Shalaw Sedeeq | Soil Physics | Research Excellence Award

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Mr. Shalaw Sedeeq | Soil Physics | Research Excellence Award

Koya University | Iraq

Shalaw Zrar Sedeeq has made notable research contributions in the field of nuclear radiation and natural radioactivity measurement with applications to soil and environmental systems. His work advances the understanding of radioactive behavior in soils, environmental exposure assessment, and radiation safety, supporting improved environmental monitoring and public health protection. Through the use of advanced radiation detection instruments and analytical methodologies, his research emphasizes precision, data reliability, and scientific rigor in radioactivity measurements. His scholarly output consists of 6 peer-reviewed research documents, which have accumulated 21 citations from 19 citing documents, demonstrating growing recognition within the research community. An h-index of 3 reflects both research productivity and emerging scientific impact. In addition, he has been involved in 13 completed and ongoing research projects, highlighting sustained engagement and interdisciplinary research activity. His collaborative efforts with multiple research partners have strengthened methodological approaches and expanded the applicability of findings to soil, environmental, and radiation science domains. Overall, the research contributions of Shalaw Zrar Sedeeq support advancements in environmental radiation assessment, contribute to sustainable soil management, and align strongly with the objectives of research excellence in soil and environmental sciences.

Citation Metrics (Scopus)

30
20
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5
0

Citations
21

Documents
6

h-index
3

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Documents

h-index


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On Transfer Factors of Natural Radionuclides and Radiological Health Risks Assessment of Some Fruit Samples
– 2024 | Journal Article

Assessment of Radiological Hazards Due to Ingestion of Natural Radionuclides in Cooking Oil Samples
– 2023 | Journal Article

Design and Study of a Nanocavity-Based One-Dimensional Photonic Crystal for Potential Applications in Refractive Index Sensing
– 2023 | Journal Article

Estimation of Minor and Trace Elements Concentration and Investigation of Chemical Composition of Kidney Stones in Kurdistan Region
– 2023 | Journal Article

Toxic Metals in Some Decorative Cosmetics and Nail Products
– 2022 | Journal Article

Kamal Taheri | Soil | Research Excellence Award

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Mr. Kamal Taheri | Soil | Research Excellence Award

Kermanshah Regional Water Company | Iran 

Mr. Kamal Taheri is a highly accomplished hydrogeology expert with extensive research and professional contributions centered on karst and groundwater systems, particularly in complex hard-rock and covered karst environments. His scholarly output includes 19 research documents, which have received 700 citations across 613 citing documents, reflecting the strong academic and applied impact of his work, with an h-index of 12. His research portfolio spans karst hydrogeology, groundwater sustainability and vulnerability assessment, water quality monitoring, hydrogeochemistry, environmental isotopic techniques, geophysics, and deep water well site selection in karst terrains. He has authored numerous peer-reviewed journal articles, book chapters, conference papers, edited volumes, and a substantial body of technical consultancy reports that bridge scientific research with large-scale water supply and groundwater management applications. His academic contributions extend to graduate-level teaching and training in groundwater and karst hydrogeology, with a strong emphasis on practical methodologies such as drilling strategies, geophysical investigations, and water allocation planning. In addition, he has played a significant role in scientific publishing through editorial leadership in water resources and geology journals. His interdisciplinary interests further encompass sinkhole studies, geoarchaeology, geotourism, and advanced conceptual modeling, strengthening the integration of science, management, and visualization in hydrogeological research.

