Akhtar Ali | Irrigation engineering | Best Researcher Award

Posted on 22/05/202522/05/2025 by TOT Awards

Akhtar Ali | Irrigation Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Julio Cabero Almenara, University Sevill, Spain

Dr. Engr. Akhtar Ali is a highly motivated academic and professional in Agricultural Engineering with a diverse background in education, research, and teaching. With a career spanning over two decades, he has contributed significantly to technical education, groundwater research, and sustainable agriculture. Known for his dedication, creativity, and leadership, he combines engineering expertise with business acumen, having also earned an MBA in Marketing Management. His PhD work, focused on groundwater behavior and climate change in the Indus Basin, highlights his commitment to addressing real-world environmental challenges. Throughout his teaching roles in TEVTA and as a vice principal at a polytechnic institute, Dr. Ali has shown a remarkable ability to develop training resources and promote technical education. His analytical skills, combined with a passion for research, have resulted in the publication of multiple international research papers. A lifelong learner, he continues to explore innovative solutions to engineering and environmental issues.

professional profile

Google Scholar

ORCID

Scopus Profile

Education

Dr. Akhtar Ali holds a Ph.D. in Agricultural Engineering (2016–2022), with his doctoral research centered on “Groundwater Behavior in Relation to Climate Change Trends in the Indus Basin of Pakistan.” He also completed a Master’s in Agricultural Engineering (2012–2015), during which he authored a thesis on aquifer characterization using resistivity surveys and GIS. In addition, he holds a Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) with a specialization in Marketing Management (2006–2008), reflecting his interdisciplinary skills. His academic journey began with a Bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Engineering (1996–2000). Prior to that, he pursued Intermediate in Pre-Engineering (1993–1995) and Matriculation (1990–1992). His educational foundation is enriched by a Diploma in Computer Applications, which supports his proficiency in technical software and office tools. This diverse academic background equips him with a comprehensive understanding of both technical and managerial aspects, essential for innovative teaching and applied research.

work Experience

Dr. Akhtar Ali has held progressive roles across technical and educational institutions. Since March 2022, he has been working as an Instructor (PS-17) at TEVTA-GCT, Rahim Yar Khan, teaching DAE Mechanical Technology courses. From 2016 to 2022, he served at TEVTA-GTTC, Muridke, training students in rice milling, parboiling, and paddy analysis. Earlier, from 2002 to 2016, he served as Vice Principal at Sadiq Abad Polytechnic Institute, managing administration, infrastructure, and academic planning. He played a vital role in teacher training, internal evaluations, and resolving institutional issues. His career began as an Area Manager at Pan Pacific Pvt. Ltd. (2001–2002), handling pest control programs and procurement processes. Dr. Ali’s experience spans education management, curriculum development, technical training, and agricultural operations, making him a seasoned educator and practitioner in the field of agricultural engineering and applied sciences.

Research Focus

Dr. Akhtar Ali’s primary research interest lies in groundwater hydrology, agricultural engineering, and the impacts of climate change on water resources. His PhD research focused on groundwater behavior in the Indus Basin, providing insights into how climatic variability affects aquifer systems and irrigation potential. He also specializes in geophysical investigation techniques, particularly the use of vertical electrical sounding (VES) and GIS tools to map aquifer characteristics and subsurface water potential. His MSc work involved aquifer characterization in Rahim Yar Khan, showcasing his early commitment to sustainable water management. Dr. Ali continues to explore methodologies for improving water resource efficiency and understanding precipitation anomalies through spatial and temporal analyses. His publications further demonstrate his interest in integrating field data, remote sensing, and geo-statistical methods to support agricultural sustainability and infrastructure planning. These research areas are crucial for addressing Pakistan’s water crisis and promoting climate-resilient farming practices.

