Meda Theodory | Agricultural Engineering | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Meda Theodory | Agricultural Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Lecturer | Moshi Co-operative University | Tanzania

Dr. Meda Theodory is a highly dedicated academic and researcher in the field of agricultural economics, with particular expertise in post-harvest loss reduction, bio-processing, technology adoption, and econometric analysis. As a Lecturer at Moshi Co-operative University, he has made substantial contributions to advancing knowledge and practice in agricultural value chains, focusing on enhancing efficiency and profitability for smallholder farmers. His research integrates economic modelling tools such as cost-benefit analysis, net present value, and benefit-cost ratio to assess the economic performance of post-harvest and processing technologies for key crops like rice and cassava. He has led and participated in research projects that address critical agricultural challenges in Tanzania, including post-harvest loss quantification and evaluation of indigenous versus modern technologies. Through his work, he provides evidence-based policy recommendations that support sustainable agricultural development and food security. In addition to his academic contributions, he has been actively involved in consultancy assignments related to agricultural value chains, grain management, and technology dissemination. His leadership as Head of the Department of Economics and Statistics at Moshi Co-operative University has been instrumental in strengthening academic programs, promoting interdisciplinary collaboration, and mentoring students and early-career researchers. He maintains active collaborations with national and international institutions, such as Sokoine University of Agriculture, and contributes to peer review for journals in agricultural economics and post-harvest technology. Dr. Theodory’s commitment to research excellence, applied economics, and innovation continues to have a meaningful impact on agricultural sustainability and rural development in Tanzania.

Profile: Scopus

Featured Publications

Theodory, M. (2025). Typology of technical options employed in postharvest grain management along rice value chain in Kilombero and Mbarali Districts, Tanzania. Sustainable Futures.

Dali Francis | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Women Researcher Award

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Dr. Dali Francis | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Women Researcher Award

postdoctor uae uniuversity United Arab Emirates

Dr. Dali Vilma Francis is a postdoctoral fellow specializing in biotechnology with expertise in microbiology, nano fertilizers, and controlled environment agriculture. Based in Dubai, UAE, Dr. Francis leverages her diverse skill set in nanotechnology, microbiology, and horticulture to drive sustainable agricultural innovation. Her focus includes optimizing plant growth with nanoparticles, enhancing post-harvest technology, and advancing eco-friendly microbial research.

Profile

Google scholar

📚 Education

  • Ph.D. in Biotechnology (2023) – BITS Pilani Dubai Campus
  • Master of Biotechnology (2006) – M.G. University, Kerala
  • Bachelor of Biotechnology (2004) – M.G. University, Kerala
  • Postgraduate Diploma in Clinical Research – CROME, India

💼 Experience

  • Postdoctoral Fellow (Aug 2023–present), UAE University, Al Ain: Working on biosynthesis of nanoparticles from plants, algae, and bacteria, including nano-fertilizer development for hydroponic systems.
  • Doctoral Scholar (Jan 2018–Apr 2023), BITS Pilani, Dubai: Conducted independent research projects, assisted in teaching microbiology and downstream processing, and mentored B.E. Biotechnology students.
  • Teacher & Coordinator (2015–2018), GEMS Winchester School, Dubai: Delivered chemistry instruction, managed curriculum updates, and coordinated teaching methods.
  • Lecturer, MSc Biotechnology (2009–2013), Aquinas College, Kerala: Taught biotechnology courses and developed materials to enhance student learning experiences.

🔬 Research Interests

Dr. Francis’s research includes nanotechnology applications in agriculture, plant-microbe interactions, and sustainable agriculture techniques. She focuses on nano fertilizer synthesis, microgreen cultivation, microbial genetics, and bioremediation to address global food security and environmental challenges.

🏆 Awards and Honors

  • Promoted to Postdoctoral Fellow at UAE University (Dec 2023)
  • Best Oral Presenter at ICES, Dubai (Nov 2023)
  • Best Researcher Award on BITS Research Day (May 2021)
  • Best Teacher Award for exceptional work with SEND students, GEMS Winchester (2017)
  • Department Head Promotion in Biotechnology, Aquinas College (2012)

📄 Publications Top Notes:

Francis, D.V., et al., “Optimizing germination conditions of Ghaf seed using ZnO nanoparticle priming,” Scientific Reports, 2024. Cited by 25 articles

Francis, D.V., et al., “Nanoparticle-Enhanced Plant Defense Mechanisms for Sustainable Crop Protection,” in Nanoparticles in Plant Biotic Stress Management, 2024.

Francis, D.V., et al., “Sustainable packaging materials for probiotic foods,” AIMS Microbiology, 2024.

Francis, D.V., et al., “Metallic Nanoparticle Integrated Ternary Polymer Blend for Food Packaging,” Polymers, 2022.