Isaaca Sanusi | Bioremediation/Biodegradation | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Isaaca Sanusi | Bioremediation/Biodegradation | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Isaaca Sanusi | Bioremediation/Biodegradation | Best Researcher Award

University of KwaZulu-Natal,  South Africa

Profile

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👨‍🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Sanusi A. Isaac’s journey in science began in Ondo State, Nigeria, where he completed his foundational education at St. Paul’s Primary School and Unity Secondary School. Demonstrating an early interest in microbiology, he pursued a Bachelor of Technology in Microbiology at the Federal University of Technology, Akure, graduating with a Second Class Upper Division. Driven by curiosity and a desire for deeper specialization, he obtained his Master of Technology in Environmental Microbiology at the same institution. His passion for research and academic excellence culminated in a Ph.D. in Bioprocessing and Nanobiotechnology from the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN), South Africa (2016–2021), where he began exploring the intersection of environmental microbiology, biotechnology, and AI-based modeling.

💼 Professional Endeavors

Dr. Isaac's career reflects a rich blend of academic, research, and industrial experience. His professional journey started with an industrial attachment at 7up Bottling Company in Kano, where he worked in the Quality Control Department monitoring raw materials and finished products. He later served as a Consultant for USAID|Abt, contributing to real-time tuberculosis test result collection and transmission, which was a vital public health intervention.
At UKZN, he progressively held roles from Teaching Assistant to Ad hoc Lecturer, and currently serves as an Honorary Research Fellow in the Department of Life Sciences. He is also a Postdoctoral Research Fellow specializing in bioprocessing and nanobiotechnology.

🔬 Research Focus and Contributions

Dr. Isaac's research lies at the confluence of environmental microbiology, nanobiotechnology, and green economy technologies. His work delves into fermentation technology, biomass pretreatment, integrated biorefining, and process optimization. A prominent aspect of his contribution is the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI), particularly ANN and RSM models, to streamline bioprocessing—reducing time and labor while enhancing precision and scalability.
He has made significant contributions to scientific literature through peer-reviewed journal articles, book chapters, and presentations at international conferences. His data-driven approach to microbial biotechnology and process design aligns with global 4IR (Fourth Industrial Revolution) trends, positioning him as a thought leader in digital bioprocessing.

📚 Academic Citations and Influence

As an author of multiple scientific articles and book chapters, Dr. Isaac’s work is recognized and cited in the global research community. His AI-integrated methodologies and sustainable bioprocessing solutions have not only advanced microbial biotechnology but also influenced environmental sustainability efforts in both academic and applied contexts.

🧪 Technical Proficiency

Dr. Isaac possesses an extensive repertoire of technical skills, including:

  • Laboratory Management & Microbial Techniques

  • Data Analysis (Statistical & Computational Modeling)

  • Process Optimization using Response Surface Methodology (RSM)

  • Artificial Neural Networks (ANN) modeling

  • Biorefinery Design & Green Tech Applications

  • Real-time Diagnostic Platforms for Public Health

👨‍🏫 Teaching Experience

As an enthusiastic and effective educator, Dr. Isaac has taught a range of undergraduate and postgraduate microbiology modules, including:

  • Microbial Ecology

  • Environmental Microbial Biotechnology

  • Control of Microorganisms

  • Microbial Bioprocessing Techniques
    He is particularly adept at translating complex scientific concepts into accessible knowledge. His teaching roles at UKZN and the University of Fort Hare (UFH) have included both classroom instruction and mentorship, guiding students in research design, laboratory work, and scientific communication.

🌍 Impact and Mentorship

Recognized by numerous students as a dedicated academic mentor and referee, Dr. Isaac promotes learning through tutorials, workshops, and motivational support. He empowers communities and learners by linking theoretical knowledge with real-world applications, particularly in commercial and industrial microbiology.

🧭 Vision, Legacy & Future Contributions

Dr. Sanusi A. Isaac envisions a future where sustainable biotechnology plays a pivotal role in environmental conservation and industrial innovation. His research continues to push boundaries, particularly in the scaling-up of eco-friendly bioprocesses and AI-driven decision-making in microbiology. As an academic leader and innovator, he aspires to contribute to the development of smart, adaptive biotechnological systems that respond to environmental and industrial challenges in real time.

