Tunde Etchie | Environmental Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

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Dr Tunde  Etchie |  Environmental Chemistry |  Best Researcher Award

Lecturer & Researcher at  Federal University Lokoja, Kogi State,  Nigeria

Dr. Tunde O. Etchie is a dedicated Environmental Chemist focused on understanding the hazardous chemical compositions of air, water, and arable land and their impact on public health in Africa and Asia. His research explores how meteorology, demography, and socioeconomic status influence exposure to chemical pollutants and associated health burdens.

Profile:

🎓 Education:

  • PhD in Environmental Chemistry & Pollution Control | University of Ibadan, Nigeria (2016)
  • MSc in Environmental Chemistry & Pollution Control | University of Ibadan, Nigeria (2009)
  • BSc in Biochemistry | Delta State University, Nigeria (2005)

💼 Professional Experience:

  • Lecturer | Federal University Lokoja, Nigeria (2019 – Present)
  • Director | Meteorology, Environment & Demographic Surveillance Ltd, Port Harcourt, Nigeria (2017 – Present)
  • Lecturer | Landmark University, Kwara State, Nigeria (2018 – 2019)
  • Senior Research Officer | The INCLEN Trust International, New Delhi, India (2016 – 2017)

🔬 Research Interests:

Dr. Etchie is dedicated to understanding how hazardous chemical compositions in air, water, and arable land affect the burden of disease in Africa and Asia. His work explores the impact of meteorology, demography, and socioeconomic status on exposure to pollutants and related health outcomes.

📊 Citation Metrics:

  • Total Citations: 391
  • Citations Since 2020: 264
  • h-index: 12 (9 since 2020)
  • i10-index: 13 (8 since 2020)

Publication Top Notes:

  • The health burden and economic costs averted by ambient PM2.5 pollution reductions in Nagpur, India
    Environment International, 102, 145-156 (2017). [68 citations]

  • The gains in life expectancy by ambient PM2.5 pollution reductions in localities in Nigeria
    Environmental Pollution, 236, 146-157 (2018). [60 citations]

  • Determination of petroleum hydrocarbons and heavy metals in surface water and sediment of Ubeji river, Warri, Nigeria
    Bioremediation, Biodiversity and Bioavailability, 5, 46-51 (2011). [54 citations]

  • The burden of disease attributable to ambient PM2.5-bound PAHs exposure in Nagpur, India
    Chemosphere, 204, 277-289 (2018). [46 citations]

  • Influence of seasonal variation on water quality in tropical water distribution system: Is the disease burden significant?
    Water Research, 49, 186-196 (2014). [22 citations]

  • Season, not lockdown, improved air quality during COVID-19 State of Emergency in Nigeria
    Science of the Total Environment, 768, 145187 (2021). [21 citations]

  • Health risk assessment of exposure to metals in a Nigerian water supply
    Human and Ecological Risk Assessment: An International Journal, 20(1), 29-44 (2014). [21 citations]

  • Prioritizing hazardous pollutants in two Nigerian water supply schemes: A risk-based approach
    Bulletin of the World Health Organization, 91, 553-561J (2013). [19 citations]

  • Burn to kill: Wood ash a silent killer in Africa
    Science of the Total Environment, 748, 141316 (2020). [13 citations]

  • Evaluation of total petroleum hydrocarbons (TPH) and some related heavy metals in soil and groundwater of Ubeji settlement, Warri Metropolis, Nigeria
    Terrestrial and Aquatic Environmental Toxicology, 6(1), 61-65 (2012). [13 citations]

  • Source identification of chemical contaminants in a rural settlement
    Research Journal of Environmental Sciences, 5(9), 730-740 (2011). [13 citations]

  • Theoretical prediction of molar entropy of modified shifted Morse potential for gaseous molecules
    Chemical Physics, 582, 112294 (2024). [12 citations]

  • Burden of disease at the same limit of exposure to airborne polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons varies significantly across countries depending on the gap in longevity
    Ecotoxicology and Environmental Safety, 180, 420-429 (2019). [11 citations]

  • Can the Indian national ambient air quality standard protect against the hazardous constituents of PM2.5?
    Chemosphere, 303, 135047 (2022). [5 citations]

  • Systemic chronic health risk assessment of residential exposure to Cd²⁺ and Cr⁶⁺ in groundwater
    Toxicological & Environmental Chemistry, 94(1), 181-194 (2012). [5 citations]

  • Chronic exposure to heavy metals in public water supply and human health risk assessment
    Terrestrial and Aquatic Environmental Toxicology, 6(2), 106-111 (2012). [5 citations]

  • Dangerous organic chemicals identified in inhalable particulate matter air pollution
    IOP Conference Series: Materials Science and Engineering, 640(1), 012094 (2019). [2 citations]

  • Development of national health-based target for regulating airborne polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons exposure in Nigeria
    Journal of Physics: Conference Series, 1299(1), 012088 (2019). [1 citation]

  • COVID lockdowns significantly affect statewide atmospheric fine aerosols in India after excluding long-term pollution patterns and time-lag effect
    Atmospheric Environment, 343, 121013 (2025).

  • Is wood ash a silent killer in sub-Saharan Africa
    Health & Medicine, 10.32907/RO-119-3033 (2020).