Citation Metrics (Scopus)

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Citations
700

Documents
19

h-index
12

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Assessment of alluvial aquifer intrinsic vulnerability by a generic DRASTIC model: a discussion on data adequacy and pragmatic results

– Environment, Development and Sustainability


An intrinsic vulnerability approach to assess an overburden alluvial aquifer exposure to sinkhole-prone area; results from a Central Iran case study

– Geocarto International


Hawraman Summer Camps: The Last Legacy of Water Scarcity Adaptation in the Western Zagros Karst Territory

– Advances in Science, Technology and Innovation


Human-Karst Landscape Interactions and the Anthropo-Karstosphere: Toward a Nexus of Geoethics, Groundwater, and a Sustainable Society

– Advances in Science, Technology and Innovation


Assessment of Alluvial Aquifer Intrinsic Vulnerability by a Generic Drastic Model; A Discussion on Data Adequacy and Pragmatic Results

– Research Square

Minh Canh Tran | Soil Physics | Research Excellence Award

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Dr. Minh Canh Tran | Soil Physics | Research Excellence Award

National Center for Earthquake Engineering | Taiwan 

Dr. Minh Canh Tran has established a focused research profile supported by 34 citations, an h-index of 2, and 6 published documents, reflecting steady scholarly growth in geotechnical engineering. His research spans soil mechanics, soil–structure interaction, liquefaction behavior, and advanced physical and numerical modeling, contributing to the understanding of how soils respond under seismic and complex loading conditions. Through a combination of centrifuge modeling and simulation-based investigations, he provides valuable insights into pore pressure development, ground deformation, and foundation performance on challenging soil deposits. His publications demonstrate methodological depth and emphasize practical solutions for enhancing infrastructure resilience. The citation record highlights the relevance and applicability of his work within the scientific community, while the h-index indicates consistent influence across multiple studies. The collection of documents collectively advances knowledge on seismic soil behavior, mitigation strategies, and geotechnical system performance, positioning Dr. Tran as an emerging contributor whose research supports safer engineering practices.

Profiles : Scopus | Orcid 

Featured Publications

Hung, W.-Y., Tran, M.-C., & Ha, T.-Q. (2025). Centrifuge modelling lateral loading test of battered-piled-raft system in sand. Journal of the Chinese Institute of Engineers. Advance online publication.

Hung, W.-Y., Chiang, K.-H., Chen, C.-H., Ha, T.-Q., Tran, M.-C., & Castaldo, P. (2025). Centrifuge modeling of soil loss effects on adjacent pile foundations induced by tunnel excavation. Advances in Civil Engineering, 2025, Article 7569758.

Tran, M.-C. (2025). Assessing influence of waves on riverbank stability: A centrifuge modeling approach. Geomechanics and Engineering, 40(1), 1–15.

Chiang, K.-H., Hung, W.-Y., Tran, M.-C., & Ha, T.-Q. (2024). The vertical loading tests of single and group piles by centrifuge modelling. International Journal of Geotechnical Engineering. Advance online publication.

Hung, W.-Y., Tran, M.-C., & Bui, V.-K. (2022). Seismic response of anchored sheet pile walls by centrifuge modelling tests. International Journal of Civil Engineering.

Hung, W.-Y., Tran, M.-C., Yeh, F.-H., Lu, C.-W., & Ge, L. (2020). Centrifuge modeling of failure behaviors of sandy slope caused by gravity, rainfall, and base shaking. Engineering Geology, 270, 105609.

Jae Gon Kim | Soil Science | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Jae Gon Kim | Soil Science | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Jae Gon Kim | Korea Institute of Geoscience and Mineral Resources | South Korea

Dr. Jae Gon Kim is a distinguished principal scientist at the Korea Institute of Geoscience and Mineral Resources (KIGAM), specializing in soil and clay mineralogy, geologic environment studies, and environmental remediation. His extensive research focuses on the chemical and mineralogical processes governing soil behavior, contamination, and restoration, with particular expertise in heavy metal remediation and magnetic separation technologies. With a prolific academic and professional record, Dr. Kim has authored 36 scientific documents, accumulating 985 citations from 963 publications, reflecting his strong global research impact and influence. His h-index of 17 demonstrates the sustained relevance and quality of his contributions to geoscience and environmental research. He has been recognized for his innovation in soil remediation technologies and for developing effective solutions for environmental hazards linked to contaminated soils. Dr. Kim’s work bridges fundamental mineralogical science with applied environmental technology, advancing both theoretical understanding and field-level applications. His leadership in research has earned him numerous professional awards for excellence in technology and scientific communication, establishing him as a prominent figure in the global geoscience community and a driving force in promoting sustainable soil and environmental management practices.

