Loubna EL FELS | Environmental Science | Excellence in Research Award

Prof. Loubna EL FELS | Environmental Science | Excellence in Research Award

Professor at Université Cadi Ayyad, Morocco

Prof. Loubna EL FELS is a Professor of Super Habilitation in Biology at the Faculté of Sciences Semlalia, University of Cadi Ayyad in Marrakech, specializing in biotechnology, microbiology, bioprocédés, environmental and ecotoxicology. Title of a doctor with an honorable mention (2014) and this habitation (2020) on the biotechnological valorization of organ déchets and the disposal of polluants, which include important administrative responsibilities and pedagogical matters, noting the same. Adjointe the chef de partement and coordinatrice de masters. It is coordinating and co-ordinating from a number of national and international projets (USAID, PRIMA, ERA-NET, PHC, German-Marocains projets) in the domains of the distribution sites, the economic circuit and the agro-environnement. Porte for start-up, ventilate, laureate from more excellent prices and are active in the medical education and scientific evaluation, it searches for microbial biotechnologies, the value of the biomasse, the trait of the organs and the ecotoxicological suivi. Emergent polluants.

Citation Metrics (Scopus)

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Featured Publications

 

Natasa Knezevic | Environmental and Green Processes | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Natasa Knezevic | Environmental and Green Processes | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Natasa Knezevic | “VINČA” Institute of Nuclear Sciences National Institute of thе Republic of Serbia | Serbia

Dr. Natasa Knezevic is a Serbian researcher and emerging scientist in the field of environmental and chemical engineering, currently pursuing her Ph.D. in Environmental Engineering at the Faculty of Technology and Metallurgy, University of Belgrade. She is affiliated with the “VINCA” Institute of Nuclear Sciences – National Institute of the Republic of Serbia, where she serves as a Research Assistant. Her academic and research expertise encompasses instrumental analysis, organic synthesis and material characterization, adsorption processes on bio-based materials, composites, and the development of green methods for sustainable waste management. Dr. Knežević holds dual master’s degrees in Biochemical Engineering and Biotechnology, and in Environmental Engineering from the University of Belgrade. She has also gained international experience as a visiting researcher at the University of Ljubljana, Slovenia, and participated in multiple applied science and environmental innovation projects. Her scientific output includes over 12 peer-reviewed publications, around 150 citations, and an h-index of 6, reflecting her growing influence in the field of environmental materials and green technologies. She has received numerous honors, including the Panta S. Tutundžić Award for academic excellence, the Best Technological Innovation Award (2021) from the Ministry of Environmental Protection of Serbia, and recognition for the Best Start-Up Ideas initiative by Coca-Cola Youth Support. Alongside her scientific career, she is an active volunteer, team leader, and ambassador at the University of Belgrade’s Center for Career Development. Fluent in Serbian, English, and Russian, Dr. Knežević combines technical proficiency in tools like SuperPro Designer, OriginPro, ChemDraw, and Python with strong communication, leadership, and organizational skills, making her a dynamic and versatile young researcher in environmental innovation and sustainable engineering.

Profiles: Scopus Orcid 

Featured Publications

Abduarahman, M. A., Vuksanovic, M. M., Knezevic, N., Banjanac, K., Milosevic, M., Velickovic, Z., & Marinkovic, A. (2024). MgAl-layered double hydroxide-coated bio-silica as an adsorbent for anionic pollutants removal: A case study of the implementation of sustainable technologies. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 25(21), 11837.

Brzić, S., Knezevic, N., Kovacevic, T., Vuksanovic, M., Marinkovic, A., & Grzetic, J. (2024). Furoic acid-based (non)energetic plasticizers for solid composite propellants production. Scientific Technical Review, 74(1), 50–57.

Cujic, M., Knezevic, N., Zivković, F., & Jankovic Mandic, L. (2025). Radiation technology in polymer waste recycling and upcycling: Mechanisms, applications, and prospects. Metallurgical and Materials Data.

Cujic, M., Knezevic, N., Zivković, F., & Jankovic Mandic, L. (2025). Radiation technology in the light of polymer waste recycling. Metallurgical & Materials Engineering Congress of South-East Europe.

