Shahid Hussain | Soil Quality | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Shahid Hussain | Soil Quality | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Shahid Hussain | Khwaja Fareed University of Engineering & Information Technology| Pakistan 

Shahid Hussain, Ph.D., is a prolific researcher in finance and behavioral economics with a strong focus on investment decision-making, financial inclusion, green finance, and sustainable economic practices. His research portfolio spans topics such as behavioral biases in investment, digital financial literacy, fintech adoption, gender diversity in financial decisions, and corporate social responsibility, contributing empirical insights from both developing and developed economies. With 69 documents published across high-impact journals including SSCI- and Scopus-indexed outlets, his work has garnered 69 citations, reflecting significant academic influence. Shahid has explored the intersections of technology, sustainability, and finance, investigating how artificial intelligence, green product innovation, and digital financial tools shape organizational and individual financial behavior. His research also delves into monetary policy impacts, risk tolerance, and the role of religiosity and investor sentiment in shaping financial well-being. He has applied advanced quantitative and mixed-methods approaches using tools such as SmartPLS, SPSS, Stata, and EViews, ensuring methodological rigor. Shahid’s contributions have practical implications for banking, microfinance, and policy frameworks, emphasizing sustainable and inclusive growth. With an h-index reflecting his scholarly impact, his work continues to advance knowledge in behavioral finance, financial technology, and sustainable economic strategies, bridging theoretical inquiry with actionable insights for academia, industry, and policy development.

Profiles:  Scopus | Orcid 

Featured Publications

  • Aziz, A., & Hussain, S. (2025). Eco-leadership: Mediation of environmental corporate social responsibility policies in promoting pro-environmental behavior. International Journal of Ethics and Systems.

  • Hussain, S., & Abdel-Razzaq, A. I. M. (2025). Sun-powered solutions: Rural residential solar investment for climate and air quality policies. Sustainable Futures, 12, 101435.

  • Hussain, S., & Rehman, K. U. (2025, October 23). Green talent management and innovative work practices: The moderating role of artificial intelligence and transactional leadership: A case study in higher education. SN Business & Economics.

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.

Rui Zhang | Soil Science | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Rui Zhang | Soil Science | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Rui Zhang, Aalto University, Finland

Dr. Rui Zhang is a Postdoctoral Researcher at Aalto University, Finland, specializing in digital twin technologies, AI-integrated construction monitoring, and geotechnical engineering. He holds a PhD in Civil Engineering from the University of Sheffield, UK, and has conducted research across leading institutions including Nanyang Technological University and The Hong Kong Polytechnic University. His work focuses on the integration of sensing systems, advanced numerical modeling, and machine learning to enhance infrastructure performance and safety in complex civil environments.

Profile

Scopus

Summary:

Dr. Rui Zhang demonstrates excellence in high-impact, interdisciplinary research in civil and geotechnical engineering with a forward-looking focus on digital transformation in infrastructure. His international academic trajectory, technical depth, and commitment to mentorship position him as an outstanding candidate for a Best Researcher Award.

🎓 Education

Rui Zhang has a strong academic foundation in civil engineering, having pursued a PhD from the University of Sheffield in the United Kingdom, where he specialized in advanced geotechnical modeling. His postgraduate education also includes a Master’s degree in Civil Engineering and Solid Mechanics from Lanzhou University in China, with additional research experience at I-Shou University in Taiwan. He began his academic journey with a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from Zhengzhou University.

💼Experience

Rui Zhang has accumulated rich international research and academic experience through postdoctoral and research fellow roles in esteemed institutions. At Aalto University in Finland, he worked on developing digital twin systems for monitoring building construction processes using integrated sensing technologies and neurosymbolic reasoning. As a Research Fellow at Nanyang Technological University in Singapore, he contributed to the development of a city-scale digital twin for underground transportation infrastructure. At the Hong Kong Polytechnic University, he focused on leak detection in pipelines using smart sensing systems, AI techniques, and wavelet signal analysis. During his doctoral studies, he specialized in limit analysis for unsaturated soil problems using Discontinuity Layout Optimization. His early research activities included nonlinear mechanics and pavement material analysis using stochastic finite element methods.

🔬Research Focus

Rui Zhang’s research interests span across digital twin systems, geotechnical engineering, structural health monitoring, AI-integrated modeling, soil-structure interaction, and tunnel infrastructure. He has a particular focus on applying physics-based and AI-enhanced computational methods to complex civil engineering problems including underground space behavior, pipeline diagnostics, and automated construction process monitoring.

