Amit Kesarwani | Climate Change | Editorial Board Member

Assist. Prof. Dr. Amit Kesarwani | Climate Change | Editorial Board Member

Assistant Professor | Govind Ballabh Pant University of Agriculture and Technology | India

Dr. Amit Kesarwani is a distinguished researcher specializing in agronomy, with core expertise in soil and plant nutrition, nitrogen-use efficiency, organic farming, and wheat agronomy. His research focuses on optimizing nutrient management systems, advancing sustainable crop production strategies, and enhancing the biochemical and physiological quality of cereals through improved farming practices. Emerging interests in biofortification, soil microbial dynamics, and climate-resilient agronomic interventions further expand the scope of his scientific contributions. Over his career, Dr. Kesarwani has served in pivotal academic roles, including Assistant Professor of Agronomy at GBPUAT, Pantnagar, and Visiting Fellow at Western Sydney University, Australia, where he actively engaged in collaborative research on plant nutrition and sustainable production systems. His key contributions span influential studies on nutrient management strategies, organic farming impacts, and rice and wheat quality enhancement, reflected in widely cited works on microbial-function-based nutrient strategies, integrated nutrient management, antioxidant properties of cereals, and long-term fertilizer impacts on soil microbiology. His research has advanced practical innovations for improving nitrogen-use efficiency, reducing nitrate toxicity through decision-support tools, and strengthening soil health under intensive cultivation, offering valuable insights for modern agricultural policy and sustainable farming frameworks. Dr. Kesarwani’s work also contributes to understanding genotype–environment interactions for quality traits in cereal crops, supporting industry efforts toward healthier and more resilient food systems. His scientific output, including high-impact publications in agricultural productivity, plant biochemistry, and soil science, demonstrates continued commitment to improving crop performance while minimizing environmental degradation. Guided by a vision to strengthen global food security, he aims to drive innovations that foster climate-smart agriculture, empower farmers through evidence-based nutrient-management solutions, and enhance the sustainability of cereal-based cropping systems. Through his leadership in research, collaborative initiatives, and knowledge dissemination, Dr. Kesarwani continues to contribute meaningfully to agricultural science, ensuring that sustainable agronomic practices remain central to meeting the world’s growing food and environmental challenges.

Profile: Google Scholar

Featured Publications

1. Mehta, C. M., Emmanuel, B., Kesarwani, A., Sirari, K., & Sharma, A. K. (2016). Nutrient management strategies based on microbial functions. In Microbial Inoculants in Sustainable Agricultural Productivity (Vol. 2).

2. Wailare, A. T., & Kesarwani, A. (2017). Effect of integrated nutrient management on growth and yield parameters of maize (Zea mays L.) as well as soil physico-chemical properties. Biomedical Journal of Scientific & Technical Research, 1(2), 294–299.

3. Kesarwani, A., Chiang, P. Y., & Chen, S. S. (2016). Rapid Visco Analyzer measurements of japonica rice cultivars to study interrelationship between pasting properties and farming system. International Journal of Agronomy, 2016(1), 3595326.

4. Saini, R. K., Khan, M. I., Shang, X., Kumar, V., Kumari, V., Kesarwani, A., & Ko, E. Y. (2024). Dietary sources, stabilization, health benefits, and industrial application of anthocyanins—A review. Foods, 13(8), 1227.

5. Kesarwani, A., Chiang, P. Y., & Chen, S. S. (2014). Distribution of phenolic compounds and antioxidative activities of rice kernel and their relationships with agronomic practice. The Scientific World Journal, 2014(1), 620171.

