Aliu Olabamiji | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Aliu Olabamiji | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Aliu Olabamiji, Lagos State University, Nigeria

Dr. Aliu Olabamiji is a Lecturer I at Lagos State University, Nigeria, specializing in radiation physics, nuclear physics, and environmental assessment. He holds a Ph.D. in Physics from Olabisi Onabanjo University. His research focuses on radiological hazard assessment, heavy metal contamination, and environmental monitoring. With extensive experience in teaching and research, he has published widely on radiation exposure, radionuclide contamination, and public health risks. He is a member of the National Institute of Physics and the Nigeria Society for Radiation Protection.

Profile

Google Scholar

Summary:

Dr. Aliu Olabamiji is a dedicated researcher with significant contributions to environmental and radiological sciences. His work in assessing radiation hazards, geochemical impacts, and environmental contamination is relevant to public health and sustainable environmental management. With a strong publication record and commitment to teaching and mentorship, he has made a substantial impact on the academic and research community.

🎓 Education

Olabamiji Aliu Olayinka holds a Bachelor of Science in Physics (B.Sc. Ed) from Tai Solarin University of Education, a Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Physics from Olabisi Onabanjo University, and a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Physics from Olabisi Onabanjo University, completed in 2021. He also obtained a Certificate in Desktop Publishing from Adiat Computer Institute. His early education was at I.D.C Primary School and Aponmode Moniya High School in Ibadan.

💼Experience

He is currently a Lecturer I at Lagos State University, where he teaches a variety of undergraduate and postgraduate physics courses, including General Physics, Nuclear and Particle Physics, Electromagnetic Waves and Optics, and Modern Optics. Previously, he taught at Olabisi Onabanjo University, where he handled courses in Quantum Mechanics, Experimental Physics, and Waves and Optics. Beyond the university system, he has worked as a Physics teacher in various institutions, including Great Diplomat International College, Christ Victory College, Yassina International School, and Mabunmi Memorial Grammar School.

🔬Research Focus

His research primarily revolves around radiological assessment, heavy metal contamination, environmental monitoring, and radiation hazard evaluation. He has published extensively on topics such as radionuclide contamination in soil, radiological impact assessment of water sources, and radiation exposure from industrial activities. His studies have contributed to understanding environmental safety and public health risks associated with radiation and heavy metals.

🏆Awards

He has been recognized for his leadership and contributions to the physics community, serving as the President of the National Association of Physics Students at Tai Solarin University of Education. He is also an active member of the National Institute of Physics and the Nigeria Society for Radiation Protection.

🛠️Skills

He has expertise in radiation physics, nuclear physics, environmental assessment, and radiological hazard analysis. His skills extend to teaching, research supervision, laboratory analysis, and curriculum development. He is also proficient in MATLAB and other scientific computing tools.

📚Publications

  • Radiological Impact Assessment of Soil Matrices from Saje and Ilaro Dumpsites in Southwestern Nigeria
    Authors: SK Alausa, IO Akanmu, K Odunaike, A Adeyeloja, AO Olabamiji
    Year: 2019
    Journal: FUW Trends in Science & Technology Journal (FTSTJ), 4, 805-809

  • Environmental Impact Assessment of Radionuclide and Metal Contamination in Heavily Urbanized River, Ibadan, Nigeria
    Authors: AO Olabamiji, SK Alausa, CA Adejumobi, TA Alabi
    Year: 2023
    Journal: Nigerian Journal of Physics, 32 (1), 160-168

  • Radiological and Geochemical Evaluation of Pegmatite Rocks in Some Selected States in Nigeria
    Authors: AO Olabamiji, SK Alausa, TO Alabi
    Year: 2023
    Journal: Nigerian Journal of Physics, 32 (1), 132-141

  • Radiological and Geochemical Assessment of Different Rock Types from Ogun State in Southwestern Nigeria
    Authors: OA Olayinka, AS Kunle
    Year: 2023

  • Determination and Evaluation of Potentially Toxic Heavy Metals in Some Selected Rivers within Ijebu-North, Nigeria
    Authors: K Odunaike, Q Adeniji, RT Feyisola, AT Talabi, AO Olabamiji, OS Olayemi, …
    Year: 2022
    Journal: Journal of the University of Ruhuna, 10 (2)

Conclusion:

Dr. Olabamiji is a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award, given his research productivity, academic contributions, and the societal relevance of his work. While he already excels in many areas, enhancing international collaborations, securing research funding, and increasing the global visibility of his work would further solidify his standing as a leading researcher in his field.

