Clement Nyarko Opoku | Environmental | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. Clement Nyarko Opoku | Environmental | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Clement Nyarko Opoku, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Ghana

Clement Nyarko Opoku is a graduate researcher in Materials Engineering at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Ghana. His research focuses on ceramic engineering materials, sustainable building materials, corrosion, and waste management. He has experience as a Graduate Research and Teaching Assistant, contributing to studies on geopolymer cement and material characterization. Clement has also interned in the construction and civil engineering sectors, gaining practical expertise in material testing and site supervision. He is a recipient of the KNUST Engineering Education Project Scholarship and has held leadership roles in GRASAG KNUST. His skills include XRD, XRF, microscopy characterization, AutoCAD, and research analysis.

Profile

Orcid

Summary:

Clement Nyarko Opoku is a promising researcher in materials engineering with a focus on sustainable construction materials. His academic achievements, research contributions, technical skills, and leadership roles make him a strong candidate for recognition. However, expanding his publication record, engaging in more collaborations, and securing grants would further solidify his standing as a top researcher.

🎓 Education

Clement Nyarko Opoku is currently pursuing an MPhil in Materials Engineering at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), where his research focuses on investigating the effect of Gibbsite in Lithomargic Clay on the mechanical and physical properties of Limestone Calcined Clay Cement. He previously earned a BSc in Materials Engineering from KNUST, during which he conducted research on bitumen-reinforced carbon black for pavement applications and material selection for various engineering projects. Additionally, he holds an Advanced Diploma in Occupational Safety and Health from the Imperial College of Mines and Safety.

💼Experience

Clement has gained extensive experience in research, teaching, and engineering practice. As a Graduate Research Assistant at KNUST, he collaborated with researchers on geopolymer cement advancements and gained hands-on exposure to laboratory equipment and experimental protocols. He also served as a Laboratory Research and Teaching Assistant, assisting lecturers with research and guiding students facing academic difficulties. His industry experience includes an internship at Sino Africa Development Company, where he supported construction supervision, safety compliance, and site inspections. He also interned at the Ghana Ports and Harbor Authority’s Civil Engineering Department, working on concrete testing, welding operations, and road material assessments.

🔬Research Focus

Clement’s research interests encompass ceramic engineering materials, sustainable building materials, corrosion, sustainable energy materials, waste management, and water treatment. His work contributes to the development of innovative and eco-friendly materials for construction and industrial applications.

🛠️Skills

Clement possesses strong technical skills, including intermediate knowledge of X-ray Diffraction (XRD), X-ray Fluorescence (XRF), and microscopy characterization. He is proficient in software tools such as AutoCAD, Origin, and Microsoft Office. His professional qualities include teamwork and leadership capabilities, effective communication and interpersonal skills, strong organizational and time management abilities, and resilience under pressure.

🏆Awards

Clement was nominated for the Graduate Assistant of the Year award during the 30th Anniversary of GRASAG KNUST in 2023. He is also a recipient of the KNUST Engineering Education Project Scholarship (KEEP KNUST) from January 2022 to November 2024. His leadership experience includes serving as the Organizing Committee Secretary for GRASAG KNUST, where he played a key role in planning events and supporting international postgraduate students. He was also a Postgraduate Representative on the Faculty of Mechanical and Chemical Engineering Board, advocating for postgraduate students, and served as a Senator for the Materials Engineering Department in GRASAG KNUST. Additionally, as Deputy Welfare Committee Chairperson for the College of Engineering, he helped implement mentorship programs for first-year students.

📚 Publications

Title: Effect of gibbsite in lithomargic clay on the mechanical and physical properties of limestone calcined clay cement

Author: Clement Nyarko Opoku

Year: 2025

Journal: International Journal of Ceramic Engineering & Science

Conclusion:

Mr. Opoku is a suitable candidate for the Best Researcher Award, particularly for early-career researchers. While he has demonstrated significant research contributions and leadership, further strengthening his publication record and international collaborations would enhance his competitiveness for such an award.

