Denitza Zgureva Filipova | Environmental | Research Excellence Award

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Denitza Zgureva Filipova | Environmental | Research Excellence Award

Technical University of Sofia | Bulgaria

Denitza Zgureva-Filipova is a researcher and academic specializing in thermal and nuclear power engineering, with expertise in combustion of organic fuels, thermal power plant systems, nuclear energy technologies, and environmental protection in energy production. Her research focuses on the sustainable management of industrial by-products, particularly the conversion of fly ash from lignite coal combustion into zeolitic materials and their application in carbon dioxide adsorption and emission mitigation systems. Additional areas of interest include power steam generators, radioactive waste management, carbon emission monitoring, energy efficiency of industrial systems, and the integration of sustainable development strategies within public and private organizations. She has made a strong scientific contribution with 33 peer-reviewed documents indexed in international databases, receiving 540 citations from 391 citing documents, demonstrating wide recognition of her research impact. Her scholarly influence is reflected in an h-index of 12, indicating consistent citation performance across multiple publications. In addition to her research output, Denitza Zgureva-Filipova actively contributes to the scientific community through journal reviewing and editorial activities, supervision of doctoral research, and participation in numerous research projects. Her work combines applied engineering solutions with sustainability-driven innovation, supporting cleaner energy production, reduced environmental impact, and long-term resilience of energy systems.

Citation Metrics (Scopus)

600
450
300
150
0

Citations
540

Documents
33

h-index
12

Citations

Documents

h-index

View Scopus Profile View Orcid Profile


Self-Sustaining Double-Stage Circularity Through Utilization of Sunflower Agriculture’s Waste in Bio-Fertilizers: Commissioning of a Full-Scale Facility

– Applied Sciences


Harnessing RES Potential in Balkan Peninsula

– IOP Conference Series: Earth and Environmental Science


To make a coffee by bicycle riding: Achieving sustainable development in higher education institutions step by step

– IOP Conference Series: Earth and Environmental Science


Ensuring Sustainability: Leadership Approach Model for Tackling Procurement Challenges in Bulgarian Higher Education Institutions

– Administrative Sciences


Analysis of the overall potential for electricity production from farm animals manure in Bulgaria

– IOP Conference Series: Earth and Environmental Science

Hafis Muhammed | Environmental | Research Excellence Award

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Mr. Hafis Muhammed | Environmental | Research Excellence Award

Amrita School of Engineering Coimbatore | India

Mr. Hafis Muhammed is a motivated and talented professional committed to inspiring students to achieve both academic and personal excellence by fostering a challenging and engaging learning environment. With strong analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills, he effectively combines his educational background with excellent communication abilities and a passion for continuous learning to contribute meaningfully to institutional growth and student development. He has actively participated in multiple workshops and faculty development programs, including industrial training, specialized camps in collaboration with forestry and wildlife departments, FDPs on mechanical engineering fundamentals, and hands-on workshops on IC engines and design software like Fusion 360. Complementing his practical exposure, he has completed various online courses in areas such as engineering thermodynamics, steam power engineering, sustainability science, advanced fluid mechanics, biofuels in automobiles, and renewable energy and climate change. His research engagement is reflected in 9 citations across 1 document, achieving an h-index of 1, highlighting his commitment to scholarly contribution alongside teaching excellence. By integrating technical expertise, continuous skill enhancement, and research engagement, Mr. Muhammed aims to drive innovation, foster a culture of learning, and support the success of both students and the organization.