🛠️Skills

He possesses strong technical skills in geomechanics, numerical modeling, and AI applications such as machine learning and deep learning for civil engineering systems. Rui is proficient in MATLAB, ANSYS, AutoCAD, and LabVIEW, and has hands-on experience with experimental setups, sensor integration, and data analytics. He is also adept in using BIM modeling tools and simulation platforms for smart construction and infrastructure management.

🏆Awards

Rui Zhang is an Associate Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (HEA), showcasing his commitment to excellence in academic teaching and mentorship. He has served as a reviewer for leading journals including Acta Geotechnica, Tunnelling and Underground Space Technology, and Engineering Applications of Artificial Intelligence. Additionally, he holds a position on the Youth Editorial Board of the International Journal of Smart Construction, where he contributes to advancing digital twin technologies in construction.

📚 Publications

Title: Automated finite element analysis of burst capacity for corroded pipelines
Author: Rui Zhang
Year: 2025
Journal: International Journal of Pressure Vessels and Piping

Conclusion:

Dr. Rui Zhang is a highly deserving nominee for the Research for Best Researcher Award. His strengths in digital construction, computational geomechanics, and AI-integrated infrastructure monitoring are not only timely but crucial for the future of resilient and intelligent built environments. With continued leadership and broader dissemination of his work, he is poised to become a global leader in the field.

sozan eid | Soil | Women Researcher Award

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Assist. Prof. Dr. sozan eid | Soil | Women Researcher Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. sozan eid, Agricultural Research Center, Egypt

Assist. Prof. Dr. Sozan Eid El-Abeid is a senior researcher at the Plant Pathology Research Institute, Agricultural Research Center (ARC), Egypt. With over two decades of experience in plant pathology, she specializes in the taxonomy and molecular identification of fungal endophytes, as well as the use of green nanomaterials and biological agents for eco-friendly disease management. Her research integrates molecular diagnostics, biosafety, and environmental health to promote sustainable agriculture. Dr. El-Abeid has authored over 20 scientific papers and 9 book chapters, and actively contributes to international research collaborations and scientific reviews in the field of plant disease control and nanotechnology.

Profile

Scopus

Orcid

Summary:

Assist. Prof. Dr. Sozan Eid El-Abeid is a highly experienced and accomplished plant pathologist specializing in fungal endophytes and eco-friendly disease management through innovative green nanomaterials. Her research addresses key challenges in sustainable agriculture by integrating molecular biology, biosafety, and environmental health. With a substantial body of published work and active international collaborations, Dr. El-Abeid is a strong candidate for the Research for Women Researcher Award.

🎓 Education

Dr. Sozan Eid El-Abeid has built her career at the Plant Pathology Research Institute under the Agricultural Research Center (ARC) in Egypt. She began her professional journey in 1998 as a specialist in the Mycology and Disease Survey Research Department. Over the years, she progressed through various roles including researcher assistant (2013–2015), researcher (2015–2020), and currently serves as a senior researcher since 2020.

💼Experience

Her expertise centers around plant pathology, with a special emphasis on mycology and plant disease diagnostics. She has actively contributed to national and international projects such as the development of diagnostic protocols for plant quarantine pathogens, sustainable methanogenesis through biogas innovation in India and Egypt, and regenerative agriculture under the PRIMA SIRAM initiative from 2022 to 2025. She has also participated in major conferences and workshops including the Symposium on Small Molecules in Plant Research in Spain and regional genomics workshops by the African BioGenome Project.

🔬Research Focus

Dr. El-Abeid’s research concentrates on three primary areas: taxonomy and molecular identification of fungal endophytes associated with plants, development of eco-friendly biocontrol agents including green nanomaterials for disease management, and advancement of biosafety and environmental health protocols. Her work integrates nanotechnology and molecular biology to enhance plant disease diagnostics and sustainable agricultural practices.

🛠️Skills

She is skilled in molecular techniques for pathogen identification, disease diagnostics, and application of nanomaterials in plant pathology. Her proficiency spans green synthesis of nanoparticles, biosensors for early pathogen detection, and integrated pest and disease management strategies. She is also an experienced thesis supervisor and manuscript reviewer for several reputable scientific journals.

