Efthalia Karkou | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Efthalia Karkou | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

PhD candidate at  Technical University of Crete, Greece.

Efthalia Karkou is an emerging researcher in the field of sustainable engineering and process management, currently pursuing her PhD at the Technical University of Crete, Greece. With a strong academic background in chemical engineering, her research integrates innovative technologies and sustainability principles to address contemporary environmental challenges in the process industry. Efthalia has contributed significantly to various projects focusing on circular water use, resource recovery, and environmental impact.

Publication Profile

Scopus 

Education

Efthalia Karkou holds a Master of Science (MSc) in Sustainable Engineering and Climate Change from the Technical University of Crete. She is currently working on her PhD in Production Engineering & Management at the same university, focusing on “Holistic, Circular and Smart Water Management Strategies in the Process Industry.” Prior to that, she completed an Integrated Master’s in Chemical Engineering at the National Technical University of Athens, where she specialized in chemical process engineering and environmental science.

Experience

Efthalia Karkou has been involved in multiple prestigious research projects, including XTRACT and AquaSPICE, where she focuses on modeling industrial processes and simulating digital twins for process industries. She has worked as a researcher in several EU-funded initiatives and has experience in academic research, project management, and teamwork. Additionally, Efthalia has demonstrated leadership skills by managing research teams and guiding undergraduate students through their projects.

Research Focus

Efthalia’s research is centered on sustainable water management strategies in industrial settings, with a particular emphasis on circular water use and resource recovery. Her work aims to integrate smart and holistic solutions in water and energy systems, contributing to environmental sustainability. She has developed mathematical models for innovative industrial processes, and her projects focus on the optimization of energy and water management in the context of climate change.

Awards and Honors 

Efthalia Karkou has received recognition for her research contributions in sustainable engineering. While still early in her career, her work in the projects she has contributed to has been highly praised by peers. Her academic achievements, combined with her leadership in multidisciplinary research teams, have positioned her as a promising researcher in her field. Efthalia’s commitment to sustainability and technological innovation continues to gain attention, making her a key figure in the advancement of circular economy principles.

Conclusion

Efthalia Karkou is undoubtedly a strong contender for the Best Researcher Award, with her interdisciplinary research at the intersection of sustainability, process engineering, and circular economy. Her innovative approach to solving complex environmental issues, combined with her leadership, technical skills, and academic contributions, positions her as an outstanding young researcher in the field of sustainable engineering and process industry management.

Publication Top Notes  

Process innovations and circular strategies for closing the water loop in a process industry
Authors: Karkou, E., Angelis-Dimakis, A., Parlapiano, M., Fatone, F., Arampatzis, G.
Journal: Journal of Environmental Management
Year: 2024
Citation: 0

Industrial circular water use practices through the application of a conceptual water efficiency framework in the process industry
Authors: Karkou, E., Teo, C.J., Savvakis, N., Poinapen, J., Arampatzis, G.
Journal: Journal of Environmental Management
Year: 2024
Citation: 0

Life cycle environmental impact assessment of slaughterhouse wastewater treatment
Authors: Teo, C.J., Karkou, E., Vlad, O., Arampatzis, G., Angelis-Dimakis, A.
Journal: Chemical Engineering Research and Design
Year: 2023
Citation: 5

Design and optimization of edible coating and osmotic dehydration processes for the development of high-value fruits and vegetables with extended shelf-life
Authors: Karkou, E., Oikonomopoulou, V., Papadaki, S., Krokida, M.
Journal: Chemical Engineering Transactions
Year: 2021
Citation: 0

Madhab Chandra Jena | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Madhab Chandra Jena | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Madhab Chandra Jena, BPUT, India

Dr. Madhab Chandra Jena is a seasoned professional with over 23 years of industrial experience in production and operations management. He holds multiple degrees, including an M-Tech in Production Engineering, BE in Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, and an MBA in Production Management. Dr. Jena is certified as a Six Sigma Black Belt, Energy Manager, and various ISO lead auditor roles. He has published 25 research papers and holds 5 patents. His expertise spans fiber cement manufacturing, energy auditing, and quality management. Currently serving as COO, he is passionate about driving operational excellence. 📈🔧📚

Publication Profile

Scopus

Orcid

Google Scholar

Qualifications and Academic Background

Diverse Educational Qualifications: Dr. Jena holds multiple degrees, including a PhD coursework in Sustainable Energy and Environment, an M.Tech in Mechanical (Production Engineering), and an MBA in Production Management, showcasing a broad educational foundation.

