Mohammad Farmani | Soil Water | Best Paper Award

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Mr. Mohammad Farmani | Soil Water | Best Paper Award

Mr. Mohammad Farmani | University of Arizona | United States

Mohammad Ali Farmani is an emerging researcher in hydrology and data science whose work bridges physical hydrologic modeling with artificial intelligence to enhance environmental prediction and climate impact assessment. His research focuses on AI-augmented land surface and climate modeling, differentiable hydrology, and scalable machine learning frameworks for environmental applications. With strong expertise in deep learning, geospatial data processing, and high-performance computing, his contributions have advanced understanding of streamflow dynamics, soil moisture memory, and baseflow generation in arid and semi-arid regions. He has published six research papers in high-impact journals such as Water Resources Research, Hydrology and Earth System Sciences, and Geophysical Research Letters, which have collectively earned 22 citations, reflecting his growing impact in the field (h-index: 3). His studies integrate deep neural networks with land surface models like Noah-MP and RAPID to improve representation of key hydrological processes and enhance predictive accuracy in climate-hydrology simulations. Through collaborative, data-driven approaches, Farmani’s work contributes to next-generation hydrological forecasting systems, offering solutions for sustainable water resource management under climate variability. His record of innovation, technical proficiency, and interdisciplinary insight positions him as a promising scientist in the emerging field of AI-enhanced environmental modeling.

Profile: Scopus

Featured Publications

Farmani, M. A., Tavakoly, A. A., Behrangi, A., Qiu, Y., Gupta, A., Jawad, M., Yousefi Sohi, H., Zhang, X.-Y., Geheran, M. P., & Niu, G. (2025). Improving streamflow predictions in the arid Southwestern United States through understanding of baseflow generation mechanisms. Water Resources Research. Advance online publication.

Ahmed Gueye | Environmental Science | Best Scholar Award

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Mr. Ahmed Gueye | Environmental Science | Best Scholar Award

Mr. Ahmed Gueye, Cheikh Anta Diop University of Dakar, Senegal

Mr. Ahmed Gueye is a PhD student at Cheikh Anta Diop University of Dakar, Senegal, specializing in Physical Measurements, Control, and Regulation Systems. His research focuses on innovative approaches to air quality forecasting using the Internet of Things (IoT), data assimilation, and neural networks. With a strong background in electronics, environmental monitoring, and renewable energy systems, he has contributed to several national and international research projects and conferences. Ahmed is committed to developing smart, data-driven solutions for sustainable environmental management in West Africa.

Profile

Scopus

Orcid

Summary:

Mr. Ahmed Gueye is an emerging scholar with a compelling portfolio of interdisciplinary research in environmental physics, renewable energy systems, and smart sensor networks. His work is well-aligned with global sustainability goals and addresses urgent regional challenges through data-driven innovation. His combination of academic merit, publication output, and social relevance make him a strong contender for the Research for Best Scholar Award.

🎓 Education

Ahmed Gueye holds a Bachelor’s degree in Physics, Chemistry, and Material Science from Cheikh Anta Diop University of Dakar, earned in 2015. He later pursued a Master’s degree in Electronics, Systems, and Telecommunication with a specialization in Physical Measurements, Control, and Regulation Systems. His academic excellence is reflected in achieving high honors. Currently, he is a PhD student at Cheikh Anta Diop University, focusing on advanced methods for forecasting PM2.5 and PM10 pollution levels in Dakar. His doctoral research incorporates the Internet of Things, data assimilation, and neural networks.

💼Experience

Ahmed has amassed practical experience through several academic and professional roles. He worked with SEDIMA Group and served as a Design Engineer at Vigitec, where he contributed to the conceptual study of IoT systems and the design of communication layers for meteorological observation networks. He has also been involved in teaching roles at Cheikh Anta Diop University and the University of Sine Saloum El-Hadji Ibrahima Niass. As part of the World Bank’s Development Impact Evaluation (DIME) initiative, he has been actively contributing to field research and data analysis projects. Ahmed also participated in field assistant roles and has been involved in designing systems for air quality and energy measurement.

🔬Research Focus

Ahmed’s primary research interests lie in atmospheric monitoring, renewable energy, and smart systems integration. His doctoral work emphasizes the development of enhanced air pollution forecasting systems using machine learning and sensor networks. He has published in peer-reviewed journals on topics including wind and solar energy analysis, air quality modeling, and the development of low-cost IoT-based pollution monitoring systems. His research is characterized by interdisciplinary collaboration and a strong orientation toward practical, data-driven solutions for environmental and energy challenges in Africa.

