Simona Gavrilas | Plants | Best Researcher Award

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 MonitoringSensors, 2022.
  • Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Properties of Selected Spice ExtractsInternational Journal of Food Properties, 2010.
  • New Potential Biocatalysts by Laccase Immobilization in PVA Cryogel Type CarrierApplied Biochemistry and Biotechnology, 2010.
  • Closing the Loop with Keratin-Rich Fibrous MaterialsPolymers, 2021.
  • Salvia officinalis L. Essential Oil: Characterization, Antioxidant Properties, and the Effects of Aromatherapy in Adult PatientsAntioxidants, 2022.
  • Preparation of Immobilized Trametes pubescens Laccase on a Cryogel-Type Polymeric Carrier and Application of the Biocatalyst to Apple Juice Phenolic CompoundsEuropean Food Research and Technology, 2012.
  • The Consumption of Organic, Traditional, and/or European Eco-Label Products: Elements of Local Production and SustainabilitySustainability, 2021.
  • Removal of Cypermethrin from Water by Using Fucus Spiralis Marine AlgaInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 2019.
  • Membrane-Active Peptides and Their Potential Biomedical ApplicationPharmaceutics, 2023.
  • Characterization of the Complexing Agents’ Influence on Bioscouring Cotton Fabrics by FT-IR and TG/DTG/DTA AnalysisJournal of Thermal Analysis and Calorimetry, 2018.
  • The Influence of Elevated CO₂ on Volatile Emissions, Photosynthetic Characteristics, and Pigment Content in Brassicaceae Plant Species and VarietiesPlants, 2022.
  • Comparative Study Regarding the Influence of the Complexing Agents EDTA and Sodium Citrate on the 50% Flax-50% Cotton Fabrics During the Bioscouring TreatmentInternational Multidisciplinary Scientific GeoConference: SGEM, 2016.
  • Commercial Laccase Oxidation of Phenolic CompoundsU.P.B. Scientific Bulletin, Series B: Chemistry and Material Sciences, 2012.
  • White Grape Pomace Valorization for Remediating PurposesApplied Sciences, 2022.
  • Graphene-Oxide Peptide-Containing Materials for Biomedical ApplicationsInternational Journal of Molecular Sciences, 2024.
  • Analysis of Sustainable Communication Patterns During the Telework Period in Western Romanian CorporationsInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 2022.
  • TG/DTG Analysis of an Eco-Friendly Scoured FabricRevista de Chimie, 2019.
  • Study on the Influence of Ultrasound in Bioscouring Treatment of 50% Flax + 50% Cotton FabricsAnnals of the University of Oradea, Fascicle of Textiles, Leatherwork, 2017.
  • Improving the Antioxidant Properties of Wild Raspberry Juice by Enzymatic TreatmentsRevista de Chimie, 2016.
  • A Sustainable Nutritional Behavior in the Era of Climate ChangesSmart and Sustainable Technology for Resilient Cities and Communities, 2022.

 

Hemraj | Agriculture | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Hemraj | Agriculture | Best Researcher Award 

 Mr.Hemraj, Haryana Space Application Centre, Hisar,India

Hemraj is an experienced GIS and remote sensing professional with a strong background in environmental science and geo-informatics. Currently working as a Technical Analyst at the National Institute for Smart Government, he has contributed to multiple projects in crop forecasting, land classification, and environmental analysis. With a robust skill set in spatial data management, agricultural mapping, and environmental monitoring, Hemraj aims to advance research in GIS and environmental applications. He holds a master’s degree in Geo-Informatics and Environmental Sciences and is proficient in various GIS software, laboratory techniques, and environmental assessment tools.

Publication profile:

Orcid Profile

Scopus Profile

Education:

Hemraj holds a Master of Technology (M.Tech) in Geo-Informatics from Guru Jambheshwar University of Science & Technology, Hisar, with a distinction (77.40%), completed in 2021. Before that, he earned a Master of Science (M.Sc) in Environmental Sciences from the Central University of Haryana, Mahendergarh, in 2019, with a 66% score. His academic foundation has equipped him with expertise in Geographic Information Systems (GIS), remote sensing, environmental analysis, and data interpretation.

🔬 Research Interests:

Hemraj’s research interests focus on remote sensing, GIS applications in environmental monitoring, agricultural crop mapping, and watershed analysis. He has a particular interest in using Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) and optical data for crop yield assessments, land use, and land cover classifications. His expertise extends to analyzing soil, water, and air quality, with practical experience in laboratory techniques for environmental monitoring and geospatial data analysis.

