Thiago Santos | Environmental | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. Thiago Santos | Environmental | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Thiago Santos, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil

Mr. Thiago F. Santos is a Brazilian ecologist affiliated with the Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte. He holds a Ph.D. in Ecology from the Federal University of Bahia and specializes in tropical ecosystem dynamics, biodiversity conservation, and plant-insect interactions. His research focuses on understanding ecological responses to environmental changes, aiming to support sustainable management and restoration of Brazil’s native biomes. With expertise in ecological modeling, biomonitoring, and statistical analysis, Mr. Santos actively contributes to advancing ecological science and conservation strategies in Brazil.

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Summary:

Mr. Thiago Santos is a dedicated researcher and academic affiliated with the Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil. He holds a PhD in Chemical Engineering, with specialized research in the development and mathematical modeling of innovative textile materials for renewable energy applications. With a Master’s degree in Textile Engineering, his work has focused on high-performance fabrics, particularly investigating the impact resistance and photodegradation properties of non-Newtonian fluids in Kevlar® textiles. He has also explored surface modification of cotton yarns during his undergraduate studies. His research integrates textile science, materials engineering, and energy innovation. Mr. Santos has served as a substitute professor in Textile Chemistry and earned multiple regional awards at INOVA SENAI 2019 for innovation-driven projects. His technical skills span experimental design, materials modeling, and fluid-structure interaction, contributing significantly to sustainable and protective textile advancements.

🎓 Education

Thiago Felix dos Santos holds a PhD in Chemical Engineering from the Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte (UFRN), Brazil, completed in 2022. His doctoral research focused on the development and mathematical modeling of new textile materials as renewable energy sources, under the guidance of Prof. Jose Heriberto Oliveira do Nascimento and co-supervision of Prof. Domingos Fabiano de Santana Souza. He received a scholarship from the Carrefour Brasil Group to support this work. He also earned a Master’s degree in Textile Engineering from UFRN in 2019. His thesis examined the photodegradation properties and impact performance of non-Newtonian fluids impregnated in Kevlar® fabrics, guided by Prof. José Ivan de Medeiros and co-advised by Professors Fernando Ribeiro Oliveira and Marcos Silva de Aquino, with scholarship support from CNPq. Thiago completed his Bachelor’s degree in Textile Engineering at UFRN in 2017, with a final project on the mechanical properties of 100% cotton yarns modified with DBD plasma and sizing treatments, under the supervision of Prof. Michelle Cequeira Feitor. His early education was completed at various schools in Brazil, including Almirante Tamandaré State School and João Guió Municipal School.

💼Experience

In 2019, Thiago was approved in a public competition as a substitute professor in the area of Textile Chemistry at the Department of Textile Engineering (DET/CT) at UFRN. His role contributed to academic development and research in textile sciences and materials engineering, aligning with his strong background in chemical and textile engineering.

🔬Research Focus

Thiago’s primary research interests lie in advanced textile materials, renewable energy integration in fabrics, shear thickening fluids, ballistic and impact-resistant materials, and photodegradation behavior in engineered composites. His work bridges engineering, material science, and applied chemistry with strong interdisciplinary relevance to safety, sustainability, and performance textiles.

🛠️Skills

Thiago possesses expertise in experimental and mathematical modeling of textile systems, high-performance fabric design, fluid-material interactions, and the application of non-Newtonian fluids in protective fabrics. He is skilled in using engineering tools for material characterization and has experience in academic instruction and applied industrial research.

🏆Awards

In 2019, Thiago won two regional championships at the INOVA SENAI competition organized by FIERN-SENAI. He secured 1st place in both the “Projects with Anchor Companies” category and the “Project Searching for Partners” category. Additionally, he was listed as a CAPES scholarship recipient in the PPGET master’s program and was recognized for his academic achievements by being selected as a substitute professor at UFRN in the same year.