Embirsh, H. S. A., Vuksanovic, M. M., Mladenovic, I. O., Knezevic, N., Milosevic, M., Mijatov, S., Jancic Heinemann, R., & Marinković, A. (2024). Unsaturated polyester resin-based composites: A case study of lignin valorisation. Chemosphere, 352, 142144.

Knezevic, N., Vuksanovic, M., & Marinkovic, A. (2025). Enhanced mechanical strength and controlled biodegradability of bio-membranes synthesized from waste hemp fibers. Metallurgical and Materials Data.

Knezevic, N., Vuksanovic, M., & Marinkovic, A. (2025). Mechanical and biodegradability properties of synthesized bio-membranes from waste hemp fibers. Metallurgical & Materials Engineering Congress of South-East Europe.

Knezevic, N., Vuksanovic,, M. M., Banjanac, K., Pantic, K., Velickovic, Z., Cvijetic, I., Marinkovic, A., & Miloševic, M. (2024). Cationic waste hemp fibers-based membrane: Case study of anionic pollutants removal through environmentally friendly processes. Journal of Environmental Management, 361, 123174.

Savic, A., Vuksanovic, M. M., Savic, M., Knezevic, N., SaponjiC, A., IliC, S., & Egelja, A. (2025). Modified silica particles coated with Cu–Al layered double hydroxide for phosphate and arsenate removal in water treatment. Molecules, 30(10), 2138.

Hanin Othman | Environmental Science and Smart Technology | Young Researcher Award 

Ms. Hanin Othman | Environmental Science and Smart Technology | Young Researcher Award 

Ms. Hanin Othman | Pennsylvania State University | United States

Author Profiles

Scopus

Orcid

Google Scholar

Early Academic Pursuits

Ms. Hanin Othman began her academic journey with a strong foundation in architecture and design. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Architectural Engineering from The Hashemite University, Jordan in 2014, where she graduated among the top students in her class and received multiple honors, including the Best Graduation Project Award. Her academic excellence continued through her Master of Science in Architectural Engineering from The University of Jordan in 2019, where her thesis publication earned the Best Master Thesis Published Paper Award. Building upon these achievements, she is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Architecture (Sustainability) at Pennsylvania State University, USA. Her educational path reflects a consistent dedication to research and innovation at the intersection of environmental science and smart technology.

Professional Endeavors

Ms. Othman’s professional journey is marked by her deep involvement in academia, research, and creative technology. At Penn State University, she serves as a Graduate Teaching Assistant, instructing courses such as Basic Design and Research and Sustainable Architecture I & II. She is also the Artist and Maker in Residence at the Learning Factory, where she designs and leads workshops on low-cost IoT-based environmental monitoring systems using Arduino. Her earlier professional experience includes working as an Architect and Design Studio Supervisor at The Hashemite University, and as an Architect at Ruba Hosuah for Engineering. These roles allowed her to integrate sustainability principles with modern design methods, reinforcing her commitment to environmental science and smart technology.

Contributions and Research Focus

Ms. Hanin Othman’s research lies at the dynamic intersection of environmental science and smart technology, with a particular focus on sustainability, digital fabrication, and sensing technologies in architecture. Her doctoral research emphasizes the development of IoT-based indoor air quality monitoring systems, integrating mobile platforms, robotic sensing, and data-driven optimization techniques. She also explores urban microclimates, vegetation impacts, and thermal comfort using simulation tools such as ENVI-met, Design Builder, and CFD modeling. Additionally, her work in robotic fabrication bridges computational design with traditional craftsmanship, pushing the boundaries of sustainable architectural innovation.

Impact and Influence

Ms. Othman has made a remarkable impact both as a researcher and an educator. Her innovative approach to integrating environmental science and smart technology into architecture has influenced sustainable design practices and academic pedagogy. She has been recognized through numerous awards, including the ICDS Rising Researcher Award (2025–2026), Fox Scholar Award (2025), Sustainability Graduate Student Award Nomination (2024–2025), and the Artists and Makers in Residence Program (2024–2025). Her teaching contributions at Penn State University have inspired many students to embrace interdisciplinary and environmentally responsive design approaches.