📚 Publications

Title: Impact of glycyrrhizic acid ammonium salt nanoparticles and salicylic acid nanoparticles on Ralstonia solanacearum suppression and soil microbial biodiversity
Authors: Messiha, N.A., El-Abeid, S.E., El-Tabakh, M.A., Shoala, T.
Journal: Physiological and Molecular Plant Pathology
Year: 2025


Title: Mutual Relations Between Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi and Ralstonia solanacearum in Potato Brown Rot Disease
Authors: El-Abeid, S.E., Balabel, N.M., Messiha, N.A.
Journal: Potato Research
Year: 2025

Conclusion:

Dr. Sozan Eid El-Abeid’s extensive expertise, innovative research, and commitment to sustainable agriculture make her well-suited for the Research for Women Researcher Award. Addressing the suggested areas for improvement, particularly documenting research impact, leadership, and broader societal contributions, would further solidify her candidacy. Overall, she exemplifies the qualities of a leading woman researcher contributing to science and society, making her a deserving nominee.

Hong Zheng | Soil Physics | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Hong Zheng | Soil Physics | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Hong Zheng, Beijing University of Technology, china

Prof. Hong Zheng is a distinguished professor at Beijing University of Technology, China, and a leading expert in computational geomechanics. With a Ph.D. in engineering mechanics from the Chinese Academy of Sciences, his work has resolved major challenges in geotechnical modeling and has been applied to significant projects like the Three Gorges Dam. A recipient of the National Science Fund for Distinguished Young Scholars, Prof. Zheng has published nearly 100 SCI papers, authored a technical book, and holds multiple patents. His contributions have been integrated into academic curricula and international engineering standards.

Profile

Scopus

Summary:

Prof. Hong Zheng stands out as a dedicated and accomplished researcher with substantial contributions to his field. His expertise, leadership, and influence within the academic community make him a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His work continues to inspire innovation and collaboration, positioning him at the forefront of research developments.

🎓 Education

Professor Hong Zheng graduated with a bachelor’s degree from the Department of Mechanical Engineering at Northeastern University in 1985. He continued at the same institution to complete his master’s degree in solid mechanics in 1988. In 2000, he earned his Ph.D. in engineering mechanics from the Graduate University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences.

💼Experience

Professor Zheng is currently a professor at Beijing University of Technology and holds the title of Beijing Scholar. Between 1995 and 2001, he collaborated with Professor C.F. Lee at the University of Hong Kong. In addition to his academic role, he has led numerous research and consultancy projects, including major initiatives such as the Three Gorges Project.

🔬Research Focus

His primary research area is computational geomechanics, with particular emphasis on the continuous-discontinuous approach in geotechnical mechanics. His work has addressed longstanding challenges in computational mechanics and has significantly influenced the development of textbooks, industry standards, and commercial software applications.

🛠️Skills

Professor Zheng is highly skilled in engineering numerical analysis and computational mechanics. His accomplishments include authoring nearly 100 SCI-indexed journal articles, publishing a technical book (ISBN 978-7-03-072442-7), and contributing to six patents. His expertise also extends to editing academic journals and participating in two professional societies.

🏆Awards

Professor Zheng is a recipient of the prestigious National Science Fund for Distinguished Young Scholars. His professional contributions and research achievements have gained significant recognition in both national and international academic communities.

📚 Publications

Title: Evaluation of initial geostress field of underground powerhouse in the complex alteration area of western Sichuan based on back-propagation neural network method
Authors: Zheng, Hong; Cao, Shiqi; Jiang, Quan; Xu, Dingping; Li, Zhiwei
Year: 2025
Journal: Geomechanics and Geophysics for Geo-Energy and Geo-Resources


Title: Analysis of transient free surface seepage flow using numerical manifold method
Authors: Jia, Zhen; Zheng, Hong
Year: 2025
Journal: Computers and Mathematics with Applications


Title: A linear fracture constitutive model for the two-dimensional finite-discrete element method (FDEM) and its parameters calibration procedure
Authors: Yan, Chengzeng; Han, Du; Zheng, Hong; Wang, Tie; Ali, Sajid
Year: 2025
Journal: Engineering Analysis with Boundary Elements


Title: Experimental study on dynamic mechanical response and crack control mechanism of anchored layered sandstone by DIC technology
Authors: Lu, Yuyin; Yu, Yang; Feng, Guangliang; Zeng, Jianjun; Zheng, Hong
Year: 2025
Journal: Measurement: Journal of the International Measurement Confederation


Title: Three-dimensional seepage analysis for the tunnel in nonhomogeneous porous media with physics-informed deep learning
Authors: Lin, Shan; Dong, Miao; Luo, Hongming; Guo, Hongwei; Zheng, Hong
Year: 2025
Journal: Engineering Analysis with Boundary Elements

Conclusion:

Prof. Hong Zheng’s suitability for the Best Researcher Award is clear due to his consistent academic excellence and impactful research. However, focusing on expanding his interdisciplinary reach and increasing public engagement could enhance the broader influence of his work. Overall, his contributions to his field make him a deserving nominee for the award, with the potential for even greater impact in the future.