Profile : Scopus 

Featured Publications

  • Baek, I., Kim, J., Song, Y., & Kim, T. (2021). Neutralization effect of slag on the acid rock drainage. International Journal of Geo-Engineering.

  • Lee, A., Chon, C.-M., Kim, J. G., & Ryu, J. (2024). Irreversible cesium adsorption capacity of granite-origin soil. Journal of Radioanalytical and Nuclear Chemistry.

Aida Mehrpajouh | Soil Physics | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Aida | Soil Physics | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Aida Mehrpajouh | HTW University of Applied Sciences Dresden | Germany

Dr. Aida Mehrpajouh’s research portfolio exemplifies a strong and evolving commitment to scientific excellence, marked by consistent productivity, academic integrity, and interdisciplinary relevance. She has contributed 5 well-recognized research documents, each representing a meaningful advancement in her area of expertise and showcasing her analytical depth and experimental precision. These publications collectively demonstrate her capacity to identify emerging research gaps and provide innovative solutions that bridge theoretical knowledge with applied outcomes. Her work has earned 108 citations drawn from 91 citing documents, a clear reflection of the recognition her studies have received from peers across related disciplines. This citation record highlights her ability to produce work that not only informs but also inspires subsequent investigations, contributing to the expansion of knowledge in her domain. With an h-index of 4, Dr. Mehrpajouh maintains a solid scholarly impact, where multiple papers continue to attract attention and engagement within the global research community. Her academic endeavors emphasize both innovation and reliability, often intersecting with environmental, technological, or societal aspects that underline the practical value of her findings. Collectively, her research achievements portray a profile of intellectual rigor, sustained academic contribution, and growing influence that continues to enrich and advance her field of study.

Profile:  Scopus 

Featured Publications

Ghasemzadeh, H., Mehrpajouh, A., & Pishvaei, M. (2022). Compressive strength of acrylic polymer-stabilized kaolinite clay modified with different additives. ACS Omega.

Riffat Rahim | Soil Science | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Riffat Rahim | Soil Science | Best Researcher Award

University of Leipzig | Germany

Dr. Riffat Rahim is an accomplished soil scientist with a strong research portfolio and international experience across Germany, Canada, and Pakistan. She has contributed significantly to soil chemistry, rhizosphere processes, mucilage dynamics, salinity management, and phosphorus behavior in calcareous soils. Her academic journey includes a Ph.D. in Agricultural Sciences from Forschungszentrum Jülich and the University of Bonn, a Master’s and Bachelor’s in Soil Science from Bahauddin Zakariya University. She has authored 4 scientific documents, accumulated 40 citations, and holds an h-index of 4, reflecting the visibility and impact of her publications. Her work spans experimental studies, pore-scale simulations, and field-relevant investigations, with research outputs published and additional manuscripts under review. She has presented at major platforms such as the EGU General Assembly, World Congress of Soil Science, DBG Germany conferences, and international workshops on spectroscopy and bioeconomy. Professionally, she serves as a Postdoctoral Researcher at the University of Rostock and has held roles as a Visiting Scientist, Doctoral Researcher, and Research Assistant in leading institutions. Her technical mastery includes XANES, GC, HPLC, tomography, atomic absorption, and advanced data analysis using Python, R, and Origin. She is multilingual and experienced in laboratory management, project execution, and scientific communication.

Profile:  Scopus

Featured Publications

Nazir, M. J., Hussain, M. M., Albasher, G., Iqbal, B., Khan, K. A., Rahim, R., Li, G., & Du, D. (2024). Glucose input profit soil organic carbon mineralization and nitrogen dynamics in relation to nitrogen-amended soils. Journal of Environmental Management.

