Nelson Etafo | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Nelson Etafo | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Nelson Etafo, Saltillo Institute of Technology – TNM,  Mexico

Dr. Nelson O. Etafo is a postdoctoral researcher at the Saltillo Institute of Technology – Tecnológico Nacional de México (TNM), Mexico. His expertise lies in material science, nanotechnology, solid-state lighting, and electrocoagulation-based wastewater remediation. He earned his Ph.D. in Material Science from Universidad Autónoma de Coahuila, where he focused on the photoluminescent properties of rare-earth-doped materials. Currently, his research involves the development of energy-efficient batteries through lithium recovery from lepidolite. Dr. Etafo has a strong academic background and a passion for sustainable technological innovation.

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Summary:

Dr. Nelson O. Etafo exemplifies the profile of an emerging leader in scientific research, with a strong commitment to solving complex environmental and materials challenges through interdisciplinary methods. His research outputs are both impactful and timely, targeting energy efficiency, sustainable materials, and pollution control. His academic and professional trajectory reflects resilience, innovation, and relevance.

🎓 Education

Dr. Nelson O. Etafo holds a Ph.D. in Material Science from Universidad Autónoma de Coahuila, Saltillo, Mexico, earned between 2020 and 2023, where he conducted advanced research on the luminescent properties of BaLaAlO₄:Eu³⁺ and SrLaAlO₄:Tm³⁺, Yb³⁺ under the supervision of Dr. Carlos Rodriguez Eduardo Garcia. He pursued postdoctoral studies at Tecnológico Nacional de México, Saltillo Campus, in the area of Material and Metallurgical Science from 2023 to 2024, where he focused on developing a novel energy-saving battery using lithium recovery from leached lepidolite through electrocoagulation techniques, mentored by Prof. Jose Refugio Parga Torres. Dr. Etafo was also a graduate visiting student at Instituto Potosino de Investigación Científica y Tecnológica (IPICYT), SLP, Mexico, in late 2021, guided by Dr. Jorge Oliva Uc. He earned his M.Sc. in Industrial Chemistry at the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Nigeria, between 2011 and 2015, where he worked under Prof. Akin K. Akinlabi on the physico-mechanical properties of vulcanizates derived from modified sawdust and low molecular weight natural rubber. He previously obtained his B.Sc. in Industrial Chemistry from the same university from 2006 to 2010.

💼Experience

Dr. Etafo brings a well-rounded background in both academia and industry. He served as a Chemistry Tutor and Cambridge Programmes Coordinator at Cambridge Standard Institute from 2014 to 2021, where he taught and coordinated practical classes for GCE A-Level, IGCSE, JAMB, and SSCE exams. Simultaneously, he was a Chemistry Tutor at The Bridge College, Abeokuta, Nigeria, until 2021, preparing students for WASSCE examinations. His experience also includes being an Assistant Examiner with the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) from 2013 to 2021. Earlier roles include serving as a Science Teacher and School Hostel Coordinator at Dreamers College and as a Laboratory Demonstrator at FUNAAB’s Chemistry Department Laboratory. In industry, he trained at Yalogs Paints, Nigeria, in 2009, where he performed analytical and quality control tests, cost analysis, and safety evaluations of paint formulations.

🔬Research Focus

Dr. Etafo’s research expertise spans several frontier areas of materials and chemical sciences. His primary focus includes material science, nanotechnology, solid-state lighting, photoluminescence, catalysis, and wastewater remediation through electrocoagulation technology. He is also engaged in applied research in drug delivery systems and bioimaging, contributing to both environmental and biomedical innovation. His current postdoctoral work centers on lithium recovery from leached lepidolite, showcasing an interdisciplinary blend of metallurgy and sustainable energy solutions.

🛠️Skills

Dr. Etafo is highly skilled in analytical chemistry, spectroscopic analysis, nanomaterial synthesis, electrocoagulation systems, photoluminescent material fabrication, and teaching laboratory coordination. He has demonstrated strong leadership and collaborative skills through academic teaching, volunteer board memberships, and participation in alumni and faith-based organizational roles. His practical capabilities are complemented by his experience in quality control, material characterization, and interdisciplinary research methodologies.

🏆Awards

Dr. Etafo’s contributions have earned him numerous accolades, including participation in the 2024 Best Thesis Research Contest at Universidad Autónoma de Coahuila, recognition as a panelist at the 2022 Festival de Lenguas del Mundo, and a prestigious CONACHYT fellowship in 2021. He also received a commendation for his dedicated service to Bridge College and Cambridge Standard Institute in 2021. His teaching excellence was recognized with the Best Teacher Award at Dreamers College in both 2012 and 2013, and he was honored with a certificate of merit by the Health Community Development Service Group in 2011.

