Rodrick Lepcha | Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Rodrick Lepcha | Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Lovely Professional University, India

Author Profile

🌱 Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Rodrick Lepcha was born on September 25, 1991, to Prem Tshering Lepcha and Rupmani Lepcha in India. From an early age, Dr. Lepcha exhibited a passion for learning, particularly in the agricultural sciences. His foundational education began in West Bengal, where he completed his secondary education at MADHYAMIK PARIKSHA WBBSE in June 2007, securing a second division with 51.37% marks. Dr. Lepcha continued his academic journey by excelling in his higher secondary education at WBSCVET, where he achieved an impressive 83.77% in June 2009, placing him in the first division.His dedication to agriculture was evident when he pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture (B.Sc. Ag) from Hemwati Nandan Bahuguna Garhwal Central University. Graduating in July 2013 with a first division, Dr. Lepcha earned 75.79% marks, laying a solid foundation for his future academic and professional endeavors.

🌾 Professional Endeavors

Dr. Lepcha’s professional journey commenced shortly after completing his Master’s degree in Soil and Water Conservation from Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya in June 2015, where he scored 78.80%, securing a first division once again. His research during this period focused on the “Management of Irrigation and Organic Manure on Growth and Yield of Large Cardamom (Amomum subulatum Roxb.) in Darjeeling Hills of West Bengal.” This work showcased his growing expertise in soil and water conservation, particularly in the context of large cardamom cultivation in the challenging terrains of the Darjeeling hills.Continuing his academic pursuit, Dr. Lepcha completed his Ph.D. in Soil and Water Conservation from Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya in July 2022, with a remarkable score of 78.10% in the first division. His doctoral research furthered his Master’s work, concentrating on “Irrigation and Nutritional Management on Large Cardamom (Amomum subulatum Roxb.) in the Darjeeling Hilly Terrain of West Bengal.” This research cemented his reputation as an expert in the field, focusing on sustainable agricultural practices in hilly regions.In January 2023, Dr. Lepcha began his tenure as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry at Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, Punjab. In this role, he has been instrumental in shaping the curriculum and mentoring the next generation of agricultural scientists. His professional endeavors are characterized by a commitment to education, research, and the practical application of soil and water conservation techniques.

🌟 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Lepcha’s research contributions are significant, particularly in the area of soil and water conservation. His work has primarily focused on the sustainable management of large cardamom, a key crop in the Darjeeling hills. Through his research, Dr. Lepcha has explored the intricate balance between irrigation practices, organic manure usage, and their combined effects on crop yield and growth. His findings have provided valuable insights into optimizing agricultural practices in hilly terrains, contributing to the sustainability and productivity of this vital agricultural sector.His Ph.D. research, which built on his Master’s work, delved deeper into the nutritional management of large cardamom, addressing the challenges faced by farmers in the Darjeeling region. Dr. Lepcha’s research has been pivotal in promoting sustainable agriculture practices that not only enhance crop yield but also preserve the delicate ecological balance of hilly terrains.

🏅 Accolades and Recognition

Dr. Lepcha’s academic and professional journey has been marked by consistent recognition for his achievements. His dedication to his field is reflected in his strong academic record, with first division marks in both his undergraduate and postgraduate studies. His research contributions have been recognized by his peers, and his work continues to influence agricultural practices in the Darjeeling hills.In addition to his academic achievements, Dr. Lepcha holds a Diploma in Computer Software, showcasing his versatility and commitment to integrating technology with agricultural practices. His involvement in extracurricular activities, such as earning an N.S.S. “B” Certificate in 2011 from the Government of Uttarakhand, further highlights his well-rounded personality and dedication to community service.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Dr. Lepcha’s impact extends beyond academia. His research on large cardamom has directly benefited farmers in the Darjeeling region, providing them with practical solutions for enhancing crop yield and sustainability. His work has contributed to the broader field of soil and water conservation, particularly in the context of hilly terrains, where such practices are crucial for maintaining ecological balance and ensuring agricultural productivity.As an Assistant Professor, Dr. Lepcha has influenced numerous students, inspiring them to pursue careers in agricultural sciences. His commitment to education and research has made him a respected figure in the academic community, particularly in the areas of soil science and agricultural chemistry.

🌠 Legacy and Future Contributions

Dr. Lepcha’s journey is far from over. His ongoing work at Lovely Professional University promises to yield further contributions to the field of soil and water conservation. He is poised to continue his research on sustainable agricultural practices, particularly in challenging environments like the Darjeeling hills. His legacy will likely be marked by his contributions to both academia and the practical application of agricultural sciences, ensuring that future generations of farmers and researchers benefit from his work.In the coming years, Dr. Lepcha aims to expand his research, exploring new methods of soil conservation and irrigation management that can be applied to various crops and regions. His dedication to sustainability and education will continue to shape the future of agriculture in India and beyond.

Urooj Hassan Bhat | Plant Physiology | Young Scientist Award

Ms. Urooj Hassan Bhat - Plant Physiology - Young Scientist Award 🏆

Aligarh Muslim University - India

Professional Profiles

Early Academic Pursuits

She embarked on her academic journey with a Bachelor's degree in Botany from Aligarh Muslim University, where she demonstrated a strong passion for plant science. Her academic excellence continued as she pursued a Master's degree in Botany from the same institution, specializing in Plant Physiology. During her academic tenure, she engaged in research projects focusing on the alleviation of phytotoxicity induced by nanoparticles in Brassica juncea, showcasing her commitment to understanding the complexities of plant interactions with environmental stressors.

Professional Endeavors

After completing her postgraduate studies, she actively participated in workshops and webinars focusing on statistics, optimization techniques, and emerging technologies in plant sciences. These experiences enriched her knowledge and skill set, enhancing her proficiency in research methodologies and analytical techniques. Additionally, her engagement in webinars addressing the impact of COVID-19 on environmental health highlights her dedication to staying updated on current issues and trends in the field.

Contributions and Research Focus in Plant Physiology

Her research endeavors have primarily revolved around the field of Plant Physiology, with a specific focus on understanding plant responses to environmental stressors. Her postgraduate dissertation on the alleviation of zinc oxide nanoparticles-induced phytotoxicity in Brassica juncea reflects her dedication to exploring innovative solutions to mitigate the adverse effects of environmental pollutants on plant growth and development. Through her research, she aims to contribute to the broader understanding of plant stress physiology and pave the way for sustainable agricultural practices.

Accolades and Recognition

Her academic achievements and research contributions have earned her recognition and accolades in the scientific community. Her commitment to excellence in the field of Plant Physiology was acknowledged through her participation in workshops and webinars, where she actively engaged with experts and peers to exchange knowledge and ideas. Additionally, her postgraduate dissertation showcased her ability to conduct independent research and generate valuable insights into plant-environment interactions.

Impact and Influence

Her research in Plant Physiology holds significant implications for agriculture, environmental sustainability, and ecosystem health. By investigating the mechanisms underlying plant responses to environmental stressors, such as nanoparticles, she contributes to the development of strategies to enhance plant resilience and productivity in the face of changing environmental conditions. Her work has the potential to inform agricultural practices and policies aimed at mitigating the adverse effects of environmental pollutants on crop yields and food security.

Legacy and Future Contributions

As she continues her academic and professional journey, her legacy in Plant Physiology is poised to endure. With a strong foundation in Botany and Plant Science, she is well-equipped to address pressing challenges in agriculture and environmental conservation. Through her ongoing research and engagement in interdisciplinary collaborations, she aims to make enduring contributions to the advancement of plant science and its applications in addressing global challenges related to food security, environmental sustainability, and climate change mitigation.

Notable Publications