Maipato Mota | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Innovative Research Award

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Innovative Research Award

Maipato Mota
Stellenbosch University, Lesotho

Maipato Mota
Affiliation Stellenbosch University
Country Lesotho
Google Scholar ID bpUcgL4AAAAJ
Documents 3
Citations 8
h-index 1
Subject Area Agricultural and Biological Sciences
Event International Invention Awards
ORCID 0009-0001-6765-3159

The Innovative Research Award recognizes scholarly contributions that demonstrate scientific rigor, practical relevance, and measurable impact within a specialized field of study. Maipato Mota of Stellenbosch University has contributed to agricultural and biological sciences through investigations focused on crop physiology, drought tolerance, plant growth regulators, and sustainable agricultural productivity. Published studies authored and co-authored by Mota examine important challenges affecting crop performance under environmental stress conditions and agricultural management systems.[1]

Abstract

This article summarizes the academic profile and research achievements of Maipato Mota. The research portfolio focuses on plant physiology, crop resilience, brassinosteroid applications, herbicide interactions, and drought stress management. Through peer-reviewed publications, the researcher has contributed knowledge relevant to improving agricultural productivity and understanding physiological responses of economically important crops under diverse environmental conditions.[2]

Keywords

Agricultural Sciences, Crop Physiology, Drought Tolerance, Brassinosteroids, Sustainable Agriculture, Soybean Research, Potato Varieties, Plant Growth Regulators.

Introduction

Agricultural systems worldwide face increasing pressure from climate variability, water scarcity, and evolving production demands. Research examining crop adaptation mechanisms and physiological enhancement strategies plays an important role in supporting food security and sustainable farming. Maipato Mota’s work addresses these themes through experimental investigations involving legumes and potato crops under controlled and field-related conditions.[3]

Research Profile

Maipato Mota is affiliated with Stellenbosch University and conducts research within the Agricultural and Biological Sciences domain. The available scholarly record includes publications focused on crop improvement, physiological assessment, and environmental stress responses. The research output demonstrates an interest in translating scientific findings into practical agricultural applications that may support productivity and resilience in Southern African farming systems.[1]

Research Contributions

  • Assessment of brassinosteroid foliar applications and their influence on crop yield and physiological performance.
  • Evaluation of drought tolerance among commercially cultivated potato varieties under glasshouse conditions.
  • Investigation of mesotrione residual effects on soybean morphology, physiology, and yield outcomes.
  • Contribution to evidence-based approaches for crop stress management and productivity enhancement.

Publications

  1. FOLIAR APPLICATION OF BRASSINOSTEROIDS IMPROVES THE YIELD AND MORPHO-PHYSIOLOGICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF Arachis hypogaea L., Glycine max (L.), and Phaseolus vulgaris L. (2024).
  2. Evaluating drought tolerance of four commercially grown potato varieties in Southern Africa under glasshouse conditions (2026).
  3. Effects of Different Mesotrione Residual Levels on Morphological, Physiological, and Yield Characteristics of Brassinosteroid-Treated Soya Bean (2026).

Research Impact

The research record includes peer-reviewed studies that have attracted scholarly attention and contributed citations within the agricultural sciences literature. The findings provide insights into crop management strategies, physiological adaptation mechanisms, and potential approaches for improving productivity under environmental constraints. Such contributions are relevant to researchers, agronomists, and agricultural practitioners seeking sustainable crop production solutions.[4]

Award Suitability

Maipato Mota’s research aligns with the objectives of the Innovative Research Award through a demonstrated commitment to advancing scientific understanding of crop performance and resilience. The combination of experimental rigor, practical agricultural relevance, and publication activity supports recognition within an international innovation and research framework. The work addresses contemporary agricultural challenges while contributing valuable knowledge for future scientific investigations.[5]

Conclusion

The academic contributions of Maipato Mota reflect an emerging research profile centered on agricultural sustainability, plant physiology, and stress adaptation. Through studies examining brassinosteroids, drought tolerance, and crop productivity, the researcher has contributed to ongoing scientific discussions concerning resilient agricultural systems. These achievements provide a foundation for continued scholarly development and recognition within the broader research community.

