Hamed Abdeh Keykha | Soil | Sustainable Soil Practices Award

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Dr. Hamed Abdeh Keykha | Soil | Sustainable Soil Practices Award

Dr. Hamed Abdeh Keykha | London South Bank University | United Kingdom

Dr. Hamed Abdeh Keykha’s research focuses on advancing sustainable ground improvement and soil stabilization techniques within the fields of geotechnical and geological engineering. His work integrates innovative biogeochemical approaches such as microbially induced carbonate precipitation (MICP) and CO₂-induced carbonate precipitation (CICP) to enhance soil strength, reduce contamination, and promote carbon sequestration. As a Research Fellow under the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions program at the London South Bank University, he investigates environmentally friendly engineering methods for stabilizing problematic soils and mitigating dust pollution. His academic contributions include more than twenty peer-reviewed journal publications and an international patent on the stabilization of sandy soils and fine dusts through CO₂-induced mineral carbonation. Dr. Keykha’s research bridges the gap between earth resource engineering and environmental sustainability by focusing on soil biocementation, mineral carbonation processes, and geotechnical applications for sustainable construction. His collaborations with international institutions have strengthened global research in ground improvement technologies and green engineering materials. Through his combined academic, industrial, and field experience, he continues to contribute to innovative solutions addressing geotechnical challenges, environmental remediation, and the sustainable utilization of earth resources.

Profile:  Orcid 

Featured Publications

Keykha, H. A., Joshi, S., Mavroulidou, M., Mohamadzadeh Romiani, H., & Asadi, A. (2025). Carbonate mineral formation by microalgae: Precipitation potential and morphological analysis. Minerals, 15(11), 1096.

Mohamadzadeh Romiani, H., Keykha, H. A., Talebi, M., Asadi, A., & Kawasaki, S. (2023). Green soil improvement: Using carbon dioxide to enhance the behaviour of clay. Proceedings of the Institution of Civil Engineers – Ground Improvement.

Keykha, H. A., Zangani, A., Mohamadzadeh Romiani, H., Asadi, A., Kawasaki, S., & Radmanesh, N. (2023). Characterizing microbial and CO₂-induced carbonate minerals: Implications for soil stabilization in sandy environments. Minerals, 13(7), 976.

Keykha, H. A., Mohamadzadeh Romiani, H., Zarei, A., & Asadi, A. (2022). Stabilization of petroleum-contaminated sandy soil using CO₂-induced magnesite precipitation. International Journal of Environmental Research, 16(4), Article 473.

Christian Siewert | Soil Science | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Dr. Christian Siewert | Soil Science | Best Researcher Award

Christian Siewert | University of Applied Sciences Dresden | Germany 

Dr. Christian Siewert is a German soil scientist and ecologist with more than three decades of academic and international experience. Holding a Ph.D. in natural sciences from the Soil Research Centre in Müncheberg and a Habilitation in soil science from the Technical University of Berlin, he has built a distinguished career across research, teaching, and international collaboration. Since 2005, he has served as a full professor, currently at the Dresden University of Applied Sciences, where he focuses on ecological sciences, soil fertility, land use technologies, environmental monitoring, and scientific publication activities. His professional record spans leadership roles, international project coordination, and contributions to over 14 EU strategic partnership research projects, including SUMCULA on sustainable cultural landscape management. With academic engagements across regions such as Russia, Eastern Europe, New Zealand, South America, and Japan, he has demonstrated long-standing expertise in cross-border ecological initiatives. Dr. Siewert has authored 32 scientific documents, which have collectively earned 809 citations, reflecting his influence in his field. His publication impact is further evidenced by an h-index of 15, underscoring the significance and reach of his scholarly contributions. Alongside 60 scientific publications and six patents, his work integrates research excellence with teaching, innovation, and global scientific cooperation.

Profiles: Scopus | Orcid 

Featured Publications

  • Krahl, I., Tokarski, D., Kučerík, J., Schwitzky, E., & Siewert, C. (2025). New approach to experimental soil health definition using thermogravimetric fingerprinting. Agronomy.