Laxmi Kant Bhardwaj | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Laxmi Kant Bhardwaj | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Laxmi Kant Bhardwaj, Amity University, India

Dr. Laxmi Kant Bhardwaj is an environmental scientist and researcher at Amity Institute of Environmental Toxicology, Safety, and Management, Amity University, India. He holds a Ph.D. in Environmental Sciences with a focus on anthropogenic activities in Antarctica and their environmental impact. His research expertise includes environmental pollution, ecotoxicology, bioremediation, microplastics, and wastewater treatment. He has extensive experience in analytical testing across pharmaceuticals, food safety, and environmental monitoring. Dr. Bhardwaj has received multiple awards, including the Nobel Laureate Dr. C.V. Raman Award (2024), and holds editorial roles in several scientific journals.

Profile

Scopus

Summary:

Dr. Laxmi Kant Bhardwaj is a highly accomplished researcher with a strong track record in environmental sciences, particularly in pollution monitoring, bioremediation, and climate change impact studies. His extensive publications, editorial contributions, and recognition through awards demonstrate his excellence in research. However, expanding international collaborations, securing more funding, and increasing policy influence could further elevate his profile as a leading researcher.

🎓 Education

Dr. Laxmi Kant Bhardwaj holds a Ph.D. in Environmental Sciences from Amity University, Noida, completed in 2020, with research focused on the impact of anthropogenic activities in Antarctica on the environment. He earned his M.Sc. in Biotechnology from Bundelkhand University, Jhansi, in 2008, and a B.Sc. in Life Sciences from C.C.S. University, Meerut, in 2006. His early education includes Intermediate and High School from U.P. Board, Allahabad, in 2002 and 2000, respectively.

💼Experience

Dr. Bhardwaj is currently working at the Amity Institute of Environmental Toxicology, Safety, and Management (AIETSM), Amity University, Noida, since October 2015. He also serves as a Section Editor for Basic Science & Mathematics at the Journal of Computers, Mechanical, and Management, AAN Publishers, Malaysia. His past roles include Executive Chemist at Haryana Test House, Chemist at SGS India Pvt. Ltd., Analyst at ARBRO Pharmaceuticals Ltd., Q.C. Chemist at SYNOKEM Pharmaceuticals Ltd., and Lab Executive at Tyrocare Technologies Ltd. He has also worked as a trainee at the National Botanical Research Institute (NBRI), Lucknow, focusing on ecotoxicology and bioremediation.

🔬Research Focus

His research primarily addresses environmental pollution, ecotoxicology, bioremediation, and climate change impacts. He has extensively studied persistent organic pollutants, microplastics, and heavy metal contamination in Antarctic environments. His work also explores e-waste management, wastewater treatment, and phytoremediation techniques for pollution control.

🛠️Skills

Dr. Bhardwaj has expertise in environmental analysis, pharmaceutical testing, food safety, and pathology. His technical skills include chromatography techniques such as GC-FID, GC-MS/MS, HPLC, and UV-Vis Spectrophotometry. He is proficient in the analysis of environmental pollutants, pharmaceuticals, food components, and pathology-related biochemical parameters. Additionally, he has strong laboratory management and analytical testing skills.

🏆Awards

Dr. Bhardwaj has received numerous accolades, including the Nobel Laureate Dr. C.V. Raman Award (2024) from the Art of Giving Charitable Trust and a Teacher Award from ABASP International Educator Board (2023). He was appointed as the Editor-in-Chief for the SSR Journal of Artificial Intelligence and Associate Editor for the SSR Journal of Engineering and Technology. He has also received peer reviewer certificates from leading journals such as Environmental Pollution, Polar Science, and Science of the Total Environment. He was awarded a Young Researcher Award from the Institute of Scholars (InSc) in 2022 and has been a scientific member of the 10th Indian Scientific Expedition to Southern Oceans.

