Aida Bani | Environmental Science | Women Researcher Award

Prof. Aida Bani | Environmental Science | Women Researcher Award

Prof. Dr, Agricultural University of Tirana,  Albania

Aida Bani is a distinguished agro-environmental expert and professor at the Agricultural University of Tirana, Albania. With over three decades of experience, she has made significant contributions to environmental science, particularly in soil remediation and sustainable land management. She holds a PhD in Environmental Sciences from INPL/INRA, France, and a Doctor of Agricultural Sciences from the Agricultural University of Tirana. Aida’s research focuses on the phytoextraction of heavy metals from contaminated soils, and her teaching encompasses areas like landscape management, GIS technology, and waste treatment. In addition to her academic achievements, Aida has undergone specialized training at institutions such as Mississippi State University and UNESCO-IHE. Her work has been recognized through various certifications, including Environmental Specialist. With her extensive expertise, international research experience, and commitment to sustainable environmental practices, Aida Bani stands out as

Profile:

Education

Aida Bani holds an impressive academic background with a focus on environmental and agricultural sciences. She earned a PhD in Environmental Sciences in 2009 from INPL/INRA in Nancy, France, specializing in the phytoextraction of nickel from ultramafic soils. Additionally, she holds a Doctorate in Agricultural Sciences, awarded in 2006 from the Agricultural University of Tirana, where she explored the intersection of agriculture and environmental sustainability. Aida also completed a Master of Science in Agriculture and Environment from the Agricultural University of Tirana in 2003. Her foundational education includes a degree in Agronomy, completed in 1989, and studies in Biochemistry and Teaching at Aleksander Xhuvani University. Further enhancing her expertise, she has completed several specialized training programs, including seed testing at Mississippi State University and research stages in soil remediation technologies in France and the Netherlands. Aida’s diverse and extensive educational qualifications position her as a leading expert in her field.

 

Research Skills

Aida Bani possesses extensive research skills honed through decades of academic and fieldwork in environmental science, agriculture, and biotechnology. Her expertise includes soil remediation technologies, sustainable landscape management, and phytoremediation of heavy metals in ultramafic soils. Aida’s interdisciplinary research integrates environmental science and agricultural practices to address pressing ecological challenges. She has led numerous research projects at the Agricultural University of Tirana, contributing significantly to the understanding of soil health and environmental sustainability. Her global experience, including research stages in France and the Netherlands, has enriched her research perspective and methodologies. Aida’s proficiency in GIS technology and land management further enhances her ability to conduct comprehensive environmental assessments. Additionally, her training in seed testing and rural development showcases her broad research capabilities, which are critical for addressing agricultural and environmental issues. Overall, Aida’s research skills reflect her deep commitment to advancing sustainable agricultural and environmental solutions through scientific inquiry and innovation.

 

Professional Experiences

Aida Bani has over 30 years of experience in academia and environmental sciences. Currently, she serves as a Professor at the Agricultural University of Tirana, where she teaches courses on landscape management, soil remediation, and GIS technology. Since 2001, she has contributed significantly to environmental research and education, shaping future professionals in the field. Prior to this, she worked as an analyst and administrator at the National Seed Testing Laboratory, where she specialized in seed testing and laboratory management. Aida began her career teaching at the Agricultural Secondary School in Lushnja, solidifying her foundation in agricultural education. Her expertise spans across agro-environmental disciplines, with a strong focus on sustainable land management, soil treatment, and environmental remediation technologies. Throughout her career, she has collaborated with international institutions, including Mississippi State University and UNESCO-IHE, furthering her research and gaining global recognition in the field of environmental sustainability and agricultural sciences.

Award And Recognition

Aida Bani, an accomplished academic and agro-environmental expert, has significantly contributed to the fields of environmental science and agricultural sustainability. With over two decades of experience, she is a Professor Doctor at the Agricultural University of Tirana, where she teaches courses on landscape management, soil remediation, and GIS technology. Aida holds dual doctorates, including a PhD in Environmental Sciences from INPL/INRA in France, focusing on soil phytoremediation. Her research on soil contamination and environmental protection has been widely recognized, and she has participated in international research stages in France and the Netherlands. In addition to her academic achievements, she has been certified as an Environmental Specialist by the Ministry of Agro-environment of Albania and has received advanced training in seed testing and rural development. Aida’s dedication to advancing environmental sustainability through education and research makes her a deserving candidate for prestigious awards that celebrate impactful contributions to science and society.