Ndy von kluge Paul | Soil Physics | Excellence in Innovation

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Dr. Ndy von kluge Paul | Soil Physics | Excellence in Innovation

University of Yaounde 1 | Cameroon

Dr. Paul Ndy Von Kluge, born on 18 May 1974 in Bibia Lolodorf, Cameroon, is a permanent lecturer and Head of Continuing Education at the University Institute of Wood Technology (IUT Bois de Mbalmayo), University of Yaoundé I. He holds a PhD in Physics with specialization in nonlinear dynamics and complex systems and is also an Engineer in Civil Engineering, combining nearly 15 years of professional expertise in hydroelectric dam construction, civil works, and structural engineering with academic research and teaching. Affiliated with the Laboratory of Mechanics, Materials and Structures at the University of Yaoundé I, his research interests span nonlinear oscillators, stochastic dynamics, seismic control of structures, spatiotemporal chaos, and the mathematical modeling of electromechanical and fluid dynamic systems. He has authored 3 scientific documents, which have collectively been cited 15 times across 14 documents, reflecting an h-index of 3. Beyond his work in Cameroon, he has contributed to academic programs at the University of Bangui in the Central African Republic, demonstrating a regional impact in higher education. His multidisciplinary background bridges physics, mathematics, and engineering applications, particularly in vibration control, geophysics, fluid mechanics, and energy microproduction, positioning him as a versatile scholar and applied researcher.

Profile:  Scopus 

Featured Publications

Fractional dynamical behavior of a new nonlinear smooth and discontinuous (SD) oscillator for vibration energy harvesting with nonlinear magnetic coupling

Maryam Bayatvarkeshi | Soil Physics | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Maryam Bayatvarkeshi | Soil Physics | Best Researcher Award

Maryam Bayatvarkeshi | University of Waterloo | Canada

Maryam Bayatvarkeshi is a researcher at the University of Waterloo, Canada, specializing in water science, hydrology, and environmental sustainability. She holds dual Ph.D. degrees in Geography–Water from the University of Waterloo and in Agricultural Hydrology from Bu-Ali Sina University. Her research focuses on hydroclimatic processes, peatland restoration, and sustainable irrigation practices, integrating field measurements with modeling approaches. She has teaching and research experience in both Iran and Canada, with expertise spanning hydrology, GIS, water resource management, and environmental data analysis. Recognized with awards such as the RBC Water Scholars Graduate Entrance Scholarship and best thesis and presentation honors, she continues to contribute to advancing water and environmental sciences through research, teaching, and professional service.

Profile

Google Scholar 

Summary

Dr. Bayatvarkeshi has established herself as a promising researcher with a strong foundation in soil-water science, hydrology, and environmental sustainability. Her academic excellence, publication record, and international teaching experience highlight her as a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award. With a track record of recognition and an expanding research portfolio, she is well-placed to make continued contributions to both science and society.

Education

Dr. Maryam Bayatvarkeshi holds dual doctoral degrees, one in Geography–Water from the University of Waterloo with a research emphasis on hydroclimatic influences of seismic line disturbances, and another in Agricultural Hydrology from Bu-Ali Sina University, where she studied nitrogen-nano fertilizer effects on nitrate movement in soil. She also earned her master’s degree in Irrigation and Drainage Engineering at Bu-Ali Sina University with a focus on applying Neuro-Fuzzy inference systems and artificial neural networks for estimating crop evapotranspiration, following a bachelor’s degree in Water Engineering from the same institution. In addition, she has received specialized training in pedagogy with a Certificate in University Teaching from the University of Waterloo.

Experience

Dr. Bayatvarkeshi has served as an assistant professor at the University of Malayer, where she taught a range of hydrology, irrigation, meteorology, and water resource management courses. She has continued her teaching journey in Canada as a sessional instructor and teaching assistant at the University of Waterloo, covering topics from map design and applied statistics to hydroclimatology, urban stormwater management, and geographic information systems. She also works as a tutor at Varsity Tutors, teaching statistics to undergraduate and graduate students. Her research assistantship roles at the University of Waterloo include projects on the socio-economic impacts of mining in Africa and on Canadian peatland carbon stocks and greenhouse gas exchanges.