References

  1. Google Scholar. (n.d.). Author profile: Maipato Mota.
    https://scholar.google.com/citations?hl=en&user=bpUcgL4AAAAJ
  2. Mota, M.M., der Watt, E.V., & Khetsha, Z.P. (2024). Applied Ecology and Environmental Research.
    https://doi.org/10.15666/aeer/2201_355371
  3. South African Journal of Botany. (2026). Evaluating drought tolerance of four commercially grown potato varieties in Southern Africa under glasshouse conditions.
  4. Agrochemicals. (2026). Effects of Different Mesotrione Residual Levels on Morphological, Physiological, and Yield Characteristics of Brassinosteroid-Treated Soya Bean.
  5. ORCID. (n.d.). Researcher identifier record for Maipato Mota.
    https://orcid.org/0009-0001-6765-3159
  6. International Invention Awards. (n.d.). Award program information and evaluation framework.
    inventionawards.org

Lijuan Du | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Research Excellence

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Mrs Lijuan Du | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Research Excellence Award 

Institute of Quality Standards & Testing Technique, Yunnan Academy of Agricultural Sciences | China

Du Lijuan is an accomplished Associate Researcher at the Institute of Quality Standards and Testing Technology, Yunnan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, with more than fifteen years of professional experience dedicated to agricultural product quality, food safety, and standards development. Born in February 1981, she holds a Master of Engineering degree from the China National Research Institute of Food Fermentation Industries, where she received advanced training in food science, processing technologies, and quality evaluation systems. Her career reflects a strong commitment to safeguarding food quality and promoting sustainable agricultural development, particularly within the context of China’s rapidly evolving agri-food sector. Since joining the Yunnan Academy of Agricultural Sciences in 2009, Du Lijuan has played a vital role in strengthening quality assurance systems for agricultural products. Her research focuses on food safety testing methodologies, quality standards formulation, traceability technologies, and identity identification of characteristic and geographical indication agricultural products. She has been deeply involved in advancing green and organic agricultural production, with particular emphasis on plateau characteristic products unique to Yunnan Province. Through her work, she contributes directly to improving consumer trust, regulatory compliance, and the market competitiveness of agricultural products. A significant aspect of her professional achievements lies in standards formulation and policy support. She has led the development of two Industry Standards of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, namely Green Food – Edible Fungi and Green Food – Seasoning Oil, and has participated in the formulation of additional national and group standards. These contributions have had a lasting impact on the normalization, safety, and quality control of green food products in China. Her innovative capacity is further demonstrated by her role as first inventor of four authorized patents, reflecting her ability to translate research outcomes into practical technological solutions. Du Lijuan has been actively involved in numerous provincial science and technology programs, including projects supporting the construction of the “Green Food Brand,” quality and safety supervision systems, and traceability platforms for organic and geographically indicated agricultural products.

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Louiza Hime | Food technology | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Louiza Hime | Food technology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Louiza Hime | Food technology | Best Researcher Award

Inataa Uiversity constantine, Algeria

Profile

google scholar

👩‍🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Louiza Himed embarked on her academic journey in the field of Food Science, culminating in the attainment of her Habilitation Universitaire, a prestigious qualification highlighting her scholarly independence and advanced expertise. Her academic progression has been strongly aligned with applied research in food technology and biotechnology, demonstrating a clear vision for enhancing food safety and innovation in nutritional sciences.

🧑‍🏫 Professional Endeavors

Currently serving as a Maître de Conférences A (MCA) at INATAA - Université Frères Mentouri Constantine, Dr. Himed holds a dual role as both a researcher and academic instructor. Her contributions as an enseignant-chercheur reflect her dedication to both scientific exploration and the academic formation of the next generation of food technologists and biotechnologists.