Citation Metrics (Scopus)

20
15
10
5
0

Citations
9

Documents
1

h-index
1

Citations

Documents

h-index

View ScopusProfile   View OrcidProfile


Characterization of Tea Factory Waste Biomass via TGA: Pyrolysis Kinetics and Thermal Behavior


– Chemical Thermodynamics and Thermal Analysis


A Review on Alternative Fuels: Spray Characteristics, Engine Performance and Emissions Effect


– Sustainable Futures


Fuel Extraction from Thermocol Waste


– International Journal of Research in Engineering and Technology

Minhsuan Chen | Environmental | Research Excellence Award

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Assist. Prof. Dr. Minhsuan Chen | Environmental | Research Excellence Award

Department of Environmental Engineering | Taiwan 

Minhsuan Chen is a dedicated environmental engineering researcher whose scholarly presence continues to expand through impactful contributions to waste valorization, sludge recycling, and sustainable resource recovery. With 84 citations, 83 citing documents, and 4 published documents, supported by a developing h-index of 3, his academic influence demonstrates both depth and growing recognition within the scientific community. Chen’s work integrates innovative approaches to circular economy frameworks, particularly emphasizing advanced strategies for organic waste conversion, heavy-metal behavior assessment, and bio-based energy applications. His publication portfolio reflects strong engagement with high-quality journals and collaborative environmental initiatives, reinforcing his commitment to bridging fundamental research and practical environmental solutions. The consistent citation performance derived from his studies illustrates how his findings are becoming essential references in discussions on sludge management, sustainable biofuel development, and integrated waste-recycling technologies. Minhsuan Chen’s research trajectory highlights a clear vision toward environmentally conscious engineering, supported by an evidence-based approach that continues to influence international scientific discourse. His growing scholarly metrics demonstrate both the relevance of his work and its increasing adoption by fellow researchers, positioning him as a promising contributor to advancements in sustainable environmental engineering.

Profiles: Scopus | Google Scholar 

Featured Publications

Chen, M., Oshita, K., Mahzoun, Y., Takaoka, M., Fukutani, S., & Shiota, K. (2021). Survey of elemental composition in dewatered sludge in Japan. Science of the Total Environment, 752, 141857.

Chen, M., Oshita, K., Takaoka, M., & Shiota, K. (2022). Co-incineration effect of sewage sludge and municipal solid waste on the behavior of heavy metals by phosphorus. Waste Management, 152, 112–117.

Oleszek, S., Shiota, K., Chen, M., & Takaoka, M. (2022). Effective separation and recovery of manganese and potassium from biomass ash by solvent extraction. ACS Omega, 7(23), 20155–20164.

Chen, M., Oshita, K., & Takaoka, M. (2021). Feasibility study on the co-incineration of municipal solid waste and sewage sludge in Taiwan. Journal of Japan Society of Civil Engineers, Ser. G (Environmental Research).

Jaime Francisco Perena Ortiz | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Jaime Francisco Perena Ortiz | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

University of Malaga | Spain 

Jaime Francisco Pereña Ortiz is a researcher in biology whose academic foundation spans biodiversity conservation, botany, and environmental management, complemented by pedagogical preparation for higher education. His scholarly work integrates coastal habitat conservation, protected-area management, and the ecological significance of Mediterranean ecosystems, contributing meaningfully to interdisciplinary environmental studies. With expertise in evaluating habitat heritage value and designing conservation models, he bridges scientific research with sustainable management practices and environmental education. His portfolio includes 16 published documents, reflecting a consistent research output that aligns with current priorities in conservation science. These works have earned 66 citations, demonstrating the visibility and impact of his contributions within the scientific community. His h-index of 4 further highlights the relevance and uptake of his research across related fields. In addition to his scientific credentials, he has actively engaged in teaching innovation, environmental seminars, and cross-disciplinary educational initiatives, enriching the academic environment with applied ecological perspectives. His combined experience in research, biodiversity management, and environmental education positions him as a scholar dedicated to advancing evidence-based conservation strategies and promoting ecological awareness through both academic and outreach activities.

