Hongtao Shi | Soil Physics | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Hongtao Shi | Soil Physics | Best Researcher Award

China University of Mining and Technology | China 

Hongtao Shi is a productive researcher in photogrammetry, remote sensing, and SAR-based soil moisture retrieval, with a strong record of contributions to agricultural monitoring and polarimetric decomposition techniques. His work spans high-resolution soil moisture estimation, multi-frequency and multi-incidence radar analysis, and time-series applications integrating passive and active remote sensing products. He has authored 31 peer-reviewed documents, which have collectively received 353 citations, as recorded across 333 citing documents. His current h-index is 10, reflecting both the influence and consistency of his research output within the scientific community. He has published in high-impact journals such as Remote Sensing of Environment, IEEE Journal of Selected Topics in Applied Earth Observations and Remote Sensing, Journal of Hydrology, and Agricultural Water Management, addressing challenges in crop monitoring, radar scattering models, and novel polarimetric decomposition approaches. In addition to journal articles, he has delivered presentations at prestigious international conferences, including IGARSS and PolInSAR, where his work on SAR observation techniques and integration with microwave products has drawn recognition. His research has advanced methods for retrieving field-scale soil moisture and improving agricultural parameter estimation by leveraging L-band, quad-pol, and time-series SAR data, reinforcing his reputation as a specialist in SAR-based environmental remote sensing.

Profile:  Orcid 

Featured Publications

1. Zhao, J., Zhang, M., Zhou, Z., Wang, Z., Lang, F., Shi, H., & Zheng, N. (2025). CFFormer: A cross-fusion transformer framework for the semantic segmentation of multisource remote sensing images. IEEE Transactions on Geoscience and Remote Sensing.

2. Wang, Z., Zhao, L., Jiang, N., Sun, W., Yang, J., Shi, H., & Li, P. (2025). DMCF-Net: Dilated multiscale context fusion network for SAR flood detection. IEEE Journal of Selected Topics in Applied Earth Observations and Remote Sensing.

3. Shi, H., Wu, Q., Lu, Z., Zhao, J., Liu, W., Zhao, T., Zhu, L., Lang, F., & Zhao, L. (2025, November). Meter-level resolution surface soil moisture estimation over agricultural fields from time-series quad-pol SAR with constraints of coarse resolution CCI data products. Agricultural Water Management.

4. Qian, J., Yang, J., Sun, W., Zhao, L., Shi, L., Shi, H., Dang, C., & Dou, Q. (2025, July 14). Multi-layer and profile soil moisture estimation and uncertainty evaluation based on multi-frequency (Ka-, X-, C-, S-, and L-band) and quad-polarization airborne SAR data from synchronous observation experiment in Liao River Basin, China. Water.

Ndy von kluge Paul | Soil Physics | Excellence in Innovation

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Dr. Ndy von kluge Paul | Soil Physics | Excellence in Innovation

University of Yaounde 1 | Cameroon

Dr. Paul Ndy Von Kluge, born on 18 May 1974 in Bibia Lolodorf, Cameroon, is a permanent lecturer and Head of Continuing Education at the University Institute of Wood Technology (IUT Bois de Mbalmayo), University of Yaoundé I. He holds a PhD in Physics with specialization in nonlinear dynamics and complex systems and is also an Engineer in Civil Engineering, combining nearly 15 years of professional expertise in hydroelectric dam construction, civil works, and structural engineering with academic research and teaching. Affiliated with the Laboratory of Mechanics, Materials and Structures at the University of Yaoundé I, his research interests span nonlinear oscillators, stochastic dynamics, seismic control of structures, spatiotemporal chaos, and the mathematical modeling of electromechanical and fluid dynamic systems. He has authored 3 scientific documents, which have collectively been cited 15 times across 14 documents, reflecting an h-index of 3. Beyond his work in Cameroon, he has contributed to academic programs at the University of Bangui in the Central African Republic, demonstrating a regional impact in higher education. His multidisciplinary background bridges physics, mathematics, and engineering applications, particularly in vibration control, geophysics, fluid mechanics, and energy microproduction, positioning him as a versatile scholar and applied researcher.