 

Mariana Petkova | Plant Biology | Women Researcher Award

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Assoc. Prof. Dr Mariana Petkova |  Plant Biology |  Women Researcher Award

Microbiology and Molecular biology at  Agriculture University-Plovdiv,  Bulgaria

Mariana Krasimirova Petkova, PhD is an Assistant Professor at the Agricultural University – Plovdiv, Bulgaria, within the Faculty of Plant Protection and Agroecology, Department of Microbiology and Ecological Biotechnology. She earned her Master’s degree in Plant Protection from the Agricultural University in 1996 and completed her PhD in Molecular Biology at the University of Kobe, Japan, in 2002.

Profile:

🎓 Education:

  • Master of Plant Protection – Agricultural University, Plovdiv, 1996
  • PhD in Molecular Biology – University of Kobe, Japan, 2002

💼 Academic Positions:

  • 2010 – 2014: Assistant Professor, Faculty of Agronomy, Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, Agricultural University – Plovdiv
  • 2014 – Present: Assistant Professor, Faculty of Plant Protection and Agroecology, Department of Microbiology and Ecological Biotechnology, Agricultural University – Plovdiv

🔬 Research Interests:

Main Areas:

  • Molecular Biology
  • Gene Expression
  • Microbiology

Additional Areas:

  • Antimicrobials
  • Lactic Acid Bacteria & Yeast in Sourdoughs
  • Functional Foods

🌍 International Collaborations & Specializations:

  • JSPS Fellowship (2006-2009) – University of Osaka, Japan
  • HPLC Training (2011) – Budapest, Hungary
  • Borlaug Fellowship (2012) – North Dakota State University, USA
  • Food Traceability Course (2013) – Thessaloniki, Greece
  • Analytical Approaches Workshop (2016) – University of Food Technologies, Plovdiv

🏆 Awards & Memberships:

  • Member: Union of Scientists in Bulgaria (since 2011)

📊 Scientific Impact:

  • Citations: 154 (by 140 documents)
  • Publications: 23
  • h-index: 8

Publication Top Notes:

  • “Plant Growth-Promoting and Biocontrol Characteristics of Four Bacillus Strains and Evaluation of Their Effects on Wheat (Tr. aestivum L.)”
    International Journal of Plant Biology, 2024.
    DOI: 10.3390/ijpb16010001

  • “Positive Effect of Camelina Intercropping with Legumes on Soil Microbial Diversity by Applying NGS Analysis and Mobile Fluorescence Spectroscopy”
    Applied Sciences, 2024.
    DOI: 10.3390/app14199046

  • “Biological Control of Lettuce Drop (Sclerotinia minor Jagger) Using Antagonistic Bacillus Species”
    Applied Microbiology, 2024.
    DOI: 10.3390/applmicrobiol4030088

  • “Isolation and Selection of Sauerkraut Lactic Acid Bacteria Producing Exopolysaccharides”
    BIO Web of Conferences, 2023.
    DOI: 10.1051/bioconf/20235802001

  • “Metagenomic Approach Unravelling Bacterial Diversity in Combined Composting and Vermicomposting Technology of Agricultural Wastes”
    Ecologia Balkanica, 2023.

  • “Mutagenesis as a Tool for Enhancement of Fatty Acid Composition of Rapeseed (Brassica napus L.)”
    Bulgarian Journal of Agricultural Science, 2023.

  • “On the Molecular Selection of Exopolysaccharide-Producing Lactic Acid Bacteria from Indigenous Fermented Plant-Based Foods and Further Fine Chemical Characterization”
    Foods, 2023.
    DOI: 10.3390/foods12183346

  • “Plant Traits of Tilia tomentosa Moench, Fraxinus excelsior L., and Pinus nigra J.F.Arnold as a Proxy of Urbanization”
    Forests, 2023.
    DOI: 10.3390/f14040800

  • “Revealing Fungal Diversity in Mesophilic and Thermophilic Habitats of Sewage Sludge Composting by Next-Generation Sequencing”
    Applied Sciences (Switzerland), 2023.
    DOI: 10.3390/app13095546

 

Zhizhou Ren | Agricultural Products | Best Researcher Award

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Mr Zhizhou Ren | Agricultural Products |  Best Researcher Award

postgraduate at College of Artificial Intelligence, Nanjing Agricultural University, China

Zhizhou Ren is a postgraduate researcher specializing in smart agriculture and non-destructive detection of agricultural products. His work focuses on integrating hyperspectral imaging, electronic noses, and deep learning for efficient wheat disease detection. He has published two SCI papers in high-impact journals and developed the GFNN model, achieving 98.76% accuracy in disease identification. Ren has contributed to four major collaborative projects and holds one patent. As a member of the China Electronics Society, he actively engages in research that enhances precision agriculture and food security.

Profile:

🔬 Research Focus:

Zhizhou Ren specializes in smart agriculture and non-destructive detection of agricultural products. His research integrates hyperspectral imaging, electronic noses, and deep learning algorithms to detect wheat diseases efficiently.

📚 Key Contributions:

  • Developed the GFNN model for detecting VOCs using an electronic nose, achieving 98.76% accuracy in wheat disease detection.
  • Published two SCI papers in Q1 and Q2 journals, including Agriculture-Basel and International Journal of Agricultural and Biological Engineering.
  • Holds one patent and has contributed to four major collaborative projects funded by Jiangsu Province.

🏆 Achievements & Collaborations:

  • Active member of the China Electronics Society.
  • Engaged in consultancy and industry projects, contributing to agricultural disease management and food security.
  • Participated in prestigious research programs, including the Natural Science Foundation of Jiangsu Province.