Profile : Scopus 

Featured Publications

Pereña Ortiz, J. F. (n.d.). Conserving Maytenus senegalensis subsp. europaea in the south-eastern Iberian Peninsula

Adriana Favacho Curty | Environmental Science | Women Researcher Award

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Dr. Adriana Favacho Curty | Environmental Science | Women Researcher Award

Dr. Adriana Favacho curty | State University of Rio de Janeiro | Brazil

Dr. Adriana Favacho Curty’s research exemplifies scientific innovation in environmental and soil sciences, focusing on microplastic contamination in coastal and sandy sediments. Her postdoctoral work at Rio de Janeiro State University integrates advanced spectroscopic and X-ray techniques to develop methodologies for polymer characterization using Compton/Rayleigh scattering ratios. By combining FT-IR, Raman, and micro-XRF analyses, she establishes chemometric profiles that link plastic morphotypes to elemental compositions, contributing to the understanding of microplastic-metal interactions and their ecological implications. Her studies bridge environmental engineering, physics, and marine ecology, supporting the creation of standardized protocols for sampling, extraction, and quantification of microplastics in coastal environments. Through collaborative work at BIOTEMA and LIETA laboratories, she enhances analytical precision in assessing contamination pathways and pollutant adsorption mechanisms. Her publications and presentations in prominent scientific platforms demonstrate a consistent effort to improve methodologies for environmental risk evaluation and marine pollution monitoring. Beyond her experimental research, her consultancy experience in environmental and infrastructure projects strengthens her applied perspective on sustainable urban and coastal management. Dr. Curty’s contributions significantly advance the scientific understanding of plastic pollution and its integration into soil and aquatic systems, reinforcing the global framework for sustainable coastal ecosystem management.

Profile:  Orcid

Featured Publications

Curty, A. F., Tsuyama, F., Cunha, P. M. O. M., Anjos, M. J., & Salomão, A. L. S. (2025, October 29). Metals’ adsorption onto environmental microplastics at shoreline sediments. X-Ray Spectrometry. Advance online publication.

Georgina Gordon | Earth | Interdisciplinary Soil Research Award

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Ms. Georgina Gordon | Earth | Interdisciplinary Soil Research Award

Ms Georgina Gordon | Geological consulting | Australia 

Georgina Gordon is a highly accomplished geologist and Senior Hyperspectral Geoscientist recognized for her extensive expertise in hyperspectral core scanning and spectral geoscience. With deep experience in applying advanced mineralogical analysis to diverse deposit types, she has significantly contributed to developing innovative techniques that enhance the interpretation of geological materials. Her leadership in managing the HyLogger Project and integrating new technologies such as Raman and Gold Sniffer scanning has strengthened spectral data analysis in mineral exploration. She has been instrumental inmentoring researchers, facilitating industry collaborations, and organizing national and international geoscience workshops and conferences. Georgina’s career reflects a strong focus on innovation, data-driven insights, and collaborative research that bridges academic and industry applications. Her commitment to improving data quality and accessibility has established her as a leading figure in geological spectral analysis. She has published 7 scientific documents, which have collectively earned 207 citations from 181 referencing sources, reflecting her growing research influence and practical impact in the global geoscience community. Her work continues to advance the application of hyperspectral technologies in mineral systems, fostering innovation, sustainability, and deeper understanding of Earth’s complex geological processes.

Profiles:  Scopus | Orcid

Featured Publications

Baudet, E., Tiddy, C., Giles, D., Hill, S., & Gordon, G. (2023). Diverse provenance of the Lower Cretaceous sediments of the Eromanga Basin, South Australia: Constraints on basin evolution. Australian Journal of Earth Sciences, 

Anjani Kumar Pandey | Environmental | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Anjani Kumar Pandey | Environmental | Best Researcher Award

Anjani Kumar Pandey | Manipal University Jaipur Faculty of Science Technology and Architecture | India 

Dr. Anjani Kumar Pandey is an accomplished chemist with extensive academic, research, and technical expertise across coordination chemistry, supramolecular systems, and bio-inspired molecular design. He currently serves as an Assistant Professor (Senior Scale) in the Department of Chemistry at Manipal University Jaipur, where he leads research on tripodal metal–ligand systems and artificial molecular containers for CO₂ sequestration and reduction, mentoring three Ph.D. and two master’s scholars. He previously held prestigious postdoctoral positions at the University of Padova, Italy, under Prof. Cristiano Zonta, and at the University of Innsbruck, Austria, under Prof. Bernhard Kräutler, contributing to sustainable CO₂ conversion and vitamin B12 analog synthesis. His earlier research associate experience at IIT Kanpur involved metalloporphyrin oxygenation and reactivity studies. Dr. Pandey earned his Ph.D. in Chemistry from IIT Kanpur in 2020 with a CPI of 8.67, following an M.Sc. and B.Sc. in Chemistry from the University of Allahabad with distinction. His accolades include the MSCA Seal of Excellence, Austrian Science Grant (FWF), seed grants from Manipal University Jaipur and MAHE, best poster award at CRSI-NSC 23, and multiple CSIR fellowships. Skilled in advanced spectroscopic, electrochemical, and crystallographic techniques, he has strong interests spanning organometallic catalysis, solar cell materials, bio-organic systems, and molecular interactions.