🎶 Hobbies and Personal Interests

Outside the lab and lecture hall, Dr. Isaac enjoys reading, listening to music, and inspiring others. His personal philosophy centers on growth, resilience, and community support—values that shine through his academic and professional endeavors.

📚 Selected Publications

  • Title: Nanotechnology in Bioprocess Development: Applications of Nanoparticles in the Generation of Biofuels
    Authors: Sanusi, I.A., Sewsynker-Sukai, Y., Gueguim-Kana, E.B.
    Journal: In: Lateef, A., Gueguim-Kana, E.B., Dasgupta, N., Ranjan, S. (eds) Microbial Nanobiotechnology. Materials Horizons: From Nature to Nanomaterials. Springer, Singapore.
    Year: 2021

  • Title: Optimal Complementary Wastewater Mixture for Chlorococcum Sp. Cultivation: Biomass Production, Lipid Accumulation and Wastewater Remediation Studies
    Author: Adeyemi Isaac Sanusi
    Platform: SSRN
    Year: 2022

  • Title: Potentials of Acremonium butyri Fungus in Pre-treatment and Hydrolysis Using Rice Husk Substrate for Biofuel Production: A Short Communication
    Authors: Sanusi, A., Sanusi, A., Farouq, A.A., Ibrahim, A.D., Shamsudeen, M.M., Usman, M.H., Bello, A.Y.
    Journal: UMYU Journal of Microbiology Research
    Volume: 5(2)
    Pages: 131–137
    Year: 2020

 

Dr. Darkhan Yerezhep | Environmental Science | Distinguished Scientist Award

Dr. Darkhan Yerezhep | Environmental Science | Distinguished Scientist Award

Satbayev University, Kazakhstan.

Darkhan Yeseyuly Erezhep is a Kazakh scientist, engineer, and academic leader currently serving as the Head of the Department of Standardization, Certification, and Metrology at KazNITU named after K. I. Satpayev, Kazakhstan. With over 10 years of academic and industrial experience, his expertise spans thermal physics, metrology, quality management, and energy systems. A double PhD holder, Dr. Erezhep is an award-winning educator and a leading voice in advancing Kazakhstan’s technical education and research infrastructure.

Profile

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🎓 Education

Dr. Darkhan Yerezhep is a distinguished scholar with dual Ph.D. degrees in Engineering—one in Thermal Physics and Theoretical Heat Engineering from ITMO University, Russia (2020), and another in Technical Physics awarded by the Ministry of Education and Science of Kazakhstan (2021). He holds a Master’s degree in Refrigeration and Cryogenic Engineering (2017) and a Bachelor’s degree in Standardization and Metrology (2015), both from ITMO University. Additionally, he pursued a second higher education in Financial Management, reflecting his interdisciplinary expertise. Dr. Yerezhep has also earned multiple professional certifications in standardization, scientific mentoring, and quality systems from leading institutions in Kazakhstan and Russia, further demonstrating his commitment to academic excellence and applied research.

💼 Experience

Dr. Darkhan Yerezhep currently serves as the Head of Department at KazNITU in Almaty (2023–present), where he has led significant advancements including the development of Master’s and Ph.D. programs, fostering international collaborations, and increasing the department’s research funding tenfold. He also holds roles as Associate Professor and Researcher at KazNITU and the Physicotechnical Institute, and previously served as a Senior Lecturer at Al-Farabi Kazakh National University. His earlier career includes work as a Researcher and Design Engineer at ITMO University and Roselectromotor in St. Petersburg. Dr. Yerezhep has extensive teaching and research experience in cryogenics, metrology, quality systems, and technical regulation.

🔬 Research Interests

Thermal physics and thermoelectric systems

Cryogenic engineering

Standardization and metrology

Quality assurance in industrial systems

Energy system efficiency and low-temperature processes

Passionate about integrating SDG goals, inclusive education, and scientific commercialization in engineering research.

🏆 Awards & Honors

🏅 Best University Teacher (2024) – Kazakhstan Ministry of Education

🎓 State Scientific Scholarship for Talented Young Scientists (2024–2025)

Led department to 2nd place in Atameken National Ranking (2024)

Recipient of state and institutional recognition for leadership in education and science.

📚 Selected Publications

🧪 1. Multiple Phase Transitions in Ethanol Thin Films Obtained by Physical Vapor Deposition

Journal: Applied Surface Science
DOI: 10.1016/J.APSUSC.2024.162259
WOSUID: WOS:001402656800001
Co-authors: Aldiyarov A., Sokolov D., Korshikov E., Nurmukan A., Tasmukhanova A., Ramos M.A.
This article explores complex phase behaviors in ethanol thin films created via physical vapor deposition, highlighting unique thermodynamic transitions.