Research Focus

Dr. Bayatvarkeshi’s research interests bridge water science, hydrology, and environmental sustainability. Her work emphasizes hydroclimatic dynamics, peatland restoration, sustainable irrigation practices, and the impacts of land-use changes on water and nutrient movement. She is particularly interested in integrating field measurements with modeling approaches to address pressing global challenges such as climate change, agricultural sustainability, and ecosystem restoration.

Skills

Dr. Bayatvarkeshi has strong expertise in hydrology, irrigation and drainage systems, water resource management, geographic information systems, hydroclimatology, and remote sensing. She has hands-on field experience in deploying meteorological stations, conducting snow surveys, and measuring hydrological components in both peatland and agricultural systems. In addition, she is skilled in environmental data modeling, statistical analysis, and integrating artificial intelligence approaches in agricultural and water sciences.

Awards

Her academic excellence has been recognized with multiple honors, including the prestigious RBC Water Scholars Graduate Entrance Scholarship at the University of Waterloo, the best oral presentation award at the Environment Graduate Students Association conference, and the best thesis award in a national competition in Iran for Agriculture and Natural Resources. She has consistently ranked among the top students throughout her academic career, holding second position in her bachelor’s program and first position in both her master’s and doctoral studies.

Publications

  • Groundwater level prediction using machine learning models: A comprehensive review
    Authors: H Tao, M M Hameed, H A Marhoon, M Zounemat-Kermani, S Heddam, M Bayatvarkeshi, …
    Journal: Neurocomputing

  • Effects of slow-release fertilizers on nitrate leaching, its distribution in soil profile, N-use efficiency, and yield in potato crop
    Authors: H Zareabyaneh, M Bayatvarkeshi
    Journal: Environmental Earth Sciences

  • Performance evaluation of ANN and ANFIS models for estimating garlic crop evapotranspiration
    Authors: H Z Abyaneh, A M Nia, M B Varkeshi, S Marofi, O Kisi
    Journal: Journal of Irrigation and Drainage Engineering

  • Modeling soil temperature using air temperature features in diverse climatic conditions with complementary machine learning models
    Authors: M Bayatvarkeshi, S K Bhagat, K Mohammadi, O Kisi, M Farahani, …
    Journal: Computers and Electronics in Agriculture

  • Soil temperature estimation using an artificial neural network and co-active neuro-fuzzy inference system in two different climates
    Authors: H Zare Abyaneh, M Bayat Varkeshi, G Golmohammadi, K Mohammadi
    Journal: Arabian Journal of Geosciences

  • Forecasting nitrate concentration in groundwater using artificial neural network and linear regression models
    Authors: A Zare, V Bayat, A Daneshkare
    Journal: International Agrophysics

  • Determination of water requirement, single and dual crop coefficient of garlic (‘Allium sativum’) in the cold semi-arid climate
    Authors: H Z Abyaneh, M B Varkeshi, A Ghasemi, S Marofi, R A Chayjan
    Journal: Australian Journal of Crop Science

Conclusion

In conclusion, Dr. Maryam Bayatvarkeshi embodies the qualities of an emerging global leader in soil and water sciences. Her demonstrated academic achievements, impactful research, and commitment to professional service make her highly deserving of the Best Researcher Award. With further expansion of international collaborations and societal engagement, she has the potential to become an even more influential figure in advancing sustainable solutions for global water and environmental challenges.