Citations:

Citations: 948 (All), 947 (Since 2020)
h-index: 11 (All), 11 (Since 2020)
i10-index: 11 (All), 11 (Since 2020)

Publication Top Notes:

  • QPLEX: Duplex Dueling Multi-Agent Q-Learning
    J. Wang, Z. Ren, T. Liu, Y. Yu, C. Zhang
    Ninth International Conference on Learning Representations (ICLR 2021) – 550 citations

  • Exploration via Hindsight Goal Generation
    Z. Ren, K. Dong, Y. Zhou, Q. Liu, J. Peng
    Thirty-third Conference on Neural Information Processing Systems (NeurIPS 2019) – 99 citations

  • Towards Understanding Cooperative Multi-Agent Q-Learning with Value Factorization
    J. Wang, Z. Ren, B. Han, J. Ye, C. Zhang
    Thirty-fifth Conference on Neural Information Processing Systems (NeurIPS 2021) – 61 citations

  • Proximal Exploration for Model-guided Protein Sequence Design
    Z. Ren, J. Li, F. Ding, Y. Zhou, J. Ma, J. Peng
    Thirty-ninth International Conference on Machine Learning (ICML 2022) – 47 citations

  • Generalizable Episodic Memory for Deep Reinforcement Learning
    H. Hu, J. Ye, G. Zhu, Z. Ren, C. Zhang
    Thirty-eighth International Conference on Machine Learning (ICML 2021) – 43 citations

  • Off-Policy Reinforcement Learning with Delayed Rewards
    B. Han, Z. Ren, Z. Wu, Y. Zhou, J. Peng
    Thirty-ninth International Conference on Machine Learning (ICML 2022) – 41 citations

  • Learning Long-Term Reward Redistribution via Randomized Return Decomposition
    Z. Ren, R. Guo, Y. Zhou, J. Peng
    Tenth International Conference on Learning Representations (ICLR 2022 Spotlight) – 39 citations

  • On the Estimation Bias in Double Q-Learning
    Z. Ren, G. Zhu, H. Hu, B. Han, J. Chen, C. Zhang
    Thirty-fifth Conference on Neural Information Processing Systems (NeurIPS 2021) – 24 citations

  • Self-Organized Polynomial-Time Coordination Graphs
    Q. Yang, W. Dong, Z. Ren, J. Wang, T. Wang, C. Zhang
    Thirty-ninth International Conference on Machine Learning (ICML 2022) – 13 citations

  • Efficient Meta Reinforcement Learning for Preference-based Fast Adaptation
    Z. Ren, A. Liu, Y. Liang, J. Peng, J. Ma
    Thirty-sixth Conference on Neural Information Processing Systems (NeurIPS 2022) – 12 citations

  • Object-Oriented Dynamics Learning through Multi-Level Abstraction
    G. Zhu, J. Wang, Z. Ren, Z. Lin, C. Zhang
    Thirty-fourth AAAI Conference on Artificial Intelligence (AAAI 2020) – 11 citations

  • Full-Atom Peptide Design based on Multi-modal Flow Matching
    J. Li, C. Cheng, Z. Wu, R. Guo, S. Luo, Z. Ren, J. Peng, J. Ma
    Forty-first International Conference on Machine Learning (ICML 2024) – 7 citations

  • Enhancing Protein Mutation Effect Prediction through a Retrieval-Augmented Framework
    R. Guo, R. Wang, R. Wu, Z. Ren, J. Li, S. Luo, Z. Wu, Q. Liu, J. Peng, J. Ma
    Thirty-eighth Conference on Neural Information Processing Systems (NeurIPS 2024) – 1 citation

  • Bridging Distribution Gaps: Invariant Pattern Discovery for Dynamic Graph Learning
    Y. Jin, M. Wang, Y. Xiong, Z. Ren, C. Huo, F. Zhu, J. Zhang, G. Wang, H. Chen
    World Wide Web 27 (4), 44 (2024)

 

Simion Matsvai | Agribusiness | Best Researcher Award

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Dr Simion Matsvai |  Agribusiness |  Best Researcher Award

Postdoctoral Research Fellow at Walter Sisulu University, South Africa

Simion Matsvai is a distinguished academic with over 10 years of experience in teaching, research, and community engagement. His areas of expertise include Applied Economics, with a focus on Financial Economics, Agricultural Economics, Environmental & Natural Resources Economics, Development Economics, and Health Economics. Matsvai has contributed to various national and international research projects, showcasing adaptability and a commitment to excellence. Skilled in analytical tools such as Excel, R, E-Views, STATA, and SPSS, he is dedicated to advancing research and consultancy within his field.

Profile:

Academic Qualifications:

  • PhD in Agricultural Economics (University of Fort Hare, 2016-2020)
  • Master of Commerce in Industrial Strategy and Trade Policy (Great Zimbabwe University, 2011-2012)
  • BSc (Hons) in Economics (University of Zimbabwe, 2003, 2006)

Work Experience:

Current Employment

  • Senior Lecturer at Great Zimbabwe University, Faculty of Commerce (Feb 2013 – Present)
    • Specializes in advanced modules including International Finance, Macroeconomics, Environmental Economics, and Econometrics.
    • Dissertation supervision and research mentoring.

Postdoctoral Research Fellow (Walter Sisulu University, 2024-2025)

Agribusiness Development Specialist (Intercountry Peoples Aid, 2010–2013)

Consultancy Experience:

Simion Matsvai has co-researched a variety of impactful studies for national and international organizations, including work on economic development, youth empowerment, agricultural policies, and financial systems.