🏅 Awards and Honors

🛠️ Skills

Dr. Akhtar Ali brings a strong skillset in agricultural engineering, technical instruction, and water resource management. He is proficient in using IXID resistivity software for geophysical surveys, along with GIS applications for spatial analysis. His knowledge of MS Office tools and general computer applications complements his technical background. Known for his excellent communication skills in English, Urdu, and Punjabi, he is a collaborative team player who thrives under pressure and meets deadlines efficiently. His experience in planning, teaching, administrative coordination, and public speaking supports his role as a trainer and educator. Additionally, Dr. Ali has expertise in rice milling and processing technologies, making him valuable in both academic and industrial settings. His leadership, problem-solving abilities, and optimistic attitude reflect his continuous drive for innovation and learning. These skills contribute to his effectiveness as a researcher, mentor, and institutional leader in the technical education sector.

Conclusion

Dr. Engr. Akhtar Ali exhibits the qualities of a highly capable and impactful researcher with practical expertise, strong academic grounding, and commitment to solving real-world problems—particularly in water resource management amid climate change. His profile stands out for its depth in agricultural engineering, interdisciplinary education, and decades of applied teaching and research. While opportunities exist to elevate his global research visibility and leadership in funded projects, he is undoubtedly a deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award, particularly within disciplines related to sustainable development, climate resilience, and agricultural innovation.

Publications to Noted

Antonio Berardi | Agricultural Award | Best Researcher Award

Posted on 18/10/202418/10/2024 by TOT Awards

Dr. Antonio Berardi | Agricultural Award | Best Researcher Award

Researcher at University of Bari, Italy

Antonio Berardi is a highly accomplished researcher and mechanical engineer with over a decade of experience in industrial plant engineering and innovation management, particularly in the agro-food sector. His diverse research experience spans sustainability, process automation, energy production, and waste management, particularly in the Mediterranean region. Berardi has published extensively in reputable journals and has participated in various national and international research projects. His work includes pioneering efforts in Agriculture 4.0, emphasizing sustainable practices through technological innovation. Additionally, he has extensive international teaching experience and has collaborated with private companies and institutions worldwide.

professional profile

ORCID

Scopus Profile

Education

Antonio Berardi holds a robust academic background with degrees from Italy’s prestigious Politecnico di Bari and Università degli studi di Foggia. He completed his PhD in Agrofood Engineering in 2015 at the Università degli studi di Foggia, focusing on innovation management systems for the Mediterranean agro-food sector. His thesis examined prediction models for phenolic content and antioxidant activity in fruits and vegetables using advanced infrared scanning techniques. Before that, Berardi obtained a Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering in 2009 and a Bachelor of Science in Engineering Management in 2010, both from Politecnico di Bari, graduating with top honors. His first academic accolade came in 2004 when he earned his Bachelor’s in Mechanical Engineering, again with honors. Berardi’s academic journey reflects his dedication to advancing the fields of engineering management and agricultural innovation, equipping him with a unique interdisciplinary expertise in these domains.

work Experience

Antonio Berardi has a wealth of professional experience, ranging from research to senior management positions. Since 2021, he has been a researcher at the University of Bari Aldo Moro, focusing on eco-sustainable agriculture and technological innovations in the agro-food sector. His previous roles include Senior Project Manager at Tozzi Electrical Equipment, where he led construction and post-sales projects from 2017 to 2021. Before that, he worked as an Engineering Construction Manager at Saipem S.p.A., overseeing major international projects in Indonesia, Saudi Arabia, and Congo. His early career included positions as Project Coordinator at Colia Meccanica and Safety Coordinator at C.M.C. sas. Berardi’s expertise in project management, industrial automation, and renewable energy solutions has been applied in both academic research and large-scale industrial projects. His diverse roles have solidified his reputation as a leader in engineering, sustainability, and process optimization.

Research Focus

Antonio Berardi’s research centers on sustainability, innovation, and technological advancement in the agro-food sector. His focus lies in the optimization of agricultural processes using cutting-edge techniques such as numerical simulations, CFD analysis, and hyperspectral imaging. A major part of his work involves studying the extraction processes in the food industry, particularly in areas such as olive oil production, biogas generation, and water-saving strategies in agriculture. Berardi also investigates the rheology of food materials, aiming to enhance the mechanization and automation of industrial processes. His research contributes to the broader goal of eco-compatible and eco-sustainable agriculture, often referred to as Agriculture 4.0. Collaborating with international teams, Berardi develops solutions to reduce energy consumption, improve waste management, and minimize environmental impacts, thereby promoting sustainable practices across agricultural and industrial sectors. His work bridges the gap between traditional agricultural systems and modern technological innovations.