Excellent Academic Performance: His high percentages, particularly in his M.Tech (86%) and first-time GATE qualification, demonstrate his academic excellence and commitment to learning.

Certifications

Relevant Certifications: Dr. Jena’s certifications, such as Energy Manager and Energy Auditor, along with various ISO standards and Six Sigma certifications, highlight his commitment to quality and safety in engineering practices.

Industrial Experience

Leadership Roles: As COO of Ricron Panels Pvt. Ltd. and a former Plant Head at Everest Industries, he has extensive managerial and operational experience in leading engineering teams and overseeing complex projects.

Diverse Industry Exposure: His work spans multiple sectors, including cement manufacturing, packaging, and food safety, indicating versatility and adaptability in different industrial environments.

Research Contributions

Published Research: Dr. Jena has authored 25 research papers on pollution control and optimization of solar power generation, published in reputable journals like Springer and Wiley. This signifies a strong research output and contribution to advancing knowledge in his field.

Patents Filed: Filing 10 patents demonstrates innovation and practical applications of his research, which adds significant value to his profile.

Achievements

Awards and Recognitions: His achievements, including Golden Peacock Awards and international safety awards, reflect recognition of his contributions to industry standards and practices.

Successful Projects: Dr. Jena has played a pivotal role in turning around Kalyanpur Cement Works from loss-making to profit-making, showcasing his impact on organizational performance.

Conclusion

Dr. Madhab Chandra Jena’s blend of academic qualifications, industrial experience, substantial research contributions, and recognition in the field make him a suitable candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His profile aligns well with the criteria typically sought in such awards, emphasizing research, innovation, and industry impact.

 

Publication Top Notes

  • Application of Industry 4.0 to enhance sustainable manufacturing – Cited by 114 – 2020 📊
  • A study of anti-tubercular drug induced adverse reactions in patients attending pulmonary medicine department of a tertiary care teaching hospital – Cited by 10 – 2013 💊
  • Air pollution from cement plants: case study on particulate matter in Bihar, India – Cited by 7 – 2020 🌫️
  • Integration of information technology with supply chain management for a strategic change – Cited by 6 – 2018 🔗
  • Experimental investigation on power consumption of an industrial fan with different flow control methods – Cited by 5 – 2016 ⚙️
  • Effect of aqueous extract of Hibiscus rosa-sinensis Linn on urinary volume and electrolyte extraction in albino rats – Cited by 5 – 2013 🌿
  • Integration of Industry 4.0 with reliability centered maintenance to enhance sustainable manufacturing – Cited by 4 – 2024 🔄
  • A study on economic, efficiency and environment (EEE) impact of different fuels used in boilers to assist decision making in fuel conversion and enhance sustainability – Cited by 4 – 2023 🌍
  • Effect of Particle Size on Collection Efficiency of ESP and RABH: A Case Study – Cited by 4 – 2019 🔬
  • Experimental investigation on maximizing conveying efficiency of belt conveyors used in series application and estimation of power consumption through statistical analysis – Cited by 3 – 2023 📈

 

Mohamed Hizam Mohamed Noor | Wastewater Treatment | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Mohamed Hizam Mohamed Noor | Wastewater Treatment | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Mohamed Hizam Mohamed Noor, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Malaysia

Dr. Mohamed Hizam Mohamed Noor is a dedicated researcher in Environmental Engineering, having earned his PhD from Universiti Teknologi Malaysia. His doctoral thesis focused on utilizing Moringa Oleifera seed protein for wastewater treatment. Prior to this, he completed his Master’s with top honors, recognized as the Best Postgraduate Student. Currently, Dr. Hizam is a postdoctoral researcher at the Research Management Centre, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia. His innovative projects have garnered awards, including the Gold Award at the International Innovation & Invention Competition 2024. He is committed to advancing sustainable solutions for environmental challenges. 🌱🏆📚