Conferences & Workshops:

  • International Conference on Time Series and Forecasting (2023, Gran Canaria, Spain) – Presented on ICTs and Economic Growth.
  • 19th African Finance Association Conference (2023, Cape Town, RSA) – ICTs and Agricultural Total Factor Productivity Change in South Africa.
  • Beef Enterprise Strengthening Workshop (2023, Masvingo) – Discussed Agricultural Financing Models.

Skills & Expertise:

  • Statistical Software: Excel, R, E-Views, STATA, SPSS, FRONTIER, N-Logit, etc.
  • Research: Extensive experience in data analysis, methodology development, and report writing.
  • Teaching: Strong academic background in economics, with experience across postgraduate and undergraduate programs.

Publication Top Notes:

  1. Sustainability Reporting Strategy and Its Determinants Among Resource-Based Companies
    Corporate and Business Strategy Review, 2025
    DOI: 10.22495/cbsrv6i1art9
    Contributors: Leward Jeke, Sanderson Abel, Kudakwashe David Chitaukire, Julius Mukarati, Pierre Le Roux, Simion Matsvai

  2. Determinants of Microfinance Demand (Evidence from Chiredzi Smallholder Resettled Sugarcane Farmers in Zimbabwe)
    Sustainability, 2024-11-08
    DOI: 10.3390/su16229752
    Contributor: Simion Matsvai

  3. Technical Efficiency Impact of Microfinance on Small Scale Resettled Sugar Cane Farmers in Zimbabwe
    Cogent Economics & Finance, 2022-01-05
    DOI: 10.1080/23322039.2021.2017599

  4. Characterisation of Smallholder Resettled Sugarcane Farmers and Their Perceptions Towards Microfinance in Zimbabwe (Chiredzi)
    Journal of Agribusiness and Rural Development, 2021-10-11
    DOI: 10.17306/J.JARD.2021.01308
    Contributors: Simion Matsvai, Abbissynia Mushunje, Simbarashe Tatsvarei

 

Lelethu Mdoda | Climate change | Best Researcher Award

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Dr Lelethu Mdoda | Climate change | Best Researcher Award

Senior Lecturer at  University of KwaZulu-Natal,  South Africa

Dr. Lelethu Mdoda is a Senior Lecturer at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, specializing in Agricultural Economics. He earned his PhD at 25 from the University of Fort Hare, focusing on market participation and value chain integration among smallholder farmers in South Africa.

Profile:

🎓 Academic Background:

  • PhD in Agriculture – Agricultural Economics (2017) – University of Fort Hare
    • Thesis: Market participation and value chain integration among smallholder farmers in Eastern Cape
  • MSc in Agriculture – Agricultural Economics (2015) – University of Fort Hare
    • Dissertation: Farmers’ awareness of climate change and its effects on productivity
  • BSc in Agriculture – Agricultural Economics/Economics (2013) – University of Fort Hare

🔬 Research Focus & Expertise:

Dr. Mdoda specializes in agricultural policy, climate change adaptation, smallholder economies, food security, and rural development. His expertise extends to agribusiness, value chains, sustainability, and resource economics. He has extensive experience in applied econometric modeling, data analysis, and market research.

📚 Professional Career & Contributions:

  • Senior Lecturer at the University of KwaZulu-Natal
  • Published over 30 peer-reviewed journal articles
  • NRF Rating: Y2
  • Active in mentoring, research, and project management

🌍 Professional Memberships & Leadership:

  • President of the African Farm Management Association (AFMA)
  • Member of AEASA, IAAE, and IFAMA

🏆 Awards & Recognitions:

  • DAAD German Scholarship (2016)
  • NRF Bursary for MSc (2015)
  • Best Agricultural Student Award (2007)
  • Travel Grants from IFAMA (2016, 2017)

🤝 Community Engagement & Projects:

  • Founder & Executive Director of #HaySureLesner Foundation – Youth mentorship, drug abuse awareness, and career guidance
  • Nguni Project – Market coordination for livestock farming
  • Keiskamahoek Market Day – Supporting smallholder farmers with market access
  • WRC Project – Enhancing smallholder irrigation farming in Eastern Cape

Publication Top Notes:

  • Factors affecting the use of information and communication technologies (ICTs) by livestock farmers in the Eastern Cape province
    L Mdoda, L Mdiya
    Cogent Social Science 8 (1), 2026017 (43 citations, 2022)

  • Factors affecting subsistence farming in rural areas of Nyandeni Local Municipality in the Eastern Cape Province
    S Qange, L Mdoda
    South African Journal of Agricultural Extension 48 (2), 92-105 (43 citations, 2020)

  • The direct and indirect economic contribution of small-scale black agriculture in South Africa
    M Aliber, L Mdoda
    Agrekon 54 (2), 18-37 (36 citations, 2015)

  • RETRACTED: Factors impacting sugarcane production by small-scale farmers in KwaZulu-Natal Province-South Africa
    Z Thibane, S Soni, L Phali, L Mdoda
    Heliyon 9 (1) (30 citations, 2023)

  • Analysis of profitability of smallholder irrigated food plots in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa
    L Mdoda, A Obi
    Journal of Agribusiness and Rural Development 3 (53), 225–232 (23 citations, 2019)

  • Socio-economic factors affecting home gardens as a livelihood strategy in rural areas of the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa
    L Mdiya, L Mdoda
    South African Journal of Agricultural Extension 49 (3), 1-15 (21 citations, 2021)