📚 Publications

  1. Title: Beyond the Swipe: A Review of Photocatalytic Antimicrobial Biocompatible Touchscreen Technology
    Author: Nelson Oshogwue Etafo et al.
    Year: 2025
    Journal: Applied Materials Today

  2. Title: Electrocoagulation Flocs of Torreón Wastewater Treatment for Potential Semiconductor Applications
    Author: Nelson Oshogwue Etafo
    Year: 2025
    Journal: MRS Advances

  3. Title: Hermetic Oxidization/Cyanidation Leaching and Elimination of Contaminants from the Calcine for the Recovery of Gold and Silver by Electrocoagulation Technology
    Author: Nelson Oshogwue Etafo
    Year: 2025
    Journal: Aspects of Mining and Mineral Science

  4. Title: Pollutants Removal and Electrocoagulation Processes for High Quality Precipitate from Cyanide-Contaminated Solutions
    Author: Nelson Oshogwue Etafo
    Year: 2024
    Journal: Aspects of Mining and Mineral Science

  5. Title: The Appealing Prospect of Hydrogel in 3D/4D Printing Technology: Overview and Opportunities
    Author: Nelson Oshogwue Etafo
    Year: 2024
    Journal: Polymer

Conclusion:

Dr. Nelson Etafo is a highly suitable candidate for the Research for Best Researcher Award. His track record in publishing, interdisciplinary innovation, and applied research makes him a compelling nominee. By continuing to expand his international collaborations and leadership roles in mentoring and grantsmanship, Dr. Etafo could further solidify his position as a global scientific influencer.

Sameer Arora | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Sameer Arora | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Sameer Arora, National Institute of Urban Affairs, India

Dr. Sameer Arora is a Sector Specialist in Waste Management at the National Institute of Urban Affairs (NIUA), India. He holds a Ph.D. in Water Resource Engineering from IIT Delhi, an M.Tech in Environmental Engineering from DTU Delhi, and a B.Tech in Environmental Engineering from GGSIPU. His expertise includes waste management, water resource engineering, air pollution control, environmental impact assessment, and circular economy strategies. Dr. Arora has held academic and research positions at leading institutions and has contributed to multiple projects on urban waste management, river water quality restoration, and e-mobility. He is a reviewer for top environmental journals and a lifetime member of the International Society of Research and Development.

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Summary:

Dr. Sameer Arora is a highly accomplished researcher in water resources, waste management, and environmental sustainability with an impressive publication record, technical expertise, and policy impact. His research aligns with global environmental challenges, and his ability to bridge academia, industry, and governance makes him a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

🎓 Education

Sameer Arora holds a Ph.D. in Water Resource Engineering from IIT Delhi (2021), an M.Tech in Environmental Engineering from DTU Delhi (2012), and a B.Tech in Environmental Engineering from GGSIPU (2009).

💼Experience

He is currently a Sector Specialist in Waste Management at the National Institute of Urban Affairs (NIUA) since October 2024. Previously, he worked as a Technical Lead in Water and Waste Management at Jhpiego-NISHTHA (2023–2024) and as a Consultant in Science and Engineering at the Central Pollution Control Board, Delhi (2021–2023). He has also held academic positions as an Assistant Professor at Sharda University (2020), G D Goenka University (2015–2019), and Galgotias University (2012–2013). Additionally, he worked in environmental consulting as an Assistant Manager at TATA Consulting Engineers Ltd. (2013–2015) and gained early experience as an Engineer Trainee at Delhi Pollution Control Committee (2009–2010).

🔬Research Focus

His research interests include river water quality modeling, machine learning applications in water resource management, environmental impact assessments, air pollution control, waste management strategies, and circular economy principles. He has worked on projects related to e-mobility, carbon footprint assessment, and water quality restoration in urban environments.

🛠️Skills

He is proficient in specialized software like WaterGEM, SewerGEM, StormCAD, QUAL2Kw, MODFLOW, AutoCAD, ArcGIS, MATLAB, and Primavera. He is also skilled in environmental impact assessments, waste management planning, air and water pollution analysis, and machine learning applications in environmental studies.

🏆Awards

He has qualified for the GATE exam twice (2010, 2013) and is a lifetime member of the International Society of Research and Development and the Journal of Environmental Research and Development. He serves as a reviewer for multiple prestigious journals, including the Journal of Hydrology and Environmental Monitoring and Assessment.