Dr. Rupal Mangukiya | Climate Change | Editorial Board Member

Dr. Rupal Mangukiya | Climate Change | Editorial Board Member

Assistant Professor | Cottey College | United States

Dr. Rupal D. Mangukiya is an accomplished researcher and educator specializing in Environmental Science, Environmental Policy, and Waterscape Management, with nine years of full-time equivalent experience in higher education and scholarly research. Her work centers on waterscape ecology, land-use modeling, sustainable development assessments, and GIS-based environmental analysis, with emerging interests in environmental justice and technology-enabled pedagogy. Dr. Mangukiya currently serves as Assistant Professor and Program Coordinator of Environmental Studies at Cottey College, Nevada, Missouri, where she leads curriculum development, supervises student research, delivers core courses in environmental science and geography, and steers departmental planning and program enhancement. Her research has generated meaningful contributions to the understanding of socio-ecological systems, including advanced applications of GIS, quantitative modeling techniques, and policy-relevant evaluations of natural resource management. Among her notable scholarly outputs is her work analyzing the three pillars of the Sustainable Development Goals at sub-national scales within the United States, offering valuable insights for regional policy development and sustainability planning. Through her doctoral research and ongoing publications, she has helped advance the integration of spatial analytics with environmental policy frameworks, supporting improved decision-making around land use, waterscape governance, and long-term resource resilience. Dr. Mangukiya’s broader impact lies in her commitment to strengthening environmental literacy, fostering research-driven academic programs, and equipping future practitioners with the analytical and ethical tools needed to address complex ecological challenges. Her vision is rooted in advancing sustainable resource management, promoting equity-centered environmental policy, and bridging science with community-oriented solutions to support resilient societies and evidence-based environmental innovation.

Profiles: Google Scholar | ORCID

Featured Publications

1. Quality Characterization of Groundwater Using Water Quality Index in Surat City, Gujarat, India. M. Rupal, B. Tanushree, C. Sukalyan
International Research Journal of Environment Sciences, 1(4), 14–23 (2012)

2. Analyzing Three Pillars of Sustainable Development Goals at Sub-National Scales Within the USA . R.D. Mangukiya, D.M. Sklarew
World Development Sustainability, 2, 100058 (2023)

Prof. Sue Walker | Agrometeorology | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Sue Walker | Agrometeorology | Best Researcher Award

Principal Researcher Agromet | ARC-NRE & UFS | South Africa

Prof. Sue Walker is an Affiliated Emeritus Professor of Agrometeorology at the University of the Free State and a Principal Specialist Researcher in Agrometeorology at the Agricultural Research Council, South Africa. She holds a Ph.D. in Plant Physiology from the University of California, Davis, and advanced diplomas in Project Management and Innovation & Design Thinking. Prof. Walker’s research focuses on the development of climate services for agricultural systems, climate-smart agriculture, crop-climate modeling, and adaptation strategies for smallholder farmers in semi-arid regions. She has authored over 131 peer-reviewed scientific articles and 40 book chapters, contributing significantly to areas like water-energy-food nexus, crop modeling, and the application of seasonal forecasts in agriculture. Her work includes notable projects such as the “Climate-Wise Women” initiative and the “Rain for Africa” project. Prof. Walker has received several prestigious awards, including a Fulbright Scholarship, a South African National Research Foundation B3-rating, a fellowship with the South African Society of Crop Production, and the Bram Fischer Oxford-South Africa Award. She has served as Chair of the World Meteorological Organization's OPAG on Agrometeorological Services and as a representative to WMO-CAgM and ICID Working Groups. Additionally, she serves on the Editorial Committee of the South African Journal of Plant and Soil. Her work emphasizes participatory rural appraisal methods, decision support tools for farmers, and the integration of climate services into agricultural development strategies. With extensive global experience from over 54 countries, she remains a leading expert in building resilience against climate variability in the agricultural sector. She has 3039 citations from 2600 documents across 115 publications, with an h-index of 30.

Profiles:  Google Scholar | ORCID | Scopus

Publications 

1. Kumssa, D. B., Joy, E. J. M., Ander, E. L., Watts, M. J., Young, S. D., Walker, S., ... (2015). Dietary calcium and zinc deficiency risks are decreasing but remain prevalent. Scientific Reports, 5(1), 10974.

2. Tsubo, M., Walker, S., & Ogindo, H. O. (2005). A simulation model of cereal–legume intercropping systems for semi-arid regions: I. Model development. Field Crops Research, 93(1), 10–22.