🛠️Skills

Ahmed possesses a versatile skill set that spans electronics, data science, automation, and IoT applications. He is proficient in Python, home automation systems, electronic design, geographic information systems (GIS), and modeling. His technical capabilities extend to the development and implementation of measurement platforms, neural network integration for air quality forecasting, and the use of ESP8266 NodeMCU for pollution monitoring. He has hands-on experience in CCTV maintenance and the design of meteorological and pollution measurement devices.

🏆Awards

Ahmed’s academic and research work has earned him various recognitions. He contributed to award-winning projects such as the creation of innovative IoT-based air pollution monitoring systems and predictive models for PM2.5 levels. He has presented at notable events including the 9th IEEE International Conference on Smart Instrumentation, Measurement and Applications and the International Seminar on Air Quality and IoT-Based Sensors. He has also received certifications from Codecademy, including training in machine learning, PyTorch, and neural networks.

📚 Publications

Title:
Analysis of wind resources in Senegal using 100-meter wind data from ERA5 reanalysis

Year:
2024

Authors:
Niang, S. A. A.; Gueye, A.; Drame, M. S.; Ba, A.; Sarr, A.; Nebon, B.; Talla, K.

Journal:
Scientific African

Conclusion:

Mr. Ahmed Gueye is a highly suitable candidate for the Research for Best Scholar Award. His research exhibits originality, rigor, and a strong potential for lasting impact. With continued growth in leadership roles and international collaborations, he is poised to become a leading figure in applied environmental and energy research. Awarding him this recognition would support and amplify the work of a promising scholar deeply committed to sustainable development and technological innovation in Africa.

Franz Josef Maringer | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Dr. Franz Josef Maringer | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Franz Josef Maringer, University of Natural Resources and Applied Life Sciences, Austria

Prof. Dr. Franz Josef Maringer is a distinguished researcher at the University of Natural Resources and Applied Life Sciences, Austria. His expertise lies in natural resource management, environmental sustainability, and applied life sciences. With a strong academic background, he has contributed extensively to sustainable resource utilization, ecological conservation, and innovative environmental solutions. Prof. Maringer has authored numerous peer-reviewed publications and led impactful research projects. His work has influenced both academic advancements and practical applications in environmental sciences. He is also actively involved in mentoring young researchers and fostering international collaborations to address global sustainability challenges.

Profile

Scopus

Orcid

Summary:

Prof. Dr. Franz Josef Maringer’s contributions in natural resources and applied life sciences make him a strong contender for the Research for Best Researcher Award. His academic output, funding success, and research impact contribute to his candidacy. If he also has notable interdisciplinary collaborations and societal impact, it would further strengthen his position.

 

🎓 Education

Franz Josef Maringer earned his MS Degree (Dipl.-Ing.) in Physics from TU Wien between 1979 and 1984. In 1994, he completed his Ph.D. (Dr. techn.) with distinction at TU Wien. He later achieved his Docent Degree (Univ.-Doz.) in 2003 through habilitation in the field of radioecology and radiation measurement at BOKU Vienna. In 2011, he was awarded the title of Professor at BOKU, Vienna.

💼Experience

With a career spanning over four decades, Franz Josef Maringer has been actively engaged in science, research, and teaching since 1983. He served as the Head of the Low-Level Counting Laboratory Arsenal in Vienna from 1983 to 2016. Between 2004 and 2020, he led the Section for Ionizing Radiation and Radioactivity at the Federal Office of Metrology and Surveying (BEV) in Vienna. During this time, he also acted as Austria’s delegate to the Consultative Committee for Ionizing Radiation (CCRI) at the Bureau International des Poids et Mesures (BIPM). From 2009 to 2019, he was the Scientific Secretary of the International Committee for Radionuclide Metrology (ICRM). In addition, he was a board member of the Austrian Radiation Protection Association (ÖVS) from 1996 to 2021 and served as its President from 2004 to 2008.

 

🔬Research Focus

His research primarily revolves around radiation physics, radioecology, radiation protection, and metrology. He has been instrumental in developing and refining techniques for radiation measurement and radionuclide metrology, with a strong focus on environmental radiation monitoring, low-level radiation detection, and international standards for ionizing radiation. Throughout his career, he has authored more than 300 scientific publications, contributing significantly to advancements in the field.

Awards

In recognition of his significant contributions to science, research, and teaching, Franz Josef Maringer was honored with the Grand Decoration of Honour of the Republic of Austria in 2021. Since 2012, he has been an honorary member of the Austrian Radiation Protection Association (ÖVS).

 

Skills

Franz Josef Maringer possesses extensive expertise in radiation physics, radiation protection, radiation measurement technology, radioecology, and metrology. He has coordinated international research projects and has a profound understanding of ionizing radiation, low-level radiation measurement, and radionuclide metrology. His leadership roles in national and international organizations demonstrate his strong skills in scientific coordination, policy advisory, and institutional management.