Academic Cites

Ms. Othman’s research contributions have been featured in conferences, workshops, and institutional publications, reflecting the growing academic acknowledgment of her work. Her studies in environmental science and smart technology have attracted attention for their real-world applicability and technological innovation. Through her participation in Penn State’s Institute for Computational and Data Sciences (ICDS) and Hamer Center for Community Design, she has collaborated on projects that integrate digital twins, IoT networks, and data-driven environmental monitoring   all contributing to the broader academic discourse on sustainable and smart architectural systems.

Legacy and Future Contributions

Looking forward, Ms. Hanin Othman’s legacy will be defined by her contributions to sustainable architectural research and the advancement of environmental science and smart technology. Her ongoing projects, such as TwinSight: A Data-Driven Digital Twin Framework for Human-Centric Health Monitoring, highlight her vision for human-centered, data-driven, and equitable environmental design. As she continues to mentor students and collaborate across disciplines, her influence will extend to shaping the next generation of architects and environmental technologists. Her long-term goal is to pioneer scalable, low-cost sensing and smart systems that redefine sustainability in architecture.

Environmental Science and Smart Technology

Ms. Hanin Othman’s research integrates Environmental Science and Smart Technology through IoT-based sensing systems, robotic fabrication, and data-driven environmental design. Her interdisciplinary approach to Environmental Science and Smart Technology bridges architecture, engineering, and sustainability, redefining how design responds to ecological and technological challenges. The future of Environmental Science and Smart Technology continues to evolve through her innovative contributions, academic leadership, and commitment to global sustainable development.

Featured Publications

Othman, H., & Alshboul, A. A. (2020). The role of urban morphology on outdoor thermal comfort: The case of Al-Sharq City–Az Zarqa. Urban Climate, 34, 100706.

Othman, H., Azari, R., & Guimarães, T. (2024). Low-cost IoT-based indoor air quality monitoring. Technology|Architecture + Design, 8(2: Coding), 250–270.

Othman, H., Sieves, G., Guimarães, T., & Azari, R. (2025). A calibration chamber framework for low-cost indoor air quality sensor validation. Building and Environment, 113856.

Othman, H., Sieves, G., Guimaraes, T., & Azari, R. (2024). Development of a calibration chamber to evaluate the performance of a low-cost IAQ sensing device. In SIGraDi 2024 - Biodigital Intelligent Systems Conference 1.

Othman, H., & Azari, R. (2023). Exploring low-cost sensors for indoor air quality (IAQ) monitoring: A review of stationary and mobile sensing systems. In Proceedings of the 11th International Conference of the Arab Society 

Imam, C. A., Othman, H. A. S., & Çapunaman, Ö. B. (2023). Robotic plaster carving: Formalizing subtractive detailing of plaster surfaces for construction and crafts. In 41st Conference on Education and Research in Computer Aided Architectural

Stratos Kokolakis | Ecological Monitoring | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Stratos Kokolakis | Ecological Monitoring | Best Researcher Award

Hellenic Mediterranean University, Greece

Profile

ORCID

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Efstratios “Stratos” Georgios Kokolakis began his academic journey at the Hellenic Mediterranean University (HMU), where he earned his Postgraduate Diploma in Agriculture. Building on his foundational knowledge and passion for environmental science and technology, he advanced to a Ph.D. candidacy in Agricultural Science at the same institution. His early academic pursuits laid a strong interdisciplinary foundation, blending agriculture with emerging geospatial technologies.

💼 Professional Endeavors

Since February 2024, Stratos has held the position of Senior Research Associate at Health Level Seven (HL7) Europe, based in Brussels. This role not only highlights his growth from a strong academic background but also underscores his involvement in international-level research and policy development concerning health and environment integration. His proactive engagement in both research and applied projects places him at the nexus of environmental science, technology, and public health.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Stratos Kokolakis’s research primarily orbits around Geoinformatics, Remote Sensing, Spatial Data Analysis & GIS, UAV-based Environmental Monitoring, and Aquatic Ecosystem Health. His notable paper, “From Space to Stream: Combining Remote Sensing and In Situ Techniques for Comprehensive Stream Health Assessment” (published in Remote Sensing, 2025), exemplifies his innovative approach of integrating Sentinel-2 satellite imagery, UAV-derived topographic data, and laboratory analysis to evaluate urban stream health. His work not only advances academic understanding but also delivers practical frameworks for environmental management.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Stratos’s research has significantly contributed to enhancing urban aquatic ecosystem monitoring. Through presentations like “Earth Observation and Geoinformatics to Monitoring the Environmental Status of Urban Streams” at ICED2024, he bridges environmental monitoring with mental health policy-making. His interdisciplinary research is influencing how public health authorities consider environmental data for urban planning and wellness strategies, particularly emphasizing the link between environmental health and human mental well-being.