3. Tsubo, M., Walker, S., & Mukhala, E. (2001). Comparisons of radiation use efficiency of mono-/inter-cropping systems with different row orientations. Field Crops Research, 71(1), 17–29.

4. Gandure, S., Walker, S., & Botha, J. J. (2013). Farmers' perceptions of adaptation to climate change and water stress in a South African rural community. Environmental Development, 5, 39–53.

5. Tesfaye, K., Walker, S., & Tsubo, M. (2006). Radiation interception and radiation use efficiency of three grain legumes under water deficit conditions in a semi-arid environment. European Journal of Agronomy, 25(1), 60–70.

Ileana Cristina Covaliu-Mierla | Climate Change | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Ileana Cristina Covaliu-Mierla | Climate Change | Best Researcher Award

Director of Doctoral School, Faculty of Biotechnical Systems Engineering at Politehnica University of Bucharest | Romania

Prof. Dr. Ileana Cristina Covaliu-Mierlă is a distinguished academic and researcher in the field of biotechnical systems engineering, environmental sciences, and applied chemistry. With extensive expertise in nanotechnology, wastewater treatment, and biotechnology, she has contributed significantly to advancing sustainable environmental solutions. Currently serving as Director of the Doctoral School of Biotechnical Systems Engineering at the National University of Science and Technology POLITEHNICA Bucharest, she is recognized for her leadership in research, teaching, and innovation. Her career reflects a strong commitment to education, international collaboration, and scientific excellence, earning her numerous distinctions and awards in her field.

Professional Profiles

Scopus | ORCID

Education

Prof. Covaliu-Mierlă pursued her academic training at the University POLITEHNICA of Bucharest, specializing in chemistry, biotechnical systems, and environmental engineering. She earned her PhD in Chemistry, focusing on nanostructured composites with biomedical applications. Later, she completed postdoctoral studies on hybrid nanomaterials with biomedical potential and conducted research in bionanotechnology applications for wastewater treatment. Her earlier academic journey included a Master’s degree in nanostructured composites and an Engineering diploma in environmental protection within the chemical and petrochemical industries. This rigorous academic foundation provided her with a solid background in chemistry, nanotechnology, and biotechnology, enabling her to integrate science with practical environmental solutions.

Professional Experience

Prof. Covaliu-Mierlă has over two decades of academic and research experience at the National University of Science and Technology POLITEHNICA Bucharest. She advanced through roles as Lecturer, Associate Professor, Professor, PhD Supervisor, and now serves as Director of the Doctoral School of Biotechnical Systems Engineering. She also contributes nationally as a member of the National Council for the Certification of Titles, Diplomas, and University Certificates (CNATDCU). In these roles, she has guided doctoral students, conducted impactful research, and designed innovative solutions in biotechnology and environmental engineering. Her teaching expertise spans environmental analysis, biotechnology, ecological protection, and sustainable industries.

Research Interest

Her research interests lie at the intersection of biotechnology, nanotechnology, and environmental engineering. She is particularly passionate about developing nanostructured and hybrid materials for wastewater treatment and biomedical applications. Prof. Covaliu-Mierlă explores sustainable technologies for depollution, with a focus on photocatalysis, bioengineering, and eco-friendly nanomaterials. Her work also covers environmental quality analysis, food biotechnology, and advanced separation techniques. By integrating cutting-edge nanotechnology with ecological approaches, she contributes to solving pressing global challenges such as water pollution, industrial waste management, and public health. Her interdisciplinary perspective makes her research highly relevant for both academia and industry.

Awards and Honors

Prof. Covaliu-Mierlă has been honored with numerous national and international awards recognizing her innovation and scientific contributions. She has received multiple gold, silver, and bronze medals at EUROINVENT exhibitions for groundbreaking wastewater treatment technologies and nanotechnology applications. Her research achievements have also been acknowledged by leading academic institutions and professional associations, including awards from UMF Carol-Davila, INMA Institute, and international scientific bodies. She has received diplomas of excellence for her role as a postdoctoral researcher, coordinator of award-winning student projects, and distinguished speaker at scientific conferences. These recognitions highlight her outstanding dedication to advancing environmental and biotechnical sciences.

