOI: 10.1016/j.jarmap.2023.100495

 

  1. GarcĆ­a-GaytĆ”n, V., BojĆ³rquez-Quintal, E., HernĆ”ndez-Mendoza, F., Tiwari, D.K., Corona-Morales, N., Moradi Shakoorian, Z. (2019). Polymerized silicon (SiO2Ā· nH2O) in equisetum arvense: potential nanoparticle in crops. Journal of the Chilean Chemical Society, 64(1), 4298-4302. DOI: 10.4067/s0717-97072019000104298

 

  1. Sarcheshmeh, A., Moradi Shakoorian, Z., Delshad, M., Tavakkol, A.R. (2018). Determination of the cardinal temperatures and studying the effect of temperature on the efficiency of priming on onion seed (Allium cepa cv, Zargan). Iranian Journal of Seed Science and Technology, 8(1), 265-277.