📈 Academic Cites and Recognition

Stratos’s work is published in reputable databases such as Scopus and Remote Sensing, with citations beginning to build as his 2025 publications circulate through the academic community. His proactive research dissemination through conferences and publications underscores his growing academic footprint and influence among peers in environmental science and spatial data communities.

🛠️ Technical Skills

Stratos exhibits strong technical proficiency in Remote Sensing analysis, UAV-based environmental surveying, GIS data processing, spatial modeling, and water quality assessment techniques. His ability to combine data from diverse sources — satellites, drones, lab samples — and integrate them into cohesive analytical frameworks marks him as a versatile and forward-thinking researcher.

📚 Teaching Experience

While primarily research-focused at this stage of his career, Stratos’s involvement in collaborative research projects and mentorship activities hints at a strong potential for future academic teaching roles. His technical acumen and communication skills position him well to eventually contribute as a lecturer or trainer in Geoinformatics, GIS applications, and Environmental Science.

🌟 Legacy and Future Contributions

Efstratios Georgios Kokolakis is setting the stage for a long-lasting impact on environmental monitoring and public health policy integration. His innovative methodologies are likely to become part of standardized practices in urban ecosystem management. Looking ahead, his research is poised to influence European environmental health policies, contribute to climate adaptation strategies, and enhance the use of spatial technologies for sustainable development. His commitment to merging environmental science with societal benefits ensures that his legacy will be one of practical innovation and academic excellence.

📚 Notable Publications

  • Publication: "From Space to Stream: Combining Remote Sensing and In Situ Techniques for Comprehensive Stream Health Assessment"

    • Authors: Stratos Kokolakis, Eleni Kokinou, Matenia Karagiannidou, Nikos Gerarchakis, Christos Vasilakos, Melina Kotti, Catherine Chronaki

    • Journal: Remote Sensing

    • Year: 2025

  • Publication: "Monitoring the Healthy Status of Urban Streams"

    • Authors: Stratos Kokolakis, Eleni Kokinou, Catherine Chronaki

    • Journal: E3S Web of Conferences

    • Year: 2024

  • Publication: "Earth Observation and Geoinformatics to Monitoring the Environmental Status of Urban Streams Inextricably Linked to People’s Mental Health"

    • Authors: Stratos Kokolakis, Eleni Kokinou, Catherine Chronaki, Anne Moen, Gora Datta

    • Journal: Book Chapter

    • Year: 2024

  • Publication: "Integrating Earth Observation with Stream Health and Agricultural Activity"

    • Authors: David Chatzidavid, Eleni Kokinou, Stratos Kokolakis, Matina Karagiannidou

    • Journal: Remote Sensing

    • Year: 2023

  • Publication: "Spatiotemporal Environmental Monitoring of the Karst-related Almyros Wetland (Heraklion, Crete, Greece, Eastern Mediterranean)"

    • Authors: Eleni Kokinou, D.E. Zacharioudaki, Stratos Kokolakis, Melina Kotti, D. Chatzidavid, M. Karagiannidou, E. Fanouraki, E. Kontaxakis

    • Journal: Environmental Monitoring and Assessment

    • Year: 2023

 

 

 

 

Prof. Dr. Laima Okuneviciute Neverauskiene | Economic Growth | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Laima Okuneviciute Neverauskiene | Economic Growth | Best Researcher Award

Vilnius Gediminas Technical University, Lithuania.

Dr. Laima Okuneviciute Neverauskiene is a distinguished Lithuanian economist and professor specializing in labour economics, social economics, and regional economics. With over 25 years of academic and research experience, she has contributed significantly to employment policy, social exclusion, and sustainable economic development. She is a professor at Vilnius Gediminas Technical University and has been actively involved in national and international research projects, expert evaluations, and policy-making in the labour market.

