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

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.

Ferede Abuye Jeldu | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Ferede Abuye Jeldu | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Ferede Abuye Jeldu, Mettu University, Ethiopia

Dr. Ferede Abuye Jeldu: A Suitable Candidate for the Best Researcher Award

Publication profile

Google Scholar

Academic Background 🎓

Dr. Ferede Abuye Jeldu holds a PhD in Climate Change and Bioenergy Development from Hawassa University, Ethiopia, completed in July 2024. He also possesses a Master’s degree in Environmental Science from Ambo University (2015) and a Bachelor’s degree in Forest Management and Utilization from Hawassa University (2011). His educational qualifications provide a solid foundation for his research in climate change, bioenergy, and forest management.

Professional Experience 🌳

Dr. Jeldu has extensive experience in academia and research. He has served as a lecturer and head of the Department of Forestry at Mettu University (2018-2019) and as a lecturer and researcher at Assosa University (2016-2017). His experience extends to practical roles, including working as a lumberman and forest utilization expert at the Oromia Forest and Wildlife Enterprise. These roles have equipped him with valuable insights into both academic and field-based forestry practices.

Training and Certifications 🏅

Dr. Jeldu has participated in numerous professional training programs and certifications. Notably, he received a certificate of service from the African Forest Forum for sharing insights on forest and tree-based ecosystem services for climate change resilience. He has also been recognized by the UN-REDD Program for his contributions to environmental impact assessment and environmental auditing. His active involvement in environmental education is evident in his leadership of training programs for local farmers on climate variability.

Research Grants and Fellowships 💼

Dr. Jeldu’s research endeavors are supported by prestigious fellowships and grants, including the IPCC 6th Round Scholarships Programme and the African Forest Forum Research Fellowship fund. These awards underscore his commitment to advancing knowledge in climate change and sustainable forestry.

Skills and Expertise 🧑‍💻

Dr. Jeldu is proficient in collecting and analyzing climate, vegetation, and soil data, as well as conducting forest inventory assessments. His technical skills extend to the use of GIS applications for forest resource assessment and proficiency in statistical software such as R, SPSS, and FDiversity. These skills are vital for conducting comprehensive environmental and forestry research.

Publication Top Notes

  • 🌾 “Climate Change Adaptation Strategies of Smallholder Farmers: The Case of Bedele District, Bunno Bedele Zone, Oromia Region, Ethiopia” – FA Jeldu, A Ochocho, AL Duguma, Cited by: 4, Year: 2023
  • 🌳 “The Role of Forest Information in Addressing Climate Change: REDD+, NDCs, Enhanced Transparency Framework, and Ecosystem Restoration” – FA Jeldu, Mettu University,

Conclusion 🏆

Dr. Ferede Abuye Jeldu’s extensive academic background, professional experience, and active involvement in research and training make him a highly suitable candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His dedication to climate change mitigation, forest management, and community education aligns with the award’s objectives, showcasing his potential for significant contributions to the field.

Alfonso Guillermo Banderas Tarabay | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Alfonso Guillermo Banderas Tarabay | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Alfonso Guillermo Banderas Tarabay, Instituto Mexicano de Tecnología del Agua, Mexico

Dr. Alfonso Guillermo Banderas Tarabay appears to be a strong candidate for the Research for Best Researcher Award. His extensive background in water technology, limnology, and environmental management, combined with his significant contributions to academia through teaching and research, positions him as a leading figure in his field.

Publication profile

Research Contributions:

Over three decades of experience in limnology, aquatic ecology, and environmental impact assessments. His work is well-documented through numerous international journal articles, book chapters, and technical reports.

Project Leadership:

Managed several important environmental and water conservation projects, showcasing his ability to lead and innovate in applied research.

Teaching and Mentorship:

His academic career spans teaching at various prestigious institutions and mentoring students at different levels, reflecting his commitment to knowledge transfer and capacity building.

Publications:

Dr. Banderas Tarabay has authored several books and chapters on key topics such as environmental flows and catchment management, further demonstrating his expertise and thought leadership in his domain.

  • The environmental added value of water: A proposal

Conclusion

Considering these factors, Dr. Banderas Tarabay’s qualifications, experience, and contributions align well with the criteria for the Research for Best Researcher Award. His work has a lasting impact on both the academic community and practical environmental management, making him a suitable and deserving candidate for the 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

Belgassim BOUTRA | Environmental Science Award | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Belgassim BOUTRA | Environmental Science Award | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Belgassim BOUTRA, UDES, Algeria

Dr. Belgassim BOUTRA 🌟🔬🌍 is a distinguished researcher at the Solar Equipment Development Unit, UDES. He holds a Doctorate in Environmental Engineering from USTHB University, Algeria (2019) and a HDR (2022). His expertise encompasses advanced oxidation processes (AOPs), photocatalysis, adsorption, and disinfection for wastewater treatment. Dr. BOUTRA has made significant contributions to environmental science, emphasizing sustainable and innovative technologies. His work is documented in numerous publications and patents, making a substantial impact in the field of environmental engineering. 🌿💧🔧

Publication profile

Google Scholar

Research Focus

Dr. Belgassim BOUTRA’s research focus primarily lies in environmental engineering 🌍🔬, particularly in the advanced treatment of wastewater 💧🔧. His work emphasizes the development of innovative photocatalytic materials 🧪✨, such as ZnO and MnFe₂O₄ composites, for the degradation of harmful pollutants under sunlight ☀️🔬. Dr. BOUTRA explores sustainable methods like solar photodegradation 🌞🔄 and artificial neural networks for water treatment optimization 🧠💧, aiming to improve water quality and promote reuse 🌿🚿. His contributions significantly impact environmental sustainability, water purification, and clean energy technologies 💡⚡, addressing pressing issues related to climate change adaptation and pollution control 🏞️🌍.

Publication Top Notes