 

Publications

 

  • Development of the occupational exposure during the production and application of radiopharmaceuticals in Germany

    • Authors: J. Vogt, U. Oeh, F.J. Maringer
    • Journal: Journal of Radiological Protection
    • Year: 2024

 

  • Should the ISO slab phantom be used for calibrations in terms of the new ICRU 95 operational quantity personal dose?

    • Authors: V. Merza, C. Hranitzky, A. Steurer, F.J. Maringer
    • Journal: Radiation Protection Dosimetry
    • Year: 2023

 

  • Radionuclide metrology methods and analysis of the Joint Danube Survey 4 sediment samples

    • Authors: F.J. Maringer, R. Kadan, C. Landstetter, A. Redl, H. Wiedner
    • Journal: Applied Radiation and Isotopes
    • Year: 2023

 

  • Research summary of the EMPIR MetroRADON project

    • Authors: H. Wiedner, F.J. Maringer, M. Stietka
    • Journal: Applied Radiation and Isotopes
    • Year: 2023

 

  • Report of the CCRI(II) supplementary international comparison of measurement of activity per unit mass of Cs-134 and Cs-137 in wheat flour (CCRI(II)-S13)

    • Authors: A. Yunoki, T. Miura, R. Furukawa, M. Hachinohe, S. Hamamatsu
    • Journal: Metrologia
    • Year: 2023

 

  • Update of the BIPM comparison BIPM.RI(II)-K1.I-131 of activity measurements of the radionuclide 131I to include the 2015 results of the BEV (Austria) and the POLATOM (Poland), the 2017 result of the NMISA (South Africa), and to link the CCRI(II)-S6.I-131 comparison

    • Authors: C. Michotte, S. Courte, M. Nonis, J. Lubbe, B.E. Zimmerman
    • Journal: Metrologia
    • Year: 2023

 

  • Update of the BIPM comparison BIPM.RI(II)-K1.Y-88 of activity measurements of the radionuclide 88Y to include the 2016 result of the LNE-LNHB (France) and the 2019 result of the BEV (Austria)

    • Authors: C. Michotte, S. Courte, R.M. Coulon, C. Fréchou, C. Bobin
    • Journal: Metrologia
    • Year: 2023

Conclusion:

Prof. Maringer has a distinguished career with a strong research portfolio, funding success, and real-world impact, he would be a top candidate for the award. Enhancing public engagement, interdisciplinary work, and technology integration could further bolster his qualifications.

Mary Etuk | Soil Water Management | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Mary Etuk | Soil Water Management | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Mary Etuk, Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment, Nigeria

Dr. Mary Etuk is a distinguished hydrogeologist with expertise in groundwater management, isotope geochemistry, and soil-water interactions. She holds a Ph.D. in Hydrogeology from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, where she focused on aquifer vulnerability assessment in semi-arid regions. As a Research Fellow, she has contributed to international projects with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and UNESCO, addressing groundwater sustainability and contamination in Africa. Currently serving at the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment, Nigeria, she integrates scientific research with policy implementation to improve water quality and environmental sustainability. Her work has led to significant advancements in hydrogeology, geospatial analysis, and water resource management.

 

Profile

Scopus

Summary:

Dr. Mary Etuk is an accomplished hydrogeologist with extensive experience in groundwater vulnerability assessment, isotope geochemistry, and sustainable water resource management. Her research is highly relevant to addressing groundwater pollution and sustainability issues in rapidly urbanizing regions, particularly in Nigeria and the Sahel. She has actively participated in international research collaborations and contributed to policy implementation, bridging science and governance.

 

🎓 Education

Mary Nsikanabasi Etuk holds a Ph.D. in Hydrogeology from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, where she conducted research on aquifer vulnerability assessment in semi-arid regions, focusing on Abuja, North Central Nigeria. She earned her M.Sc. in Hydrogeology from the same university, analyzing the impact of waste disposal practices on surface and groundwater in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State. Her academic journey began with a B.Sc. in Geology from the University of Calabar, where she conducted detailed field mapping of Nyaje and its environs.

 

💼Experience

Dr. Etuk is a Research Fellow at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, applying isotope geochemistry and spatial analytical techniques to water resource management and contaminant hydrogeology in developing countries. She was previously a Research Fellow at the University of Pisa, contributing to an International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) project on sustainable groundwater management in the Sahel region. Since 2018, she has also served as a Factory Inspector I at the Federal Ministry of Labour and Productivity, Lafia, ensuring the provision and quality of potable water in workplaces. Earlier in her career, she worked as a Bank Teller at Aso Savings and Loans PLC, a Project Manager and Consultant for WaterAid Nigeria, and an Assistant Lecturer at the Institute of Management and Technology, Enugu.