Xusheng Wan | Soil Physics | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Dr. Xusheng Wan | Soil Physics | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Xusheng Wan, Southwest Petroleum University, China

Prof. Dr. Xusheng Wan is a professor and assistant dean at the School of Civil Engineering and Surveying, Southwest Petroleum University, China. He specializes in geotechnical engineering with a research focus on freeze-salt expansion, multi-physics coupling in cold regions, and the thermal and mechanical behavior of frozen soils. He has published over 100 academic papers, holds more than 40 patents, and has led multiple national research projects. Prof. Wan is a doctoral supervisor and serves on the editorial boards of several scientific journals, including the ASCE Journal of Cold Regions Engineering.

Profile

Scopus

Summary:

Prof. Dr. Xusheng Wan demonstrates a rare blend of academic excellence, innovation, leadership, and dedication to education. His work in cold region geotechnics addresses complex, real-world problems and has made a measurable impact both in academia and engineering practice. His consistent research productivity and national recognitions make him a standout candidate.

🎓 Education

Xusheng Wan earned his Ph.D. in Geotechnical Engineering from the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences in July 2015, with a focus on permafrost research. He completed both his master’s (2009–2012) and bachelor’s (2005–2009) degrees in Civil Engineering at Lanzhou Jiaotong University.

💼Experience

Xusheng Wan currently serves as a professor and assistant dean at the School of Civil Engineering and Surveying, Southwest Petroleum University. He has held academic positions including associate professor (2018–2022) and lecturer (2015–2018) and completed postdoctoral research at the Civil Engineering Postdoctoral Station of Sichuan University (2019–2021). As a doctoral and master’s supervisor, he trains students in civil engineering and water conservancy disciplines.

🔬Research Focus

Xusheng Wan’s research centers on the mechanisms and prevention of freeze-salt expansion in cold regions, multi-physics coupling models, water freezing mechanisms in soil, prediction of unfrozen water content, and the degradation of concrete under cold and saline conditions. He has led multiple projects under the National Natural Science Foundation and other provincial and institutional programs, making impactful contributions to cold region geotechnics.

🛠️Skills

A prolific scholar, Xusheng Wan has published over 100 academic papers, including 56 SCI-indexed articles with more than 1,200 citations. His most-cited single paper has been referenced over 170 times. He holds more than 40 national patents and four software copyrights. He serves as a reviewer for over 40 journals and is on editorial boards including the ASCE Journal of Cold Regions Engineering and Glaciers and Frozen Soils. As an educator, he teaches both undergraduate and graduate-level courses, contributes to curriculum development, and actively leads teaching reform and textbook editing initiatives.

🏆Awards

Xusheng Wan has received significant recognition for his work, including the first prize of the Gansu Science and Technology Progress Award and the second prize from the China Communications and Transportation Association. He has been honored with titles such as Outstanding Communist Party Member (2021), Youth Science and Technology Award in Civil Engineering (2022), and Outstanding Reviewer multiple times. In 2024, he was recognized with the Teacher Classroom Quality Excellence Award and selected as a reserve candidate for science and technology leadership in Sichuan Province. His students have won numerous national and provincial awards under his guidance.

📚 Publications

  • Title: Experimental investigation on the thermal stability and deformation behavior of a novel duct-ventilated embankment in a snowy permafrost region
    Authors: Yang Sheng, Zhang Mingyi, Pei Wansheng, Bai Ruiqiang, Bi Jun
    Year: 2025
    Journal: International Communications in Heat and Mass Transfer

  • Title: Corrigendum to “Mitigating frost heave and enhancing mechanical performance of silty clay with sisal fibre and geopolymer”
    Authors: Lu Jianguo, Deng Fei, Pei Wansheng, You Zhilang, Zhang Zhexi
    Year: 2024
    Journal: Construction and Building Materials

  • Title: Corrigendum to “Heat flow characteristics and thermal resistance model for soil-rock mixtures during freezing-thawing processes: Damping properties”
    Authors: Lu Jianguo, Wang Yindong, Pei Wansheng, Tan Liling, Deng Fei
    Year: 2023
    Journal: Geoderma

  • Title: Current status and prospects of research on conductive concrete in cold regions
    Authors: Lu Jianguo, Yang Xinlian, Pu Wanli, Wang Yindong, Tan Liling
    Year: 2025
    Journal: Tumu yu Huanjing Gongcheng Xuebao / Journal of Civil and Environmental Engineering
  • Title: Corrigendum to “A generalized thermal conductivity model of soil-rock mixture based on freezing characteristic curve”
    Authors: Wang Yindong, Lu Jianguo, Pei Wansheng, Gao Jiajia, Deng Fei
    Year: 2025
    Journal: Cold Regions Science and Technology

