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
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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

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

Fahanwi Asabuwa Ngwabebhoh | Environmental | Research Excellence Award

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Fahanwi Asabuwa Ngwabebhoh | Environmental | Research Excellence Award

Kocaeli University | Turkey

Fahanwi Asabuwa Ngwabebhohis a dedicated researcher in polymer and materials chemistry whose work advances environmentally green concepts and bioinspired material innovations. His research focuses on the design, synthesis, modification, and processing of functional polymer systems engineered to deliver tailored properties for biocomposites, nanomaterials, and conductive polymeric structures. He has contributed significant advancements in applications such as photodegradation of pollutants, membrane filtration, adsorption of organic molecules, controlled drug delivery, energy-related materials including carbonated electrolytes, and the development of high-performance biosensors. His scientific output demonstrates strong interdisciplinary impact, with 48 published documents, 1,385 citations from 1,249 citing documents, and a solid h-index of 19, reflecting the visibility, credibility, and long-term influence of his research in the global scientific community. Through his work, FAHANWI ASABUWA NGWABEBHOH continues to push boundaries in sustainable polymer engineering and materials science, contributing novel solutions to pressing environmental and technological challenges while remaining open to collaborative opportunities that expand the development of next-generation polymeric materials for advanced bioapplications and energy systems.

Profiles : Scopus | Orcid 

Featured Publications

Delawary, A. R., Ngwabebhoh, F. A., Pechancova, V., Saha, T., & Saha, P. (2025). Treatment and utilization of chromium-tanned leather waste for energy materials as an alternative approach to current energy technologies: A review. Materials Today Sustainability.

Saha, N., Ngwabebhoh, F. A., Zandraa, O., Chaudhuri, M., Saha, N., Solovyov, D., Salms, G., Dubnika, A., Sosnik, A., & Saha, T. (2025). Self-crosslinkable bacterial cellulose/chitosan/pectin injectable hydrogels: Design, characterization and preliminary biological performance. Journal of Applied Polymer Science.

Ngwabebhoh, F. A., Saha, N., Saha, T., & Saha, P. (2025). Enhancing the role of biopolymer-based composites as cost-effective biostimulants and bioactive coating systems for sustainable agriculture: Preparation, characterization, and optimization. Emergent Materials.

Christopher Eastoe | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Christopher Eastoe | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Christopher Eastoe | University of Arizona | Australia

Dr. Christopher J. Eastoe, a distinguished researcher in the Department of Geosciences at the University of Arizona, has made significant contributions to the fields of hydrogeochemistry, isotope geochemistry, and mineral deposit studies. His work primarily focuses on the application of geological, light stable isotopes (S, Cl, C, O, H), and radiogenic isotopes (³H, ¹⁴C) to investigate hydrothermal ore deposits, sedimentary basins, groundwater systems, and atmospheric processes. Through advanced isotope and fluid inclusion techniques, he has enhanced the understanding of geochemical processes shaping Earth’s crust and fluid evolution in diverse geological settings. Dr. Eastoe’s research also emphasizes the development and quality assurance of sulfur and chlorine isotopic methodologies, which have become essential tools in modern geoscientific studies. His prolific scientific output includes 112 peer-reviewed documents, reflecting a sustained commitment to excellence in geochemical research and laboratory innovation. With a strong record of collaboration and mentorship, his scholarly influence is underscored by 3,191 citations across 2,290 referencing documents, demonstrating the global impact of his contributions to isotope geochemistry and environmental geoscience. His research legacy continues to guide new investigations in isotope applications for resource exploration and environmental assessment, solidifying his role as a leader in Earth science research.

Profiles: Scopus  | Orcid

Featured Publications

  • Hibbs, B. J., Eastoe, C. J., & Merino, M. (2024). Issues of bias in groundwater quality data sets in an irrigated floodplain aquifer of variable salinity. Geosciences, 14(3), 66.

  • Eastoe, C. J. (2023). Isotope record of groundwater recharge mechanisms and climate change in southwestern North America. Applied Geochemistry, 153, 105604. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.apgeochem.2023.105604

  • Eastoe, C., Hibbs, B., Merino, M., & Dadakis, J. (2022). Origins of sulfate in groundwater and surface water of the Rio Grande floodplain, Texas, USA and Chihuahua, Mexico. Hydrology, 9(6), 95.

