Donghao Ma | Soil Hydrology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Donghao Ma | Soil Hydrology | Best Researcher Award

Chinese Academy of Sciences | China

Dr. Donghao Ma, based at the Institute of Soil Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, is a distinguished expert in soil science, hydrology, and water movement modeling. he holds a Doctorate in Physical Geography from the Institute of Geographic Sciences and Natural Resources Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, a Master’s in Hydrology and Water Resources, and a Bachelor’s in Environmental Engineering from Xi’an University of Technology. His research focuses on experimental and numerical studies of soil water movement, particularly in stony soils, and he has developed mathematical models and simulation software using C++. Proficient in Fortran, C, C++, MATLAB, GIS, and HYDRUS, Dr. Donghao Ma combines strong computational skills with extensive field and laboratory experience. He has authored 82 publications, including high-impact journal articles, book chapters, and conference papers, with 1,625 citations and an h-index of 24, reflecting his global influence. His work emphasizes innovative modeling, soil hydraulic characterization, and sustainable water management, significantly advancing soil science research and applications

Profile: Scopus | Orcid

Featured Publications

  • Yang, X., Bao, Y., Li, B., Wang, R., Sun, C., Ma, D., Chen, L., Zou, H., & Zhang, J. (2024). Effects of fertilization applications on soil aggregate organic carbon content and assessment of their influencing factors: A meta-analysis. CATENA.

  • Zhou, D., Wang, H., Wang, X., Wang, F., Zhang, J., & Ma, D. (2024). Evaluation of AquaCrop’s ability to simulate water stress based on 2-year case study of maize crop. Agronomy, 14(2), 354.

  • Ma, D., Wu, S., Liu, Z., & Zhang, J. (2023). A novel analytical solution for ponded infiltration with consideration of a developing saturated zone. Water Resources Research, 59(10), e2022WR034228.

  • Wu, S., Ma, D., Liu, Z., Chen, L., & Zhang, J. (2023). A novel approximate solution to slope rainfall infiltration. Journal of Hydrology, 625, 130039.

  • Ma, D., Liu, Z., Wu, S., & Zhang, J. (2022). A novel analytical solution for ponded infiltration with consideration of a developing saturated zone [Preprint].

Mohamed Jalal EL Hamidi | Hydrogeology | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Mohamed Jalal EL Hamidi | Hydrogeology | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Mohamed Jalal EL Hamidi, Mohammed V University , Morocco

Prof. Dr. Mohamed Jalal El Hamidi is a Moroccan hydrologist and geoscientist specializing in groundwater modeling, mine restoration, and climate change impacts on water resources. He holds a PhD from the École Mohammadia d’Ingénieurs and has conducted postdoctoral research at the Université du Québec en Abitibi-Témiscamingue (UQAT). His work integrates GIS, hydroinformatics, and numerical modeling to address environmental challenges in Morocco and Canada. He is partially admitted to the Ordre des Géologues du Québec and actively contributes to international conferences and scientific publications.​

Publication Profile

Orcid

🎓 Education

Prof. El Hamidi earned his PhD in Water Resources Modeling from the École Mohammadia d’Ingénieurs, Université Mohammed V de Rabat (2011–2019), focusing on hydrological modeling and climate change impacts. He completed a Master’s in Hydroinformatics and Water Engineering at Université Ibn Tofail (2008–2010), emphasizing GIS and hydrological systems. His academic journey began with a Bachelor’s in Geology from the same university (2005–2008), where he developed a strong foundation in earth sciences. His education combines rigorous training in geosciences, computational modeling, and environmental analysis, equipping him to tackle complex water resource challenges.​

💼 Experience

Prof. El Hamidi has extensive experience in hydrology and environmental geosciences. At UQAT’s Institut de recherche en mines et environnement (2021–2023), he led projects on 3D geological modeling and contaminant transport in mine sites using Visual MODFLOW and SEEP/W. Previously, at École Mohammadia d’Ingénieurs (2019–2021), he focused on groundwater modeling and climate impact assessments, mentoring doctoral students and managing GIS databases. His early career involved research on aquifer characterization and hydrogeological modeling, contributing to sustainable water resource management in Morocco. His expertise bridges field investigations, laboratory analysis, and advanced computational modeling.​