Ana Barros | Soil Physics | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Dr. Ana Barros | Soil Physics | Best Researcher Award

Ana Barros | University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign | United States

Ana P. Barros is the Donald Biggar Willett Distinguished Chair of Engineering and Professor and Head of Civil and Environmental Engineering at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, United States. Her research focuses on hydrology, hydrometeorology, and environmental physics, with pioneering contributions to AI and machine learning applications in precipitation, flood, and drought prediction. She is a member of the U.S. National Academy of Engineering and a Fellow of AGU, AMS, ASCE, and AAAS, recognized globally for advancing water-cycle science, extreme event forecasting, and climate resilience.

Profiles

Scopus

Orcid

Summary

Dr. Barros has made landmark contributions to hydrological and environmental sciences through innovative methodologies that integrate observational data, remote sensing, computational modeling, and artificial intelligence. Her leadership in research, academia, and international scientific organizations highlights her as a thought leader in climate change resilience, flood prediction, and water-cycle science.

Education

Dr Ana P Barros holds a PhD in Civil Engineering with a major in Hydrology and a minor in Atmospheric Sciences from the University of Washington Seattle She earned an MSc in Environmental Science and Engineering from the Oregon Graduate Institute of Science and Technology OHSU She also completed an MSc in Hydraulics with a specialization in Ocean Engineering from the University of Porto Portugal and obtained a Diploma in Civil Engineering with a double major in Structures and Hydraulics from the University of Porto Portugal.

Experience

Dr Barros is the Donald Biggar Willett Distinguished Chair of Engineering and Professor and Head of Civil and Environmental Engineering at the University of Illinois Urbana Champaign She is also the Founding Director of the Center for Secure Water at UIUC and a Fellow at NOAA CIROH Previously she served as the Edmund T Pratt Jr School Distinguished Professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering at Duke University where she also held roles as James L Meriam Professor and Professor of Earth and Ocean Sciences She has been on the faculty of Harvard University Penn State University and the University of Porto She has served in numerous leadership and advisory roles including the Space Studies Board the Water Science and Technology Board the Board of Atmospheric Sciences and Climate and the US National Committee for the UNESCO International Hydrology Program.

Research Focus

Dr Barros’s research is centered on climate change hydrology hydrometeorology and extreme event prediction with emphasis on multiscale water cycle processes and land atmosphere interactions She investigates orographic precipitation processes precipitation microphysics aerosol cloud precipitation dynamics vegetation soil water interactions and regional climate variability Her work integrates field and laboratory experimentation remote sensing computational and data driven modeling AI based forecasting and environmental sustainability solutions She is deeply engaged in advancing risk assessment tools for extreme precipitation floods and droughts and in developing strategies for climate change adaptation and resilient infrastructure.

Skills

Her expertise spans hydrology hydrometeorology and environmental physics with advanced skills in satellite based remote sensing computational modeling AI and machine learning applications and environmental informatics She is recognized for pioneering early AI and ML applications for precipitation flood and drought estimation as well as long lead forecasting She has strong skills in developing coupled AI and physical modeling frameworks for predicting extreme precipitation floods and drought risk in complex terrain regions.

Awards

Dr Barros is a member of the US National Academy of Engineering and a Fellow of the American Geophysical Union American Meteorological Society American Society of Civil Engineers and the American Association for the Advancement of Science She is a senior member of IEEE and has received major honors including the AIH Ray K Linsley Award the ASCE Ven Te Chow Award the Borland Hydrology Award the NASA Group Achievement Award the NASA Robert H Goddard Award the NSF CAREER Award and the NASA New Investigator Award She has also been recognized with the Lorenz G Straub Award the AMS Sigma Xi Distinguished Lectureship and the Prize Foundation A Almeida for top national student in Civil Engineering.

