Manhattan Lebrun | soil fertility | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Manhattan Lebrun | soil fertility | Best Researcher Award

Postdoctoral researcher at Université Marie et Louis Pasteur, France

Dr. Manhattan Lebrun is a French environmental scientist specializing in soil remediation and phytomanagement. he holds a PhD in Biosciences and Territory from the University of Molise, Italy. With extensive postdoctoral experience across Europe, including France, Czech Republic, and Italy, he currently serves as a postdoctoral researcher at Université Bourgogne Franche-Comté. His research integrates soil biogeochemistry, phytoremediation, and biochar technology, addressing contamination from heavy metals and enhancing soil fertility through sustainable methods. Dr. Lebrun is a prolific author with 52 peer-reviewed publications, a reviewer for leading environmental journals, and a guest editor for special issues on soil pollution. He is actively involved in student mentoring, teaching in both French and English, and contributing to scientific communities through editorial work and international conferences. His interdisciplinary approach combines field studies, molecular biology, and ecoengineering to develop innovative strategies for contaminated land rehabilitation 🌱🧪🌍.

Publication Profile

ORCID

Scopus

Education

Dr. Lebrun’s educational foundation is rooted in environmental sciences and biology. He earned his Bachelor’s (2011–2014) and Master’s (2014–2016) degrees from the University of Orléans, France, specializing in the biology of organisms, populations, and ecosystems. His passion for sustainable land management led him to pursue a PhD (2016–2020) in Biosciences and Territory at the University of Molise, Italy. His doctoral research focused on biogeochemical and microbiological processes in the rhizosphere of Salicaceae, particularly their role in the phytostabilization of contaminated technosols. A highlight of his PhD was a six-month fellowship at Ghent University, Belgium, where he deepened his expertise in soil chemistry and microbial ecology. His education combined rigorous academic coursework with extensive laboratory and field internships, preparing him for a dynamic research career focused on eco-restoration and soil remediation 🌿📘🧫.

Professional Experience

Dr. Lebrun has built a robust career in postdoctoral research across top European institutions. Since January 2024, he has been at CHRONO-ENVIRONMENT, Université Bourgogne Franche-Comté, working on the HORIZON H2020 EDAPHOS project to evaluate nature-based solutions for soil restoration. Previously, at the Czech University of Life Sciences, he led research on biochar and manure’s role in enhancing soil fertility and mitigating metal(loid) dynamics. At INRAE Versailles-Grignon, he investigated biochar-compost interactions under drought stress in alfalfa. His earlier roles at Université d’Orléans focused on activated carbon and biochar applications for soil detoxification and plant productivity. Dr. Lebrun’s expertise spans soil amendments, microbial dynamics, nutrient cycling, and environmental geochemistry. His ability to integrate laboratory, greenhouse, and field-scale experiments makes him a valuable asset in interdisciplinary environmental science 🧑‍🔬🌍🧫.

Research Interest 

Dr. Lebrun’s research bridges soil science, environmental biotechnology, and plant physiology, with a strong focus on soil remediation and phytoremediation. His central interest lies in nature-based solutions to restore contaminated ecosystems, particularly through the use of biochar, compost, and microbial inoculants. He explores how these amendments influence the bioavailability of toxic metal(loid)s (like As, Pb, Zn) and support plant growth under stress. His work often involves multi-scale approaches—from molecular analysis of plant and microbial responses to large-scale field trials. A recurring theme is understanding the role of the rhizosphere in mediating soil-plant-microbe interactions. He also investigates the long-term ecological impacts of amendments on nutrient cycling, carbon sequestration, and biodiversity. Through collaboration with agronomists, microbiologists, and chemists, his research supports sustainable land-use practices, particularly in post-industrial or mining-impacted regions 🧬🌾🧱.

Award and Honors

Dr. Manhattan Lebrun has been recognized for his impactful research and academic contributions. He has served as a Guest Editor for high-impact journals such as Plants and Environments, focusing on topics like heavy metal pollution and soil remediation. As a Review Editor for Frontiers in Soil Sciences, he contributes to advancing knowledge in environmental pollution and sustainable land management. His scientific work has garnered over 600 citations, reflecting his influence in the field. Notably, his dedication to mentorship is evident in the numerous students he has guided at bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD levels across France and the Czech Republic. He has been an invited speaker and session convener at major international conferences like SUITMA11 (Berlin), where he shared innovations in soil amendment strategies. These accolades underscore his commitment to excellence and leadership in environmental science 🥇📚🌍.