🏆 Awards and Honors

Prof. El Hamidi’s contributions to hydrogeology have been recognized through his partial admission to the Ordre des Géologues du Québec, acknowledging his expertise in geological sciences. He has been an active member of the Carrefour jeunesse-emploi d’Abitibi-Est in Val-d’Or, reflecting his commitment to community engagement and professional development. His research has garnered attention in international scientific communities, leading to invitations to present at conferences and contribute to peer-reviewed journals. His interdisciplinary approach and dedication to environmental sustainability have established him as a respected figure in the field of water resources.

🔬 Research Focus

Prof. El Hamidi’s research centers on the modeling and management of groundwater resources, particularly in the context of climate change and anthropogenic impacts. He specializes in numerical modeling of aquifer systems, seawater intrusion, and contaminant transport, utilizing tools like Visual MODFLOW, SEEP/W, and GIS-based platforms. His work addresses the challenges of sustainable water resource management, mine site rehabilitation, and the assessment of climate change effects on hydrological systems. By integrating field data, laboratory analysis, and computational modeling, he develops strategies for the protection and restoration of vital water resources in vulnerable regions.

Publication Top Notes

  • “Numerical Modeling of Saltwater Intrusion in the Rmel-Oulad Ogbane Coastal Aquifer (Larache, Morocco) in the Climate Change and Sea-Level Rise Context (2040)” (2021) – Cited by 10​MDPI

  • “Spatial distribution of regionalized variables on reservoirs and groundwater resources based on geostatistical analysis using GIS: case of Rmel-Oulad Ogbane aquifers (Larache, NW Morocco)” (2018) – Cited by 15​

  • “Modeling the impacts of climate change on water resources in Mediterranean and Atlantic hydraulic basins of Morocco” (2020) – Cited by 8​

  • “Development of HIS to improve technical knowledge on the reservoir and hydrodynamic functioning of the Rmel aquifer (Morocco)” (2019) – Cited by 5​

  • “Quantification of Surface Water-Groundwater Exchanges by GIS Coupled with Experimental Gauging in an Alluvial Environment” (2021) – Cited by 3

Manamno Beza Dinku | Hydrology | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Manamno Beza Dinku | Hydrology | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Manamno Beza Dinku, Wolaita sodo university, Ethiopia

Manamno Beza Dinku is a dedicated Ethiopian researcher and lecturer specializing in hydraulic engineering. With a passion for sustainable water resource management, he currently serves as a lecturer at Wolaita Sodo University. He holds both BSc and MSc degrees in Hydraulic and Water Resources Engineering, and his scholarly contributions span climate modeling, surface water assessment, and watershed management. Manamno has published extensively in renowned journals and collaborates actively in multi-disciplinary water-related research. His work aims to bridge academic research with real-world water challenges in Ethiopia. He is recognized for his commitment to hydrological innovation and sustainable development.

Publication Profile

Orcid

🎓 Education

Manamno earned his B.Sc. degree in Hydraulic and Water Resources Engineering from Arba Minch University in 2018, graduating with “Great Distinction” and a CGPA of 3.65. He pursued his M.Sc. in Hydraulic Engineering at Addis Ababa Science and Technology University, completing it in 2022 with a CGPA of 3.83 and a thesis rated “Very Good.” His academic journey emphasized advanced hydrological modeling, irrigation potential assessment, and flood risk analysis. Through practical training and project work, including dam and irrigation system design, he developed expertise in applying engineering concepts to Ethiopia’s water resource challenges.

🧑‍🏫 Experience

Manamno began his professional career as an Assistant Lecturer at Wolaita Sodo University in 2018. While pursuing his MSc from 2019 to 2022, he remained affiliated with the university, contributing to academic and research activities. Upon completion of his graduate studies, he resumed full-time teaching and research as a Lecturer. His experience includes teaching water resources engineering, mentoring students, and contributing to various research projects related to watershed management and climate-resilient water systems. He also led and participated in field-based hydrological modeling, dam safety assessments, and GIS-integrated water system planning.