Profile:  Scopus 

Featured Publications

Fractional dynamical behavior of a new nonlinear smooth and discontinuous (SD) oscillator for vibration energy harvesting with nonlinear magnetic coupling

Waleed Ghaly | Soil Physics | Soil Health Advocate Award

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Waleed Ghaly | Soil Physics | Soil Health Advocate Award

Waleed Ghaly | Jazan University | Saudi Arabia 

Waleed Ahmed Ghaly is an Associate Professor at Jazan University, Saudi Arabia, specializing in nuclear and applied physics. He holds a Ph.D. in Nuclear Physics and focuses on plasma physics, lasers, spectroscopy, and nanomaterial imaging. With over 31 published papers, three textbooks, and a citation index of 123, his research advances safe, radiation-based methods for pest control while promoting environmental sustainability and soil health.

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Summary

Dr. Waleed Ahmed Ghaly is a distinguished physicist whose research extends beyond the laboratory into environmental and soil health advocacy. His innovative application of radiation technologies offers safer alternatives to chemical pest management, contributing to healthier soils and sustainable ecosystems. His academic and professional record reflects excellence in teaching, research, and innovation with a vision aligned to global soil health goals.

Education

Dr. Waleed Ahmed Ghaly holds a Ph.D. in Nuclear Physics with a strong academic foundation that integrates advanced studies in plasma physics, laser applications, and x-ray analytical techniques. His educational journey reflects a blend of theoretical depth and practical expertise, enabling him to contribute significantly to scientific research and teaching in the field of applied physics.

Experience

As an Associate Professor at the College of Science, Jazan University, Dr. Ghaly has established himself as a dedicated academic and researcher. He has successfully led the establishment of laboratories focused on the interaction of radiation with matter, supporting both research advancement and student learning. His professional career demonstrates a consistent commitment to scientific innovation and environmental advocacy, particularly in the areas of safe radiation applications and soil health.

Research Focus

Dr. Ghaly’s research is centered on the interaction of plasma, lasers, and electromagnetic waves such as infrared, gamma rays, electron beams, and x-rays with matter. His work includes the imaging and morphology study of nanomaterials and the application of radiation in safe, chemical-free pest control techniques. This innovative research direction advocates for environmental sustainability and soil health while reducing dependency on harmful pesticides. His scientific contributions not only advance nuclear and applied physics but also address critical environmental challenges.

Skills

Dr. Ghaly’s core expertise includes plasma physics, spectroscopy, lasers, and x-ray analysis techniques. He is proficient in imaging and morphology studies using electron scanning microscopy and has strong experience in imaging analysis of nanomaterials. His teaching skills complement his technical abilities, allowing him to bridge research with education. Additionally, he applies his knowledge to environmentally safe methods for pest control, reducing reliance on chemical pesticides and promoting soil health.

Awards

Dr. Ghaly’s contributions to the academic community are reflected in his extensive publications, including three textbooks with ISBN recognition that serve as key resources for medical and physics education. His citation index of 123 and over 31 published research papers in peer-reviewed journals highlight his scholarly impact and international recognition in the field of applied physics and soil health advocacy.

Publications

  • Photoluminescence, optical band gap and surface wettability of some polymeric track detectors modified by electron beam
    Authors: M.F. Zaki, W.A. Ghaly, H.S. El-Bahkiry
    Journal: Surface and Coatings Technology

  • Harnessing the potential of NiMnâ‚‚Oâ‚„ nanoparticle: a next-generation supercapacitor electrode material
    Authors: M. Shariq, A. Alzahrani, E. Almutib, A.F. Alharbi, S.A. Algarni, W.A. Ghaly, et al.
    Journal: Physica Scripta

  • Recent advancements in supercapacitors and their charge storage mechanism and progress in transition metal sulfide-based electrodes
    Authors: M.S. Khan, M. Shariq, S.M. Bouzgarrou, R.E. Azooz, S. Kashif Ali, W.A. Ghaly, et al.
    Journal: Physica Scripta

  • Recent progress on MOFs-based electrode materials for supercapacitor
    Authors: A. Asghar, W.A. Ghaly, M.Y. Awaji, O. Hakami, W.M. Alamier, S.K. Ali, et al.
    Journal: Journal of the Electrochemical Society

  • X-ray fluorescence of some Egyptian coins
    Authors: S.A. Abd El Aal, W.A. Ghaly, H.T. Mohsen, A. El Falaky, A.I. Helal
    Journal: International Journal of Pure & Applied Physics

  • Lead–Lead Method for age dating of granitic sample by LA-ICP-MS
    Authors: A.M. Rashad, W.A. Ghaly, N.F. Zahran, A.I. Helal

Conclusion

Dr. Waleed Ahmed Ghaly is highly suitable for the Soil Health Advocate Award. His interdisciplinary research and advocacy for chemical-free, radiation-based pest control methods position him as a forward-looking contributor to soil conservation and environmental sustainability. With expanded collaborations and direct soil science projects, his impact could become even more transformative.