📚 Publications

  • Title: Investigation of Mechanical Properties of a Composite Material Supported with Nano Materials for Manufacturing Prosthetic Socket
    Year: 2025
    Journal: Journal of Advanced Research in Applied Mechanics

     

  • Title: Corrigendum to “Characterization of renewable material from biowaste: Waste Albizia lebbeck leaves biomass-based bioplasticizer for futuristic applications”
    Year: 2025
    Journal: Journal of Environmental Chemical Engineering, 13(1)

  • Title: Design of Experiments and Statistical Approach on Tensile Properties of Simple-Pique Fabrics for Potential Use in Composite Reinforcement
    Year: 2025
    Journal: Sustainable Materials and Technologies

     

  • Title: Finite Element Analysis for Aluminium Alloy 7075-T6 Subjected to the Bending-Torsional Variable Phase of Fatigue Loading
    Year: 2025
    Journal: Journal of Advanced Research in Applied Mechanics

Conclusion:

Mr. Thiago Santos continues to play a pivotal role in advancing sustainable technologies and high-performance textile applications. His work reflects a commitment to scientific excellence, practical innovation, and societal impact.

Clement Nyarko Opoku | Environmental | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. Clement Nyarko Opoku | Environmental | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Clement Nyarko Opoku, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Ghana

Clement Nyarko Opoku is a graduate researcher in Materials Engineering at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Ghana. His research focuses on ceramic engineering materials, sustainable building materials, corrosion, and waste management. He has experience as a Graduate Research and Teaching Assistant, contributing to studies on geopolymer cement and material characterization. Clement has also interned in the construction and civil engineering sectors, gaining practical expertise in material testing and site supervision. He is a recipient of the KNUST Engineering Education Project Scholarship and has held leadership roles in GRASAG KNUST. His skills include XRD, XRF, microscopy characterization, AutoCAD, and research analysis.

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Summary:

Clement Nyarko Opoku is a promising researcher in materials engineering with a focus on sustainable construction materials. His academic achievements, research contributions, technical skills, and leadership roles make him a strong candidate for recognition. However, expanding his publication record, engaging in more collaborations, and securing grants would further solidify his standing as a top researcher.

🎓 Education

Clement Nyarko Opoku is currently pursuing an MPhil in Materials Engineering at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), where his research focuses on investigating the effect of Gibbsite in Lithomargic Clay on the mechanical and physical properties of Limestone Calcined Clay Cement. He previously earned a BSc in Materials Engineering from KNUST, during which he conducted research on bitumen-reinforced carbon black for pavement applications and material selection for various engineering projects. Additionally, he holds an Advanced Diploma in Occupational Safety and Health from the Imperial College of Mines and Safety.

💼Experience

Clement has gained extensive experience in research, teaching, and engineering practice. As a Graduate Research Assistant at KNUST, he collaborated with researchers on geopolymer cement advancements and gained hands-on exposure to laboratory equipment and experimental protocols. He also served as a Laboratory Research and Teaching Assistant, assisting lecturers with research and guiding students facing academic difficulties. His industry experience includes an internship at Sino Africa Development Company, where he supported construction supervision, safety compliance, and site inspections. He also interned at the Ghana Ports and Harbor Authority’s Civil Engineering Department, working on concrete testing, welding operations, and road material assessments.

🔬Research Focus

Clement’s research interests encompass ceramic engineering materials, sustainable building materials, corrosion, sustainable energy materials, waste management, and water treatment. His work contributes to the development of innovative and eco-friendly materials for construction and industrial applications.

🛠️Skills

Clement possesses strong technical skills, including intermediate knowledge of X-ray Diffraction (XRD), X-ray Fluorescence (XRF), and microscopy characterization. He is proficient in software tools such as AutoCAD, Origin, and Microsoft Office. His professional qualities include teamwork and leadership capabilities, effective communication and interpersonal skills, strong organizational and time management abilities, and resilience under pressure.