Zeinab Hazbavi | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Zeinab Hazbavi | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Zeinab Hazbavi, University of Mohaghegh Ardabili, Iran

Dr. Zeinab Hazbavi is an Associate Professor at the University of Mohaghegh Ardabili, Iran. She holds a Ph.D. in Watershed Management Engineering and Sciences from Tarbiat Modares University and has been a guest researcher at Wageningen University in the Netherlands. Her research focuses on watershed health assessment, soil and water conservation, and geologic and geomorphic processes. She has held leadership roles in academic and research groups, contributed to international conferences, and published extensively in peer-reviewed journals. Dr. Hazbavi is recognized for her expertise in environmental sustainability and natural resource management.

Profile

Scopus

Summary:

Dr. Zeinab Hazbavi is a leading researcher in watershed management and environmental sciences, with a well-established academic and research background. Her extensive publication record, leadership roles, and contributions to scientific advancements make her a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award. She has made significant strides in understanding and mitigating environmental challenges, particularly in Iran and similar regions facing climate-related issues.

🎓 Education

Dr. Zeinab Hazbavi earned her Ph.D. in Watershed Management Engineering and Sciences from Tarbiat Modares University, Iran, in 2018. She also pursued research as a guest researcher at Wageningen University and Research in the Netherlands from November 2016 to May 2017. She obtained her M.Sc. in Watershed Management Engineering from Tarbiat Modares University in 2013 and her B.Sc. in Rangeland and Watershed Management from Shahid Chamran University in 2010.

💼Experience

Dr. Hazbavi is an Associate Professor at the University of Mohaghegh Ardabili, Iran. She currently serves as the Head of the Rangeland & Watershed Management Group at the university and leads the Watershed Management & Hydrology Research Group at the Water Management Research Center. She has held various executive roles, including being a board member of the Iranian Rainwater Catchment Systems Association (2022-2024) and the Executive Secretary of international and national conferences on natural resource conservation. She has also been actively involved in industry-university collaborations and scientific committees.

🔬Research Focus

Her research primarily revolves around natural resource management, watershed health assessment, soil and water conservation, and the impact of geologic and geomorphic processes on environmental sustainability. She has published extensively in peer-reviewed journals, contributing significantly to advancing watershed management and ecological conservation strategies.

🛠️Skills

Dr. Hazbavi possesses expertise in watershed health assessment, geologic and geomorphic processes, soil and water conservation, soil amendment applications, and integrated watershed management. She has extensive experience in research design, project management, data analysis, and academic leadership.

🏆Awards

Dr. Hazbavi has been recognized for her contributions to watershed management and environmental sciences. Her research has gained international attention, and she has received invitations for collaborative projects and conference presentations worldwide.

📚 Publications

  • Ensemble modeling of extreme seasonal temperature trends in Iran under socio-economic scenarios

    • Authors: M. Kamangar, M. Ahmadi, H. Rabiei-Dastjerdi, Z. Hazbavi
    • Year: 2025
    • Journal: Natural Hazards

  • Interactive Changes in Climatic and Hydrological Droughts, Water Quality, and Land Use/Cover of Tajan Watershed, Northern Iran

    • Authors: M. Avand, H.R. Moradi, Z. Hazbavi
    • Year: 2024
    • Journal: Water (Switzerland)

  • A Multifunctional Conceptual Framework for Ecological Disturbance Assessment

    • Authors: V. Moradzadeh, Z. Hazbavi, A. Esmali Ouri, S. Zareie, M. Fernández-Raga
    • Year: 2024
    • Journal: Earth Systems and Environment

Conclusion:

Dr. Zeinab Hazbavi is highly suitable for the Best Researcher Award based on her outstanding research achievements, leadership, and contributions to environmental sustainability. With a few strategic improvements, such as increasing international collaboration, enhancing research citations, and bridging the gap between academia and industry, she could further solidify her position as a global leader in her field. Given her current achievements and future potential, she is a deserving candidate for this prestigious recognition