Publications

  1. The Impact of Climate-Induced Livelihood, Health, and Migration on Women and Girls: A Review

      • Authors: L.K. Bhardwaj, P. Rath, H. Jain, P. Yadav, V. Singh
      • Journal: Global Insights on Women Empowerment and Leadership (Book Chapter)
      • Publisher: IGI Global
      • Year: 2024
  2. Occurrence of Microplastics (MPs) in Antarctica and Its Impact on the Health of Organisms

    • Author: L.K. Bhardwaj
    • Journal: Maritime Technology and Research
    • Year: 2024

Conclusion:

Dr. Bhardwaj is a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award, given his outstanding contributions to environmental sciences, scientific leadership, and impactful publications. Addressing the suggested areas for improvement would further solidify his position as a global research leader in his field.

Djillali BENOUAR | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Djillali BENOUAR | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Djillali BENOUAR, Algerian Academy of Sciences and Technologies , Algeria

Prof. Dr. Djillali Benouar is a distinguished professor and researcher affiliated with the Algerian Academy of Sciences and Technologies. He is a leading expert in earthquake engineering, disaster risk reduction, and civil engineering. With decades of experience, he has made significant contributions to seismic hazard assessment, structural resilience, and disaster management in Algeria and beyond. Prof. Benouar has authored numerous scientific publications and has been actively involved in national and international research projects aimed at improving disaster preparedness and mitigation strategies.

Profile

Scopus

Summary:

Prof. Dr. Djillali Benouar is a highly accomplished researcher with significant contributions to earthquake engineering and disaster risk management. His scientific publications, interdisciplinary collaborations, and commitment to public safety make him a strong candidate for a Best Researcher Award. While his citation impact and global outreach could be further enhanced, his work remains highly valuable for disaster resilience and infrastructure safety.

 

🎓 Education

Professor Djillali Benouar holds a Ph.D. in Engineering Seismology from Imperial College, University of London, with a Diploma of Imperial College (DIC), focusing on the seismicity of Algeria and adjacent regions during the twentieth century. He earned his Master of Science degree in Civil Engineering (Earthquake Engineering) from Stanford University, USA, and pursued post-master courses. Additionally, he was a Visiting Professor at the Institute of Industrial Science, University of Tokyo, Japan.

 

💼Experience

With 42 years of teaching experience, Professor Benouar has supervised 15 Magister theses and seven Doctorate theses. He has held multiple leadership roles, including serving as President of the Scientific Committee at USTHB for three terms, a member of the Scientific Council at USTHB for four terms, and Director of the Built Environment Research Laboratory for four terms. He has also been a member of the expert national research committee at the Ministry of Habitat for five terms. He has played a crucial role in organizing international conferences and has been an editor and editorial board member for multiple scientific journals, including serving as Editor-in-Chief of the Oxford Research Encyclopedia of Natural Hazards Science.

🔬Research Focus

His research expertise lies in engineering seismology, earthquake engineering, disaster risk reduction, seismic hazard assessment, and vulnerability analysis. He has led several international research projects related to earthquake risk mitigation, seismic hazards, and resilience-building. His work has contributed significantly to advancing university action on risk and vulnerability reduction in Africa.

 

Awards

He has received prestigious international awards, including recognition from Thomson Reuters and the UNESCO Global Alliance for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNESCO-GADR). His contributions to disaster resilience and seismic hazard research have been widely acknowledged in global academic and policy-making circles.

 

Skills

He is fluent in Arabic, English, and French, using all three as working languages. His expertise spans engineering seismology, earthquake engineering, risk and disaster management, seismic hazard assessment, resilience planning, and policy advisory roles in disaster risk reduction. His extensive experience in research, academic leadership, and international consultancy makes him a leading figure in his field.