Oliver Lowe | Soil Physics | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. Oliver Lowe | Soil Physics | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Oliver Lowe, HAWK University of Applied Sciences and Arts, Germany

Mr. Oliver Löwe is a soil scientist at the HAWK University of Applied Sciences and Arts in Göttingen, Germany. He holds a Master of Geoscience with honors from Georg August University and has extensive experience in subsoil analysis, environmental geology, and soil contamination. Since 2020, he has been serving as a research assistant and lecturer in the Faculty of Resource Management, focusing on sustainable soil management and applied geosciences. In addition to his academic role, he works as an expert at the environmental office ARBOR revital, contributing to practical solutions in environmental protection and land assessment.

Profile

Scopus

orcid

Summary:

Mr. Oliver Löwe has developed a well-rounded profile that bridges academic research, practical field experience, and teaching. His work in developing mobile soil CO₂ measuring technologies contributes significantly to environmental monitoring and sustainable land management. His strengths in applied soil science and his balanced involvement in both academia and industry make him a commendable candidate.

🎓 Education

Oliver Löwe completed his secondary education at Elector Joachim Friedrich High School in Wolmirstedt between 2003 and 2010, earning his high school diploma. He went on to study Geosciences at Georg August University in Göttingen, where he obtained a Bachelor of Science degree from 2011 to 2014. He continued his academic journey at the same university, completing a Master of Geoscience with honors from 2014 to 2017.

đź’ĽExperience

Oliver began his professional engagement in 2010 with community service at the Magdeburg Education Network. In 2014, he undertook an internship as a geologist at the Rainer Hartmann Society for Applied Biology and Geology mbH. His professional career progressed in 2017 when he joined Geotechnik Heiligenstadt GmbH as a geologist focusing on subsoil investigations. In 2019, he took on a broader role at Eurofins Umwelt Nord GmbH in Göttingen, specializing in both subsoil analysis and construction-related contaminants. Since 2020, Oliver has been serving as a research assistant in soil science at the Faculty of Resource Management at the University of Applied Sciences and Arts in Göttingen. In 2022, he expanded his responsibilities as a lecturer in the same field and faculty. In 2023, he additionally became an expert at the environmental office ARBOR revital in Halle.

🔬Research Focus

Oliver’s research focuses on soil science, with an emphasis on subsoil characteristics, soil contamination, and environmental sustainability. His academic work supports the Faculty of Resource Management, where he contributes to both research and instruction in soil-related topics.

🛠️Skills

Oliver possesses strong analytical and practical expertise in geosciences, soil science, subsoil assessment, and environmental contamination. His combined academic and professional background reflects capabilities in scientific research, teaching, geological fieldwork, and environmental consulting.

đź“š Publications

Title:
Determination of soil COâ‚‚ concentration with two newly developed mobile measuring devices

Authors:
Löwe, O., Thiers, O., Weltecke, K., Kurth, E. W., Gaertig, T.

Year:
2025

Journal:
Journal of Plant Nutrition and Soil Science

Conclusion:

Mr. Oliver Löwe is a strong and deserving nominee for the Research for Best Researcher Award. With continued focus on publishing, international collaboration, and independent research leadership, he has the potential to become a leading figure in soil and environmental sciences.

Xusheng Wan | Soil Physics | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Dr. Xusheng Wan | Soil Physics | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Xusheng Wan, Southwest Petroleum University, China

Prof. Dr. Xusheng Wan is a professor and assistant dean at the School of Civil Engineering and Surveying, Southwest Petroleum University, China. He specializes in geotechnical engineering with a research focus on freeze-salt expansion, multi-physics coupling in cold regions, and the thermal and mechanical behavior of frozen soils. He has published over 100 academic papers, holds more than 40 patents, and has led multiple national research projects. Prof. Wan is a doctoral supervisor and serves on the editorial boards of several scientific journals, including the ASCE Journal of Cold Regions Engineering.

Profile

Scopus

Summary:

Prof. Dr. Xusheng Wan demonstrates a rare blend of academic excellence, innovation, leadership, and dedication to education. His work in cold region geotechnics addresses complex, real-world problems and has made a measurable impact both in academia and engineering practice. His consistent research productivity and national recognitions make him a standout candidate.