Conclusion

Aida Bani exemplifies the qualities sought in a candidate for the Research for Women Researcher Award. With a distinguished career spanning over three decades, she has made significant contributions to the fields of agriculture and environmental science. Her dual doctorates in Environmental Sciences and Agricultural Sciences, coupled with her extensive teaching experience at the Agricultural University of Tirana, highlight her commitment to education and research. Aida’s pioneering work in soil remediation and sustainable land management demonstrates her dedication to addressing critical environmental challenges. Furthermore, her international training and certifications reflect her pursuit of continuous professional development and collaboration on a global scale. Aida’s innovative research initiatives and leadership in the academic community underscore her status as a role model for aspiring women researchers. For these reasons, Aida Bani stands out as an exemplary candidate deserving of recognition through this prestigious award.

Publication Top Notes

  • Element accumulation by the holoparasitic species Cuscuta planiflora from serpentines in Bulgaria
    • Authors: Pavlova, D., Karadjova, I., Bani, A.
    • Year: 2024
    • Citations: 1
  • Designing cropping systems for nickel agromining on ultramafic land in Albania
    • Authors: Bani, A., Álvarez-López, V., Prieto-Fernández, A., Echevarria, G., Kidd, P.
    • Year: 2024
    • Citations: 0
  • Nickel accumulation in plants from the Shebenik Mountain massif, Albania
    • Authors: Bani, A., Gjeta, E., Pavlova, D., Puschenreiter, M., Echevarria, G.
    • Year: 2024
    • Citations: 0
  • ANALYSIS OF WATER QUALITY, HEAVY METALS AND NUTRIENT OF KARAVASTA LAGOON USING GIS ASSESSMENT OF ECOLOGICAL RISK
    • Authors: Koto, R., Hoxha, L., Bani, A.
    • Year: 2023
    • Citations: 2
  • Exploring Ni-accumulation in serpentinophytic taxa of Brassicaceae from Albania and Greece
    • Authors: Bianchi, E., Bani, A., Colzi, I., Gonnelli, C., Selvi, F.
    • Year: 2023
    • Citations: 4
  • Assessing wildfire vulnerability of vegetated serpentine soils in the Balkan peninsula
    • Authors: Hysa, A., Teqja, Z., Bani, A., Libohova, Z., Cerda, A.
    • Year: 2022
    • Citations: 5
  • Hyperaccumulator plant discoveries in the Balkans: accumulation, distribution, and practical applications
    • Authors: Jakovljević, K., Bani, A., Pavlova, D., Morel, J.-L., Echevarria, G.
    • Year: 2022
    • Citations: 11
  • Pollen and Chemical Content of Beebreads from Serpentine Areas in Albania and Bulgaria
    • Authors: Pavlova, D., Atanassova, J., Karadjova, I., Bani, A.
    • Year: 2022
    • Citations: 8
  • Nature-based units as building blocks for resource recovery systems in cities
    • Authors: van Hullebusch, E.D., Bani, A., Carvalho, M., Hartl, M., Zeeman, G.
    • Year: 2021
    • Citations: 10
  • Water quality and biodiversity of Shkumbini River
    • Authors: Bani, A., Shumka, S., Dervishi, O., Kristo, I., Malollari, I.
    • Year: 2020
    • Citations: 1

Rodrigo Alvarez | Sustainable Development | Young Scientist Award

Mr. Rodrigo Alvarez | Sustainable Development | Young Scientist Award

Mr. Rodrigo Alvarez, Pontificia. Universidad Católica de Valparaíso, Chile

Rodrigo Álvarez Véliz is a geographer specializing in sustainable development and urban geography. He holds a professional degree in Geography from Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile (2021) and is pursuing a master’s degree at Pontificia Universidad Católica de Valparaíso (2023-2024). His research includes qualitative analysis on political geography, sustainable urban development, and alternative space production. Rodrigo has served as a research assistant in various projects and is currently coordinating the Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN Chile). He has presented at numerous conferences and published works on sustainable development in Latin America. 🌍📚💡