 

Publications

  • S.J. Beaven, D. Benouar, M.R. Bhatt, T.D. Gibson, L.A. Peek (2023). “Disasters: Deconstructed on 11th of June 2021.” Disaster Prevention and Management: An International Journal. 0 citations

 

  • R. Souici, Y. Ait-Meziane, D. Benouar (2021). “Identification of vibration direction of existing buildings using ambient vibration noise tests.” Arabian Journal of Geosciences. 1 citation

 

  • B. Benfarhat, D. Benouar, S. Cartier (2020). “Perception of seismic design by architects in Algeria.” Jamba: Journal of Disaster Risk Studies. 0 citations

 

  • A. Benmokhtar, D. Benouar, A. Rahmoune (2020). “Modeling the propagation of the effects of a disturbance in a critical infrastructure system to increase its resilience.” Urbanism. Architecture. Constructions. 4 citations

Conclusion:

Prof. Dr. Djillali Benouar is a suitable candidate for the Best Researcher Award. If he strengthens his international research impact and citation count, his profile will become even stronger.

Mohammad Mosaferi | Soil | Soil Toxicology Research Award

Prof. Mohammad Mosaferi | Soil | Soil Toxicology Research Award

Prof.Mohammad Mosaferi, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Iran

Prof. Mohammad Mosaferi is a professor of Environmental Health Engineering at Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Iran. He holds a Ph.D. in Environmental Health Engineering from Tehran University of Medical Sciences and completed a sabbatical at UCL-Birkbeck, London. His research focuses on water quality, arsenic contamination, environmental epidemiology, and wastewater treatment. With over two decades of academic and administrative experience, he has published extensively, achieving an H-index of 20 (Scopus) and 27 (Google Scholar). Prof. Mosaferi is an active member of multiple scientific associations and serves on editorial boards of prominent journals.

Profile

Scopus

Summary:

Prof. Mohammad Mosaferi is a highly qualified environmental health expert with significant contributions to soil toxicology, particularly in the areas of arsenic and heavy metal contamination. His interdisciplinary research approach, teaching, and leadership roles make him a valuable asset in addressing global soil contamination issues. His work effectively bridges the gap between environmental toxicology and public health, emphasizing sustainable solutions.

 

 

🎓 Education

Mohammad Mosaferi earned his B.Sc. in Environmental Health Engineering from the College of Abureyhan, University of Tehran, Iran, in 1996. He completed his M.Sc. in Environmental Health Engineering at Tehran University of Medical Sciences in 1999 and subsequently obtained his Ph.D. in the same field from the same institution in 2005. During his doctoral studies, he undertook a sabbatical leave with the London Arsenic Group at the Research School of Earth Sciences, UCL-Birkbeck, London, under the supervision of Prof. Karen Hudson-Edwards (2004–2005).

 

💼Experience

Prof. Mosaferi currently serves as a full professor in the Department of Environmental Health Engineering at the Faculty of Health, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences (since 2014). Previously, he held positions as an associate professor (2011–2014) and assistant professor (2005–2011) in the same department. He has also served as Deputy of Education at the Faculty of Health (2013–2016) and Head of the Department of Environmental Health Engineering (2006–2010). Additionally, he was an honorary research assistant at the Department of Earth Sciences, College of Birkbeck, UCL, London, UK (2004–2009). Prof. Mosaferi has been actively involved in administrative roles, including leadership positions in environmental committees, strategic councils, and research groups at both national and provincial levels.

 

🔬Research Focus

Prof. Mosaferi’s research interests encompass water quality and treatment, the environmental and health impacts of arsenic, environmental epidemiology, wastewater treatment, environmental health impact assessment, waste management, and passive defense. His work emphasizes public health solutions and sustainable environmental practices.

 

 

Awards and Honors

Prof. Mosaferi has received multiple accolades, including being named Selected Researcher in Environmental Protection for East Azerbaijan Province and Selected Young Researcher by the Ministry of Health and Medical Education in Iran. He achieved first rank in entrance exams and academic courses at the B.Sc., M.Sc., and Ph.D. levels, reflecting his consistent academic excellence.

 

International Participation

Prof. Mosaferi actively engages in international collaboration and training, including participation in the 8th International Course on Alternative Methods for the Reduction of Pesticide Use in Izmir, Turkey (2018). His international involvement underscores his commitment to addressing global environmental challenges.

Skills

Prof. Mosaferi is an expert in designing and managing water treatment systems, assessing environmental and health impacts of development projects, analyzing pollutants using advanced methods, and addressing public health challenges through environmental health engineering.