  • Tokarski, D., Šimečková, J., Kučerík, J., Kalbitz, K., Demyan, M. S., Merbach, I., Barkusky, D., Ruehlmann, J., & Siewert, C. (2019). Detectability of degradable organic matter in agricultural soils by thermogravimetry. Journal of Plant Nutrition and Soil Science.

  • David, J., Weissmannová, H. D., Steinmetz, Z., Kabelíková, L., Demyan, M. S., Šimečková, J., Tokarski, D., Siewert, C., Schaumann, G. E., & Kučerík, J. (2019). Introducing a soil universal model method (SUMM) and its application for qualitative and quantitative determination of poly(ethylene), poly(styrene), poly(vinyl chloride) and poly(ethylene terephthalate) microplastics in a model soil. Chemosphere.

  • Tokarski, D., Kučerík, J., Kalbitz, K., Demyan, M. S., Merbach, I., Barkusky, D., Ruehlmann, J., & Siewert, C. (2018). Contribution of organic amendments to soil organic matter detected by thermogravimetry. Journal of Plant Nutrition and Soil Science.

  • Kučerík, J., Tokarski, D., Demyan, M. S., Merbach, I., & Siewert, C. (2018). Linking soil organic matter thermal stability with contents of clay, bound water, organic carbon and nitrogen. Geoderma.

Luis Alberto Espinola | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Luis Alberto Espinola | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Luis Alberto Espinola, National Institute of Limnogy, Argentina

Dr. Luis Alberto Espínola is an Independent Researcher at the National Institute of Limnology (INALI-CONICET-UNL) in Santa Fe, Argentina. With a PhD in Ecology of Aquatic Continental Waters from Universidade Estadual de Maringá, Brazil, his work focuses on the structure and functioning of freshwater ecosystems, particularly rivers and wetlands in South America. He has held various research positions at INALI and is currently pursuing a postdoctoral fellowship in Biological Sciences at the Federal University of the State of Rio de Janeiro. Dr. Espínola’s expertise lies in limnology, biodiversity, and hydroecology, contributing to the sustainable management of inland water resources.

Profile

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Summary:

Dr. Luis Alberto Espínola is a leading Argentinian researcher with a distinguished background in limnology and freshwater ecology. His scientific contributions address vital environmental issues such as extreme drought, invasive species, and ecohydrological management of fisheries. His commitment to the study and preservation of South America’s freshwater ecosystems is evident through his prolific publication record and long-standing role at INALI.

🎓 Education

Luis Alberto Espínola holds a strong academic background in aquatic ecology and biological sciences. He is currently pursuing a Post-Doctorate in Biological Sciences at the Federal University of the State of Rio de Janeiro (UNRIO), expected to complete in January 2026. Previously, he completed a Post-Doctorate at the National Institute of Limnology (INALI), affiliated with the National University of Litoral (UNL), between April 2009 and August 2012. He earned his PhD in Ecology of Aquatic Continental Waters from Universidade Estadual de Maringá (UEM), Brazil, from September 2005 to March 2009. Prior to that, he obtained his Master’s degree in the same field at UEM, where he studied from March 2004 to August 2005. His foundational academic journey began with a degree in Biodiversity from the Faculty of Humanities and Sciences at the Universidad Nacional del Litoral (UNL), completed in February 2003, where he received an honorary distinction.

💼Experience

Luis Alberto Espínola has extensive experience in aquatic ecology research through his long-standing association with the National Institute of Limnology (INALI-CONICET-UNL) in Santa Fe, Argentina. He has served as an Independent Researcher since June 2022. Previously, he held the position of Adjunct Researcher from April 2017 to May 2022 and Assistant Researcher from August 2012 to March 2017. His work has consistently focused on the Hydroecology Laboratory, contributing to the development of knowledge on continental aquatic systems.

🔬Research Focus

Luis Alberto Espínola’s research primarily centers on the ecology of continental aquatic environments. His studies explore the structure and dynamics of freshwater ecosystems, with particular attention to hydroecological processes, biodiversity, and environmental changes in riverine and limnic systems. His work contributes significantly to understanding the ecological health and sustainability of inland waters, making him a key contributor to South American limnological research.