  • Gu, A., & Eastoe, C. J. (2021). The origins of sulfate in Cenozoic non-marine evaporites in the Basin-and-Range Province, southwestern North America. Geosciences, 11(11), 455.

  • Zamora, H. A., Eastoe, C. J., McIntosh, J. C., & Flessa, K. W. (2021). Groundwater origin and dynamics on the eastern flank of the Colorado River Delta, Mexico. Hydrology, 8(2), 80.

  • Callegary, J. B., Norman, L. M., Eastoe, C. J., Sankey, J. B., & Youberg, A. (2021). Preliminary assessment of carbon and nitrogen sequestration potential of wildfire-derived sediments stored by erosion control structures in forest ecosystems, Southwest USA. Air, Soil and Water Research, 14, 11786221211001768.

Rima Bou Melhem | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

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Mrs. Rima Bou Melhem | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Mrs. Rima Bou Melhem | Laboratory of Physics and Chemistry of the Environment and Space | France

Dr. Rima Bou Melhem is a dedicated researcher specializing in plant and environmental sciences, with expertise spanning phytoecology, microbiology, and biotechnology. Her research focuses on sustainable plant–soil interactions, microbial diversity, and natural bioactive compounds contributing to ecosystem resilience and agricultural innovation. She has conducted extensive fieldwork on soil and plant sampling in pine and cedar forest ecosystems and led studies on the isolation and molecular identification of entomopathogenic fungi such as Beauveria bassiana for biological pest control applications. Her scientific pursuits also include evaluating the antibacterial and antioxidant properties of plant extracts, integrating analytical chemistry techniques such as LC-MS, HPLC, and spectrophotometry to characterize phytochemical profiles. Beyond laboratory research, she has contributed to applied innovation through co-founding a start-up that integrates digital technologies with biological control systems for sustainable pest management. Her strong command of molecular biology, analytical chemistry, and data analysis tools, combined with interdisciplinary collaboration and field-based research, underpins her goal of enhancing plant health, soil quality, and environmental sustainability. With a multidisciplinary approach bridging ecological research and technological innovation, she continues to contribute to advancing nature-based solutions for agriculture and ecosystem conservation.

Profile: Orcid 

Featured Publications

Bou Melhem, R., Jourdain, L., Gogo, S., Leroy, F., Jacotot, A., Moquet, J.-S., Laggoun-Défarge, F., & Guimbaud, C. (2025, October 14). Rewetting is not enough: Sphagnum transplants promote lowering of greenhouse‐gas emissions in peatlands. Restoration Ecology.

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.

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.

Ahmad Zaeem Faraz | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Ahmad Zaeem Faraz | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Ahmad Zaeem Faraz | Hohai University | United States 

Ahmad Zaeem Faraz is a highly accomplished Ph.D. candidate in Management (Strategic Management) at Hohai University, specializing in sustainability, corporate social responsibility (CSR), and strategic management in emerging markets. His research focuses on green CSR practices and the development of sustainable business models, integrating digital transformation and innovation to enhance organizational performance. With an MBA in Marketing and a Master’s in Educational Administration, Ahmad combines strong academic expertise with over seven years of teaching experience in strategic management and business courses at leading universities in Pakistan. He has successfully designed corporate training programs on CSR, regulatory compliance, and sustainability, bridging theory and practice for both students and professionals. Ahmad has published in top-tier journals, including Sustainable Development (Wiley, Q1, IF 8.2) and Kybernetes (Emerald, Q2, IF 2.5), and presented research at international conferences in China, the USA, and Romania. As a reviewer for several academic journals and a mentor to emerging scholars, he actively contributes to advancing knowledge and promoting research ethics. His interdisciplinary work links strategic management, green HRM, and digital innovation to practical solutions for SMEs in emerging markets, providing actionable insights that balance economic growth with social and environmental responsibility, demonstrating a significant impact on academia and industry alike.

Profile:  Orcid 

Featured Publications

  • Xu, Y., Faraz, A. Z., Sarfraz, M., Arshad, S., Sun, J., & Ahmad, A. (2025). Strategic capabilities for sustainability: An integrated model of digital inclusion and sustainable performance. Sustainable Development.

  • Faraz, A. Z., Deng, Y., Arshad, S., & Rui, S. (2025). Digital transformation as a catalyst: Linking green CSR to sustainable development through environmental strategy and innovation in Pakistani SMEs. Kybernetes.

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.