🏆 Awards and Honors

Manamno received multiple grants from Wolaita Sodo University for impactful research projects, including sediment estimation in the Omo-Gibe Basin and water-energy-food nexus modeling. He led the design of low-cost well drilling and water pumping technologies and conducted climate change-based irrigation assessments in Wolaita Zone. His work has been recognized for addressing critical water resource challenges in rural Ethiopia. Additionally, his academic excellence and publication record in leading water journals highlight his growing influence in civil and hydraulic engineering. These accolades reflect his commitment to sustainable water management and applied engineering solutions.

🔬 Research Focus

Manamno Beza Dinku’s research centers on hydrological modeling, irrigation potential analysis, climate change projections, and integrated watershed management. He extensively uses tools like SWAT, HEC-RAS, and ArcGIS to simulate surface and groundwater systems in Ethiopia’s river basins. His work explores dam breach modeling, rainfall trend analysis, flood risk mapping, and land-use change impacts. He aims to support water sustainability through data-scarce watershed assessments and model integration techniques. His contributions guide water resource planning, climate adaptation strategies, and development of cost-effective technologies for rural water systems.

Publication Top Notes

📘 Continuous-based Comparison of Two Hydrological Models… Robi Watershed, Ethiopia (2025) 
📘 Integrating SWAT‐WEAP Models… Gumara Watershed (2025) 
📘 Comparison of Bias Correction Methods… Muger Subbasin (2024) 
📘 Assessment of Groundwater Potential Zones… Enemor and Ener Woreda (2024) 
📘 Temporal Dynamics and Trend Analysis of Areal Rainfall… Muger Subwatershed (2024) 
📘 Watershed Hydrological Responses to LULC Changes… Bilata Watershed (2024)
📘 Integrated Watershed Management Strategies… Kalte River (2024) 
📘 Dam Breach Modeling and Flood Inundation Mapping… Gumara Dam (2023) 
📘 Identification and Mapping of Surface Irrigation Potential… Jewuha Watershed (2023) 
📘 Modeling and Assessing Surface Water Potential… Jewuha Watershed (2023)
📘 Assessment of Irrigation Potential… Jewuha Watershed (2022)

Iliass Naouadir | Karstologie | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Iliass Naouadir | Karstologie | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Iliass Naouadir, aculté des Sciences Dhar El Mahraz, Université Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah, Fès – Maroc., Morocco

🧑‍🏫 Dr. Iliass Naouadir is a geologist and professor of Life and Earth Sciences from Laayoune, Morocco. 🎓 He holds a PhD in Geosciences and Natural Resources (2018-2024) from Université Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah, Fès, focusing on karstification in the Middle Atlas. His research explores remote sensing, GIS applications, geomorphology, and hydrogeology. 🏔️ He has published extensively in international journals and is a member of the editorial board of the Global Journal of Earth Science and Engineering. 🌍 He also holds a master’s in Mineral Resources and Geomaterials and has contributed to studies on geotourism, climate change, and karst processes.

Publication Profile

Scopus

🎓 Academic Qualifications

Dr. Iliass Naouadir is a dedicated geologist specializing in geosciences and natural resources. 🏔️ He earned his Doctorate (2018–2024) from Université Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah, focusing on karstification processes in the Middle Atlas, Morocco. His research explores geological formations, hydrogeology, and remote sensing applications. 🌍 Prior to his PhD, he obtained a Master’s degree (2015–2017) in Geosciences, Mineral Resources, and Geomaterials, deepening his expertise in sedimentary processes. 📚 He also holds a Bachelor’s degree (2012–2015) in Sedimentary Basins and Georesources, equipping him with a strong foundation in earth sciences and resource management. ⛏️