🛠️Skills

Espínola possesses deep expertise in limnology, aquatic ecosystem functioning, freshwater biodiversity, and ecological research methodologies. His skill set includes the design and implementation of field and laboratory studies, ecological data analysis, scientific writing, and interdisciplinary collaboration. His knowledge is enriched by international academic exposure and a solid grounding in South American freshwater systems.

🏆Awards

Among his academic achievements, Espínola was awarded an honorary distinction upon graduation for his degree in Biodiversity from the Universidad Nacional del Litoral (UNL), reflecting his academic excellence and dedication to the biological sciences.

📚 Publications

  • Title: Impact of Extreme Droughts on Fish Assemblages in a Large South American Floodplain River
    Author: Espínola, Luis Alberto
    Year: 2025
    Journal: Ecohydrology

  • Title: Application of ecohydrological criteria for the management of fisheries in the middle Paraná River (Argentina) during extreme low water levels
    Author: Espínola, Luis Alberto
    Year: 2024
    Journal: Ecohydrology

  • Title: Fractal characteristics of the middle reach of the Paraná River floodplain during extreme hydrological events
    Author: Espínola, Luis Alberto
    Year: 2023
    Journal: River Research and Applications

  • Title: Increased geographical distribution and richness of non-native freshwater fish species in Argentina: evidence from a literature review
    Author: Espínola, Luis Alberto
    Year: 2022
    Journal: Biological Invasions

  • Title: Brazil’s leading environmental agency and aquatic biodiversity threatened by federal decree
    Author: Espínola, Luis Alberto
    Year: 2021
    Journal: Anais da Academia Brasileira de Ciências

Conclusion:

Dr. Luis Alberto Espínola is a highly deserving and well-qualified candidate for the Research for Best Researcher Award. His combination of academic excellence, impactful research, and commitment to regional ecological issues positions him strongly for this recognition. Expanding his global scientific presence and leadership in large-scale projects would further enhance his stature in the international research community.

Gang Yang | Soil Ecology | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Dr. Gang Yang | Soil Ecology | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Gang Yang, Shaanxi university of science and technology, China

Prof. Dr. Gang Yang is a professor at Shaanxi University of Science and Technology, China, specializing in wetland carbon cycles, biogeochemistry, and global change ecology. With over 15 years of research, he has led multiple National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC) projects on peatland degradation, carbon sequestration, and greenhouse gas emissions. His work explores the role of semiconductor minerals in carbon cycling and the environmental responses of wetlands. A member of several ecological and environmental societies, he has an H-index of 23 and has published extensively in high-impact journals.

Profile

Orcid

Summary:

Prof. Dr. Gang Yang is a leading researcher in wetland ecology, carbon cycles, and biogeochemistry, with strong academic credentials, numerous high-impact publications, and significant research leadership. His innovative approaches to peatland carbon sequestration and degradation studies, along with his editorial and professional affiliations, make him an outstanding candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

🎓 Education

Gang Yang completed his Master’s degree in 2005 and has since been dedicated to research on soil carbon cycle processes and their environmental responses. His expertise spans soil ecology, ecosystem ecology, biogeochemistry, and global change ecology.

💼Experience

He is a Professor at Shaanxi University of Science and Technology and has been actively involved in wetland ecosystem carbon cycle research. He has served as the Principal Investigator for multiple National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC) projects, focusing on peatland degradation, carbon export mechanisms, and the role of semiconductor minerals in wetland carbon dynamics. His work also includes consultancy for the National Fourth Survey Project of Chinese Medicinal Plants.

🔬Research Focus

His research revolves around wetland carbon cycle mechanisms, wetland conservation and restoration, environmental responses of wetlands, and carbon sequestration in paddy fields. He has conducted extensive studies on peatlands in the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, providing critical insights into carbon storage and greenhouse gas emissions in wetland ecosystems.