Publications

  • Toward optimal rainfall for flood prediction in headwater basins – improving soil moisture initialization to close the water budget within observational uncertainty
    Authors: Mochi Liao; Ana P. Barros
    Journal: Journal of Hydrology: Regional Studies (2025)

  • Modeling Celerity‐Discharge Behavior and Riverbank Storage for Improving Flood Simulations in Headwater Basins
    Authors: Mochi Liao; Ana P. Barros
    Journal: Water Resources Research (2025)

  • Thank You to Our 2024 Reviewers
    Authors: Alberto Montanari; Ana Barros; Thorsten Becker; Marc Bierkens; Sharon Billings; M. Bayani Cardenas; Eric Davidson; Nicolas Gruber; Eileen Hofmann; Mary Hudson; et al.
    Journal: AGU Advances (2025)

  • Multi‐Physics Data Assimilation Framework for Remotely Sensed Snowpacks to Improve Water Prediction
    Authors: Prabhakar Shrestha; Ana P. Barros
    Journal: Water Resources Research (2025)

  • The role of root dynamics on the climate sensitivity of ecohydrological processes of over- and understory in a semi-arid groundwater-dependent ecosystem
    Authors: Qiyue Liu; Ana P. Barros
    Journal: Frontiers in Environmental Science (2024)

  • Thank You to Our 2023 Peer Reviewers
    Authors: Ana Barros; Thorsten Becker; M. Bayani Cardenas; Eric Davidson; Nicolas Gruber; Eileen Hofmann; Mary Hudson; Tissa Illangasekare; Sarah Kang; Alberto Montanari; et al.
    Journal: AGU Advances (2024)

  • Toward Building a Virtual Laboratory to Investigate Rainfall Microphysics at Process Scales
    Authors: Lihui Ji; Ana P. Barros
    Journal: Journal of the Atmospheric Sciences (2024)

Conclusion

Dr. Ana P. Barros stands out as an exemplary candidate for the Research for Best Researcher Award. Her pioneering scientific achievements, leadership in global hydrological research, and commitment to advancing knowledge for societal benefit strongly align with the award’s vision. While opportunities exist to strengthen cross-disciplinary engagement and policy translation, her impact on the field is both profound and far-reaching, making her highly deserving of this recognition.

Sani Mashi | Soil | Sustainable Soil Practices Award

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Prof. Dr. Sani Mashi | Soil | Sustainable Soil Practices Award

Prof. Dr. Sani Mashi, University of Abuja, Nigeria

Prof. Dr. Sani Abubakar Mashi is a distinguished environmental geographer and Professor of Biogeography at the University of Abuja, Nigeria. With extensive academic and administrative experience, he has served as Director General of the Nigerian Meteorological Agency and Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to the World Meteorological Organization. His research focuses on environmental management, climate change adaptation, land degradation, and remote sensing applications. A prolific scholar and policy advisor, he has led numerous national and international research projects and currently chairs the Governing Board of the Katsina State Internal Revenue Service.

Profile

Scopus

Orcid

Summary:

Prof. Dr. Sani Mashi’s career is a compelling embodiment of sustainable soil science in action. He merges academic rigor with applied research to address urgent soil degradation issues affecting livelihoods, food security, and environmental health. His multi-disciplinary approach, extensive mentorship record, and impactful leadership make him an exemplary candidate for recognition.

🎓 Education

Professor Sani Abubakar Mashi received his foundational education from Galadima Primary School and continued through Government Day and Government Secondary Schools in Katsina State. He earned his B.Sc. (Hons) in Geography from Bayero University, followed by an M.Sc. in Soil Geography from Ahmadu Bello University. He completed his Ph.D. in Environmental Applications of Remote Sensing and GIS from Bayero University. In addition, he holds a professional certificate in the Management of Higher Education Institutions from the Galilee International Management Institute in Israel.

💼Experience

Professor Mashi has had a distinguished academic and professional career. He began as a Geography teacher during his National Youth Service in Ondo State and advanced through academic ranks from Graduate Assistant to Professor of Biogeography at various Nigerian universities including Ahmadu Bello University, University of Abuja, and Umaru Musa Yar’adua University. He also held key administrative roles such as Deputy Vice Chancellor, Director of Academic Planning, and Head of Department. Notably, he served as the Director General of the Nigerian Meteorological Agency and as Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to the World Meteorological Organization. Currently, he is a professor at the University of Abuja and serves as Chairman of the Governing Board of the Katsina State Internal Revenue Service.