Profile:  Orcid 

Featured Publications

Pandey, A. K., Sonia, Verma, I., & Mongal, B. N. (2024). Shining a light on Co(terpyridine)<sub>2</sub> complexes: Unravelling the impact of ligand substitution at the 4’-position on optical and electrochemical properties through experimental and theoretical investigations. Chemical Physics Impact.

Penasa, R., Pandey, A. K., Wurst, K., Rancan, M., Armelao, L., Licini, G., & Zonta, C. (2024). Ion-pairing stereodynamic probes for circular dichroism chiral sensing of amines. Inorganic Chemistry.

Pandey, A. K., Usman, M., & Rath, S. P. (2020). Hg···Hg···Hg interaction stabilizes unusual trinuclear double sandwich structure of mercury(II) porphyrins. Inorganic Chemistry.

Pandey, A. K., Usman, M., & Rath, S. P. (2019). A counter ion triggers stabilization of two geometrical isomers of a Ni(ii) dication diradical porphyrin dimer: The role of anion-π interactions.

Lakshmikanthan P | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Lakshmikanthan P | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Lakshmikanthan P | Council of Scientific and Industrial Research-Fourth Paradigm Institute | India

Dr. Lakshmikanthan P, Senior Scientist at CSIR-4PI, Bangalore, and Assistant Professor at AcSIR, is a distinguished environmental engineer and researcher with a strong academic and professional background. His research focuses on greenhouse gas measurement, climate change modeling, solid waste management, and sustainability engineering, contributing significantly to environmental forecasting and urban health risk assessment. He has published 25 peer-reviewed journal papers, along with several conference papers, technical articles, and book chapters, reflecting a consistent research output and collaborative engagement in the scientific community. His scholarly influence is underscored by 331 citations received from 291 documents, establishing a solid foundation of academic recognition. With an h-index of 11, Dr. Lakshmikanthan demonstrates both the quality and impact of his scientific contributions, particularly in waste management and landfill engineering. His pioneering work on landfill fire prevention, bioreactor performance, and methane estimation has guided practical advancements in environmental protection. As an active mentor, he supervises multiple Ph.D. and master’s students, nurturing the next generation of environmental researchers. Through his interdisciplinary expertise and impactful publications, Dr. Lakshmikanthan continues to advance sustainable solutions addressing critical challenges in environmental systems.

Profile:  Scopus

Featured Publications

Santhosh, L. G., & Lakshmikanthan, P. (2024, July 14). Quantification of methane emissions from municipal solid waste landfill using Land GEM model.

Niranjani Premila Kumari Semananda | Environmental | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Niranjani Premila Kumari Semananda | Environmental | Best Researcher Award

Niranjani Premila Kumari Semananda | Institute of Technology University of Moratuwa | Sri Lanka

Niranjani Premila Kumari Semananda is a Senior Lecturer at the Institute of Technology, University of Moratuwa, Sri Lanka. She holds a PhD in Water Engineering and an MSc in Water Management from the University of South Australia. Her research focuses on sustainable water management, construction waste minimization, and innovative construction materials. With leadership experience as Head of the Civil Engineering Technology Division, she also serves as a mentor and student counsellor, contributing to academic growth and research excellence. She has published in leading journals, co-chaired international conferences, and actively collaborates to enhance research visibility and institutional capacity.