 

🔬Research Focus

Dr. Etuk specializes in hydrogeology, aquifer vulnerability, groundwater contamination, isotope geochemistry, and water resource management. Her work emphasizes the application of geospatial techniques and multi-tracer approaches to assess groundwater pollution and sustainability in rapidly urbanizing regions. She is actively engaged in international projects addressing groundwater challenges in Africa, particularly within the Sahel region.

 

Awards and Honors

Dr. Etuk has participated in multiple high-profile research projects, including IAEA’s Coordinated Research Project (CRP) on nitrate contamination in fast-growing cities and various technical cooperation projects on sustainable groundwater utilization. She has delivered invited keynote speeches and conference presentations at international events, including the UNESCO Pavilion Side Event, the International Atomic Energy Agency’s General Conference, and the European Geosciences Union General Assembly.

 

Skills

She possesses strong skills in digital tools such as Microsoft Word and Excel, as well as social media communication platforms like Skype and WhatsApp. Her technical expertise includes groundwater vulnerability assessments, GIS applications, isotope hydrogeology, hydrogeochemical modeling, and environmental impact assessments.

 

Publications

  • Title: An integrated geoinformatics and hydrogeological approach to delineating groundwater potential zones in the complex geological terrain of Abuja, Nigeria
    Authors: Etuk, M.N., Igwe, O., Egbueri, J.C.
    Journal: Modeling Earth Systems and Environment
    Year: 2023
    Citations: 16

 

  • Title: Vulnerability mapping as a tool to foster groundwater protection in areas subject to rapid population expansion: The case study of Abuja Federal Capital Territory (Nigeria)
    Authors: Etuk, M., Viaroli, S., Ogbonnaya, I., Re, V.
    Journal: Journal of Hydrology: Regional Studies
    Year: 2022
    Citations: 5

Conclusion:

Dr. Mary Etuk is a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award due to her significant contributions to hydrogeology, international collaborations, and policy-relevant research. Strengthening her publication record, expanding her research focus beyond Nigeria, and leading major international projects could further enhance her candidacy. However, based on her current achievements and impact, she is well deserving of recognition.

Ali Sharghi | Earth | Soil and Water Conservation

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Mr. Ali Sharghi | Earth | Soil and Water Conservation

 Mr. Ali Sharghi, Ayatollah Boroujerdi University, Iran

Ali Sharghi is a researcher in the Department of Civil Engineering at Ayatollah Boroujerdi University, Boroujerd, Iran. Specializing in hydraulic structure design, his work focuses on climate change, sustainable development, and water resource management. Ali has developed innovative hybrid machine learning models, such as RF-GA, for groundwater level simulation and has published in leading journals, including Environmental Modelling & Software. His research emphasizes proactive strategies to address water crises and sustainable resource use.

Profile

Scopus

Summary:

Ali Sharghi is a promising researcher whose work addresses critical challenges in water resource management. His expertise in modeling and his focus on climate adaptation demonstrate the innovative potential necessary for the Soil and Water Conservation Award. While he excels in computational methodologies and policy-oriented research, broadening his scope to include soil conservation and enhancing professional engagement would further solidify his candidacy.

🎓 Education

Currently pursuing an MSc in Hydraulic Structure Design at Ayatollah Boroujerdi University, Iran, Ali Sharghi combines academic rigor with practical innovation, contributing to solutions for pressing environmental challenges.

💼Experience

Ali Sharghi has authored peer-reviewed articles, including a prominent publication in Environmental Modelling & Software, showcasing his ability to tackle groundwater level projections under climate change scenarios. His role as a researcher and first author underlines his contributions to critical water conservation initiatives.

🔬Research Focus

Ali’s research interests center on climate change, sustainable development, and water resource management. He emphasizes the need for proactive policies to mitigate water crises, combining computational methods and policy-oriented studies.

🏆Awards

Ali Sharghi’s innovative research and scientific contributions position him as a candidate for the Soil and Water Conservation category in international scientific awards. His work, blending theoretical insights and applied methodologies, exemplifies the potential for impactful environmental solutions.

 

Skills
Ali Sharghi demonstrates expertise in the design of hydraulic structures, with a specialization in integrating machine learning algorithms for water resource management. He is skilled in hybrid modeling techniques like RF-GA for groundwater simulation and has a strong focus on climate change analysis.

Publications

  • Title: Variable sensitivity analysis in groundwater level projections under climate change adopting a hybrid machine learning algorithm
    Authors: Sharghi, A., Komasi, M., Ahmadi, M.
    Journal: Environmental Modelling and Software
    Year: 2025

 

Conclusion:

Ali Sharghi is a highly deserving nominee for the Research in Soil and Water Conservation Award. His innovative contributions and focus on sustainable development make him a standout candidate. Addressing the identified areas for improvement will not only strengthen his application but also enhance his future contributions to soil and water conservation.