Publication profile

Google Scholar

Orcid


Education and Academic Qualification

Dr. Mohamed Hizam Mohamed Noor holds a Doctorate in Environmental Engineering from Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, where his thesis focused on the “Utilization of Moringa Oleifera Seed Protein in the Fabrication of Magnetic Cationic Starch Flocculant for Palm Oil Mill Effluent Treatment.” He also earned a Master’s degree with a perfect 4.00 GPA and received the Best Postgraduate Student Award for his work on “Synthesis and Application of Polyacrylamide Grafted Magnetic Cellulose Flocculant for Wastewater Treatment.” Currently a postdoctoral researcher, Dr. Hizam is dedicated to advancing sustainable solutions for environmental challenges. 🏆📚

 

Professional Experience and Contributions 🌟

Dr. Mohamed Hizam Mohamed Noor has a robust professional background in environmental engineering. He serves as a postdoctoral researcher at the Research Management Centre, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, since July 2023. He also contributes as an external panel member for final year project presentations at Universiti Teknologi MARA, scheduled for July 2024. In May 2023, he was an invited jury member for the International Virtual Expo of Innovation Product and System Design. Additionally, Dr. Hizam took on the role of secretary for a webinar on thesis content at the Postgraduate Student Society in 2022, showcasing his commitment to academic excellence. 🎓🌿

 

Research Innovation Achievements 🏆

Dr. Mohamed Hizam Mohamed Noor has showcased exceptional innovation in various competitions. At the 26th Industrial Art and Technology Exhibition (INATEX) 2024, he presented his project, FuelX CaZeo: Revolutionizing the Future of Eco-Fuel Production, earning a Certificate of Participation on October 2-3, 2024. He also secured the Gold Award and the Best of the Best Award in the Agriculture, Environment, and Renewable Energy category at the International Innovation & Invention Competition (IIICE) 2024 for his project STARPRO Flocculant, held on August 5, 2024. Furthermore, he was awarded a Gold Award at the International Virtual Expo of Innovation Product and System Design 2023 for the same project on June 23, 2023, solidifying his impact in environmental engineering. 🌱✨

Conclusion

Dr. Mohamed Hizam Bin Mohamed Noor possesses a robust combination of academic achievements, impactful research, and professional involvement that makes him an exemplary candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His commitment to addressing environmental challenges through innovative solutions further strengthens his suitability for this recognition.

Publication Top Notes

  • Assessing the effectiveness of magnetic nanoparticles coagulation/flocculation in water treatment: a systematic literature review – Cited by 53 (2021) 📚
  • Synthesis and Application of Polyacrylamide Grafted Magnetic Cellulose Flocculant for Palm Oil Wastewater Treatment – Cited by 38 (2020) 🌊
  • Aspirin Adsorption onto Activated Carbon Derived from Spent Tea Leaves: Statistical Optimization and Regeneration Study – Cited by 28 (2021) 🍵
  • Optimization of sonication-assisted synthesis of magnetic Moringa oleifera as an efficient coagulant for palm oil wastewater treatment – Cited by 18 (2021) 🌿
  • Synthesis of magnetic cellulose as flocculant for pre-treatment of anaerobically treated palm oil mill effluent – Cited by 18 (2018) 🔬
  • Moringa oleifera extract as green coagulant for POME Treatment: Preliminary studies and sludge evaluation – Cited by 17 (2021) 🌱
  • Response Surface Optimization of Ultrasound‐Assisted Extraction of Sago Starch From Sago Pith Waste – Cited by 9 (2021) 🍚
  • Starch engineered with Moringa oleifera seeds protein crosslinked Fe3O4: A synthesis and flocculation studies – Cited by 7 (2021) ⚗️
  • Microwave-vs Ultrasonic-synthesis of magnetic Moringa oleifera coagulant for the reduction of chemical oxygen demand in palm oil wastewater – Cited by 6 (2021) 💧
  • Phytotoxicity and Cost-effectiveness Analysis of Palm Oil Wastewater Treated with Magnetic Cationic Starch Flocculant – Cited by 5 (2022) 💰

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

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.