  • Adoption drivers of improved open-pollinated (OPVs) maize varieties by smallholder farmers in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa
    M Sigigaba, L Mdoda, A Mditshwa
    Sustainability (20 citations, 2021)

  • Profit efficiency in family-owned crop farms in Eastern Cape Province of South Africa: A translog profit function approach
    N Mujuru, A Obi, S Mishi, L Mdoda
    Agriculture & Food Security 11 (20), 2-9 (18 citations, 2022)

  • Determinants of Climate-Smart Agriculture (CSA) technologies adoption by smallholder food crop farmers in Mangaung Metropolitan Municipality, Free State
    A Makamane, J Van Niekerk, O Loki, L Mdoda
    South African Journal of Agricultural Extension 51 (4), 52-74 (14 citations, 2023)

  • Use of information systems (Mobile phone app) for enhancing smallholder farmers’ productivity in Eastern Cape Province, South Africa: Implications on food security
    L Mdoda, M Christian, I Agbugba
    Journal of the Knowledge Economy 15 (1), 1993-2009 (13 citations, 2024)

 

Shuguang Deng | Agriculture Wastes | Best Scholar Award

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Prof Shuguang Deng | Agriculture Wastes |  Best Scholar Award

Research Scholar at  Arizona State University, United States

Dr. Shuguang Deng is a leading chemical engineer specializing in nanostructured materials, adsorption technology, carbon capture, and sustainable energy solutions. He earned his Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering from the University of Cincinnati and has held academic and industry positions at New Mexico State University, The BOC Group, and SINOPEC.

Profile:

📍 Education & Expertise:

Dr. Shuguang Deng earned his Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering from the University of Cincinnati (1996) and holds M.S. and B.S. degrees from Zhejiang University, China. His research focuses on nanostructured materials, adsorption technology, carbon capture, sustainable aviation fuels, and chemical upcycling of plastics.

🏆 Leadership & Achievements:

He is the Founding Editor-in-Chief of Carbon and Sustainability and an Editor for Separation and Purification Technology. He has served in leadership roles at ASU and NMSU, including Interim Program Chair and Faculty Recruitment Chair.

🎖️ Honors & Awards:

  • Fulbright Distinguished Chair in Energy Conservation (2012)
  • Westhafer Award for Excellence in Research, NMSU (2012)
  • University Research Distinguished Career Award, NMSU (2011)
  • Innovation Excellence Award, The BOC Group (2001)

🔬 Research Impact:

Dr. Deng is a leading expert in carbon capture, gas separation, hydrogen technologies, hydrothermal liquefaction, and water purification. His innovations contribute to sustainability, clean energy, and environmental remediation.

Citations:

Citations: 26,361 (Since 2020: 13,907)
h-index: 85 (Since 2020: 63)
i10-index: 326 (Since 2020: 265)

Publication Top Notes:

  • Metallo-organic molecular sieve for gas separation and purification – Microporous and Mesoporous Materials, 2002.
  • Adsorption of CO₂, CH₄, N₂O, and N₂ on MOF-5, MOF-177, and Zeolite 5A – Environmental Science & Technology, 2010.
  • Application of carbon nanotube technology for removal of contaminants in drinking water: A review – Science of the Total Environment, 2009.
  • Optimization of biodiesel production from edible and non-edible vegetable oils – Fuel, 2009.
  • Adsorption of CO₂ and CH₄ on a magnesium-based metal-organic framework – Journal of Colloid and Interface Science, 2011.
  • Renewable and sustainable approaches for desalination – Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, 2010.
  • Optimization of direct conversion of wet algae to biodiesel under supercritical methanol conditions – Bioresource Technology, 2011.
  • Microwave energy potential for biodiesel production – Sustainable Chemical Processes, 2013.
  • Adsorption of ethane, ethylene, propane, and propylene on a magnesium-based metal–organic framework – Langmuir, 2011.
  • Adsorption of CO₂, CH₄, and N₂ on ordered mesoporous carbon: Approach for greenhouse gases capture and biogas upgrading – Environmental Science & Technology, 2013.
  • Uranium removal from groundwater by natural clinoptilolite zeolite: Effects of pH and initial feed concentration – Journal of Hazardous Materials, 2010.
  • Microwave synthesis and characterization of MOF-74 (M= Ni, Mg) for gas separation – Microporous and Mesoporous Materials, 2013.
  • Hydrothermal liquefaction of Spirulina and Nannochloropsis salina under subcritical and supercritical water conditions – Bioresource Technology, 2013.
  • Occurrence and treatment of arsenic in groundwater and soil in northern Mexico and southwestern USA – Chemosphere, 2011.
  • Optimization of microwave-assisted transesterification of dry algal biomass using response surface methodology – Bioresource Technology, 2011.
  • Biodiesel production from waste cooking oil using sulfuric acid and microwave irradiation processes – Journal of Environmental Protection, 2012.
  • Ammonia adsorption and its effects on framework stability of MOF-5 and MOF-177 – Journal of Colloid and Interface Science, 2010.
  • Comparison of direct transesterification of algal biomass under supercritical methanol and microwave irradiation conditions – Fuel, 2012.
  • Conversion of waste cooking oil to biodiesel using ferric sulfate and supercritical methanol processes – Fuel, 2010.
  • Fine pore engineering in a series of isoreticular metal-organic frameworks for efficient C₂H₂/CO₂ separation – Nature Communications, 2022.