Skills

Dr. Lebrun possesses a multidisciplinary skill set encompassing soil chemistry, plant ecophysiology, microbiology, and environmental geochemistry. He is proficient in techniques like ICP-OES/MS, GC-MS, spectroscopy, chromatography, molecular biology (DNA/RNA extraction, qPCR), and enzymatic assays. His fieldwork expertise includes soil sampling, amendment trials, and phytoremediation assessments across various ecosystems. He excels in data analysis using R and statistical tools to model environmental processes. His teaching experience spans undergraduate to postgraduate levels, covering soil science, environmental chemistry, and experimental biology. He has a strong command of both French and English, contributing to international publications and academic discourse. Editorially, he reviews for top-tier journals and organizes special issues. His project management capabilities shine through collaborative research on European projects (H2020, GACR, FUI). These skills are bolstered by a passion for sustainability, mentoring, and scientific communication 🧑‍🏫💻🌱.

Top Noted Publication

Biochar Characteristics and Pb²⁺/Zn²⁺ Sorption Capacities: The Role of Feedstock Variation

Authors: Information not available in the provided data.

Year: 2024​

2. Biochar and Heavy Metals

Authors: Information not available in the provided data.

Year: 2024​

3. Combined Biochar and Manure Addition to an Agricultural Soil Benefits Fertility, Microbial Activity, and Mitigates Manure‐Induced CO₂ Emissions

Authors: Information not available in the provided data.

Year: 2024​

4. Positive or Neutral Effects of Biochar-Compost Mixtures on Earthworm Communities in a Temperate Cropping System

Authors: Information not available in the provided data.

Year: 2023​

5. The Older, the Better: Ageing Improves the Efficiency of Biochar-Compost Mixture to Alleviate Drought Stress in Plant and Soil

Authors: Information not available in the provided data.

Year: 2023​

6. Biochar and Compost Addition Increases Soil Organic Carbon Content and Substitutes P and K Fertilizer in Three French Cropping Systems

Authors: Information not available in the provided data.

Year: 2022​

7. How Does Soil Water Status Influence the Fate of Soil Organic Matter? A Review of Processes Across Scales

Authors: Information not available in the provided data.

Year: 2022​

8. Biochar, Ochre, and Manure Maturation in an Acidic Technosol Helps Stabilize As and Pb in Soil and Allows Its Vegetation by Salix triandra

Authors: Manhattan Lebrun, Sylvain Bourgerie, Domenico Morabito, et al.

Year: 2022

9. Biochar in Manure Can Suppress Water Stress of Sugar Beet (Beta vulgaris) and Increase Sucrose Content in Tubers

Authors: Information not available in the provided data.

Year: 2022​

10. Effects of Different Biochars, Activated Carbons and Redmuds on the Growth of Trifolium repens and As and Pb Stabilization in a Former Mine Technosol

Authors: Manhattan Lebrun, Sylvain Bourgerie, Domenico Morabito

Year: 2022

11. Co-culture of Salix viminalis and Trifolium repens for the Phytostabilisation of Pb and As in Mine Tailings Amended with Hardwood Biochar

Authors: Information not available in the provided data.

Year: 2022

Conclusion

Dr. Manhattan Lebrun embodies the characteristics of a top-tier researcher—a prolific, collaborative, and innovative scientist with a deeply impactful focus on environmental restoration and sustainability. His extensive publication record, international experience, leadership in education and editorial duties, and applied science approach make him an outstanding candidate for a Best Researcher Award.

 

TÚLIO PACHECO BOAVENTURA | Agricultural | Best Researcher Award

Dr. TÚLIO PACHECO BOAVENTURA | Agricultural | Best Researcher Award

Doctorat at ,Universidade Federal de Minas Geraisa, Brazil.