 

Publication profile

Orcid


Education 🎓🌍

Rodrigo Álvarez Véliz is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Geography (2023-2024) at Pontificia Universidad Católica de Valparaíso. He holds a professional degree in Geography from Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile (2021), graduating with two votes of distinction. He also earned a Bachelor’s in Geography (2015-2020) from the same institution, where he completed his thesis on the historical geography of sustainable development in Latin America and Chile (1968-2010). In 2018, Rodrigo participated in an academic exchange program at the University of São Paulo. 📚✨

 

Professional Experience 🌍📊

Rodrigo Álvarez Véliz has extensive research experience, currently serving as Coordinator for the Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN Chile) since April 2023, organizing outreach activities and writing documents. He also works as a Research Assistant for the Salmansvar Project at Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile. Previously, Rodrigo contributed to FONDECYT Project N°1191239 (2020-2022), focusing on the political geography of sustainable development. He completed a professional internship at CEDEUS, where he co-authored public policy documents on sustainable urban development in Latin America. ✍️🌱

 

Publication Top Notes  

  • The historical geography of an idea: Sustainable development in Latin America, 1972–2022 🌍 – Journal of Historical Geography (2024) DOI: 10.1016/j.jhg.2024.07.007
  • El desarrollo urbano sustentable en América Latina 1986-2016: Lecciones para la década 2020-2030 🏙️ – Centro para el Desarrollo Urbano Sustentable (CEDEUS) (2021) DOI: 10.7764/cedeus.dpp.23
  • Aprendizajes del Programa 21 para el desarrollo urbano sustentable en Chile, 2020-2030 🇨🇱 – Centro para el Desarrollo Urbano Sustentable (CEDEUS) (2021) DOI: 10.7764/cedeus.dpp.21

Conclusion

Mr. Rodrigo Alvarez appears to be a well-qualified candidate for the Research for Young Scientist Award. His work aligns with the core values of sustainable development and his contributions through research and teaching make him an ideal candidate for recognition as a young researcher.

Tahere Taghizade Firozjaee | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Tahere Taghizade Firozjaee | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Tahere Taghizade Firozjaee, Shahrood University of Technology, Iran

Based on Dr. Tahere Taghizade Firozjaee’s academic background, research contributions, and professional experience, he appears to be a strong candidate for the Research for Best Researcher Award. Here’s a detailed evaluation of his qualifications:

Publication profile

Academic Background

Dr. Firozjaee holds a comprehensive educational background in environmental engineering. He completed his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Civil Engineering with a focus on environmental applications from Noshirvani University of Technology, and his PhD in Environmental Engineering from the University of Tehran. This solid foundation is crucial for his research endeavors.

Professional Experience

Dr. Firozjaee is an Assistant Professor at Shahrood University of Technology, with prior roles as a visiting professor at Mazandaran University. His professional experience includes collaboration with engineering organizations and consulting firms, reflecting a practical approach to environmental engineering problems.

Research Contributions

Dr. Firozjaee has a significant record of research and publications. His doctoral thesis on the removal of phenol from industrial wastewater and his master’s thesis on diazinon removal highlight his expertise in wastewater treatment. His research projects and supervision of numerous theses at Shahrood University indicate an active role in advancing the field.