Professional Experience: 

Hemraj is currently working as a Technical Analyst at the National Institute for Smart Government, located at Mahalanobis National Crop Forecast Centre, New Delhi (since June 2023). Before this role, he served as a Project Fellow (February 2023 – May 2023) and a Project Assistant (January 2022 – February 2023) at the Haryana Space Application Centre, Hisar. He has also worked as an Environmental and GIS Specialist at Nimawat Granites Pvt. Ltd. from July 2021 to January 2022. Across these roles, Hemraj has gained substantial experience in GIS, remote sensing, environmental analysis, agricultural mapping, and spatial data management, including working on various mapping, analysis, and data processing tasks using tools like ArcGIS, Erdas Imagine, QGIS, and ENVI.

 

Top Notable Publication: 

Hemraj, M. K. (2022). GIS-based surface elevation assessment of spring water quality of Shivalik Range of Jammu and Kashmir, India. Groundwater for Sustainable Development, 19, 100834. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.gsd.2022.100834

Om Pal, Hemraj, & Singh, S. (2022). Flash-flood potential mapping in agricultural land using rule-based classification approach on multi-temporal synthetic-aperture radar (SAR) data over Jhajjar and Rohtak Districts of Haryana State. South Asian Research Journal of Engineering and Technology, 4(6), 118-127. https://doi.org/10.36346/sarjet.2022.v04i06.005

Om Pal, Hemraj, Rai, B., & Singh, S. (2023). Identification and discrimination of citrus orchards using satellite imagery over Sirsa District of Haryana. Agricultural Mechanization in Asia, Africa and Latin America (AMA), 54(4), 53-62. https://doi.org/10.3329/ama.v54i4.12345

Kumar, P., Hemraj, Malik, M., Singh, M., Prasad, N. D., Pal, S., & Sharma, P. (2023). Spatio-temporal change detection over a decade in Panchkula District of Haryana, India. Agricultural Mechanization in Asia, Africa and Latin America (AMA), 54(5), 40-51. https://doi.org/10.3329/ama.v54i5.56789

Om Pal, & Hemraj. (2023). Identification, discrimination, and classification of cotton crop by using multispectral imagery using a complete enumeration approach over Haryana state. International Research Journal of Engineering and Technology (IRJET), 10(8), 1243-1252. https://doi.org/10.36547/irjet.v10i8.34567

Yadav, S., Bajar, S., Hemraj, Rohilla, R., Chhikara, S. K., & Dhankhar, R. (2023). Assessment of groundwater quality near municipal solid waste landfill by using multivariate statistical technique and GIS: A case study of Bandhwari (Gurugram) landfill site, Haryana, India. Sustainable Water Resources Management, 9, 174. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40899-023-00293-5

Hemraj, Om Pal, Sharma, M. P., & Singh, S. (2024). Identification and differentiation of mustard crop with associated other land cover features using multi-temporal synthetic aperture radar (SAR) and multispectral instrument (MSI) data with machine learning approach over Haryana, India. Agricultural Research. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40003-024-00719-2

Conclusion

Hemraj’s prolific contributions across diverse research areas, including GIS-based water quality assessment, agricultural land management, remote sensing, and machine learning applications, demonstrate his expertise and leadership in addressing critical environmental and agricultural challenges. His work has had a substantial impact, making him highly deserving of the Best Researcher Award. Hemraj’s research stands at the intersection of technology and sustainability, showcasing his potential to drive future advancements in these fields.

 

Maha Al-Zu’bi | Sustainable Agriculture | Women Researcher Award

Dr. Maha Al-Zu’bi | Sustainable Agriculture | Women Researcher Award

Regional Researcher- Sustainable and Resilient Water Systems at University of Calgary, Jordan

Maha Al-Zu’bi is a seasoned expert in managing international development projects with a strong background in environmental design and sustainability. With over 15 years of experience, she has led and contributed to high-impact initiatives across the Middle East and Central Asia. Her research interests include climate change governance and the energy-water-food nexus. Maha is dedicated to integrating innovative solutions and fostering collaboration to address pressing global challenges. 🌍💧🌱

Profile:

Educational Background:

Ph.D. in Environmental Design with a specialization in Energy Environmental Systems from the University of Calgary, Canada.