🏆Awards

Clement was nominated for the Graduate Assistant of the Year award during the 30th Anniversary of GRASAG KNUST in 2023. He is also a recipient of the KNUST Engineering Education Project Scholarship (KEEP KNUST) from January 2022 to November 2024. His leadership experience includes serving as the Organizing Committee Secretary for GRASAG KNUST, where he played a key role in planning events and supporting international postgraduate students. He was also a Postgraduate Representative on the Faculty of Mechanical and Chemical Engineering Board, advocating for postgraduate students, and served as a Senator for the Materials Engineering Department in GRASAG KNUST. Additionally, as Deputy Welfare Committee Chairperson for the College of Engineering, he helped implement mentorship programs for first-year students.

📚 Publications

Title: Effect of gibbsite in lithomargic clay on the mechanical and physical properties of limestone calcined clay cement

Author: Clement Nyarko Opoku

Year: 2025

Journal: International Journal of Ceramic Engineering & Science

Conclusion:

Mr. Opoku is a suitable candidate for the Best Researcher Award, particularly for early-career researchers. While he has demonstrated significant research contributions and leadership, further strengthening his publication record and international collaborations would enhance his competitiveness for such an award.

Veselin Zarev | Environmental | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. Veselin Zarev | Environmental | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Veselin Zarev, Ruhr University Bochum, Germany

Mr. Veselin Zarev is a geotechnical engineer specializing in geotechnics, hydraulic engineering, and engineering geology. He holds a Doctorate (Dr.-Ing.) from Ruhr University Bochum, Germany, and a Diploma in Civil Engineering (Dipl.-Ing.) from Vienna University of Technology. With extensive experience in project management and engineering, he has worked at KREBS+KIEFER Ingenieure GmbH, KHP König und Heunisch, and as a Research Associate at Ruhr University Bochum. He is proficient in numerical analysis and geotechnical software and is an active member of the German Geotechnical Engineering Society (DGGT).

Profile

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Summary:

Mr. Veselin Zarev is a highly skilled researcher with a strong foundation in geotechnical engineering and numerical analysis. His academic background, industry experience, and technical expertise make him a competitive candidate for research awards. However, increasing his research output in high-impact journals, securing more recognitions, and leading more collaborative projects could further elevate his profile.

🎓 Education

Dr.-Ing. Veselin Zarev holds a Doctorate in Engineering (Dr.-Ing.) from Ruhr University Bochum, where he studied from 2011 to 2014. He also earned a Diploma in Engineering (Dipl.-Ing.) in Civil Engineering from the Vienna University of Technology, completing his studies in 2008.

💼Experience

Since 2020, Dr.-Ing. Zarev has been serving as a Project Manager at KREBS+KIEFER Ingenieure GmbH in Darmstadt. Prior to this role, he worked as a Project Engineer at KHP König und Heunisch Planungsgesellschaft mbH & Co. KG in Frankfurt am Main from 2014 to 2020. From 2011 to 2014, he was a Research Associate at Ruhr University Bochum under Prof. Tom Schanz at the Chair of Foundation Engineering, Soil and Rock Mechanics. His early career includes roles as a Project Engineer at Horner und Ingenieure in Berlin in 2010 and at Risk Engineering AG in Sofia, Bulgaria, from 2008 to 2010.

🔬Research Focus

Dr.-Ing. Zarev specializes in geotechnics, hydraulic engineering, and engineering geology, with a strong focus on numerical analysis in geotechnical engineering.

🛠️Skills

He is proficient in various engineering software programs, including RIBgeo, GGU Software, DC Software, PLAXIS, SOFiSTiK, Abaqus, GeoStudio, and MATLAB.

📚 Publications

Title: Model validation and calibration via back analysis for mechanized tunnel simulations – The Western Scheldt tunnel case
Authors: Zhao C., Alimardani Lavasan A., Barciaga T., Datcheva M.D., Schanz T.
Journal: Computers and Geotechnics
Year: 2015

Conclusion:

Mr. Veselin Zarev is a strong researcher with notable contributions to geotechnics and engineering geology, his eligibility for the Best Researcher Award would be enhanced by a stronger track record of high-impact publications, major research grants, and leadership in collaborative research. He is a promising candidate but could further strengthen his application with additional achievements.