 

Chaojie Zhang | Environmental Pollutants | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Dr Chaojie Zhang |  Environmental Pollutants |  Best Researcher Award

Professor at Tongji University, China

Prof. Dr. Chaojie Zhang is a professor at Tongji University specializing in environmental engineering. With an active research and teaching career since 2004, her work focuses on emerging pollutant control, CO₂ resource utilization, industrial wastewater desalination, and biological nitrogen removal. She has led multiple research projects, published over 40 papers, and holds 4 patents. In addition to her research, she teaches courses like “Environmental Monitoring” and has received awards for her contributions to scientific progress.

Profile:

🎓 Academic Background & Experience:

Dr. Chaojie Zhang is a professor at Tongji University with extensive expertise in environmental engineering. She has been actively engaged in research and teaching since 2004.

🔬 Research Focus:

Her work primarily addresses:

  • 🏭 Emerging Pollutant Control
  • ♻️ CO₂ Resource Utilization
  • 💧 Industrial Wastewater Desalination
  • 🦠 Biological Nitrogen Removal

📑 Research Contributions:

  • 📄 40+ published papers
  • 🏅 4 patents in environmental engineering
  • 🔍 Led multiple research projects

🏆 Awards & Teaching:

  • 🎖️ Recognized for scientific progress contributions
  • 📚 Teaches “Environmental Monitoring” and other courses

Citations:

  • Total Citations: 2,314
  • Citing Documents: 1,901
  • Total Publications: 79
  • h-index: 23

Publication Top Notes:

  • Yao, Z., Wang, Q., Fan, J., Zhang, C., & Zhou, X. (2025). Efficient decontamination and detoxification of phenols by photocatalytic CQDs@Ag₃PO₄: Re-insights into the targeted reduction and coupling processes of ·O₂⁻ and ¹O₂. Separation and Purification Technology.

  • Zhao, Y., Zhang, C., Xue, Y., Zhou, X., & Zhang, Y. (2025). Photocatalytic degradation of tetracycline antibiotics and elimination of N-nitrosodimethylamine formation potential by BiOCl/ZnIn₂S₄ heterostructure under visible-light irradiation. Journal of Environmental Management.

  • Gao, J., Zhang, C., Chu, L., Zhou, X., & Zhang, Y. (2024). Influence of aqueous constituents on hexafluoropropylene oxide trimer acid (HFPO-TA) defluorination by UV/sulfite/iodide system. Water Science and Technology.

  • Sun, X., Xie, T., Zhang, C., Zhang, Y., & Zhou, X. (2024). Research of photosynthetic microorganisms in the resourceful treatment of livestock and poultry breeding wastewater. Industrial Water Treatment.

  • Zhai, Z., Zhang, C., Chu, L., Zhou, X., & Zhang, Y. (2024). Effective defluorination of novel hexafluoropropylene oxide oligomer acids under mild conditions by UV/sulfite/iodide: Mechanisms and ecotoxicity. Water Research.

  • Xue, Y., Zhang, C., Li, S., Zhou, X., & Zhang, Y. (2024). Enhanced denitrification by graphene oxide–modified cathode for the secondary effluent of wastewater treatment plants in three-dimensional biofilm electrode reactors. Water Science and Technology.

  • Zhang, H., Liang, J., Li, Z., Wu, Y., & Zhang, C. (2024). Preparation of forward osmosis composite membrane with Chitosan/Tannic acid co-deposition interlayer and its fluoride removal performance. Separation and Purification Technology.

 

Simona Gavrilas | Plants | Best Researcher Award

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Mrs Simona Gavrilas | Plants |  Best Researcher Award

lecturer at ”Aurel Vlaicu” University of Arad, Romania

Simona Gavrilaș is a Lecturer at ”Aurel Vlaicu” University of Arad, Romania. She holds a Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering and specializes in Food Technology, Biotechnology, and Environmental Low-Impact Technologies. Since 2017, she has been actively engaged in teaching and research at the Faculty of Food Engineering, Tourism, and Environmental Protection.

Profile:

🔬 Academic Background:

Simona Gavrilaș is a Lecturer at ”Aurel Vlaicu” University of Arad, Romania. She holds a Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering and has been teaching at the Faculty of Food Engineering, Tourism, and Environmental Protection since 2017.

📚 Research & Innovations:

Her research focuses on Food Technology, Biotechnology, Food Quality Improvement, and Environmental Low-Impact Technologies. She has contributed significantly to food waste valorization and agrochemical research.

🏆 Achievements & Contributions:

  • Publications: 26 ISI journal articles, 6 books, and 2 internationally recognized book chapters.
  • Projects: Led 3 national projects, 5 research grants, and participated in international collaborations.
  • Editorial Roles: Member of the Journal of Natural Fibers editorial board and reviewer for several MDPI journals.
  • Recognitions: COST-STSM Grant beneficiary and evaluator for Romania’s Higher Education Quality Assurance Agency.

🌍 Impact & Research Vision:

Dr. Gavrilaș is dedicated to sustainable food systems by developing eco-friendly food technologies and enzyme-based treatments. Her work supports agricultural waste valorization for a greener future.