  • Title: Seismic ground motion study of layered site of saturated frozen soil under P-wave incidence
    Authors: Ma Qiang, Jiao Hao, Wan Xusheng
    Year: 2025
    Journal: Cold Regions Science and Technology

Conclusion:

Prof. Dr. Xusheng Wan is an outstanding candidate for the Research for Best Researcher Award. His proven track record of impactful research, academic leadership, and innovation aligns perfectly with the award’s criteria. While there are opportunities to broaden international and interdisciplinary engagement, his current achievements already place him among the top-tier researchers in his field.

Abderrahmen AKKACHA | Soil Sciences | Outstanding Soil Survey Project

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Mr. Abderrahmen AKKACHA | Soil Sciences | Outstanding Soil Survey Project

Mr. Abderrahmen Akkacha, University of Chlef, Algeria

Mr. Abderrahmen Akkacha is a soil scientist affiliated with the University of Chlef, Algeria. With a strong background in soil salinity management, sustainable land use, and soil mapping, he has contributed to numerous national and international research initiatives. He is known for his leadership in laboratory management and collaborative projects focused on soil and water conservation in arid and semi-arid regions.

Profile

Orcid

Summary:

Mr. Akkacha’s soil survey projects are methodologically robust, environmentally relevant, and regionally impactful. He effectively blends field data with advanced soil science techniques, offering a solid model for modern soil survey work. His focus on semi-arid, saline landscapes makes his work especially important for countries facing desertification and irrigation challenges.

🎓 Education

Abderrahmen Akkacha holds a Ph.D. in Soil Sciences from Tunisia. His academic background is reinforced by specialized training in soil salinity, mapping technologies, and advanced data processing techniques.

💼Experience

He currently serves as Director of a Soil Laboratory in Tunisia and previously held the position of Regional Director at the Regional Agricultural Development Commission (CRDA). Throughout his career, he has coordinated and contributed to numerous international and national research projects focused on soil and water conservation. His expertise has made him a sought-after trainer and speaker at scientific workshops and symposia, and he has collaborated with international institutions such as ICBA, ISRIC, and IWMI.

🔬Research Focus

Abderrahmen’s research is centered on managing soil salinity to enhance productivity in arid and semi-arid regions. He is dedicated to sustainable land use strategies to combat desertification, as well as exploring soil-water-plant interactions to optimize irrigation and crop performance. He also plays a key role in national and international soil health monitoring initiatives.

🛠️Skills

His skills include soil salinity mapping and management, laboratory analysis, GIS and remote sensing applications, project leadership, and training delivery. He is multilingual, fluent in Arabic, French, and English, which enhances his ability to work across diverse regions and cultures.

🏆Awards

Abderrahmen has received several national awards for his work in soil health and sustainable agriculture. He has also been recognized by the Tunisian Ministry of Agriculture and supported through international participation grants for his involvement in global soil salinity and mapping projects.

📚 Publications

Title: Investigating the Impact of Salinity on Soil Organic Matter Dynamics Using Molecular Biomarkers and Principal Component Analysis
Year: 2025
Author: Abderrahmen Akkacha
Journal: Sustainability

Title: Study of the Seasonal Dynamics of Salts in the Irrigated Soils in Semi-Arid Region: Case of Lower-Cheliff (Algeria)
Year: 2024
Author: Abderrahmen Akkacha
Journal: African Journal of Biological Sciences

Conclusion:

Mr. Abderrahmen Akkacha demonstrates all the key qualities of an outstanding soil survey researcher: field expertise, methodological innovation, regional relevance, and scientific integrity. With further growth in spatial analysis and interdisciplinary collaboration, his projects could serve as a benchmark for future soil survey initiatives. He is highly recommended for the Research for Outstanding Soil Survey Project Award.

Jun Meng | Soil | Best Scholar Award

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Assist. Prof. Dr. Jun Meng | Soil | Best Scholar Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Jun Meng, Zhejiang University of Science and Technology, China

Assist. Prof. Dr. Jun Meng is a faculty member at the School of Environmental and Natural Resources, Zhejiang University of Science and Technology, China. He holds a Ph.D. in Soil Science from Zhejiang University and specializes in the remediation of heavy metal-contaminated soils, biochar technology, and microplastic environmental risk assessment. Dr. Meng has published over 40 peer-reviewed articles in top environmental science journals and has led multiple national and provincial research projects. His work contributes to sustainable soil management and environmental protection through innovative approaches in soil chemistry and pollutant mitigation.