Hui Jiang | Environmental | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Dr. Hui Jiang | Environmental | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Hui Jiang, Nanchang Institute of Technology, China

Prof. Dr. Hui Jiang is the Executive Dean of the School of Hydraulic Engineering at Nanchang Institute of Technology, China. He holds a Ph.D. and has completed postdoctoral research, specializing in ecological water conservancy engineering and environmental remote sensing big data. He has led or participated in over 30 scientific research projects, including grants from the National Natural Science Foundation of China. Dr. Jiang has published nearly 50 academic papers, including 15 SCI/EI-indexed papers, authored a monograph, and holds 12 authorized patents. Recognized as a Provincial Outstanding Youth, he has also been honored as an Excellent Guidance Teacher for National Water Conservancy Engineering Graduate Students.

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Summary:

Prof. Dr. Hui Jiang has made exceptional contributions to water conservancy engineering and environmental remote sensing. His research has led to multiple patents, high-impact publications, and major funded projects. His work in hydrodynamic-assisted remote sensing and riverbank vegetation technology has advanced ecological water management solutions. His leadership as Executive Dean further highlights his influence in the field.

🎓 Education

Jiang Hui holds a Ph.D. and has completed postdoctoral research. He is a professor and a master’s supervisor at Nanchang Institute of Technology and Nanchang University. He has also been selected as a candidate for the Jiangxi Province Hundred, Thousand, and Ten Thousand Project.

💼Experience

Jiang Hui serves as the Executive Dean of the School of Hydraulic Engineering at Nanchang Institute of Technology. He has led or participated in over 30 scientific research projects at the provincial level and above. He has hosted three projects funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China and two key projects from the Science and Technology Department of Jiangxi Province. Additionally, he has played a significant role as a technical director in water resources projects.

🔬Research Focus

Jiang Hui’s research focuses on ecological water conservancy engineering and environmental remote sensing big data. His studies include hydrodynamic-assisted remote sensing monitoring, riverbank vegetation growth mechanisms, suspended sediment dynamics, and the application of remote sensing in water resource management. He has published nearly 50 academic papers, including 15 indexed in SCI/EI, authored a monograph, and holds 12 authorized patents.

🛠️Skills

Jiang Hui specializes in ecological water conservancy engineering and environmental remote sensing big data. His expertise extends to hydrodynamic modeling, remote sensing analysis, and water cycle monitoring using advanced technologies.

🏆Awards

Jiang Hui has received several prestigious recognitions, including the Provincial Outstanding Youth Project award. He was also honored as an “Excellent Guidance Teacher for National Water Conservancy Engineering Professional Degree Graduate Students” in its first session. Additionally, he holds a “Yaohu Outstanding Youth” designation at his institution.

📚 Publications

  • Title: Characterisation and application of plant growth under stress of Grass‐planting concrete with alkaline variations

  • Authors: X. Gong, H. Jiang (Hui Jiang), Y. Liu, J. Ouyang, Y. Luo

  • Journal: Case Studies in Construction Materials

  • Year: 2025

Conclusion:

Prof. Dr. Hui Jiang is a highly deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award due to his pioneering research, leadership, and innovative contributions. While expanding international collaborations and industry partnerships could enhance his global impact, his existing achievements position him as a top contender for this recognition.

Saad Mohallel | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Saad Mohallel | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Saad Mohallel, Desert Research Center, Egypt

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Saad Mohallel is a groundwater expert at the Desert Research Center, Egypt, specializing in hydrogeology, geomorphology, and hydrology. With extensive experience in groundwater studies, he has led field research on desert water resources, stable isotope analysis, and aquifer recharge mechanisms. He has contributed to 16 scientific research projects and has expertise in data interpretation for sustainable water management. His work plays a crucial role in understanding groundwater dynamics in arid regions.

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Summary:

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Saad Mohallel is a leading expert in groundwater studies, with a strong research portfolio and significant contributions to desert hydrology. His work plays a vital role in water sustainability and environmental conservation, making him a strong contender for the Best Researcher Award.