🎓 Education

Xusheng Wan earned his Ph.D. in Geotechnical Engineering from the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences in July 2015, with a focus on permafrost research. He completed both his master’s (2009–2012) and bachelor’s (2005–2009) degrees in Civil Engineering at Lanzhou Jiaotong University.

đź’ĽExperience

Xusheng Wan currently serves as a professor and assistant dean at the School of Civil Engineering and Surveying, Southwest Petroleum University. He has held academic positions including associate professor (2018–2022) and lecturer (2015–2018) and completed postdoctoral research at the Civil Engineering Postdoctoral Station of Sichuan University (2019–2021). As a doctoral and master’s supervisor, he trains students in civil engineering and water conservancy disciplines.

🔬Research Focus

Xusheng Wan’s research centers on the mechanisms and prevention of freeze-salt expansion in cold regions, multi-physics coupling models, water freezing mechanisms in soil, prediction of unfrozen water content, and the degradation of concrete under cold and saline conditions. He has led multiple projects under the National Natural Science Foundation and other provincial and institutional programs, making impactful contributions to cold region geotechnics.

🛠️Skills

A prolific scholar, Xusheng Wan has published over 100 academic papers, including 56 SCI-indexed articles with more than 1,200 citations. His most-cited single paper has been referenced over 170 times. He holds more than 40 national patents and four software copyrights. He serves as a reviewer for over 40 journals and is on editorial boards including the ASCE Journal of Cold Regions Engineering and Glaciers and Frozen Soils. As an educator, he teaches both undergraduate and graduate-level courses, contributes to curriculum development, and actively leads teaching reform and textbook editing initiatives.

🏆Awards

Xusheng Wan has received significant recognition for his work, including the first prize of the Gansu Science and Technology Progress Award and the second prize from the China Communications and Transportation Association. He has been honored with titles such as Outstanding Communist Party Member (2021), Youth Science and Technology Award in Civil Engineering (2022), and Outstanding Reviewer multiple times. In 2024, he was recognized with the Teacher Classroom Quality Excellence Award and selected as a reserve candidate for science and technology leadership in Sichuan Province. His students have won numerous national and provincial awards under his guidance.

đź“š Publications

  • Title: Experimental investigation on the thermal stability and deformation behavior of a novel duct-ventilated embankment in a snowy permafrost region
    Authors: Yang Sheng, Zhang Mingyi, Pei Wansheng, Bai Ruiqiang, Bi Jun
    Year: 2025
    Journal: International Communications in Heat and Mass Transfer

  • Title: Corrigendum to “Mitigating frost heave and enhancing mechanical performance of silty clay with sisal fibre and geopolymer”
    Authors: Lu Jianguo, Deng Fei, Pei Wansheng, You Zhilang, Zhang Zhexi
    Year: 2024
    Journal: Construction and Building Materials

  • Title: Corrigendum to “Heat flow characteristics and thermal resistance model for soil-rock mixtures during freezing-thawing processes: Damping properties”
    Authors: Lu Jianguo, Wang Yindong, Pei Wansheng, Tan Liling, Deng Fei
    Year: 2023
    Journal: Geoderma

  • Title: Current status and prospects of research on conductive concrete in cold regions
    Authors: Lu Jianguo, Yang Xinlian, Pu Wanli, Wang Yindong, Tan Liling
    Year: 2025
    Journal: Tumu yu Huanjing Gongcheng Xuebao / Journal of Civil and Environmental Engineering
  • Title: Corrigendum to “A generalized thermal conductivity model of soil-rock mixture based on freezing characteristic curve”
    Authors: Wang Yindong, Lu Jianguo, Pei Wansheng, Gao Jiajia, Deng Fei
    Year: 2025
    Journal: Cold Regions Science and Technology

  • Title: Seismic ground motion study of layered site of saturated frozen soil under P-wave incidence
    Authors: Ma Qiang, Jiao Hao, Wan Xusheng
    Year: 2025
    Journal: Cold Regions Science and Technology

Conclusion:

Prof. Dr. Xusheng Wan is an outstanding candidate for the Research for Best Researcher Award. His proven track record of impactful research, academic leadership, and innovation aligns perfectly with the award’s criteria. While there are opportunities to broaden international and interdisciplinary engagement, his current achievements already place him among the top-tier researchers in his field.