Awards and honors

Antonio Berardi has received numerous accolades throughout his academic and professional career, reflecting his exceptional contributions to engineering and agro-food innovation. His PhD thesis on innovation management systems for Mediterranean Agro-Food was highly regarded, earning recognition from both academic and industry experts. Berardi has been involved in award-winning research projects focused on sustainable energy and agricultural mechanization, showcasing his role in developing eco-friendly technologies for the food industry. His research in hyperspectral imaging, microwave-assisted processing, and renewable energy applications in agriculture has been published in top-tier journals, further solidifying his standing in the field. Additionally, Berardi’s leadership in managing large-scale international projects earned him accolades within the industrial sector, particularly for his contributions to improving energy efficiency and mechanization processes. His involvement in national and international collaborations has resulted in significant achievements, making him a notable figure in both academic and professional engineering circles.

Conclusion

Antonio Berardi is a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award, given his interdisciplinary expertise, global collaboration, and impactful contributions to sustainability and innovation in the agro-food sector. His work aligns with current global challenges in energy conservation, process optimization, and sustainable agriculture, making him highly relevant in today’s research landscape. With minor enhancements in outreach and cross-industry application, he can further elevate his standing in the global research community.

Publications to Noted

Numerical Simulation and Development of a Continuous Microwave-Assisted Pilot Plant for Shelled Almond Processing
Authors: Mescia, L., Leone, A., Lamacchia, C.M., Berardi, A., Tamborrino, A.
Citations: 0
Year: 2024

Energy Analysis and Numerical Evaluation of the Decanter Centrifuge for Wastewater Management to Allow a Sustainable Energy Planning of the Process
Authors: Leone, A., Perone, C., Berardi, A., Tamborrino, A.
Citations: 2
Year: 2024

Optimisation of an Industrial Optical Sorter of Legumes for Gluten-Free Production Using Hyperspectral Imaging Techniques
Authors: Romaniello, R., Barrasso, A.E., Perone, C., Berardi, A., Leone, A.
Citations: 2
Year: 2024

Biomass Recovery from Olive Oil Extraction Line: Opportunities for Reuse of By-Products and Energy Saving
Authors: Romaniello, R., Perone, C., Berardi, A., Leone, A., Tamborrino, A.
Citations: 0
Year: 2024

Hyperspectral Imaging System to Online Monitoring the Soy Flour Content in a Functional Pasta
Authors: Romaniello, R., Barrasso, A.E., Berardi, A., Catalano, F., Baiano, A.
Citations: 0
Year: 2023

Advances in Physical Technologies to Improve Virgin Olive Oil Extraction Efficiency in High-Throughput Production Plants
Authors: Juliano, P., Gaber, M.A.F.M., Romaniello, R., Berardi, A., Leone, A.
Citations: 3
Year: 2023

Using a Continuous Microwave System for Postharvest Almond Disinfestation
Authors: Tamborrino, A., Berardi, A., de Lillo, E., Santino, A., Leone, A.
Citations: 6
Year: 2023

Modelling the Rheology of Olive Paste for Oil Extraction Plant Automation: Effects of the Crushing Process on the Rheology of Olive Pastes
Authors: Perone, C., Catalano, F., Leone, A., Berardi, A., Tamborrino, A.
Citations: 1
Year: 2023

Effect of Enzymatic and Talc Treatment on Olive Oil Extraction Process at the Industrial Scale
Authors: Tamborrino, A., Selvaggini, R., Veneziani, G., Leone, A., Servili, M.
Citations: 1
Year: 2023

Investigation of an Energy-Saving System to Reduce the Energy Consumption of Decanter Machine
Authors: Perone, C., Berardi, A., Dellisanti, C.D., Tamborrino, A., Leone, A.
Citations: 1
Year: 2023