🎓 Education

Saad Ahmed Mohallel has a strong academic background in groundwater studies, hydrogeology, and environmental sciences. His education has provided him with the expertise needed to analyze desert hydrology, geomorphology, and geological formations. His academic training has equipped him with advanced knowledge in stable isotope analysis and groundwater recharge mechanisms.

💼Experience

As an Associate Professor at the Desert Research Center in Egypt, Saad Ahmed Mohallel has extensive experience in groundwater studies and data interpretation in desert environments. He has led numerous scientific field trips, recording field observations and conducting measurements related to geomorphology, geology, and hydrology. His expertise extends to the interpretation of stable isotope data, which is crucial for understanding groundwater aquifers’ age and recharge sources. He has also contributed to 16 scientific research projects, further strengthening his impact in the field of desert hydrology.

🔬Research Focus

His research primarily revolves around groundwater studies, including hydrogeology, geomorphology, and hydrology. He specializes in stable isotope analysis to determine groundwater recharge sources and ages. He has been involved in 16 scientific research projects, contributing significantly to desert hydrology and water resource management.

🛠️Skills

His skill set includes hydrogeological data analysis, field research techniques, geomorphological assessments, groundwater recharge evaluation, and stable isotope data interpretation. He is proficient in conducting scientific surveys and analyzing hydrological systems to support sustainable water management.

🏆Awards

Saad Ahmed Mohallel has been nominated for an international award in soil science, reflecting his contributions to groundwater research and desert hydrology. His research and consultancy efforts have had a notable impact on scientific understanding and water resource management in arid environments.

📚 Publications

  • Title: Recharge Sources and Hydrogeochemical Evolution of the Groundwater in the Quaternary Aquifer El Gallaba Plain, Southwestern Desert, Egypt
    Authors: S.A. Sharawey, S.A. Mohallel, Saad Ahmed, E.A. Mohamed, Essam A.
    Journal: Egyptian Journal of Chemistry
    Year: 2024

Conclusion:

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Saad Mohallel is highly suitable for the Best Researcher Award. His work is essential for addressing critical water resource challenges in arid regions, and with continued advancements, he can further enhance his global research influence.

Emmanuel Kwaku Manu | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Emmanuel Kwaku Manu | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Emmanuel Kwaku Manu, University of New England, Australia

Dr. Emmanuel Kwaku Manu is a researcher and lecturer at the University of New England, Australia. He holds a Ph.D. in Management from Jiangsu University, China, and is completing a Ph.D. in Economics at the University of New England. His research focuses on energy economics, financial economics, environmental sustainability, and the role of financial institutions in Sub-Saharan Africa. He has received numerous awards, including the Jiangsu Presidential Scholarship and the International Postgraduate Research Scholarship. Dr. Manu is also a member of various professional organizations and has extensive experience in teaching and research.

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Summary:

Dr. Emmanuel Kwaku Manu has demonstrated exceptional research abilities throughout his career. His interdisciplinary research has made substantial contributions to understanding environmental sustainability, financial development, and governance, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa. His work not only addresses the pressing challenges of climate change and renewable energy but also offers critical insights into how governance, policy, and innovation can shape sustainable development in emerging economies. His published research has been highly cited, underlining its importance and influence in the field.

 

🎓 Education

Emmanuel Kwaku Manu holds a B.A. in Economics and Entrepreneurship Development Studies from the University for Development Studies in Ghana, completed in 2012. He further pursued advanced studies, obtaining an MHon degree from N.I. Lobachevsky State University of Nizhny Novgorod, Russia in 2018. In 2021, he earned a Ph.D. in Management from Jiangsu University, China. Emmanuel is currently finishing his Ph.D. in Economics at the University of New England, Australia, with expected completion in December 2024. Additionally, he is a Post-Doctoral Research Fellow at Jiangsu University, China, in 2024.