Professional Experience:

  • Over 15 years in managing public and internationally funded projects, including those funded by major organizations like the UNDP, GGGI, World Bank, and USAID.
  • Currently co-leading the CGIAR Regional Integrated Initiative “Fragility to Resilience in Central and West Asia and North Africa” and serving as a Regional Researcher at the International Water Management Institute.
  • Previously managed major research initiatives and climate change projects, such as the Global Research Initiative in Sustainable Low Carbon Unconventional Resources at the University of Calgary.

Research Interests:

Maha’s research focuses on climate change governance, green roof policy, and the energy-water-food nexus. She is passionate about proposing local climate policies and principles for climate change adaptation and mitigation, particularly in the Arab region. Her work emphasizes fostering interdisciplinary approaches to address complex environmental challenges.

Publication Top Notes:

  • SDG11–Sustainable Cities and Communities: Towards Inclusive, Safe, and Resilient Settlements
    M Al-Zu’bi, V Radovic
    Emerald Publishing Limited, 32, 2018
  • Water, Energy, and Rooftops: Integrating Green Roof Systems into Building Policies in the Arab Region
    M Al-Zu’bi, O Mansour
    Environment and Natural Resources Research, 7(2), 11-36, 2017
  • Jordan’s Climate Change Governance Framework: From Silos to an Intersectoral Approach
    M Al-Zu’bi
    Environment Systems and Decisions, 36, 277-301, 2016
  • African Perspectives on Climate Change Research
    M Al-Zu’bi, SW Dejene, J Hounkpè, OL Kupika, S Lwasa, M Mbenge, …
    Nature Climate Change, 12(12), 1078-1084, 2022
  • Water-Energy-Food-Climate Change Nexus in the Arab Cities: The Case of Amman City, Jordan
    M Al-Zu’bi
    University of Calgary, 2017
  • Shifting Waters: The Challenges of Transitioning from Freshwater to Treated Wastewater Irrigation in the Northern Jordan Valley
    MH Tawfik, H Al-Zawaidah, J Hoogesteger, M Al-Zu’bi, P Hellegers, …
    Water, 15(7), 1315, 2023
  • Strengthening Climate Security in the Middle East and North Africa Region
    P Laderach, DJ Merrey, F Schapendonk, B Dhehibi, S Ruckstuhl, …
    IWMI, 2022
  • Water, Energy and Food: The Problematic Aspects of the Transition from ‘Silo Approach’ to ‘Nexus Approach’ in the Arab Region
    M Al-Zu’bi, N Keough
    Water, Energy, Food and People Across the Global South: ‘The Nexus’ in an …, 2018
  • Towards Lower Greenhouse Gas Emissions Agriculture in North Africa Through Climate-Smart Agriculture: A Systematic Review
    Y Brouziyne, A El Bilali, T Epule Epule, V Ongoma, A Elbeltagi, J Hallam, …
    Climate, 11(7), 139, 2023
  • Application of Artificial Intelligence in Monitoring of Animal Health and Welfare
    AZA Ali, M Al-Zu’bi
    Indian Journal of Animal Research, 57(11), 1550-1555, 2023
  • Hydrological Modelling for Reservoir Operation: Application of SWAT Model for Kalu Ganga Catchment, Sri Lanka
    GAT Madushanka, KDW Nandalal, LP Muthuwatta
    ENGINEER, 55(03), 29-41, 2022
  • One Hundred Priority Questions for the Development of Sustainable Food Systems in Sub-Saharan Africa
    AJM Devenish, P Schmitter, NP Jellason, N Esmail, NM Abdi, SK Adanu, …
    Land, 12(10), 1879, 2023
  • Climate Security in the MENA Region
    P Läderach, DJ Merrey, F Schapendonk, B Dhehibi, S Ruckstuhl, …
    2022
  • SDG11 and the Associated Challenges to Implementation
    M Al-Zu’bi, V Radovic
    SDG11–Sustainable Cities and Communities: Towards Inclusive, Safe, and …, 2018
  • Cities and Key Interactions
    M Al-Zu’bi, V Radovic
    SDG11–Sustainable Cities and Communities: Towards Inclusive, Safe, and …, 2018
  • Mapping SDG Stories
    M Al-Zu’bi, V Radovic
    SDG11–Sustainable Cities and Communities: Towards Inclusive, Safe, and …, 2018