🏞️ Research Focus

Iliass Naouadir and his co-authors focus on geomorphology, particularly the formation and evolution of closed depressions in the Middle Atlas, Morocco. Their research examines karstic and structural influences on landscape development, emphasizing tectonic activity, lithology, and erosion processes. By studying the Causse of El Menzel, they contribute to understanding karstic landforms, hydrology, and environmental changes. Their work is valuable for geological mapping, climate studies, and sustainable land management. This research is significant for earth sciences, sedimentology, and geomorphological modeling, aiding in predicting landform evolution under climate change. 🌍🔬⛰️

Publication Top Note

  • Morphogenesis of the Closed Depressions in Middle Atlas: Case of the Causse of El Menzel, Morocco
  • Contribution of Remote Sensing and GIS to the Inventory and Analysis of Factors influencing on the Development of Karst Features in the Middle Atlas, Morocco
  • Coupling Field Investigations with the Contribution of Remote Sensing and GIS for the Moroccan Middle Atlas Karst: A Case Study of the El Menzel Causse

 

PHILLIP OPIO | Earth and Planetary Sciences | Best Researcher Award

PHILLIP OPIO | Earth and Planetary Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Mr PHILLIP OPIO, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Uganda

Dr. Akiiki Kazooba holds a PhD in Space Physics from Mbarara University of Science and Technology, with a pending book submission. He earned his Master’s degree in Physics (Space Physics) from Makerere University and a Bachelor’s in Science with Education (Physics and Mathematics) from Kyambogo University. Currently serving as a Lecturer and Head of Department for Physical Sciences at Mountains of the Moon University (MMU), Dr. Kazooba oversees academic guidance, research programs, and departmental budgeting. His responsibilities include teaching, supervising staff, and coordinating research efforts for both undergraduate and postgraduate students. 🌌

Publication profile

Scopus

Education

Dr. Michaela Cellina, currently pursuing a PhD in Space Physics at Mbarara University of Science and Technology since 2021, has a robust academic background. She completed her Master of Science in Physics, specializing in space physics, at Makerere University in 2014, following her Bachelor of Science with Education in Physics and Mathematics from Kyambogo University in 2009. Dr. Cellina also holds a Certificate in Monitoring and Evaluation from Makerere University, obtained in October 2009. Her research interests span cosmic phenomena and the application of physics in space exploration 🌌.

Research Interest

My primary research interest lies in ionospheric studies of low-latitude regions, focusing on understanding dynamic interactions and phenomena within the ionosphere. Specifically, I investigate the impact of solar variability, geomagnetic storms, and the equatorial electrojet on ionospheric dynamics and electron density profiles. Additionally, I aim to explore coupling mechanisms between the neutral atmosphere and ionosphere, and the effects of anthropogenic activities on ionospheric variability. Through my research 🛰️, I aim to deepen our understanding of ionospheric dynamics in low-latitude regions, contributing to improved space weather forecasting, satellite communications, and navigation systems.

Presentations

Dr. PHILLIP OPIO presented significant research findings on ionospheric heights in East Africa at various academic forums. At the 6th annual PhD symposium at Mbarara University of Science and Technology (MUST) in June 2022, the validation of a 350 km effective ionospheric height for Equatorial and low latitude regions was discussed. This was followed by a presentation on ionospheric observations using ionosondes at Muni University’s Space Weather and Upper Atmospheric data analysis training workshop in Arua, Uganda, in September 2023. Additionally, a new method for determining ionospheric shell height using GNSS receivers was presented at Mountains of the Moon University’s 2nd International Research Conference in an effort to 🌍 advance knowledge in atmospheric science and space weather monitoring.

Research focus

Based on the research publication titled “Characterization of the effective height of the ionosphere using GPS data over East Africa, a low latitude region” by Opio, P., Andima, G., and Jurua, E., published in Advances in Space Research (2023), the primary research focus revolves around ionospheric studies, particularly in the African sector. Their work emphasizes the latitudinal variation of the ionosphere using GPS Total Electron Content (TEC) data. This research contributes to understanding how ionospheric heights vary in low latitude regions like East Africa, crucial for satellite communications, GPS accuracy, and space weather monitoring. 🌍🛰️

Publication top notes

Characterization of the effective height of the ionosphere using GPS data over East Africa, a low latitude region

Latitudinal variation of the ionosphere in the African sector using GPS TEC data