Citations:

Citations: 523 (Total), 366 (Since 2020)
h-index: 10 (Total), 9 (Since 2020)
i10-index: 10 (Total), 9 (Since 2020)

Publication Top Notes:

  • Recent Trends in Biosensors for Environmental Quality Monitoring – Sensors, 2022.
  • Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Properties of Selected Spice Extracts – International Journal of Food Properties, 2010.
  • New Potential Biocatalysts by Laccase Immobilization in PVA Cryogel Type Carrier – Applied Biochemistry and Biotechnology, 2010.
  • Closing the Loop with Keratin-Rich Fibrous Materials – Polymers, 2021.
  • Salvia officinalis L. Essential Oil: Characterization, Antioxidant Properties, and the Effects of Aromatherapy in Adult Patients – Antioxidants, 2022.
  • Preparation of Immobilized Trametes pubescens Laccase on a Cryogel-Type Polymeric Carrier and Application of the Biocatalyst to Apple Juice Phenolic Compounds – European Food Research and Technology, 2012.
  • The Consumption of Organic, Traditional, and/or European Eco-Label Products: Elements of Local Production and Sustainability – Sustainability, 2021.
  • Removal of Cypermethrin from Water by Using Fucus Spiralis Marine Alga – International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 2019.
  • Membrane-Active Peptides and Their Potential Biomedical Application – Pharmaceutics, 2023.
  • Characterization of the Complexing Agents’ Influence on Bioscouring Cotton Fabrics by FT-IR and TG/DTG/DTA Analysis – Journal of Thermal Analysis and Calorimetry, 2018.
  • The Influence of Elevated CO₂ on Volatile Emissions, Photosynthetic Characteristics, and Pigment Content in Brassicaceae Plant Species and Varieties – Plants, 2022.
  • Comparative Study Regarding the Influence of the Complexing Agents EDTA and Sodium Citrate on the 50% Flax-50% Cotton Fabrics During the Bioscouring Treatment – International Multidisciplinary Scientific GeoConference: SGEM, 2016.
  • Commercial Laccase Oxidation of Phenolic Compounds – U.P.B. Scientific Bulletin, Series B: Chemistry and Material Sciences, 2012.
  • White Grape Pomace Valorization for Remediating Purposes – Applied Sciences, 2022.
  • Graphene-Oxide Peptide-Containing Materials for Biomedical Applications – International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 2024.
  • Analysis of Sustainable Communication Patterns During the Telework Period in Western Romanian Corporations – International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 2022.
  • TG/DTG Analysis of an Eco-Friendly Scoured Fabric – Revista de Chimie, 2019.
  • Study on the Influence of Ultrasound in Bioscouring Treatment of 50% Flax + 50% Cotton Fabrics – Annals of the University of Oradea, Fascicle of Textiles, Leatherwork, 2017.
  • Improving the Antioxidant Properties of Wild Raspberry Juice by Enzymatic Treatments – Revista de Chimie, 2016.
  • A Sustainable Nutritional Behavior in the Era of Climate Changes – Smart and Sustainable Technology for Resilient Cities and Communities, 2022.

 

Olawale Akinrinde | Food Security | Best Researcher Award

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Assist. Prof. Dr  Olawale Akinrinde |  Food Security |  Best Researcher Award

Research Fellow at  University of Johannesburg,  South Africa

Dr. Olawale O. Akinrinde is a distinguished researcher and lecturer specializing in Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Food Security, International Development, Public Policy, and Global Governance. He is currently a Research Fellow at the University of Johannesburg, South Africa, and a Tenured Lecturer in the Department of Political Science at Osun State University, Nigeria.

Profile:

🎓 Academic Background:

✅ PhD in Strategic Studies – Nigerian Defence Academy (2017-2022)
✅ M.Sc. in International Relations – University of Ibadan (2014-2016)
✅ B.Sc. (First-Class Honours) in Political Science & International Relations – Osun State University (2008-2012)

🔬 Research Focus:

Dr. Akinrinde is a renowned African scholar specializing in Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Food Security, International Development, Public Policy, and Global Governance. His research has been published in SCOPUS and Web of Science-indexed journals, making significant contributions to policy analysis and socio-economic development.

🏆 Awards & Fellowships:

🎖 Postdoctoral Research Fellowship (2023, 2024) – University of Johannesburg
🎖 TETFUND National Research Fund (2023)
🎖 Center for Effective Global Action (CEGA) RT2 Training Invite (2024) – Berkeley, California

Publication Top Notes:

  • Political Crisis and The Politics of Religious Divisiveness in Nigeria’s Fourth Republic
    O. Oyetunbi, O. O. Akinrinde
    The Digest: Journal of Jurisprudence and Legisprudence, 2(2), 173-196 (2021)

  • The Triangle of Terror: Boko Haram, Fulani Herdsmen, Bandits, and Organised Insecurity in Nigeria
    B. Omitola, S. Adedire, O. O. Akinrinde, O. Omodunbi, et al.
    Studia Securitatis, 15(1), 21-33 (2021)

  • Boko Haram Terrorism and the Futurology of Nigeria’s Development
    O. O. Akinrinde, S. Tegbe
    Annals of Spiru Haret University, Economic Series, 20(3), 117-139 (2020)

  • Traditional Institutions and Socio-Economic Development in Nigeria: A Critical Analysis
    B. Omitola, O. O. Akinrinde, A. Omitola
    Journal of Law and Legal Reform, 2(4), 539-552 (2021)

  • The Influence of Globalization on Insurgency: Boko Haram and Al-Shabaab in the Age of Information Technology
    A. I. Adeyeye, O. O. Akinrinde, O. O. Omodunbi
    NUST Journal of International Peace & Stability, 15-29 (2022)

  • Africanity and the Politics of African Xenophobia: A Study of Two Parallels
    O. O. Akinrinde
    Annals of Spiru Haret University, Economic Series, 20(4), 133-151 (2020)