Dr. Túlio Pacheco Boaventura has demonstrated a strong commitment to advancing aquaculture science, with significant contributions to fish anesthesia and transport. His solid academic background, interdisciplinary experience, and dedication to teaching underscore his qualifications.

Publication Profile

Scopus 

Education

Doctorate in Zootechny (2018 – 2022) – Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, Brazil
Thesis: Use of Ocimum gratissimum L Essential Oil During Anesthesia and Transport of Pacamã (Lophiosilurus alexandri): Hematology, Biochemistry, and Oxidative Stress.
Advisor: Ronald Kennedy Luz | Co-advisor: Gisele Cristina Favero
Scholarship: Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico (CNPq), Brazil,Master’s in Zootechny (2017 – 2018) – Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, Brazil
Thesis: Development of a New External Visual Marker for Fish and Its Influence on the Performance and Hematology,of Pacamã (Lophiosilurus alexandri).,Advisor: Ronald Kennedy Luz,Scholarship: Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior (CAPES), Brazil,Bachelor’s in Aquaculture (2011 – 2016) – Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, Brazil,Thesis: Influence of Different Pore Diameters in Polyethylene Media on Colonization and Nitrification in Biofilters Applied in Aquaculture.,Advisor: Ronald Kennedy Luz,Technical Education in Biotechnology (2006 – 2009) – SESI Beijamin Guimarães, Brazil

Professional Experience

Graduate Lecturer (2017 – Present) – Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG)
Taught Course: Live Food Production,Research Fellow & Scientific Assistant – Various research projects at Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG) and Fundação Christiano Ottoni (FCO),Polymer Bioactivity Research (2008-2010) – Study of bioactive polymers,Biomedical Polymer Applications (2010) – Development of polymers for biomedical use,Serpentinito Mineral Addition in Polyolefin Resins (2012-2013),Optimization of PVC-based Composites (2013-2016) – Research conducted in collaboration with PRECON,Technical Chemist (2011 – 2012) – Fundação Christiano Ottoni (FCO),Worked in the Polymer and Composite Engineering Laboratory,Intern (2016) – UFMG Laboratory of Larviculture

Skills

  • Expertise in aquaculture, fish physiology, and stress management,Proficiency in biopolymer research and composite material development,Strong background in hematology, oxidative stress analysis, and fish anesthesia,Experienced in scientific research methodologies, statistical analysis, and experimental design

Awards & Recognitions

  • Research scholarship from CNPq (Doctorate) and CAPES (Master’s)

  • Active role in academic councils and student representation at UFMG

Research Focus

  • Fish Welfare and Stress Physiology – Investigating biochemical, hematological, and oxidative stress markers in aquaculture species

  • Anesthesia and Transport in Aquaculture – Studying the effects of plant-based anesthetics on fish health

  • Aquatic Animal Production – Developing innovative methodologies for fish farming

  • Polymer and Composite Materials – Researching bioactive and biomedical applications of polymers in aquac

Top Noted Publication

  • Fialho, Martins Marcela, Gabriel, Trindade Julio, Pacheco, Boaventura Tulio, Brey, Gil Camila Silva.
    Agriculture and Food Sciences Research, 2024.

  • Alcantara, Aline Moreira De, Boaventura, Tulio Pacheco, Paulino, Renan Rosa, Rosa, Priscila Vieira E, Ugucioni, Julio Cesar, Oliveira, Juliano Elvis.
    Agriculture and Food Sciences Research, 2024.

  • Loureiro Paschoalini, Alessandro, Boaventura, Túlio Pacheco, Costa Dos Santos, Fabio Aremil, Bazzoli, Nilo, Luz, Ronald Kennedy, Favero, Gisele Cristina..
    Journal of Applied Aquaculture (Print), 2024.

Conclusion

Considering his achievements and potential for further contributions, Dr. Boaventura is a deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Recognizing his work could not only honor his past accomplishments but also encourage continued excellence and innovation in his future endeavors.