Research Skills

Prof. Covaliu-Mierlă possesses advanced research skills in nanomaterials synthesis, wastewater treatment technologies, and biochemical processes in environmental engineering. She is highly experienced in spectrophotometric analyses (UV-Vis, FT-IR), X-ray diffraction, and morphological characterization using TEM and SEM. Her expertise extends to separation and purification technologies, as well as modern analytical techniques applied to food products and environmental quality. She demonstrates strong project management abilities, having led several nationally funded research projects. Additionally, her proficiency in multiple programming languages and scientific software supports her analytical work, while her leadership in research teams underscores her capacity to mentor and inspire innovation.

Publications

Prof. Covaliu-Mierlă is the author and co-author of several specialty books, scientific articles, and research studies. Her publications cover topics in biochemistry, ecology, nanotechnology, and environmental protection. Notable works include books on environmental biotechnology, ecological protection, and analytical techniques for water quality assessment. She has presented her findings at numerous international conferences, earning recognition for oral communications and research excellence. Her contributions to peer-reviewed journals emphasize the practical applications of nanotechnology and biotechnology in sustainable environmental solutions. Through her publications, she disseminates knowledge that bridges theory with practice, inspiring future research in science, technology, and environmental innovation.

Novel adsorbent based on banana peel waste for removal of heavy metal ions from synthetic solutions. (2021). Materials.

Magnetite oxide nanomaterial used for lead ions removal from industrial wastewater. (2021). Materials.

BIOGAS – A solution for treating animal waste resulting from zootechnical activities. (2024). UPB Scientific Bulletin, Series B: Chemistry and Materials Science.

Biodegradation of anionic and cationic surfactants using bacterial strains from activated sludge. (2021). International Journal of Conservation Science.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Prof. Dr. Ileana Cristina Covaliu-Mierlă exemplifies academic excellence, research innovation, and professional leadership in environmental engineering and biotechnology. Her career reflects a harmonious balance between teaching, research, and practical application, with a focus on addressing environmental challenges through nanotechnology and sustainable solutions. Recognized internationally for her pioneering contributions, she continues to mentor future generations of scientists while advancing cutting-edge research. Her work has a lasting impact on environmental protection, biotechnical systems, and sustainable industries, making her a respected figure in the global scientific community.

Sabab Ali Shah | Environment | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Sabab Ali Shah | Environment | Best Researcher Award

Aror University of Art Architecture Design and Heritage Sukkur - Pakistan

Professional Profile

Scopus
Orcid
Google Scholar

Summary

Dr. Sabab Ali Shah is an accomplished environmental and water engineering academic, currently serving as Assistant Professor and Chairman of the Department of Environmental Sciences at Aror University of Art, Architecture, Design and Heritage, Sukkur, Pakistan. He also holds the position of Director at the Office of Research, Innovation & Commercialization (ORIC). His international education and diverse research experiences have significantly contributed to his scholarly footprint in hydrology, climate change, and water resource management.

Educational Details

Dr. Shah completed his MS-PhD in Civil and Environmental Engineering, specializing in Environmental and Water Engineering, from Hanyang University, South Korea (2017–2022). His doctoral research focused on evaluating hydrological responses to climate change and human activities. He earned his Bachelor of Engineering (Agri) degree with distinction from Sindh Agriculture University, Pakistan, in 2012.

Professional Experience

Dr. Shah has held academic and administrative roles in both national and international institutions. He worked as a Teaching Assistant and Post-Doctoral Fellow at Hanyang University, South Korea, and currently serves as Assistant Professor at Aror University. His leadership roles include Chairman of the Department of Environmental Sciences and Director of ORIC. He has also contributed as Program Incharge, Board of Faculty member, and conference organizer, and held industry experience during his internship at Valley Irrigation Pak.

Research Interest

His research interests lie in Civil and Environmental Engineering with an emphasis on Water Resources Engineering, Hydrology, Climate Change Adaptation, Hydro-environmental Modelling, Rainfall-Runoff Modelling, Stochastic Processes, and Hydrologic Risk Assessment. He actively explores the impacts of hydrological extremes like floods and droughts, with a focus on integrated watershed and water management under changing climatic conditions.