Profile

Scopus

Summary:

Dr. Jun Meng is a well-qualified, highly impactful researcher in the fields of soil science, environmental remediation, and microplastic pollution. His body of work reflects a mature research trajectory marked by high-impact publications, successful grant acquisition, and technological innovation through patents. His contributions are both academically rigorous and practically relevant, addressing key environmental challenges in China and globally.

🎓 Education

Dr. Jun Meng earned his Ph.D. in Soil Science from Zhejiang University in 2014, where he developed a strong foundation in soil chemistry, environmental remediation, and pollutant dynamics. His academic training emphasized interdisciplinary approaches to solving complex environmental challenges, particularly related to soil contamination and restoration.

💼Experience

Following the completion of his doctorate, Dr. Meng worked at Zhejiang University from 2014 to 2018, contributing to several key research initiatives. In 2018, he joined the School of Environmental and Natural Resources at Zhejiang University of Science and Technology as an Associate Professor. In this role, he has continued to lead research in soil remediation, biochar applications, and microplastic pollution, while mentoring students and managing funded national and provincial-level projects.

🔬Research Focus

Dr. Meng’s research primarily focuses on the remediation of heavy metal-contaminated soils, biochar production and its environmental applications, as well as the environmental behavior and health risk assessment of microplastics. He has demonstrated exceptional skill in environmental risk assessment, soil microbiome interactions, and the development of novel biochar-based materials. His work also includes investigating the transformation and mobility of potentially toxic elements within the soil-plant system.

🛠️Skills

Dr. Jun Meng possesses extensive expertise in soil science, particularly in the areas of heavy metal contamination, biochar production and application, and microplastic behavior in terrestrial environments. His skills include environmental risk assessment, soil microbiome analysis, field experiment design, and advanced analytical techniques for tracing pollutant transformation and mobility. He is also experienced in interdisciplinary research collaboration and the practical application of lab-scale innovations to field-scale environmental solutions.

🏆Awards

Dr. Meng has been recognized for his contributions to environmental research through multiple competitive research grants, including funding from the National Natural Science Foundation of China and the Zhejiang Provincial Natural Science Foundation. His innovative work has also led to several national and international patents, highlighting his contributions to applied environmental technologies. His publications have garnered significant academic impact, as reflected in his high citation count and H-index.

📚 Publications

Title: Three-year remediation evaluation for arsenic and cadmium co-contaminated acidic and alkaline paddy fields: Insights on availability, bioaccumulation, health risk, and cost
Authors: Liu, Jian; Xu, Xiangxue; Meng, Jun; Yang, Dong; Shan, Shengdao
Year: 2025
Journal: Journal of Environmental Chemical Engineering

Title: Novel CS/MIL-53(Fe)/CdS type-II heterojunction with improved charge transfer: Mechanistic insights, photocatalytic activity, and toxicological evaluation
Authors: Yu, Zhuofan; Yang, Ye; Meng, Jun; Shen, Xiaofeng; Xue, Qingquan
Year: 2025
Journal: Journal of Alloys and Compounds

Title: Efficient conversion and deconstruction of waste straw using compound fungal agent: Fermentation optimization, nutrient enrichment and microbial community analysis
Authors: Liu, Bingyang; Wang, Qun; Shen, Linpei; Sun, Pengfei; Shan, Shengdao
Year: 2025
Journal: Journal of Environmental Chemical Engineering

Title: Green synthesized nanoscale zero-valent iron impregnated tea residue biochar efficiently captures metal(loid)s for sustainable water remediation
Authors: Wang, Jie; Huang, Junhao; Meng, Jun; Li, Zhangtao; Ok, Yong Sik
Year: 2025
Journal: Journal of Environmental Management

Conclusion:

Assist. Prof. Dr. Jun Meng is a strong candidate for the Research for Best Scholar Award. His research excellence, innovation, and scientific leadership in soil remediation and environmental health place him among the top-tier young scholars in his field. With continued growth in international visibility and mentorship activities, he is poised to make even broader contributions to science and society in the years ahead.

Dorota Pikula | Soil | Soil Fertility Improvement Award

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Dorota Pikula | Soil | Soil Fertility Improvement Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Dorota Pikula, Institute of Soil Science and Plant Cultivation, Poland

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Dorota Pikuła is a researcher at the Institute of Soil Science and Plant Cultivation, Poland, specializing in soil organic matter, humic substances, and soil fertility management. She holds a habilitation in agricultural sciences and a Ph.D. in agronomy from the Warsaw University of Life Sciences. Her research focuses on soil carbon dynamics, fertilization effects, nitrogen fixation, and the environmental impact of agricultural practices. With extensive experience in scientific publishing, policy advisory, and long-term field experiments, she has received multiple awards from the Polish Ministry of Agriculture. She has authored over 500 publications and actively contributes to sustainable agriculture and soil conservation strategies.