💧 2. Geoinformation and Analytical Support for the Development of Promising Aquifers for Pasture Water Supply in Southern Kazakhstan

Journal: Water
Date: April 2025
DOI: 10.3390/w17091297
Co-authors: Tazhiyev S., Murtazin Y., Sotnikov E., Rakhimova V., Adenova D., Abdizhalel M., Yerezhep D.
This study presents a GIS-based approach to assessing groundwater potential for sustainable livestock support in arid Kazakh regions.

🚀 3. Optimizing Combustion Characteristics of Ammonium Perchlorate Composites with Nickel-Enhanced Carboxymethyl Cellulose

Journal: Aerospace
Date: March 2025
DOI: 10.3390/aerospace12040270
Co-authors: Nurguzhin M., Janikeyev M., Omarbayev M., Yermakhanova A., Meiirbekov M., Zhumakhanov M., Lesbayev A., Yerezhep D., Atamanov M., Tulepov M.
The work investigates improvements in the combustion efficiency of AP-based propellants through the use of nickel-modified additives.

❄️ 4. Криогенная установка для FTIR-спектроскопического исследования поведения углеводородных соединений при атмосферном давлении

Journal: Bulletin of Toraighyrov University. Energetics series
Date: March 28, 2025
DOI: 10.48081/NJKI9829
Co-authors: Кенбай А. А., Алдияров А. У., Ережеп Д. Е.
Title translation: Cryogenic Setup for FTIR Spectroscopic Study of Hydrocarbon Compounds at Atmospheric Pressure
The article describes a cryogenic system designed for FTIR spectroscopy to analyze hydrocarbon behavior under atmospheric conditions.

 

 

 

Dr. Said Munir | Air Quality | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Said Munir | Air Quality | Best Researcher Award

National Center for Meteorology, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

Dr. Said Munir is a seasoned Air Quality and Meteorology Expert at the National Center for Meteorology in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. With dual nationalities (British and Pakistani) and over 20 years of international experience, he has contributed significantly to the fields of air quality monitoring, emission modeling, atmospheric chemistry, and climate impact assessment. Known for his interdisciplinary research, Dr. Munir thrives in collaborative environments and utilizes machine learning, QGIS, and R to solve complex environmental problems. He has authored over 50 peer-reviewed publications and is recognized globally for his work in both academia and public policy.

Profile

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🎓 Education

Dr. Said Munir holds a 🎓 Ph.D. in Air Quality and Transport Studies from the University of Leeds, UK (2009–2013), where he conducted pioneering research on the spatial-temporal analysis of traffic-related ground-level ozone ([Link to Thesis]). He previously earned a 🌬️ Master’s degree in Air Pollution Management and Control from the University of Birmingham, UK (2008–2009), focusing his dissertation on the impact of ozone on UK agriculture. Earlier, he completed a 🌍 Master’s in Natural Resources Management at the University of Greenwich, UK (1999–2000), where he assessed atmospheric pollutants using simple methodologies. Dr. Munir began his academic journey with a 🌾 B.Sc. (Hons) in Agriculture from the Agricultural University Peshawar, Pakistan (1995–1998), graduating with First Class Honours and an impressive GPA of 3.86/4.00. His multidisciplinary education reflects a deep commitment to understanding and managing environmental challenges at the intersection of air quality, transport, and agriculture.

💼 Experience

Dr. Said Munir is currently serving as an Air Quality and Meteorology Expert at the National Center for Meteorology, Saudi Arabia (2024–Present), where he leads national-level projects on air quality and drought variability, employing advanced modeling techniques and machine learning. Prior to this, he was a Senior Research Fellow at the University of Leeds, UK (2021–2024), contributing to high-impact EU-funded projects such as nPETS and MODALES, focused on nanoparticle emissions, transport, and climate-health policy development. From 2017 to 2021, Dr. Munir worked as a Research Associate at the University of Sheffield, UK, where he managed urban air quality sensor networks, conducted high-resolution pollution mapping, and carried out source apportionment studies, playing a key role in advancing urban environmental monitoring systems.