📚 Publications

  • Comprehensive analysis of heavy metal contamination in the Mandakini (Payaswini) river: Multivariate and index‐based perspectives

    • Author: Sameer Arora

    • Year: 2025

    • Journal: Water Environment Research

       

  • Assessment of heavy metal pollution of surface water through multivariate analysis, HPI and GIS techniques

    • Author: Sameer Arora

    • Year: 2025

    • Journal: Water Practice & Technology

       

  • Assessment of surface and groundwater quality in Tikamgarh city, Madhya Pradesh, India

    • Author: Sameer Arora

    • Year: 2024

    • Journal: The Holistic Approach to Environment

       

  • Implication of dissolved nitrogen dynamics of urban rivers using multivariate regression and structural equation modeling

    • Author: Sameer Arora

    • Year: 2023

    • Journal: CLEAN – Soil, Air, Water

       

  • E-Mobility: Hindrances and motivators for policies implementation in India

    • Author: Sameer Arora

    • Year: 2023

    • Journal: Case Studies on Transport Policy

       

  • Assessment of technological and financial challenges in upgradation of BS-III and BS-IV vehicles

    • Author: Sameer Arora

    • Year: 2023

    • Journal: International Journal of Vehicle Design

Conclusion:

Dr. Arora is highly suitable for the Best Researcher Award, given his strong publication record, applied research impact, and contributions to urban sustainability. Strengthening international collaborations, leadership in funded projects, and public outreach would further solidify his position as a leading researcher in environmental science.

Zeinab Hazbavi | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Zeinab Hazbavi | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Zeinab Hazbavi, University of Mohaghegh Ardabili, Iran

Dr. Zeinab Hazbavi is an Associate Professor at the University of Mohaghegh Ardabili, Iran. She holds a Ph.D. in Watershed Management Engineering and Sciences from Tarbiat Modares University and has been a guest researcher at Wageningen University in the Netherlands. Her research focuses on watershed health assessment, soil and water conservation, and geologic and geomorphic processes. She has held leadership roles in academic and research groups, contributed to international conferences, and published extensively in peer-reviewed journals. Dr. Hazbavi is recognized for her expertise in environmental sustainability and natural resource management.

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Summary:

Dr. Zeinab Hazbavi is a leading researcher in watershed management and environmental sciences, with a well-established academic and research background. Her extensive publication record, leadership roles, and contributions to scientific advancements make her a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award. She has made significant strides in understanding and mitigating environmental challenges, particularly in Iran and similar regions facing climate-related issues.

🎓 Education

Dr. Zeinab Hazbavi earned her Ph.D. in Watershed Management Engineering and Sciences from Tarbiat Modares University, Iran, in 2018. She also pursued research as a guest researcher at Wageningen University and Research in the Netherlands from November 2016 to May 2017. She obtained her M.Sc. in Watershed Management Engineering from Tarbiat Modares University in 2013 and her B.Sc. in Rangeland and Watershed Management from Shahid Chamran University in 2010.

💼Experience

Dr. Hazbavi is an Associate Professor at the University of Mohaghegh Ardabili, Iran. She currently serves as the Head of the Rangeland & Watershed Management Group at the university and leads the Watershed Management & Hydrology Research Group at the Water Management Research Center. She has held various executive roles, including being a board member of the Iranian Rainwater Catchment Systems Association (2022-2024) and the Executive Secretary of international and national conferences on natural resource conservation. She has also been actively involved in industry-university collaborations and scientific committees.

🔬Research Focus

Her research primarily revolves around natural resource management, watershed health assessment, soil and water conservation, and the impact of geologic and geomorphic processes on environmental sustainability. She has published extensively in peer-reviewed journals, contributing significantly to advancing watershed management and ecological conservation strategies.

🛠️Skills

Dr. Hazbavi possesses expertise in watershed health assessment, geologic and geomorphic processes, soil and water conservation, soil amendment applications, and integrated watershed management. She has extensive experience in research design, project management, data analysis, and academic leadership.

🏆Awards

Dr. Hazbavi has been recognized for her contributions to watershed management and environmental sciences. Her research has gained international attention, and she has received invitations for collaborative projects and conference presentations worldwide.

📚 Publications

  • Ensemble modeling of extreme seasonal temperature trends in Iran under socio-economic scenarios

    • Authors: M. Kamangar, M. Ahmadi, H. Rabiei-Dastjerdi, Z. Hazbavi
    • Year: 2025
    • Journal: Natural Hazards

  • Interactive Changes in Climatic and Hydrological Droughts, Water Quality, and Land Use/Cover of Tajan Watershed, Northern Iran

    • Authors: M. Avand, H.R. Moradi, Z. Hazbavi
    • Year: 2024
    • Journal: Water (Switzerland)

  • A Multifunctional Conceptual Framework for Ecological Disturbance Assessment

    • Authors: V. Moradzadeh, Z. Hazbavi, A. Esmali Ouri, S. Zareie, M. Fernández-Raga
    • Year: 2024
    • Journal: Earth Systems and Environment

Conclusion:

Dr. Zeinab Hazbavi is highly suitable for the Best Researcher Award based on her outstanding research achievements, leadership, and contributions to environmental sustainability. With a few strategic improvements, such as increasing international collaboration, enhancing research citations, and bridging the gap between academia and industry, she could further solidify her position as a global leader in her field. Given her current achievements and future potential, she is a deserving candidate for this prestigious recognition