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

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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.

Shunhui Yu | Environmental Science Award | Best Scholar Award

Prof. Shunhui Yu | Environmental Science Award | Best Scholar Award

Prof. Shunhui Yu, Chongqing Three Gorges University, China

Prof. Shunhui Yu (1964) is a distinguished professor and master director at Chongqing Three Gorges University, specializing in the bioremediation of environmental pollution 🌱. With a master’s degree, she has led numerous research projects and has published over 50 papers, including 6 in SCI-indexed journals 📚. Prof. Yu has also contributed to academic literature by authoring 2 textbooks 📖. Her expertise and dedication to environmental science make her a leader in her field. 🌍👩‍🏫

 

Publication profile

Scopus

Orcid

Education and Academic Background

Prof. Shunhui Yu holds a master’s degree and is a professor and director of a master’s program. Her academic focus is primarily on the bioremediation of environmental pollution. This interdisciplinary field involves using living organisms to mitigate the harmful effects of pollutants on the environment, a critical area in the global push for sustainable development.

Research Contributions

Prof. Yu has been responsible for leading several research projects, contributing significantly to her field. She has published more than 50 research papers, including 6 papers in international SCI-indexed journals, which demonstrates her expertise and recognition in the scientific community. Additionally, she has authored 2 textbooks, further solidifying her role in academic education.

Professional Experience

Prof. Yu is currently affiliated with Chongqing Three Gorges University, located in Wanzhou, Chongqing, China. Her extensive research experience, along with her involvement in mentoring graduate students, highlights her dedication to both research and education.

Conclusion

Prof. Shunhui Yu’s extensive research in bioremediation, numerous publications, leadership in research projects, and contributions to academic literature through textbooks make her a strong candidate for the Research for Best Scholar Award. Her work not only advances environmental science but also mentors the next generation of researchers.

 

Publication Top Notes

  • Habitat characteristics and factors threatening the rare and endangered fern Adiantum nelumboides 🌿
    Yu, S. et al., Nordic Journal of Botany, 2022 (1 citation) 📚
  • Temporal variations characteristic of precipitation in the Three Gorges Reservoir area from 1961 to 2016 🌧️
    Sheng, L. et al., Journal of Water and Climate Change, 2022 (5 citations) 💧
  • Physiological response of Vetiveria Zizanioides to cadmium stress revealed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy 🌱
    Yu, S.-H. et al., Spectroscopy Letters, 2022 (3 citations) 📖
  • Analysis of temperature variation characteristics in the Three Gorges Reservoir area after impoundment of the Three Gorges Dam 🌡️
    Yu, S. et al., Acta Ecologica Sinica, 2021 (8 citations) 🌍
  • Physiological response of Conyza Canadensis to cadmium stress monitored by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and cadmium accumulation 🌾
    Yu, S. et al., Spectrochimica Acta Part A, 2020 (26 citations) 📊
  • Physiological responses of Vetiveria zizanioides to cadmium stress by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy 🌿
    Yu, S. et al., Shengtai Xuebao, 2019 (3 citations) 📑
  • Physiological response of Arundo donax to cadmium stress by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy 🌱
    Yu, S. et al., Spectrochimica Acta Part A, 2018 (15 citations) 📜
  • Alleviation of cadmium toxicity in Corydalis yanhusuo seedlings by exogenous calcium or potassium 🌿
    Zhang, J. et al., Acta Prataculturae Sinica, 2017 (2 citations) 📔
  • Physiological response of Medicago sativa L. to copper stress by FTIR spectroscopy 🌿
    Fu, C. et al., Shengtai Xuebao, 2014 (7 citations) 📚
  • Analyzing comprehensive treatment measures and origin of Qianjiangping landslide in Three Gorges Reservoir Area 🌍
    Yu, S. et al., Advanced Materials Research, 2012 (2 citations) 📝

 

Paul Afreh | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Paul Afreh | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Paul Afreh, Taiyuan University of Technology, China

Mr. Paul Afreh, a Ghanaian national currently residing in China, is pursuing an MSc in Environmental Science and Engineering at Taiyuan University of Technology under the supervision of Prof. Gao Lizhen. His research focuses on sustainable recycling and extraction of valuable elements from spent lithium-ion polymer batteries. Paul holds a BSc in Science Education from the University of Education, Winneba. He has extensive teaching experience, having served as Head of Science at Bosomtwe Oyoko Senior High School, Ghana. Paul has published research on lithium and cobalt recovery and is a qualified teacher in the UK. 🔋🌍📚

Education and Training 🎓

Mr. Paul Afreh is currently pursuing an MSc in Environmental Science and Engineering at Taiyuan University of Technology, China, under the supervision of Professor Gao Lizhen. His research focuses on sustainable recycling of lithium-ion polymer batteries through green technology. He has completed phases on high-temperature thermal pretreatment and selective cobalt recovery. His undergraduate degree, a BSc in Science Education (Biology/Chemistry), was obtained from the University of Education, Winneba, Ghana.

Publication profile

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Orcid

Work Experience 💼

Mr. Afreh has rich experience in both research and teaching. He has conducted extensive research on lithium-ion battery recycling and critiqued abstracts for international conferences. His teaching background includes roles as a university teaching assistant and head of the science department in Ghana, where he mentored both students and staff.

Honours and Awards 🏅

He holds Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) from the UK’s Teaching Regulation Agency and has served as Chairperson of the Subcommittee for the 5th Africa Beyond Aid International Conference. Additionally, he is a reviewer for the “Result in Engineering” journal, which shows his credibility in the academic community.

 

Digital Skills and Involvement 🌐

Mr. Afreh is proficient in various digital tools like Microsoft Office, Google Drive, Zoom, and specialized software like Origin Lab and Jade for XRD analysis. He is also actively involved in academic committees, notably the National Union of Ghanaian Students-China, Taiyuan Chapter.

Publication Top Notes

  • Optimization of high-temperature thermal pretreatment conditions for maximum enrichment of lithium and cobalt from spent lithium-ion polymer batteries
  • Sustainable Lithium and Cobalt Recovery from Spent Lithium-ion Batteries: Best Practices for the Future. A review

Conclusion

Mr. Paul Afreh’s strong academic credentials, impactful research in sustainable energy solutions, and leadership in academic committees make him a fitting candidate for the Research for Best Researcher Award. His innovative work on recycling lithium-ion batteries through green technology aligns with global research priorities, positioning him as a promising researcher.