🔬 Research Interests

🌫️ Air Quality Monitoring & Impact Assessment

💻 Machine Learning in Environmental Science

🌍 Emission & Dispersion Modeling (ADMS-Urban, Airviro)

🧪 Atmospheric Chemistry and Receptor Modelling

🛰️ Geospatial and Statistical Analysis (QGIS, R)

☀️ Climate Change, Drought Indices, and Environmental Policy

🏆 Awards & Grants

Multiple national and international research grants from EU and UK agencies.

Contributor to high-impact environmental policy frameworks in Saudi Arabia and the UK.

Recognized for advancing low-cost sensor technology and nanoparticle emission mitigation.

📚 Selected Publications

Munir et al. (2025)Drought variabilities in Saudi Arabia: Spatiotemporal trends – Earth Systems and Environment.
DOI: 10.1007/s41748-025-00570-w
Cited by: 2 articles

Munir et al. (2025)PM2.5 Variability in Saudi Arabia – Atmosphere, 16, 463.
DOI: 10.3390/atmos16040463
Cited by: 4 articles

Munir et al. (2025)Machine Learning & Source Apportionment in Saudi ArabiaWater, Soil and Air Pollution (Under Review)
Cited by: Awaiting peer review

Munir et al. (2025)Urban Nanoparticle Emission Modeling – Atmosphere, 16(4), 417.
DOI: 10.3390/atmos16040417
Cited by: 1 article

Al-Hajji et al. (2025)Dust Storm Climate Study in Riyadh – Int. J. of Environment and Climate Change, 15(3): 381-99.
DOI: 10.9734/ijecc/2025/v15i34780
Cited by: 3 articles

Dr. He Bai | Wastewater Treatment | Best Researcher Award

Dr. He Bai | Wastewater Treatment | Best Researcher Award

East China University of Science and Technology, China.

He Bai is a dedicated researcher specializing in Chinese studies and material sciences, currently pursuing a Ph.D. at East China University of Science and Technology. With a strong academic foundation in Chinese studies, he has expanded his expertise into interdisciplinary research, focusing on advanced materials and environmental applications. His work integrates chemistry, nanomaterials, and catalysis, contributing significantly to sustainable technologies.

Profile

Scopus

🎓 Education

Dr. He Bai has a strong academic foundation in Chinese studies, having pursued his education across prestigious institutions in China. He earned his Bachelor’s degree (2014-2018) from Baotou Teacher’s College, where he developed a deep understanding of Chinese language and literature. Building on this, he completed his Master’s degree (2018-2021) at Inner Mongolia University, further refining his expertise in Chinese linguistics and cultural studies. Currently, he is pursuing a Ph.D. (2021-Present) at East China University of Science and Technology, focusing on advanced research in the field. His academic journey has been marked by excellence, securing scholarships and contributing to interdisciplinary studies.

💼 Experience

Dr. He Bai possesses extensive expertise in advanced laboratory techniques, including fluorescence (FL), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), infrared (IR) spectroscopy, and ultraviolet (UV) analysis. His proficiency in these methods has enabled him to conduct high-precision material characterization and environmental research. Additionally, he is highly skilled in data visualization and scientific software, utilizing tools such as Origin, Photoshop (PS), and ChemDraw to analyze and present complex research findings effectively.

During his Ph.D. studies, Dr. Bai secured a 10,000 RMB research grant for his project on biochar-based catalysts for wastewater treatment, demonstrating his ability to lead innovative research with real-world applications. His outstanding achievements were further recognized when he won the Silver Award at the 7th China International "Internet Plus" Innovation & Entrepreneurship Competition (2021, Shanghai), highlighting his innovative approach and interdisciplinary problem-solving skills.

🔬 Research Interests

Nanomaterials and Catalysis 🔬

Photocatalysis & Environmental Remediation 🌍

Graphene and MoS₂-based Materials 💡

Biochar-based Catalysts for Wastewater Treatment 💧

Quantum Confinement and Defect Engineering ⚛️

🏆 Awards & Honors

🏅 Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region Scholarship (2020)

🎖️ Academic Scholarship, East China University of Science and Technology (2021, 2022)

🥈 Silver Award, 7th China International "Internet Plus" College Student Innovation and Entrepreneurship Competition (2021, Shanghai)

📚 Selected Publications

1️⃣ Quantum confinement and defect engineering mediated “two birds with one stone” strategy for Co/Bi self-regeneration and effective photogenerated carrier separation
📌 Applied Catalysis B: Environmental, 2025, 365, 125001.