Profiles

Orcid

Google Scholar

Summary

Dr. Semananda combines expertise in civil engineering, water management, and sustainable construction with leadership roles in academia. Her publications address pressing global challenges such as water scarcity, urban agriculture, and sustainable construction practices. She also plays a pivotal role in supporting institutional research growth through collaborations, conference leadership, and mentoring.

Education

Niranjani Premila Kumari Semananda holds a PhD in Water Engineering and an MSc in Water Management from the University of South Australia. Her academic training blends civil engineering with advanced expertise in sustainable water resource management.

Experience

She serves as a Senior Lecturer at the Institute of Technology, University of Moratuwa, where she has also held leadership roles such as Head of the Civil Engineering Technology Division. She contributes to student development as a counsellor and mentor while playing an active role in guiding and strengthening academic research at her institution.

Research Focus

Her research is centered on construction waste management, sustainable water management, corrosion resistance in civil engineering materials, and innovative use of by-products such as rice husk ash in construction. She is particularly noted for her pioneering doctoral research on wicking bed technology, which advanced sustainable water management.

Skills

Her skills include research supervision, water management, sustainable construction practices, waste minimization, and academic leadership. She has expertise in corrosion studies of civil engineering materials, innovative construction materials such as rice husk ash and non-autoclaved aerated concrete blocks, and institutional research coordination, including DOI management and publication partnerships.

Awards

She has been recognized through appointments such as Co-Chair of the International Research Conference at ITUM in 2024 and 2025, editorial membership since 2019, and reviewer roles for MDPI journals. She has also contributed as a reviewer and guest editor, enhancing the visibility and impact of research at ITUM.

Publications

Estimation of Low Flow Statistics for Sustainable Water Resources Management in South Australia
Authors: Niranjani P. K. Semananda, Guna A. Hewa
Journal: Hydrology (MDPI), 2022

Assessing Reliability of Recycled Water in Wicking Beds for Sustainable Urban Agriculture
Authors: Niranjani P. K. Semananda, James D. Ward, Baden R. Myers
Journal: Earth (MDPI), 2021

Experimental Investigation of Wicking Bed Irrigation Using Shallow-Rooted Crops Grown under Glasshouse Conditions
Authors: N. P. K. Semananda, J. D. Ward, B. R. Myers
Journal: Irrigation Science (Springer), 2020

A Semi-Systematic Review of Capillary Irrigation: The Benefits, Limitations, and Opportunities
Authors: N. P. K. Semananda, J. D. Ward, B. R. Myers
Journal: Horticulturae (MDPI), 2018

Evaluating the Efficiency of Wicking Bed Irrigation Systems for Small-Scale Urban Agriculture
Authors: N. P. K. Semananda, J. D. Ward, B. R. Myers
Journal: Horticulturae (MDPI), 2016

Conclusion

Niranjani Premila Kumari Semananda demonstrates strong research capability, leadership, and institutional impact, making her a compelling candidate for the Best Researcher Award. With further expansion of her publication record and engagement in international collaborations, she has the potential to achieve even greater recognition in her field.

Nadhir Al-Ansari | Environment | Best Scholar Award

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Prof. Dr. Nadhir Al-Ansari | Environment | Best Scholar Award

Prof. Dr. Nadhir AI Ansari, Lulea University of Technology, Sweden

Professor Dr. Nadhir Al-Ansari is a distinguished expert in Water Resources and Environmental Engineering at Lulea University of Technology, Sweden. With a career spanning decades across Europe and the Middle East, his research focuses on hydrology, sediment transport, groundwater modeling, and environmental sustainability. He has authored numerous scientific publications, holds a patent in iron oxide separation, and has received several international awards recognizing his scientific and community contributions. Professor Al-Ansari is also a Fellow of CIWEM and an active member of multiple global scientific societies.

Profile

Orcid

Summary:

Prof. Dr. Nadhir Al-Ansari is a globally respected scholar whose contributions to environmental and water sciences have been academically rigorous and socially impactful. His robust academic record, innovative projects, interdisciplinary scope, and community-centered outcomes position him as a leading figure in environmental scholarship. His work addresses real-world challenges, blending traditional hydrological insights with evolving technological tools.