Publications

  • Application of Nanotechnology in Pesticides Removal from Aqueous Solutions-A review 🌱🔬 | Cited by: 75 | Year: 2017
  • Growth kinetic models for phenol biodegradation in a batch culture of Pseudomonas putida 🧪🔬 | Cited by: 62 | Year: 2011
  • The removal of diazinon from aqueous solution by chitosan/carbon nanotube adsorbent 💧🧩 | Cited by: 42 | Year: 2017
  • Biological treatment of phenolic wastewater in an anaerobic continuous stirred tank reactor ♻️🔬 | Cited by: 27 | Year: 2013
  • Phenol biodegradation kinetics in an anaerobic batch reactor 🧫📉 | Cited by: 18 | Year: 2011
  • Fixed-bed column study of diazinon adsorption on the cross-linked chitosan/carbon nanotube 🌍🔬 | Cited by: 7 | Year: 2020
  • Investigation of self-purification capacity and water quality of Haraz river during dry and wet season 🌊🕵️‍♂️ | Cited by: 3 | Year: 2021
  • Synthesis of biochar-iron oxide magnetic nanocomposite for efficient and rapid removal of Pb (II) heavy metal from water 🧲💧 | Cited by: 2 | Year: 2024
  • A Review of Biochar as a Stable Adsorbent for Removing Antibiotics from Wastewater 📚🧫 | Cited by: 2 | Year: 2023
  • Improved estimation of dark fermentation biohydrogen production utilizing a robust categorical boosting machine-learning algorithm 🔬🤖 | Cited by: 1 | Year: 2024
  • Enhancement of pharmaceuticals treatment on activated sludge process by magnetic activated carbon pretreatment system 💊🧲 | Cited by: 1 | Year: 2021
  • Removal of ciprofloxacin antibiotic by potassium ferrate with ultrasound waves (Fe (VI)-US) 💊🔬 | Cited by: 1 | Year: 2020
  • PW12/Fe3O4/biochar nanocomposite as an efficient adsorbent for Metronidazole removal from aqueous solution: synthesis and optimization 🌊🔬  Year: 2024
  • Water recycling, reuse, and sustainable development goals 🌍🔄 | Cited by: 0 | Year: 2024
  • An overview of the sources, impacts, and management techniques of microplastics in the marine environment 🌊🧩 Year: 2023
  • Investigating the Appropriate Method of Sludge Dewatering Technology in Wastewater Treatment Plants Using Analytical Hierarchy Process (Case Study: Wastewater Treatment Plant … 💧🔍   Year: 2022

Research Projects and Supervision

His involvement in diverse research projects, such as evaluating new adsorbents and treatment technologies, and his supervision of several impactful theses, underscore his leadership and influence in environmental engineering research.

Conclusion

Dr. Tahere Taghizade Firozjaee’s extensive academic qualifications, professional experience, and robust research output make him a suitable candidate for the Research for Best Researcher Award. His contributions to the field, particularly in advanced wastewater treatment and pollution control technologies, align well with the award’s criteria.

YOGENDRA KUMARGAUTAM | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Dr. YOGENDRA KUMARGAUTAM | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Dr. YOGENDRA KUMARGAUTAM, Chaudhary Charan Singh University Meerut, India

Based on Dr. Yogendra Kumar Gautam’s profile, he appears to be a strong candidate for the Research for Best Researcher Award. Here’s a detailed assessment formatted in paragraphs

Publication profile

Educational Background

Dr. Yogendra Kumar Gautam has a robust educational foundation in materials science and physics. He earned his Ph.D. from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Roorkee in 2013 with a thesis on “Experimental Investigation of Hydrogen Effect on Selected Nanostructured Coatings.” His M.Tech. in Solid State Materials from IIT Delhi (2007) and M.Sc. in Physics (Electronics) from Chaudhary Charan Singh University (2004) further underline his expertise in experimental physics and material science.

Academic and Professional Experience

With over 11 years of experience, Dr. Gautam has served as an Assistant Professor at Chaudhary Charan Singh University (CCSU) since 2015, currently holding a Senior Scale position. His earlier roles include Assistant Professor at Jaypee University of Engineering & Technology and Research Associate at IIT Roorkee. His research focuses on energy and environmental remediation, including nanostructured materials for hydrogen storage and sensors, which aligns well with cutting-edge research in energy technologies.

Research and Technical Skills

Dr. Gautam’s research spans several high-impact areas, including hydrogen and toxic gas sensors, supercapacitors, and solar cells. His expertise in experimental techniques such as DC/RF magnetron sputtering, pulse laser deposition, and various microscopy methods highlights his capability to advance material science. He has handled significant research projects funded by esteemed agencies like the Council of Higher Education, Government of UP, and UGC, demonstrating his leadership in securing and managing research funding.