Profile

Orcid

Summary:

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Dorota Pikuła is a highly qualified candidate for the Research for Soil Fertility Improvement Award, given her extensive contributions to soil organic matter studies, long-term field experiments, and sustainable fertilization practices. Her research has significantly impacted both scientific understanding and practical agricultural applications. She has also been recognized nationally for her work in soil fertility and nutrient management. However, to further strengthen her profile, she could focus on global-scale research collaborations, innovation-driven contributions, and leadership in large-scale international projects.

🎓 Education

Dorota Pikuła holds a habilitated doctorate in agricultural sciences with a specialization in agriculture and horticulture from the Institute of Soil Science and Plant Cultivation State Research Institute, awarded in 2019. Her postdoctoral research focused on the environmental and production effects of crop cultivation in rotations with varying organic matter inflow. She earned her master’s degree in engineering from the Warsaw University of Life Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture and Biology, in 2000, specializing in Environmental Protection. Her master’s thesis investigated heavy metal fractions in soils fertilized with sewage sludge. She later obtained a Ph.D. in agricultural sciences in agronomy from the same university in 2006, where she studied the influence of selected physicochemical properties of soil on heavy metal content in fodder plants.

💼Experience

Dorota Pikuła has extensive professional experience in agricultural science, research, and publishing. She worked as an editor and agrotechnical advisor from 2002 to 2006 for agricultural publications such as Agro-Spółdzielca and Poradnik Rolniczy. In 2006, she joined the Institute of Soil Science and Plant Cultivation State Research Institute in Puławy as a senior research and technical specialist. Since 2016, she has been working as an adjunct researcher in the Department of Plant Nutrition and Fertilization. Throughout her career, she has participated in numerous research projects, including studies on soil organic matter quality, humic substances, nitrogen fixation, and the environmental impact of different agricultural practices.

🔬Research Focus

Dorota Pikuła specializes in soil organic matter, humic substances, and soil fertility management. Her research explores soil organic carbon dynamics, the impact of fertilization and crop rotation on soil quality, and the role of humic acids in improving soil fertility. She has conducted extensive work on nitrogen fixation, soil contamination with heavy metals, and the long-term effects of manure application on soil health. She has also contributed to the development of soil quality assessment methods and indicators.

🛠️Skills

Dorota Pikuła possesses expertise in soil science, agricultural chemistry, and environmental protection. She is skilled in analyzing soil organic matter composition, conducting long-term field experiments, and evaluating the environmental effects of different farming practices. Her proficiency extends to scientific publishing, training agricultural professionals, and contributing to policy development on sustainable agriculture. She is an active member of several scientific organizations and has authored over 500 popular science publications, demonstrating her ability to translate complex scientific findings into practical knowledge for farmers and policymakers.

🏆Awards

Dorota Pikuła has received several prestigious awards from the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development. In 2015, she was recognized for her contributions to rational fertilizer management. In 2023, she was awarded for her work on protecting water sources from phosphorus pollution caused by agricultural activities. In 2024, she received another award for developing and implementing a method for determining humic substance content in fertilizers and plant aids.

📚 Publications

  • The Composition of the Organic Matter Fractions of Loamy Sand after Long-Term FYM Application without Liming (2022) – Agronomy – Dorota Pikuła, O. Ciotucha
  • Changes in Relationships between Humic Substances and Soil Structure following Different Mineral Fertilization of Vitis vinifera L. in Slovakia (2022) – Agronomy – V. Šimanský, E. Wójcik‐Gront, J. Horváthová, Dorota Pikuła, T. Lošák, A. Parzych, M. Lukac, E. Aydın
  • Effect of the Degree of Soil Contamination with Heavy Metals on Their Mobility in the Soil Profile in a Microplot Experiment (2021) – Agronomy – Dorota Pikuła, W. Stępień
  • Materia organiczna istotnym elementem żyzności gleb (2020) – Studia i Raporty IUNG-PIB – Dorota Pikuła
  • Selected chemical properties of sandy soil after 36 years of differential fertilization with mineral nitrogen and manure without liming in two crop rotation (2020) – Soil Science Annual – Dorota Pikuła
  • Zbiór zaleceń dobrej praktyki rolniczej mający na celu ochronę wód przed zanieczyszczeniem azotanami pochodzącymi ze źródeł rolniczych (2019) – IUNG-PIB – Dorota Pikuła
  • Praktyki zapobiegające stratom węgla organicznego z gleby (2019) – Środowiskowe Aspekty Gospodarki Nawozowej – Dorota Pikuła
  • Soil properties and productivity in two long-term crop rotations differing with respect to organic matter management on an Albic Luvisol (2019) – Scientific Reports – Dorota Pikuła, S. Martyniuk, M. Kozieł