🛠️Skills

He has expertise in wetland carbon cycles, biogeochemical processes, and environmental impact assessments. His innovative research includes the use of isotope dating to study carbon accumulation in peatlands and the impact of climate change on carbon emissions. He has also proposed the dual effects of semiconductor minerals on the soil carbon cycle.

🏆Awards

Gang Yang has an H-index of 23, reflecting his significant impact in environmental science. He is a member of the Professional Committee on Wetland Environmental Ecological Conservation and Function Development of the Chinese Society for Environmental Sciences, the Shaanxi Ecological Society, the Sichuan Soil Society, and the International Peat Society.

📚 Publications

  • Falling water tables reduce peatland semiconductor minerals’ capacity for preserving carbon
    Year: 2024
    Author(s): Zeng J., Cao Q., Bai Y.P., Chen H., Liu M.X., He Y., He H.C., Hu W.Y., Yang G.*
    Journal: Land Degradation & Development

  • Soil pH and dissolved organic carbon shape microbial communities in wetlands with two different vegetation types in Changdu area, Tibet
    Year: 2023
    Author(s): Zou L., Bai Y.P., Huang J., Xiao D.R., Yang G.*
    Journal: Journal of Mountain Science

  • Water table drawdown increases plant biodiversity and soil polyphenol in the Zoige Plateau
    Year: 2021
    Author(s): Zeng J., Chen H., Bai Y., Dong F., Peng C., Yan F., Cao Q., Yang Z., Yang S., Yang G.*
    Journal: Ecological Indicators

  • Peatland degradation reduces methanogens and methane emissions from surface to deep soils
    Year: 2019
    Author(s): Yang G., Tian J., Chen H., Jiang L., Zhan W., Hu J.
    Journal: Ecological Indicators

  • Tiankeng: an ideal place for climate warming research on forest ecosystems
    Year: 2019
    Author(s): Yang G., Peng C., Liu Y., Dong F.
    Journal: Environmental Earth Sciences

  • Distribution characteristics, resource utilization and popularizing demonstration of crop straw in southwest China: A comprehensive evaluation
    Year: 2018
    Author(s): Yang G.
    Journal: Ecological Indicators

  • Interactive effect of radioactive and heavy-metal contamination on soil enzyme activity in a former Uranium mine
    Year: 2018
    Author(s): Yang G.
    Journal: Polish Journal of Environmental Studies

Conclusion:

 Prof. Dr. Gang Yang is highly deserving of the Best Researcher Award. Addressing broader international collaboration, policy engagement, and public outreach could further strengthen his influence and contributions to environmental science.

Katsuyuki Minami | Soil Ecology | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Dr. Katsuyuki Minami | Soil Ecology | Best Researcher Award

 Prof. Dr. Katsuyuki Minami, Kitasato University, Japan

Prof. Dr. Katsuyuki Minami is an Emeritus Professor at Kitasato University, Japan, and a distinguished expert in agricultural and environmental sciences. With a Ph.D. in Agriculture from Tohoku University, he has held prominent roles, including Vice President of Kitasato University and Director General of the National Institute for Agro-Environmental Sciences. His research focuses on soil science, plant nutrition, and sustainable agriculture. A recipient of numerous awards, including the Japan Prize of Agricultural Science and the Order of the Sacred Treasure, he has made significant contributions to global agricultural and environmental sustainability.

Profile

Scopus

Summary:

Prof. Dr. Katsuyuki Minami is an eminent scholar whose work in soil science, plant nutrition, and sustainable agriculture has significantly advanced global agricultural practices. His leadership roles, international recognition, and impactful research place him as a strong contender for the Research for Best Researcher Award. His career exemplifies a blend of scientific excellence and societal impact, addressing vital challenges in sustainability.

 

🎓 Education

Katsuyuki Minami earned his Ph.D. in Agriculture from Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan, in 1971. Following his doctoral studies, he began his career at the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries, Japan, where he served at the National Institute of Agricultural Sciences. His academic and professional journey includes roles such as Director General at the National Institute for Agro-Environmental Sciences (2000), Professor at Kitasato University (2005), and later Vice President of Kitasato University (2006). In 2012, he became an Emeritus Professor at Kitasato University and the Principal of the Agricultural College of the Institute for Agriculture, Health, and the Environment. He retired in 2020 after an illustrious career.