Author Metrics

Dr. Shah has published over 30 peer-reviewed articles and conference papers. His citation metrics are noteworthy: 3,330 citations on Google Scholar, 302 on ResearchGate, 234 on Web of Science, and 222 on Scopus. He also serves as an editorial board member and guest editor for multiple international journals and has completed over 100 verified peer reviews.

Awards and Honors

He has received numerous accolades, including the Annual Excellent Research Award (2024) from Aror University, the Research Fellowship at INTI International University, Malaysia (2023), and the Excellence Achievement Award (2022) from the Sindh Education Foundation. He is a recipient of the HEC Pakistan PhD Scholarship and earlier merit-based awards such as the Quaid-e-Azam and Diya Foundation scholarships.

Publication Top Notes

1. A Fascinating Exploration into Nitrite Accumulation into Low Concentration Reactors Using Cutting-Edge Machine Learning Techniques
  • Authors: Hareef Ahmed Keerio, Sabab Ali Shah, Zouhaib Ali, Salahuddin Panhwar, Ghulam Shabir Solangi, Amjad Ali, Rizwan Wahab, Yang-Chun Yong

  • Journal: Process Biochemistry

  • Year: 2024

  • Abstract : This study employs advanced machine learning techniques to model nitrite accumulation in low-concentration reactors, offering insights into biochemical optimization for wastewater treatment.

2. Lithological Exploration for Potable Water Lens in the Indus Delta and Their Connectivity with Freshwater Seepage and Environment
  • Authors: Zamir Abro, Sabab Ali Shah, Abdul Latif Qureshi, Abdul Soomro, Muhammad Ali Jamali, Tae-Woong Kim, Raeid Saad Alharbi

  • Journal: Water Practice & Technology

  • Year: 2024

  • Abstract: The research focuses on identifying potable water lenses in the Indus Delta through lithological assessments and connects their behavior with freshwater seepage patterns and environmental implications.

3. Evaluating the Impact of Climate Variability and Anthropogenic Activities on Streamflow Condition in Large River Basin Using Budyko-Based Functions
  • Authors: Sabab Ali Shah, Darya Memon, Raeid Saad Alharbi, Tae-Woong Kim

  • Conference: 9th FRIEND-Water Global Conference 2023, Dakar, Senegal

  • Publisher/Organizer: Institut Confucius, Université

  • Year: 2023

  • Abstract : This study applies Budyko-based hydrological modeling to separate the effects of climate variability and human activities on river streamflow, providing a critical tool for water management in large basins.

4. Decomposition of Hydrological Response to Climate Change and Anthropogenic Activities
  • Authors: Sabab Ali Shah, Darya Memon, Raeid Saad Alharbi, Tae-Woong Kim

  • Conference: 40th IAHR World Congress

  • Location: Vienna, Austria

  • Year: 2023

  • Abstract : The paper introduces a methodological framework for decomposing hydrological responses to climate change and anthropogenic pressures, aiding decision-making in watershed planning and resilience building.

5. Application of Drone Surveillance for Advanced Agriculture Monitoring by Android Application Using Convolutional Neural Network
  • Authors: Sabab Ali Shah, Ghulam Mustafa Lakho, Hareef Ahmed Keerio, Muhammad Nouman Sattar, Gulzar Hussain, Mujahid Mehdi, et al.

  • Journal: Agronomy

  • Year: 2023

  • Abstract : This research presents a novel drone-based agricultural monitoring system powered by a CNN-integrated Android app, enhancing real-time field surveillance and precision farming strategies.

Conclusion

Dr. Sabab Ali Shah clearly demonstrates the hallmarks of a leading researcher—productivity, innovation, impact, leadership, and service to the academic community. His interdisciplinary approach, commitment to addressing climate change and water security, and ongoing international contributions make him exceptionally suited for the Best Researcher Award. Recognizing his work will not only celebrate individual excellence but also promote research excellence within emerging academic institutions in Pakistan.