🔬Research Focus

His research is primarily centered on environmental applications of geographic science. He has led over 25 externally funded projects, focusing on soil and land use dynamics, vegetation change detection, climate services for farmers, ecological assessments, and community-based environmental management. His recent work includes evaluating climate adaptation strategies in drylands and promoting renewable energy through European Union-funded initiatives. He has extensively applied remote sensing and GIS tools to map and manage environmental degradation and land use change, especially in Nigeria’s semi-arid regions.

🛠️Skills

Professor Mashi is a multidisciplinary expert with core competencies in soil science, land degradation, environmental management, remote sensing, and GIS. His work reflects deep expertise in climate adaptation, geospatial analysis, land use planning, and ecosystem sustainability. He is skilled in leading research teams, managing academic programs, policy development, and institutional governance. His academic supervision spans numerous graduate theses and dissertations across environmental management, geography, and planning.

🏆Awards

Professor Mashi has earned national and institutional recognition for his contributions. He was appointed to key federal committees, including the one that developed Nigeria’s National Geoinformation Policy. He served in high-level advisory roles within the National Space Research and Development Agency and various state and federal institutions. His leadership at NiMet and the WMO raised Nigeria’s profile in meteorological science. He currently holds the presidency of the Association of Nigerian Geographers, highlighting his stature in the academic and professional geography community.

📚 Publications


Title: Determinants of urban waste recycling among smallholder farmers in Katsina, Nigeria: Awareness, adoption, and valorization
Authors: Sani Abubakar Mashi, Amina Ibrahim Inkani, Elizabeth Dorsuu Jenkwe, Kabir Idris
Year: 2025
Journal: Cleaner Waste Systems


Title: Managing climate change risks in urban areas: determinants of climate change responses by informal settlement dwellers
Authors: Sani Abubakar Mashi, Amina Ibrahim Inkani, Elizabeth Dorsuu Jenkwe, Martins Momoh
Year: 2025
Journal: Physics and Chemistry of the Earth, Parts A/B/C


Title: Assessment of efficiency of IFAD-CASP weather and climate services delivery in Sokoto and Katsina states, Nigeria
Authors: Amina Ibrahim Inkani, Sani Abubakar Mashi, Obaro Dominic Oghenejabor, Safirat Sani
Year: 2025
Journal: Physics and Chemistry of the Earth, Parts A/B/C


Title: Enhancing environmental monitoring and assessment: evaluating soil quality changes using a parametric index in smallholder farming systems
Authors: Safirat Sani, Sani Abubakar Mashi, Clement Didi Chup, Elizabeth Dorsuu Jenkwe
Year: 2025
Journal: Environmental Monitoring and Assessment


Title: Assessment of climate change knowledge of residents of informal sectors of Abuja Federal Capital City, Nigeria
Authors: Elizabeth Dorsuu Jenkwe, Sani Abubakar Mashi, Martins Momoh, Oghenjabor Dominic Obaro, Safirat Sani
Year: 2024
Journal: South African Geographical Journal


Title: Determinants of utilization of soil and water conservation practices by smallholder farmers in a dryland ecosystem in Nigeria
Authors: Elizabeth Doosuu Jenkwe, Amina Ibrahim Inkani, Sani Abubakar Mashi, Amina Murtala Abusufyan, Safirat Sani
Year: 2024
Journal: Preprint (Authorea)

Conclusion:

Prof. Dr. Sani Mashi stands out as an excellent nominee for the Research for Sustainable Soil Practices Award. His legacy of integrating scientific innovation with practical land stewardship exemplifies the spirit of sustainability. While greater international collaboration and enhanced global science communication could amplify his influence, his foundational contributions and proven commitment to sustainable soil management solidify his candidacy. This award would not only honor his work but also bring global attention to the critical issues he continues to address.