 

Yandong Zhao | Soil Moisture Content | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Yandong Zhao | Soil Moisture Content | Best Researcher Award

Professor at College of Engineering, Beijing Forestry University, China

Dr. Yandong Zhao is a leading researcher in smart forestry and precision agriculture. As a Professor at Beijing Forestry University, he has pioneered IoT-based irrigation systems and advanced plant water stress detection methods. His work integrates automation, environmental sensing, and intelligent forestry management to improve resource efficiency and sustainability. Dr. Zhao has led multiple National Key R&D projects and NSFC-funded research, contributing significantly to the field of agriculture and environmental engineering.

Publication Profile

Scopus

Educational Details

  • Ph.D. in Agricultural Electrification and Automation (2002) – China Agricultural University, College of Information and Electrical Engineering (Advisor: Prof. Wang Yiming)
  • M.S. in Agricultural Electrification and Automation (1999) – China Agricultural University, College of Information and Electrical Engineering (Advisor: Prof. Wang Yiming)

Professional Experience

Dr. Yandong Zhao is a Professor and Ph.D. advisor at the School of Engineering, Beijing Forestry University. He has been with the university since 2002, progressing from Lecturer (2002-2003) to Associate Professor (2003-2011), and later to Professor (2012-present). Over his career, he has led numerous national and provincial research projects focused on precision irrigation, environmental monitoring, and smart forestry technologies.

Research Interest

  • Smart Forestry and Precision Agriculture – Development of IoT-based irrigation systems and environmental monitoring technologies.
  • Plant Water Stress Detection – Using 3D imaging and soil moisture analysis for real-time monitoring.
  • Ecological and Forestry Automation – Smart surveillance, pest control, and soil parameter detection in forests.

Author Metrics & Impact

  • Publications: Numerous journal articles and conference papers on precision irrigation, environmental monitoring, and smart forestry technologies.
  • Citations: His work has been cited extensively in the fields of agricultural automation and forestry engineering.
  • Research Funding: Secured and managed over 10 national and provincial-level research grants.

Top Noted Publication

Three-Dimensional Segmentation Method of Soil Multi-Category Pores Based on Improved UNet-VAE Network

  • Authors: Qiaoling Han, Meihui Song, Benye Xi, Yue Zhao, Yandong Zhao
  • Journal: Transactions of the Chinese Society of Agricultural Engineering
  • Summary: Proposes an enhanced UNet-VAE deep learning model for accurate 3D segmentation of soil pores, improving soil structure analysis in agricultural engineering.

Estimation of Relative Permittivity of Tree Root System Based on Ground Penetrating Radar

  • Authors: Huiyun Liang, Guoqiu Fan, Yandong Zhao, Hao Liang
  • Journal: Journal of Beijing Forestry University
  • Summary: Uses ground-penetrating radar (GPR) to estimate the relative permittivity of tree roots, aiding non-destructive root system analysis for forestry applications.

Study on the Variation Characteristics and Influencing Factors of Stem Water Content of Acer truncatum During the Overwintering Period (Open Access)

  • Authors: Zehai Xu, Yandong Zhao
  • Journal: Journal of Plant Research
  • Summary: Investigates stem water content changes in Acer truncatum during winter, analyzing seasonal variations and environmental influences.
  • Citations: 1

Research on 3D Reconstruction Based on Improved Binocular Vision Algorithm

  • Authors: Jiahao Zou, Yandong Zhao
  • Journal: Journal of Optoelectronics Laser
  • Summary: Develops an improved binocular vision algorithm for 3D object reconstruction, enhancing precision in forestry and agricultural imaging.

Interpretation of Sequence Characteristics and Influencing Factors of Stem Water Content for Acer pictum subsp. mono in its Growing Season (Open Access)

  • Authors: Zehai Xu, Yandong Zhao
  • Journal: Chinese Journal of Plant Ecology
  • Summary: Examines water transport dynamics in Acer pictum subsp. mono during its growing season, assessing environmental and physiological influences.

Conclusion

Dr. Yandong Zhao is a strong contender for the Best Researcher Award, particularly in smart forestry, soil moisture analysis, and precision irrigation. His technical expertise, research leadership, and funding success demonstrate a high level of impact in agricultural automation and environmental sustainability.

To further enhance his candidacy, he could focus on publishing in top-tier journals, increasing international collaborations, and expanding the real-world applications of his research. If these areas are addressed, he would be an outstanding choice for this prestigious award.