 

Publications

  • “A comprehensive review of cyclic activated sludge processes in wastewater treatment: Current perspectives and future challenges”
    Authors: Mosaferi, M., Shekoohiyan, S., Behnami, A., Allaeaiea, H., Pourakbar, M.
    Year: 2025
    Citations: 0

 

  • “Experimental and numerical study of efficient sulfate reduction and heavy metal elimination from real acid mine drainage”
    Authors: Afsar, E., Nejaei, A., Mosaferi, M.
    Year: 2025
    Citations: 0

 

  • “Importance of Quality of Groundwater Resources in Transboundary River with Emphasis on Hydro-geochemical Properties, Case study: Aras Transboundary River (Northern Iran)”
    Authors: Ghayurdoost, F., Firouzsalari, N.Z., Nikmaram, S., Baba, A., Mosaferi, M.
    Year: 2025
    Citations: 0

 

  • “Evaluation of cumulative exposures to multiple pesticide residues in three characteristic fruits in the Northwest of Iran: a risk assessment using Monte Carlo Simulation”
    Authors: Abbaszadeh, L., Maleki, N.S., Mosaferi, M., Asl Hashemi, A., Safari, G.H.
    Year: 2025
    Citations: 0

 

  • “Interplay of arsenic exposure and cigarette smoking on oxidative DNA damage in healthy males”
    Authors: Nemati-Mansour, S., Mosaferi, M., Babaie, J., Nikniaz, L., Miri, M.
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 1

 

  • “Advances in microbial exoenzymes bioengineering for improvement of bioplastics degradation”
    Authors: Rahmati, F., Sethi, D., Shu, W., Thomson, A., Price, G.W.
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 5

 

  • “Investigating the types and amounts of pesticides used in agriculture in the East Azerbaijan province”
    Authors: Mosaferi, M., Yahyazadeh, J., Mohammadian, Y., Moshtaghi, F.
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 1

 

Conclusion:

Prof. Mosaferi is an excellent candidate for the Research for Soil Toxicology Research Award. His strong academic background, impactful research, and commitment to addressing critical environmental challenges position him as a leader in the field. However, he could further strengthen his application by emphasizing more soil-specific toxicology research and highlighting his recent work through increased outreach and collaborations. Overall, his expertise and achievements make him a compelling contender for this recognition.

Changlin Zhan | Pollution | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Changlin Zhan | Pollution | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Changlin Zhan, Hubei Polytechnic University, China

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Changlin Zhan is a respected academic at Hubei Polytechnic University, China, specializing in materials science and environmental sustainability. His research focuses on resource efficiency and pollution control, and he has published extensively in leading scientific journals. Known for his dedication to teaching and mentorship, Dr. Zhan is highly regarded by students and peers alike for his contributions to science and education.

 

Profile

Scopus

Summary:

Dr. Changlin Zhan’s background and expertise make him a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His work on pollution, black carbon, and heavy metals contributes to understanding industrial impacts on environmental and public health. His contributions are grounded in rigorous science, and he demonstrates an ability to publish impactful research that addresses critical environmental issues in China and beyond.

 

🎓 Education

Dr. Zhan holds a Bachelor of Science in Urban and Rural Planning & Resource Management from Henan Polytechnic University, a Master of Science in Environmental Science from Wuhan University of Technology, and a Ph.D. in Earth and Human Settlements Science and Engineering from Xi’an Jiaotong University.

💼Experience

Dr. Zhan currently serves as an Associate Professor in the School of Environmental Science & Engineering at Hubei Polytechnic University. Since 2013, he has advanced from a lecturer to his present role, leading research projects, mentoring students, and collaborating with interdisciplinary teams on various environmental studies, especially concerning pollution in Central China.

🔬Research Focus

Dr. Zhan’s research primarily explores the historical accumulation and sources of black carbon and heavy metals in lake sediments and atmospheric dust. His work extends to assessing pollution levels and the health risks posed by heavy metals in urban environments, contributing valuable insights into the environmental impacts of industrial activities and the spatial distribution of pollutants in Central China.