🔬 Research Focus and Scientific Contributions

Dr. Himed’s research is primarily focused on Food Technology and Food Biotechnology, with a notable emphasis on the bioactive properties of essential oils and their application in food preservation and functional food development. Over the past five years, she has contributed significantly to understanding the chemical composition and encapsulation of essential oils, especially Citrus limon (lemon) essential oil, examining its antioxidant, antibacterial, and antifungal properties.

📄 Notable Publications (2018–2021):

  1. Chemical composition and bioactivity of Citrus limon essential oil – African Journal of Biotechnology, 2018.

  2. Encapsulation of lemon essential oil in amorphous SiO₂ – Scientific African, 2019.

  3. Antifungal preservation of tomato concentrate using lemon essential oil – African J. of Food, Agri, Nutr and Dev, 2020.

  4. Use of encapsulated essential oils in margarine as natural antioxidants – Plant Cell Biotechnol. Mol. Biol., 2021.

These works highlight her interdisciplinary approach, combining chemistry, microbiology, and nanotechnology for food preservation and health improvement.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Dr. Himed’s research contributes to sustainable food systems by promoting natural preservatives and green technologies in food processing. Her collaboration with international researchers (e.g., Joaquín Coronas, Rebeca Monteagudo-Olivan) demonstrates the global reach and collaborative nature of her scientific inquiries. Her work supports innovation in the North African agri-food sector and addresses global health and food safety challenges.

📚 Teaching Experience

As an experienced academic, Dr. Himed has significantly contributed to teaching and curriculum development in food science. She mentors undergraduate and postgraduate students in food technology, biotechnology, and applied research methods, fostering critical thinking and hands-on scientific skills. Her role strengthens the academic quality of INATAA and ensures continuity of expertise in Algeria's food sciences education.

🧠 Technical Skills

Dr. Himed possesses a robust set of analytical and laboratory competencies, including:

  • Essential oil extraction and characterization

  • Encapsulation techniques (e.g., amorphous SiO₂)

  • Antioxidant and antibacterial assays

  • Food preservation technology
    Her integration of biotechnology with traditional food processing places her at the cutting edge of food research in the region.

📈 Academic Citations & Recognition

While specific citation metrics are not listed, Dr. Himed's consistent publication in peer-reviewed journals indicates a recognized and growing influence in the fields of food biotechnology and preservation. Her interdisciplinary studies contribute to both applied science and public health innovation.

🌱 Legacy and Future Contributions

Dr. Himed is positioned to continue advancing natural preservation systems in food production, especially relevant in the context of climate change and sustainable agriculture. Her future projects are likely to explore biodegradable encapsulation materials, synergistic bioactive compounds, and cross-border collaborations to elevate Algerian food science on the global stage.

📚 Selected Publications

  1. Antioxidant activity of the essential oil of Citrus limon before and after its encapsulation in amorphous SiO₂
    Authors: L. Himed, S. Merniz, R. Monteagudo-Olivan, M. Barkat, J. Coronas
    Journal: Scientific African
    Year: 2019

  2. Chemical composition of Citrus limon (Eureka variety) essential oil and evaluation of its antioxidant and antibacterial activities
    Authors: H. Louiza, M. Salah, B. Malika
    Journal: African Journal of Biotechnology
    Year: 2018

  3. Evaluation of the chemical composition and antioxidant activity of Citrus limon essential oil and its application in margarine preservation
    Authors: L. Himed, S. Merniz, M. Barkat
    Journal: J. Nat. Product
    Year: 2016

  4. Antimicrobial and Antioxidant Activities of Citrus limon Peel Essential Oils and their Application as a Natural Preservative in Fresh Cream
    Authors: F. Kehal, L. Chemache, L. Himed, M. Barkat
    Journal: Acta Universitatis Cibinensis, Series E: Food Technology
    Year: 2023

  5. Élaboration d’une nouvelle margarine additionnée des huiles essentielles de Citrus limon
    Authors: L. Himed, M. Barkat
    Journal: OCL
    Year: 2014