 

💼Experience

Emmanuel has accumulated substantial teaching experience across various institutions. He is currently serving as a Casual Lecturer at the University of New England, Australia, where he teaches courses in Business Analytics, Macroeconomics, and Analytics for Business Research. Prior to this, he was a Teaching Assistant at Jiangsu University, China, and Tamale Technical University in Ghana. Emmanuel also contributed to research internships and project monitoring with Action Aid Ghana and the International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI).

 

🔬Research Focus

Emmanuel’s research interests are wide-ranging and encompass Economics, Econometrics, Management, Entrepreneurship, Health Economics, Energy Economics, and Financial Economics. His work often explores the intersection of financial systems, environmental sustainability, and governance, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa. His current research includes topics such as the impact of technological innovation on environmental sustainability, renewable energy deployment, and the role of financial institutions in carbon emissions reduction.

 

Awards

Emmanuel has received several prestigious awards, including the Best Graduating Student Award from Lobachevsky State University in 2018, the Jiangsu Presidential Scholarship, and the Zhenjiang Aluminium Company internship scholarship. Additionally, he was awarded the Jiangsu post-doctoral scholarship and the International Postgraduate Research Scholarship at the University of New England. These accolades reflect his academic excellence and commitment to advancing research in his field.

Skills

Emmanuel is proficient in analytical software such as SPSS, STATA, E-VIEWS, and R programming, along with Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. His excellent verbal and written communication skills in both English and Akan (Twi) have enabled him to present research papers at conferences and deliver consultancy reports. His strong research skills also extend to his work in econometrics, energy economics, and financial economics.

 

Publications

  • The impact of environmental policy, technological innovations, and digitalisation: Does context matter in natural resource management in Sub-Sahara Africa?
    • Authors: Manu, E.K., Asongu, S.A.
    • Citations: 0
    • Year: 2025
    • Journal: Extractive Industries and Society

 

  • Do strong innovation capability and environmental turbulence influence the nexus between CRM and business performance?
    • Authors: Qalati, S.A., Jiang, M., Gyedu, S., Manu, E.K.
    • Citations: 6
    • Year: 2024
    • Journal: Business Strategy and the Environment

 

  • Natural resource extraction and environmental sustainability in Africa: The role of voice and accountability
    • Authors: Manu, E.K., Chen, G.S., Hoang, N., Leu, S.
    • Citations: 5
    • Year: 2024
    • Journal: Sustainable Development

 

  • Do environmental regulations and technological innovation enhance environmental well-being in sub-Saharan Africa?
    • Authors: Manu, E.K., Chen, G.S., Adomako, S.
    • Citations: 2
    • Year: 2024
    • Journal: Business Strategy and the Environment

 

  • Natural resource abundance, governance, and government expenditure: Empirical insights from environmental sustainability
    • Authors: Donkor, M., Kong, Y., Manu, E.K.
    • Citations: 1
    • Year: 2024
    • Journal: Sustainable Development

 

  • Achieving environmental sustainability in Africa: The role of financial institutions development on carbon emissions
    • Authors: Chen, G.S., Manu, E.K., Asante, D.
    • Citations: 11
    • Year: 2023
    • Journal: Sustainable Development

 

  • Examining Finance-Growth Nexus: Empirical Evidence From the Sub-Regional Economies of Africa
    • Authors: Haibo, C., Manu, E.K., Somuah, M.
    • Citations: 8
    • Year: 2023
    • Journal: SAGE Open

 

  • Economic Growth and Environmental Quality: Analysis of Government Expenditure and the Causal Effect
    • Authors: Donkor, M., Kong, Y., Manu, E.K., Ntarmah, A.H., Appiah-Twum, F.
    • Citations: 18
    • Year: 2022
    • Journal: International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health

 

Conclusion:

Dr. Manu is undoubtedly a leading researcher in his field with significant potential for continued growth and impact. His strong academic record, extensive publications, and critical research on sustainability, governance, and energy economics make him an ideal candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Expanding his focus to new areas, increasing public engagement, and exploring more regional contexts could further elevate his already impressive body of work.