🏆Awards

Dr. Zhan has contributed significantly to environmental science literature, publishing widely on pollution and public health, and is recognized for his rigorous analysis of pollutant distribution and impacts on ecosystems. His publications appear in top environmental journals, reflecting his esteemed contributions to environmental health research.

Skills

Dr. Changlin Zhan specializes in environmental science, with expertise in analyzing black carbon, heavy metals, and various pollutants in sediments, dust, and atmospheric particles. He demonstrates proficiency in laboratory techniques for quantifying environmental pollutants and health risk assessment, applying advanced analytical methods to examine complex ecological data, and proficiently handling large datasets to model pollutant distributions.

 

Publications

  • Assessing Bioavailability Risks of Heavy Metals in Polymetallic Mining Regions: A Comprehensive Analysis of Soils with Varied Land Uses
    Authors: Liu, S., Li, Y., Zhan, C., Fang, L., Wang, Y.
    Year: 2024
    Journal: Environmental Monitoring and Assessment, 196(10), 975.

 

  • Distribution, Sources, and Burial Flux of Black Carbon in Sediment of Daye Lake, Central China
    Authors: Zhan, C., Han, Y., Zhang, J., Xiao, W., Cao, J.
    Year: 2024
    Journal: International Journal of Sediment Research, 39(5), 750–760.

 

  • Sources and Factors Influencing Lacustrine Carbon Burial Over the Last Century: Case Study of Yinjia Lake, Central China
    Authors: Zhan, C., Wan, D., Han, Y., Xiao, W., Cao, J.
    Year: 2024
    Journal: Journal of Paleolimnology, 72(3), 283–298.

 

  • Educational Approaches for Integrating Advanced Environmental Remediation Technologies into Environmental Engineering: The ‘Four Styles’ Model
    Authors: Liu, S., Zhang, J., Tao, M., Li, Y., Liu, X.
    Year: 2024
    Journal: Processes, 12(8), 1569.

 

  • A Review on the Analytical Methods, Chemical Structures, Distribution Characteristics, Sources, and Biogeochemical Processes of Dissolved Black Carbon
    Authors: Zhan, C., Shu, A., Han, Y., Cao, J., Liu, X.
    Year: 2024
    Journal: Environmental Reviews, 32(2), 186–202.

 

  • Seasonal Distributions and Possible Sources of Low Molecular Weight Organic Acids in PM2.5 from a Typical Mining City after Decade Green Mining Developing in Southeastern Hubei, Central China
    Authors: Liu, S., Kawamura, K., Kunwar, B., Zhang, J., Quan, J.
    Year: 2024
    Journal: Atmospheric Environment, 325, 120455.

 

  • Increased Black Carbon (Soot) Accumulation during the Anthropocene in a Less-Developed Region of Xinjiang, Northwestern China
    Authors: Lei, D., Han, Y., Zhan, C., Zhang, J., Li, J.
    Year: 2024
    Journal: Anthropocene, 45, 100425.

 

  • Unveiling the Spatial Patterns and Potential Sources of Black Carbon in Lake Sediments from Diverse Developing Areas in a Representative Mining and Metallurgy Region of Central China
    Authors: Xiao, Z., Yu, L., Li, J., Wang, Y., Liu, S.
    Year: 2024
    Journal: Journal of Soils and Sediments, 24(2), 970–979.

 

  • Source-Based Health Risk Assessment of Heavy Metal Contamination in Soil: A Case Study from a Polymetallic Mining Region in Southeastern Hubei, Central China
    Authors: Li, Y., Liu, S., Zhan, C., Fang, L., Wang, Y.
    Year: 2024
    Journal: Environmental Geochemistry and Health, 46(1), 12.

 

  • Source-Specific Health Risk of PM2.5-Bound Metals in a Typical Industrial City, Central China, 2021–2022
    Authors: Liu, Z., Zhan, C., Liu, H., Zhang, J., Qu, C.
    Year: 2023
    Journal: Atmosphere, 14(9), 1406.

 

 

Conclusion:

Dr. Zhan’s research achievements, coupled with his commitment to addressing urgent environmental challenges, position him as a deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award. While expanding his focus and enhancing policy engagement would further his impact, his contributions to environmental science and pollution studies already stand out in their scientific merit and societal importance.