Teaching and Supervision

Dr. Gautam has a comprehensive teaching portfolio covering renewable energy, material science, and advanced physics topics. He has supervised numerous Ph.D., M.Phil., and M.Sc. students, guiding research in areas such as nanostructured coatings and gas sensors. His involvement in research supervision underscores his commitment to mentoring the next generation of researchers.

Research Projects

He has successfully managed several research projects, including the development of metal hydride thin films and chemiresistive gas sensors, with substantial funding from various research grants. These projects not only contribute to fundamental scientific knowledge but also have practical applications in energy storage and environmental monitoring.

Publication Top Notes

  • Facile green synthesis and applications of silver nanoparticles: a state-of-the-art reviewRSC Advances 9, 34926-48 (269 citations, 2019) 🌿🔬
  • Structural, optical and thermoelectric properties of Al-doped ZnO thin films prepared by spray pyrolysisSurfaces and Interfaces 19, 100504 (84 citations, 2020) 🧪✨
  • Nanostructured metal oxide semiconductor-based sensors for greenhouse gas detection: Progress and challengesRoyal Society Open Science 8 (3), 201324 (78 citations, 2021) 🌍📉
  • Fast and reversible hydrogen sensing properties of Pd/Mg thin film modified by hydrophobic porous silicon substrateSensors and Actuators B: Chemical 213, 252-260 (54 citations, 2015) 🚀🔬
  • A study on structural, optical and hydrophobic properties of oblique angle sputter deposited HfO2 filmsApplied Surface Science 283, 332-338 (54 citations, 2013) 🧪📊
  • Effect of Co and Mn doping on the morphological, optical and magnetic properties of CuO nanostructuresSolid State Sciences 106, 106296 (53 citations, 2020) 🧲🔍
  • Experimental investigation of Co and Fe-Doped CuO nanostructured electrode material for remarkable electrochemical performanceCeramics International 47 (2), 2094-2106 (45 citations, 2021) ⚛️🔋
  • A room temperature hydrogen sensor based on Pd–Mg alloy and multilayers prepared by magnetron sputteringInternational Journal of Hydrogen Energy 40 (45), 15549-15555 (44 citations, 2015) 🔬🧪
  • Metal oxide nanomaterial-based sensors for monitoring environmental NO2 and its impact on the plant ecosystem: A reviewSensors & Diagnostics 1 (1), 106-129 (41 citations, 2022) 🌿🔍
  • Hydrogen absorption and optical properties of Pd/Mg thin films prepared by DC magnetron sputteringInternational Journal of Hydrogen Energy 37 (4), 3772-3778 (34 citations, 2012) 🧪💡
  • Enhancement in the sensitivity and selectivity of Cu functionalized MoS2 nanoworm thin films for nitrogen dioxide gas sensorMaterials Research Bulletin 150, 111784 (30 citations, 2022) 📈🔬
  • Sputter deposited crystalline V2O5, WO3 and WO3/V2O5 multi-layers for optical and electrochemical applicationsApplied Surface Science 536, 147804 (28 citations, 2021) 🧪🔬
  • Studies on hydrogen sensing properties of nanostructured Pd and Pd/Mg thin films prepared by pulsed laser depositionSensors and Actuators B: Chemical 176, 453-459 (27 citations, 2013) 🚀🔬
  • Hydrogenation of Pd-capped Mg thin films prepared by DC magnetron sputteringApplied Surface Science 257 (14), 6291-6295 (27 citations, 2011) 🔬🧪
  • Sputter-Grown Pd-Capped CuO Thin Films for a Highly Sensitive and Selective Hydrogen Gas SensorJournal of Electronic Materials 50, 192-200 (21 citations, 2021) 🌟🔋
  • Hydrogen absorption and desorption properties of Pd/Mg/Pd tri-layers prepared by magnetron sputteringSurface and Coatings Technology 237, 450-455 (16 citations, 2013) 🧪🔬
  • Structural, optical and antimicrobial properties of pure and Ag-doped ZnO nanostructuresJournal of Semiconductors 43 (3), 032802 (15 citations, 2022) 🌟🔬
  • Surface functionalized silver-doped ZnO nanocatalyst: a sustainable cooperative catalytic, photocatalytic and antibacterial platform for waste treatmentNanoscale Advances 5 (3), 805-819 (14 citations, 2023) 🌿♻️
  • Room temperature photoluminescence and spectroscopic ellipsometry of reactive co-sputtered Cu-doped ZnO thin filmsOptik 257, 168860 (11 citations, 2022) 💡🔬
  • Applications of green nanomaterials in coatingsGreen Nanomaterials for Industrial Applications, 107-152 (11 citations, 2022) 🌱🔬