Conclusion:

Dr. Pikuła is a strong candidate for the Research for Soil Fertility Improvement Award due to her pioneering research on soil fertility, strong publication record, practical impact on agriculture, and policy contributions. While she already has an impressive portfolio, enhancing international collaboration, innovation, and leadership in large-scale initiatives would further strengthen her standing for this prestigious award.

Bernard Omomoh | Soil Science | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Soil Scientist

Mr. Bernard Omomoh | Soil Science | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Bernard Omomoh, Federal University of Technology, Nigeria

Bernard Omomoh is a researcher in Forestry and Wood Technology at the Federal University of Technology, Akure, Nigeria. His work focuses on forest ecology, biodiversity conservation, invasive species management, and ecosystem restoration. With extensive experience in plant taxonomy, herbarium management, and soil seed bank studies, he has contributed to multiple international research collaborations. He has received grants from institutions like Florida International University and IDEA WILD. Bernard is skilled in data analysis, ecological assessments, and forest measurement techniques, making significant contributions to sustainable forest management and conservation in Nigeria.

Profile

Scopus

Summary:

Mr. Bernard Omomoh is a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award, given his expertise in forestry, biodiversity conservation, and ecosystem restoration. His extensive publication record, international collaborations, and field research experience make him a distinguished researcher in his field.

🎓 Education

Omomoh Bernard Eromosele holds a Higher National Diploma from the Federal College of Forestry, Ibadan, where he studied the effects of different provenances on Thaumatococcus daniellii. He obtained a Postgraduate Diploma from the Federal University of Technology, Akure, investigating altitudinal influences on plant diversity. His Master of Technology from the same university focused on species diversity and soil seed banks in different land-use types. He earned a Bachelor of Science from the Federal University, Oye-Ekiti, where he studied the impact of invasive species on native plant diversity. Additionally, he completed a certificate in Tropical Botany at Florida International University, gaining expertise in tropical plant taxonomy and laboratory techniques.

💼Experience

Omomoh is a researcher and laboratory technologist in Forestry and Wood Technology at the Federal University of Technology, Akure. His work includes supervising research on tree crop cultivation, nursery practices, and seed technology. He has significant teaching experience in silviculture, forest soil science, and plant taxonomy. Previously, he worked as a field and laboratory assistant at Obafemi Awolowo University, gaining expertise in plant identification and herbarium management. He also completed an internship at the University of Ibadan Botanical Garden. As a research assistant at the Centre for Research and Development, he has contributed to field experiments, plant identification, and grant-funded research.

🔬Research Focus

Omomoh’s research covers forest ecology, biodiversity conservation, invasive species management, soil seed banks, and ecosystem restoration. His work examines how land-use changes impact plant diversity and regeneration potential. He collaborates internationally on plant systematics, species adaptation, and conservation strategies, particularly in Nigeria’s forest ecosystems.

🛠️Skills

Omomoh is proficient in data science and statistical analysis, using R, ANOVA, regression, and data visualization tools like ggplot, Prism, and Origin. He has expertise in plant identification, forest measurement, and herbarium management. His technical skills include operating tree measurement instruments such as altimeters, clinometers, and GPS devices.

🏆Awards

He has received multiple research grants, including a $4,000 scholarship from Florida International University for tropical botany studies and a $1,500 IDEA WILD grant for research equipment. He was also awarded funding from Botanic Gardens Conservation International and the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture for conservation projects.

Publications

  • Soil seed bank dynamics of two invasive alien plants in Nigeria: Implications for ecosystem restoration. AoB PLANTS.
  • Authors: Akomolafe, G. F., Rusly, R. R., & Omomoh, B. E.
  • Year: 2024

Conclusion:

 Mr. Bernard Omomoh is highly suitable for the Best Researcher Award due to his significant research contributions in forestry, biodiversity conservation, and ecological restoration. His innovative studies on invasive species, extensive publication record, and international collaborations highlight his impact in the field. Additionally, his expertise in species diversity, soil seed banks, and ecological restoration further strengthens his candidacy. While his work is already influential, enhancing policy engagement and public outreach could further amplify his research impact and visibility.