2️⃣ Structure and defect engineering synergistically boost Mo6+/Mo4+ circulation of Sv-MoS2 based photo-Fenton-like system for efficient levofloxacin degradation
📌 Applied Catalysis B: Environmental, 2024, 358, 124430.
🔗 DOI | Cited by: 2

3️⃣ Carbon defects-enriched NBC-C3N5@CoMn with ultrafast modulation of redox couples for efficient degradation of contaminant
📌 Journal of Environmental Management, 2024, 366, 121723.
🔗 DOI | Cited by: 2

4️⃣ Modulating the redox couples of graphene-like NBC-TiO2@FeMn through forming photo-Fenton system for boosting persulfate activation to accelerate the contaminant degradation
📌 Chemical Engineering Journal, 2023, 473, 145392.
🔗 DOI | Cited by: 13

5️⃣ Preparation of Fe3O4@Fe(0) immobilized enzyme to enhance the efficient degradation of methoxychlor
📌 Environmental Science and Pollution Research, 2023, 30(1), pp. 917–929.

 

 

Mr. Stephen Kabasa | Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Stephen Kabasa | Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Institute of Nuclear Chemistry and Technology, Poland.

Stephen Ochieng Kabasa is a highly skilled researcher and graduate from the University of Nairobi, with an MSc in Nuclear Science. He is currently pursuing his PhD at the Instytut Chemii I Techniki Jadrowej in Warsaw, Poland. Stephen has a strong background in nuclear science and radiation technologies, specializing in gaseous and wastewater treatment, and has actively contributed to multiple publications in his field. His research combines advanced laboratory techniques with practical applications for environmental protection, with a particular focus on the removal of emerging organic pollutants using radiation technologies.

Profile

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🎓 Education

Stephen Ochieng Kabasa earned his MSc. in Nuclear Science (2012-2016) from the University of Nairobi, Institute of Nuclear Science and Technology, where he focused on advanced radiation technologies for environmental applications. He also holds a Bachelor of Science (2006-2010) from Moi University, which laid the foundation for his expertise in nuclear science and environmental analysis. His academic background has equipped him with a solid understanding of radiation technologies, environmental protection, and analytical techniques.

💼 Experience

Stephen Ochieng Kabasa has diverse experience spanning research, teaching, and industry roles. As a PhD Graduate Researcher (2020-2024) at Instytut Chemii i Techniki Jadrowej, Poland, he focused on advanced oxidation processes for wastewater and gaseous pollutant treatment using ionizing radiation, employing cutting-edge equipment like GC-MS and HPLC. During his time as a Business Intelligence Officer (2019-2020) at BURN Manufacturing USA LLC in Kenya, he managed the after-sales network across East Africa and Somalia, providing valuable data insights. As an Assistant Sessional Lecturer (2017-2019) at Technical University of Kenya, he taught organic and inorganic chemistry and contributed to curriculum development. Stephen also held roles as an After Sales/Market Analytics Officer (2016-2018) at BURN Manufacturing USA LLC, where he optimized service station operations, and as a Graduate Research Assistant (2012-2016) at the Institute of Nuclear Science and Technology, University of Nairobi, focusing on environmental sample analysis using advanced radionuclide techniques.

🔬 Research Interests

⚛️ Ionizing Radiation for Pollution Treatment

He specializes in applying ionizing radiation to degrade emerging organic pollutants, contributing to cleaner and safer ecosystems.

🔬 Advanced Analytical Techniques

Stephen utilizes advanced methods like gamma spectrometry, HPLC, LC-MS, and UV-Vis to assess the effectiveness of treatment processes and analyze pollutants.

🌱 Environmental Protection

His interdisciplinary approach seeks to advance sustainable solutions for environmental challenges, using radiation technologies to protect the environment from harmful contaminants.

📚 Publications

Kabasa, S., et al. (2024). Degradation of Hydroxychloroquine from Aqueous Solutions Under Fenton-Assisted Electron Beam Treatment Processes. Processes. Link

Kabasa, S., et al. (2024).Chloroquine Degradation in Aqueous Solution Under Electron Beam Irradiation.Nukleonika. Link

Kabasa, S., et al. (2024). Degradation of Hydroxychloroquine in Aqueous Solutions Under Electron Beam Treatment. Nukleonika. Link