Conclusion

Dr. Yogendra Kumar Gautam’s extensive research experience, significant contributions to material science, and effective supervision of emerging researchers make him a highly suitable candidate for the Research for Best Researcher Award.

 

 

Peng Cui | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Peng Cui | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Assoc Prof Dr Peng Cui, Northeast Forestry University, China

Prof. Dr. Peng Cui 🏛️ is a distinguished academic with a PhD in Architecture from Harbin Institute of Technology and National University of Singapore. Currently a Professor and PhD Supervisor in Urban and Rural Planning at the College of Landscape Architecture, Northeast Forestry University, he focuses on low-carbon sustainable urban development, green urban design, and building energy simulation & control. Dr. Cui has authored 3 textbooks and 2 monographs, led 7 National Natural Science Foundation projects in China, and secured ongoing research funding of USD 200,000. He has published 23 SCI-indexed papers, with notable contributions to sustainable cities and environmental design. 🌿📚

Publication profile

Orcid

🎓 Education and Academic Roles

Professor Peng Cui holds a PhD in Architecture from Harbin Institute of Technology and National University of Singapore. He is a Postdoctoral Researcher in Landscape Architecture and a Professor in Urban and Rural Planning at the College of Landscape Architecture, Northeast Forestry University.

📚 Publications and Achievements

Prof. Cui has authored 3 textbooks and 2 monographs. He has published 23 SCI-indexed papers, including in top-tier journals like Sustainable Cities and Society and Building and Environment.

Research focus

Peng Cui’s research primarily focuses on urban climate and environmental design, particularly in cold regions like Northeast China. His studies explore the impacts of urban green spaces, street design, and building morphology on local climate variables such as land surface temperature (LST), urban heat islands (UHI), and air quality. His work often employs advanced methods like gradient boosted regression trees and optimization algorithms to assess and improve urban microclimates. Key areas of interest include sustainable urban design, energy consumption, and environmental comfort in extreme climates. 🌳🏙️🌡️

Publication top notes

Assessing the effects of urban green spaces metrics and spatial structure on LST and carbon sinks in Harbin, a cold region city in China

Effect of street design on UHI and energy consumption based on vegetation and street aspect ratio: Taking Harbin as an example

Assessing the Effects of Urban Morphology Parameters on PM2.5 Distribution in Northeast China Based on Gradient Boosted Regression Trees Method

[Retracted] A Study on Nonvisual Effects of Natural Light Environment in a Maternity Ward of a Hospital in Cold Area

Research on Acoustic Environment in the Building of Nursing Homes Based on Sound Preference of the Elderly People: A Case Study in Harbin, China

A Sustainable Design Strategy Based on Building Morphology to Improve the Microclimate of University Campuses in Cold Regions of China Using an Optimization Algorithm

Study on the Effect of Streets’ Space Forms on Campus Microclimate in the Severe Cold Region of China—Case Study of a University Campus in Daqing City

Impact of urban morphology on outdoor air temperature and microclimate optimization strategy base on Pareto optimality in Northeast China

Study of the Cooling Effects of Urban Green Space in Harbin in Terms of Reducing the Heat Island Effect

Assessing the Effects of Urban Morphology Parameters on Microclimate in Singapore to Control the Urban Heat Island Effect