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.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Athar Mahmood | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Associate Professor University of Agriculture Faisalabad Pakistan

Dr. Athar Mahmood is a seasoned agronomist and Associate Professor at the University of Agriculture Faisalabad (UAF), Pakistan 🇵🇰. With a robust academic and research background spanning over 15 years, he has made substantial contributions in the domains of sustainable agriculture, biofertilizers, and bioenergy. Dr. Mahmood’s dedication to improving crop productivity under climate-stressed conditions has earned him national and international recognition, fellowships, and project funding. 🌱 His scholarly work bridges traditional agricultural practices with modern biotechnology, reflecting a commitment to sustainable food systems and environmental resilience. 🌍

Profile

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🎓 Education

Dr. Mahmood earned his Ph.D. in Agronomy from Justus Liebig University of Giessen, Germany (2007–2012), where he focused on sorghum as an energy crop. He completed his M.Sc. in Agronomy (2005–2007) and B.Sc. (Hons.) in Agriculture (2001–2005) at the University of Agriculture Faisalabad. Earlier, he pursued intermediate (pre-medical) at Government Science College, Faisalabad (1999–2001) and matriculation in science from Government High School Salarwala (1996–1998). 📚

👨‍🏫 Experience

Currently serving as an Associate Professor at UAF, Dr. Mahmood has previously worked as an Assistant Professor at University of Sargodha (2012–2013). He undertook postdoctoral research at Southern University of Queensland (SUQ), Australia, supported by the Endeavor Fellowship (2016–2017), where he also held a visiting academic position. 🌏 His career also includes mentoring students, curriculum development, and active involvement in campus leadership and scientific committees.

🔬 Research Interests

Dr. Mahmood’s research focuses on sustainable agriculture, biofertilizer development, biogas production, and climate-smart farming. 🌾 He is particularly interested in biosaline agriculture, organic waste management, and the physiological response of crops under abiotic stresses. His multidisciplinary approach bridges agronomy, environmental sciences, and renewable energy, aiming to build more resilient agricultural systems.

🏆 Awards

Dr. Athar Mahmood has received numerous accolades including:

🥇 Talented Young Scientist Program Award for Postdoctoral Study in China (2018–2019)
🥈 Endeavor Fellowship (Australia) for postdoctoral studies at SUQ (2016–2017)
🎓 HEC-DAAD Ph.D. Scholarship in Germany (2007–2012)
🎖️ Visiting Academic position at University of Southern Queensland
✅ Recognized as an HEC Approved Supervisor in Pakistan