Moreno Toselli | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Moreno Toselli | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher AwardΒ 

Full professor atΒ University of Bologna |Italy

Prof. Dr. Moreno Toselli is a leading academic figure in Agricultural and Biological Sciences, widely recognized for his extensive contributions to plant nutrition, soil fertility, and sustainable fruit production. He earned his foundational training in Agricultural Sciences followed by doctoral specialization in fruit tree mineral nutrition, laying the groundwork for a career dedicated to improving orchard systems through evidence-based agronomic strategies. Over the years, he has advanced through academic ranks to become a senior faculty member at the University of Bologna, where he has played a central role in teaching, research, and laboratory leadership across multiple horticultural disciplines. His professional experience spans decades of impactful work on nutrient uptake, stress physiology, organic amendments, biochar interactions, root dynamics, soil contamination, carbon allocation, irrigation optimization, and physiological responses of perennial fruit crops. He has coordinated and contributed to numerous regional, national, and international research projects focused on digital agriculture, circular nutrient management, sustainable fertilization, carbon sequestration, and precision horticulture, collaborating with scientific partners and industry stakeholders to translate research findings into practical applications. His expertise extends to editorial responsibilities in respected journals and active participation in professional societies, reinforcing his influence in shaping contemporary agricultural practices. With a research portfolio comprising 2,274 citations by 1,887 documents, 125 published works, and an h-index of 27, his scholarly output demonstrates sustained global impact and authority in the field. His investigations have advanced understanding of key processes such as nutrient mobility in soil–plant systems, the effects of organic and mineral fertilizers on tree performance, the mitigation of abiotic stress, and the development of innovative fertilization and monitoring tools for improving orchard efficiency. He has also contributed to training future scholars through extensive supervision of student research and active involvement in academic program development. Overall, his career reflects a commitment to scientific excellence, sustainability, and innovation, positioning him as a prominent contributor to advancing knowledge and improving management strategies in modern horticulture.

Profile: Scopus | OrcidΒ 

Featured Publications:

1. Toselli, M. (2025). Seasonal uptake and partitioning of macro- and micronutrients in yellow-fleshed kiwifruit Actinidia chinensis var. chinensis.

2. Toselli, M. (2025). Optimization of irrigation on walnut through the IRRIFRAME water balance model. Irrigation Science.

3. Toselli, M.(2025). The use of grape pomace residues as a nutrient source in subtropical viticulture. Agronomy.

4. Toselli, M.(2025). Proposal of nutritional standards for the assessment of the nutritional status of grapevines in subtropical and temperate regions. Plants.

5. Toselli, M.(2025). Agronomic strategies to manipulate kiwifruit calcium content to understand its role in fruit physiology.

6. Toselli, M. (2025). Understanding the role of calcium in kiwifruit: Ion transport, signaling, and fruit quality.

7. Toselli, M.(2024). Assessment of contribution of cover crop littering decomposition to the N uptake of bearing and non-bearing satsuma mandarin trees.

8. Toselli, M.(2024). Cu concentration in vegetable-cultivated soil: Comparison between open fields and protected environments in Brazil.

9. Toselli, M.(2024). Carbon and nitrogen stocks in vineyard soils amended with grape pomace residues. Agronomy.

10. Toselli, M.(2024). Molecular responses to drought and waterlogging stresses of kiwifruit Actinidia chinensis var. deliciosa potted vines.

Maimela Modiba | Agricultural | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Maimela Modiba | Agricultural | Best Researcher Award

Student at Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences, South Africa.

🌱 Maimela Maxwell Modiba is a passionate PhD candidate in Plant Production at the Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences. With a solid foundation in crop and soil sciences, he specializes in climate-resilient farming, tillage management, and soil health. 🌾 His experience spans over two years of rigorous research, peer-reviewed publications, and international conference presentations. πŸ“š A committed mentor and educator, Modiba also brings valuable teaching experience in agricultural sciences. 🌍 He strives to promote sustainable agriculture across South Africa, combining scientific innovation with practical fieldwork. His collaborative spirit and analytical mindset make him a rising star in agro-research. πŸ’‘

Professional Profile:

Scopus

Suitability for Best Researcher Award – Maimela Maxwell Modiba

Maimela Maxwell Modiba is highly suitable for the Best Researcher Award, especially in the early-career category. As a dynamic Ph.D. candidate with a focused research trajectory in climate-resilient agriculture, Modiba has already made notable contributions through peer-reviewed publications, impactful fieldwork, and international conference presentations. His dedication to soil health and sustainable crop production aligns strongly with pressing global agricultural challenges, positioning him as a future leader in agro-environmental science.

πŸŽ“ Education and Experience

πŸŽ“ Education:

  • πŸ“• PhD in Plant Production – Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences (Expected April 2025)

  • πŸ“— MSc in Crop Production Engineering – Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences (2020)

  • πŸ“˜ BSc in Plant Production – University of Limpopo (2018)

πŸ’Ό Experience:

  • πŸ§ͺ Student Researcher (2020–2023) – Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences

    • πŸ”¬ Focus on soil tillage, soil organic carbon, and crop sustainability

    • πŸ§‘β€πŸ« Delivered lectures, conducted lab research, and collaborated in multi-person teams

    • πŸ“Š Participated in both publicly and privately funded projects

πŸ“ˆ Professional Development

πŸ§‘β€πŸ”¬ Maxwell Modiba has demonstrated continued professional growth through hands-on research, academic presentation, and technical training. His participation in multiple international scientific conferences 🌍 highlights his commitment to staying informed and engaged with global agricultural challenges. πŸ“’ He has gained practical experience in designing and conducting field experiments, laboratory analyses, and mentoring students in agricultural sciences. πŸ“˜ Additionally, he has honed his communication, planning, and problem-solving skills, contributing to academic teams and curriculum development. πŸ’» His AVCASA certification and business skills training further enhance his versatility, preparing him for leadership in sustainable agriculture and research innovation. 🌿

πŸ”¬ Research Focus Category

🌾 Maimela Maxwell Modiba’s research focus lies in Soil and Crop Production, with a particular emphasis on tillage management, soil health, and climate-resilient farming systems. His work explores the interaction between soil properties and agricultural practices, aiming to improve crop yields and environmental sustainability in sub-Saharan Africa. 🌍 He is especially passionate about conservation tillage and the long-term impact of farming methods on soil biodiversity and productivity. πŸͺ± His studies include earthworm populations, root growth, and moisture dynamics under varied tillage systems. 🌧️ His research contributes to shaping sustainable agricultural practices amid changing climate conditions. 🌱

πŸ… Awards and Honors

  • πŸ₯‡ Dean’s Award – Best MSc Student

  • πŸ“œ AVCASA Certificate – Basic Crop Protection

  • πŸ’Ό Basic Business Skills Certificate – Professional Development in Agri-business

Publication Top Notes

🌱 Impact of tillage practices and soil texture on soil health and earthworms in the Pannonian region: A comparative study from Austria and Hungary – Applied Soil Ecology (2025)

Conclusion

Though early in his career, Maxwell Modiba’s trajectory is exemplary of a rising research star. His strong scientific foundation, practical impact, and commitment to sustainable farming make him a deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Recognizing his work at this stage will not only validate his achievements but also motivate further innovations in sustainable agriculture.