Senior Scientific Officer at Soil Science Division, Bangladesh Rice Research Institute (BRRI), Gazipur-1701, Bangladesh.
Dr. Masuda Akter is a seasoned soil scientist and agronomic researcher whose work bridges the gap between theoretical soil chemistry and practical, sustainable crop production. With extensive academic training from Ghent University, Belgium, and practical experience at BRRI, she is a leader in climate-resilient and nutrient-efficient rice farming systems. Her research has significantly advanced understanding of soil redox processes, nitrogen cycling, and the optimization of multi-crop systems to ensure year-round food security in Bangladesh. She is recognized for her scientific contributions, collaborations with international research bodies, and commitment to sustainable agriculture.
Publication Profile
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Orcid
Google Scholar
Education
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Ph.D. in Applied Biological Sciences (Soil Science)
Ghent University, Belgium (2013–2018)
Dissertation: “Linkage between subtropical paddy soil nitrogen supply and iron and manganese reduction”
Supervisors: Prof. Steven Sleutel & Prof. Mohammed Abdul Kader
Funding: VLIR-ICP-PhD Grant
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M.Sc. in Physical Land Resources (Soil Science)
Ghent University, Belgium (2011–2013)
Dissertation: “Control of Fe and Mn availability on nitrogen mineralization in subtropical paddy soils”
Supervisor: Prof. Steven Sleutel
Funding: VLIR-ICP-OES Masters Grant
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M.Sc. in Entomology
Bangladesh Agricultural University (2006–2007)
Dissertation: “Biological activity of Celaflor against pulse beetle, Callosobruchus maculatus (Fab.)”
Supervisor: Prof. Md. Azizul Haque
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B.Sc. (Hons.) in Agriculture
Bangladesh Agricultural University
Professional Experience
Dr. Masuda Akter is a Senior Scientific Officer in the Soil Science Division of the Bangladesh Rice Research Institute (BRRI), where she has contributed since 2012. She specializes in sustainable soil fertility and climate-smart agricultural practices, particularly in rice-based cropping systems. Her work emphasizes nitrogen management, nutrient cycling, and the integration of legumes, mustard, and crop residues to enhance soil health and productivity.
Previously, she served as a Scientific Officer at BRRI, conducting extensive field research on fertilizer efficiency, soil nutrient dynamics, and integrated nutrient management techniques. Her collaborative efforts include working with internationally renowned experts such as Prof. Mark Sutton (UK), Prof. R.M. Rees (UK), and BRRI’s Director of Research, Dr. M. R. Islam.
Her PhD and post-graduate work in Belgium focused on soil redox chemistry, nitrogen mineralization, and the role of iron and manganese in subtropical paddy soils. She also served as co-supervisor for master’s students and has reviewed scientific articles for journals such as Geoderma, Agriculture Ecosystems & Environment, and Soil and Water Research.
Research Interests
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Nitrogen dynamics in subtropical and paddy soils
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Integrated and climate-smart nutrient management
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Iron and manganese reduction and redox interactions
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Sustainable rice-based cropping systems
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Soil organic carbon decomposition and water management
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Use of bio-stimulants and indigenous microbes in rice productivity
📊 Author Metrics
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Total Citations: 150+
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Top Citation per Article: 45
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h-index: ~7
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Peer Reviewer for: Geoderma, Agriculture Ecosystems & Environment, Soil and Water Research
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Top Journals Published In: Geoderma, Biogeosciences, Agriculture Ecosystems & Environment, Bangladesh Rice Journal
Top Noted Publication
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Impact of irrigation management on paddy soil N supply and depth distribution of abiotic drivers
Agriculture, Ecosystems & Environment, 2018 | Citations: 45
DOI
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Link between paddy soil mineral nitrogen release and iron and manganese reduction
Geoderma, 2018 | Citations: 26
DOI
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Control of Fe and Mn availability on nitrogen mineralization in subtropical paddy soils
Geoderma, 2016 | Citations: 18
DOI
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Effect of organic carbon addition on paddy soil organic carbon decomposition under different irrigation regimes
Biogeosciences, 2021 | Citations: 11
DOI
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Control of paddy soil redox condition on gross and net ammonium fixation and defixation
Geoderma, 2021 | Citations: 5
DOI
Conclusion
Dr. Masuda Akter’s scholarly contributions and practical advancements in soil nutrient cycling, redox chemistry, and climate-resilient agriculture mark her as a leading figure in the Agricultural and Biological Sciences domain. Her research is not only scientifically rigorous but also directly aligned with sustainable development goals (SDGs), particularly in food security and soil conservation.
Given her high-quality peer-reviewed publications, growing citation profile, international training, and direct agricultural impact in Bangladesh, Dr. Akter is a highly suitable candidate for the Research for Best Paper Award. Her work exemplifies the integration of foundational science and field-based innovation critical for sustainable agriculture in the 21st century.