  • Farmers-Herders Conflict and Nigeria’s Quest for Food Security: The Imperative Need for Information Communications Technology
    O. O. Akinrinde, A. A. Osuwa, K. W. Olawoyin
    Journal of Digital Food, Energy & Water Systems, 2(2) (2021)

  • The Politics of Non-Refoulement and the Syrian Refugee Crisis
    O. O. Akinrinde
    The Journal of International Relations, Peace Studies, and Development, 4(1), 6 (2018)

  • Political Economy and the Dialectics of Xenophobia in Post-Apartheid South Africa
    O. O. Akinrinde, U. Tar
    Journal of African-Centered Solutions in Peace and Security, 4(1), 50-63 (2021)

  • Swimming Against the Tide: Challenges of Religious Crises and Insecurity in Nigeria’s Democratic Space
    K. W. Olawoyin, O. O. Omodunbi, O. O. Akinrinde
    Annals of the Constantin Brancusi University of Targu Jiu – Letters & Social Sciences (2021)

 

Gayathri JawaharJothi | Plant Physiology | Best Researcher Award

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Dr Gayathri JawaharJothi |  Plant Physiology |  Best Researcher Award

Research Associate at  Anna University,  India

Dr. Gayathri J is a Research Associate-III (Agriculture) at the Centre for Climate Change and Disaster Management, Department of Civil Engineering, Anna University, Chennai, India. Her research focuses on the intersection of agriculture, climate change, and disaster management, contributing to sustainable solutions for environmental resilience. With expertise in agricultural systems and climate adaptation strategies, she plays a key role in research initiatives addressing the impacts of climate variability on food security. She actively collaborates with interdisciplinary teams to develop innovative approaches for climate-smart agriculture

Profile:

🎓 Academic Background:

  • Ph.D. in Environmental Sciences (2019-2023) – Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi
    • Thesis: Impacts of elevated ozone, carbon dioxide, and their interaction on pollination ecosystem services in Indian Mustard
  • M.Sc. (Agriculture) in Environmental Sciences (2017-2019) – Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore
    • Thesis: Impacts of Tropospheric Ozone on Yield and Quality of Garlic
  • B.Sc. in Agriculture (2013-2017) – Annamalai University, Chidambaram

🌱 Expertise:

  • Climate Change Modeling
  • Air Pollution (Ozone Impacts)
  • Climate Change Effects on Agriculture
  • Ecosystem & Pollination Services Quantification

🏆 Awards & Recognitions:

  • Young Scientist Associate Award (2021) – Agricultural and Environmental Technology Development Society
  • Women Excellence Award (2023) – 9th Go Green Summit, Bali, Indonesia
  • Young Researcher Award (2024) – Prosper Foundation & A.H.M. Foundation
  • Multiple Best Oral Presenter Awards in national and international conferences

Publication Top Notes:

  • Assessing the Impact of Climate Change on Methane Emissions from Rice Production Systems in Southern India
    Atmosphere, 2024-10-24 | DOI: 10.3390/atmos15111270
    Contributors: Boomiraj Kovilpillai, Gayathri Jawahar Jothi, Diogenes L. Antille, Prabu P. Chidambaram, Senani Karunaratne, Arti Bhatia, Mohan Kumar Shanmugam, Musie Rose, Senthilraja Kandasamy, Selvakumar Selvaraj, et al.
  • Interactive Effects of Elevated Ozone and Carbon Dioxide on Physiological Traits of Different Indian Mustards
    Plant Physiology Reports, 2024-06 | DOI: 10.1007/s40502-023-00779-9
    Contributors: Gayathri Jawahar Jothi, Dinesh Kumar Sharma, Boomiraj Kovilpillai, Arti Bhatia, Sudhir Kumar, Diogenes L. Antille
  • Effect of Tropospheric Ozone and Its Protectants on Gas Exchange Parameters, Antioxidant Enzymes, and Quality of Garlic (Allium sativum L.)
    International Journal of Biometeorology, 2024-05 | DOI: 10.1007/s00484-024-02642-4
    Contributors: Gayathri Jawahar Jothi, Boomiraj Kovilpillai, Avudainayagam Subramanian, Jayabalakrishnan Raja Mani, Sudhir Kumar, Balaji Kannan, Sudhakaran Mani
  • Assessing Tropospheric Ozone Influence on Garlic (Allium sativum L.) Rhizosphere Microbial Activity
    International Journal of Environment and Climate Change, 2024-03-20 | DOI: 10.9734/ijecc/2024/v14i34068
    Contributors: Gayathri Jawahar Jothi, Boomiraj Kovilpillai, Jayabalakrishnan Raja Mani, Balaji Kannan, Selvakumar Selvaraj
  • Impacts of Elevated Ozone and CO₂ on Growth and Yield of Double Zero Mustard (Brassica juncea)
    The Indian Journal of Agricultural Sciences, 2023-08-08 | DOI: 10.56093/ijas.v93i7.137155
    Contributors: Gayathri Jawahar Jothi, D. K. Sharma, Boomiraj Kovilpillai, Arti Bhatia, Sudhir Kumar, Manjunath Prasad, Sachin Suresh Suroshe, Ranjeet Ranjan Kumar, Vijay Dunna, Soora Naresh Kumar
  • Impact of Tropospheric Ozone on Growth and Yield of Garlic in High Altitude Region of Western Ghats
    International Journal of Chemical Studies, 2019-05-15
    Contributors: Gayathri Jawahar Jothi