🎓 Education

Professor Nadhir Al-Ansari holds a Ph.D. in Sediment Transport from Dundee University, an M.Sc. in Geology from Baghdad University, and a B.Sc. (Honours) in Geology from the same institution. His early academic foundation was shaped at Baghdad College, an American secondary school, which laid the groundwork for his extensive career in water resources and environmental engineering.

💼Experience

Dr. Al-Ansari has held professorial roles at several prestigious institutions including Lulea University of Technology in Sweden and the Arab Open Academy in Denmark. He has also served as a professor, dean, director, and chairman at Al-al Bayt University and the University of Baghdad. His leadership roles spanned across departments such as Geology, Environmental Sciences, and Astronomy, and included administrative positions such as Dean of Scientific Research and Director of Strategic Research Units.

🔬Research Focus

His research primarily centers on water resources, sediment transport, hydrology, environmental engineering, and sustainability. He has contributed significantly to studies on river systems, sedimentation, groundwater modeling, and environmental management in arid and semi-arid regions. He is also active in interdisciplinary research linking water sciences with policy and community service.

🛠️Skills

Professor Al-Ansari has extensive teaching experience at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels, covering subjects like hydrology, groundwater, hydrochemistry, sediment transport, and environmental policy. His technical skill set includes Microsoft Office 365, Adobe Creative Cloud, Agresso, Canvas, Zoom, Google Meet, DIVA, Ladok, Time Edit, and the BLACKBOARD learning system. He has developed specialized programs in groundwater movement and solute transport using finite element techniques and has participated in training on advanced computing and internet technologies.

🏆Awards

Professor Al-Ansari has been the recipient of numerous awards for his scientific contributions, including the prestigious Mesopotamia Prize for Water Resources, best postgraduate supervisor, and several recognitions from the Ministry of Water and Irrigation, the British Council, and international scientific conferences. He also holds a patent for the physical separation of iron oxides and has earned accolades for best papers and contributions to scientific arbitration.

📚 Publications

1. Title: Pathway of total petroleum hydrocarbon in a lotic ecosystem: water and sediment of Tigris River, Iraq
Authors: Fikrat M. Hassan, Abdul Hameed M. Jawad Al-Obaidy, Anwar Ridha Noor, Nadhir Alansari
Year: 2025
Journal: Applied Water Science

2. Title: SPAD dynamics in maize crop with precision nitrogen management under rain-fed and irrigated conditions
Authors: K. Shivashankar, M. P. Potdar, Sandeep Gawdiya, Aishwarya Golshetti, Aditya Kamalakar Kanade, Gurupada Balol, D. P. Biradar, K. K. Math, Nadhir Al-Ansari, Salah El-Hendawy, et al.
Year: 2025
Journal: Scientific Reports

3. Title: A comparative analysis of the removal of arsenic from water using magnetite/polyaniline-polypyrrole nanocomposite
Authors: T. Jabeen, M. Rashid, A. Khan, S. Haider, M. Aslam, E. Shahid, H. Shahid, N. Al-Ansari, M. A. Mattar
Year: 2025
Journal: International Journal of Environmental Science and Technology

4. Title: Application of Decision Support Systems to Water Management: The Case of Iraq
Authors: Hayder AL-Hudaib, Nasrat Adamo, Katalin Bene, Richard Ray, Nadhir Al-Ansari
Year: 2025
Journal: Water

5. Title: Optimizing cultivation practices to enhance growth and yield of Indian mustard
Authors: Akshita Sharma, Vandna Chhabra, Swati Mehta, Yudhishther Singh Bagal, Rajesh Kumar, Nadhir Al-Ansari, Salah El-Hendawy, Mohamed A. Mattar, Ali Salem
Year: 2025
Journal: Scientific Reports

Conclusion:

Prof. Dr. Nadhir Al-Ansari is highly suitable for the Research for Best Scholar Award. He exemplifies the ideals of scholarly excellence, global impact, and sustainability leadership that this award is designed to honor. With a few strategic steps to increase his digital and global integration, his influence could be further magnified.