 

💼Experience

Prof. Dr. Katsuyuki Minami has extensive experience spanning academia, research, and leadership in agricultural and environmental sciences. After earning his Ph.D. in Agriculture from Tohoku University in 1971, he began his career at the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries, Japan, serving at the National Institute of Agricultural Sciences. In 2000, he was appointed Director General of the National Institute for Agro-Environmental Sciences, where he oversaw groundbreaking research in sustainable agriculture and environmental protection.

 

🔬Research Focus

Dr. Minami’s research focuses on sustainable agricultural practices, soil health, and agro-environmental systems. His work has been instrumental in advancing knowledge in soil science, plant nutrition, and environmental conservation, contributing significantly to global agricultural sustainability and environmental protection.

 

Awards

Dr. Minami’s contributions have been recognized with numerous prestigious awards, including the Award of the Japanese Society of Soil Science and Plant Nutrition (1990), the Direct Award from the Agency of the Environment (1991), and the Special Award of the Nikkei Global Environment Award (1995). In 1996, he received the Japan Prize of Agricultural Science and the Award of Yomiuri Agricultural Science. His international recognition includes the Yuan T. Lee International Award (1998) and an appreciation letter from the IPCC for contributing to the 2007 Nobel Peace Prize (2008). In 2019, he was honored with The Order of the Sacred Treasure, Gold Rays with Neck Ribbon, Japan.

 

Skills

Dr. Minami is renowned for his expertise in agricultural science, soil science, and agro-environmental research. His leadership roles reflect his skills in scientific administration, research innovation, and interdisciplinary collaboration.

 

Publications

  • “Cultural Understanding of Soil from a Japanese Perspective”
    Authors: Hirai, H., Minami, K.
    Year: 2023
    Citations: 0

 

  • “Soil is a living substance”
    Author: Minami, K.
    Year: 2021
    Citations: 3

 

  • “Emission, production, and oxidation of methane in a Japanese rice paddy field”
    Authors: Yagi, K., Kumagai, K., Tsuruta, H., Minami, K.
    Year: 2018
    Citations: 12

 

  • “Soil and humanity: Culture, civilization, livelihood and health”
    Author: Minami, K.
    Year: 2009
    Citations: 40

 

  • “Challenges of reducing excess nitrogen in Japanese agroecosystems”
    Authors: Yagi, K., Minami, K.
    Year: 2005
    Citations: 7

 

  • “N cycle, N flow trends in Japan, and strategies for reducing N2O emission and NO3- pollution”
    Author: Minami, K.
    Year: 2005
    Citations: 10

 

  • “Policy implications of human-accelerated nitrogen cycling”
    Authors: Mosier, A.R., Bleken, M.A., Chaiwanakupt, P., Minami, K., et al.
    Year: 2001
    Citations: 67

 

  • “Methane emission from rice fields in China: Measurements and influencing factors”
    Authors: Cai, Z.C., Tsuruta, H., Minami, K.
    Year: 2000
    Citations: 136

 

  • “Agricultural sector”
    Authors: Erda, L., Cerri, C.C., Frisvold, G., Minami, K., et al.
    Year: 2000
    Citations: 1

 

  • “A quantitative model for estimating mean annual soil loss in cultivated land using 137Cs measurements”
    Authors: Yang, H., Zhao, Q., Yang, H., Du, M., Minami, K.
    Year: 2000
    Citations: 16

 

Conclusion:

Prof. Dr. Katsuyuki Minami’s contributions to agricultural and environmental sciences make him exceptionally well-suited for the Research for Best Researcher Award. His strengths, particularly in impactful research and leadership, are complemented by opportunities to embrace emerging technologies and foster interdisciplinary collaboration. Recognizing him with this award would honor his legacy while encouraging ongoing innovation in sustainable agriculture.