Profile

Scopus

🎓 Education

Prof. Dr. Laima Okuneviciute Neverauskiene holds a Ph.D. in Economics (Doctor of Social Sciences) from Vilnius Gediminas Technical University (1999-2005). She also earned a Master’s Degree in Environmental Studies from Vilnius University, Lithuania (1995-1997).

💼 Experience

Prof. Dr. Laima Okuneviciute Neverauskiene is a distinguished professor and researcher at Vilnius Gediminas Technical University, Faculty of Business Management (2007–Present). She also serves as Chief Researcher & Deputy Director at the Institute of Labour Market Research, Lithuanian Social Research Centre (1997–Present). Previously, she worked as a Labour Market Expert at the Lithuanian Labour Exchange, Ministry of Social Security and Labour (1997–2006) and as a Scientific Researcher & Expert at Vilnius University (2008–2016).

Her work includes labour market policy analysis, econometric modeling, regional development studies, and active labour market policies. She has played a key role in the development of employment laws, policy reforms, and international labour research collaborations.

🔬 Research Interests

Dr. Okuneviciute Neverauskiene’s research focuses on:

Labour Economics & Employment Policy

Social & Regional Economics

Hidden Employment & Industrial Relations

Sustainable Development & Business Ecosystems

Microsimulation Models & Econometric Evaluations

She has worked on various national and international projects, contributing to labour market forecasting, social security policies, and economic sustainability strategies.

🏆 Awards & Honors

Best Researcher Award in Labour Economics

European Globalisation Adjustment Fund Expert Recognition

National Excellence Award in Social Policy Research

Distinguished Scholar Honor in Economic Development

📚 Publications

Assessing the Role of Renewable Energy in the Sustainable Economic Growth of the European Union

Authors: Laima Okunevičiūtė Neverauskienė, Virgilijus Dirma, Manuela Tvaronavičienė, Irena Danileviciene

Journal: Energies, 2025

The Impact of Renewable Energy Development on Economic Growth

Authors: Virgilijus Dirma, Laima Okunevičiūtė Neverauskienė, Manuela Tvaronavičienė, Irena Danileviciene, Rima Tamošiūnienė

Journal: Energies, 2024

 

 

Dr. Dardo R. LOPEZ | Resilience and Sustainability | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Dardo R. LOPEZ | Resilience and Sustainability | Best Researcher Award

INTA- Estación Forestal Villa Dolores (EEA Manfredi), Argentina.

Dardo Rubén López is a Researcher at INTA Forestry Station, specializing in Ecology, Socioecological Resilience, and Sustainability of Rural Socioecosystems. With over 20 years of experience, he has led numerous science and technology projects, both nationally and internationally. His academic journey began with a degree in Agricultural Engineering from the National University of Rosario (Argentina), followed by a Ph.D. in Ecology from UNCo, Bariloche. As a professor in postgraduate programs, he teaches courses on ecosystem ecology, resilience, and socio-ecological system management, shaping future researchers and professionals in sustainable land use.

Profile

Scopus
Orcid
Google Scholar

🎓 Education

Dr. Dardo R. López is an Agricultural Engineer from the National University of Rosario, Argentina, with a Ph.D. in Biology specializing in Ecology from the National University of Comahue, Bariloche Regional University Center. His research focuses on ecological processes, environmental sustainability, and agricultural development, contributing to a deeper understanding of ecosystem dynamics and land management.

💼 Experience

Dr. Dardo R. López is a researcher at INTA (National Institute of Agricultural Technology) since 2008, currently serving at a group leader level. From 2008 to 2015, he was a researcher at INTA Bariloche in the Natural Resources Research Area. His expertise lies in ecology, natural resource management, and sustainable agricultural systems. In addition to his research, Dr. López is a dedicated postgraduate professor at several institutions, including the National University of Rosario, where he teaches in Master’s and Doctorate programs, the National University of Comahue, specializing in Grassland Ecology and Agroecology, and the National University of Cuyo, where he focuses on Ecosystem and Disturbance Studies. His work contributes significantly to understanding ecosystem dynamics and sustainable land-use strategies.

🔬 Research Interests

Sustainable Management of Socio-Ecological Landscapes

Integration of biological and socio-productive diversity

Spatiotemporal interventions for ecosystem resilience

Resilience Management & Global Change

Mitigation of socio-environmental disturbances

Adaptation strategies for climate change and land-use shifts

Ecosystem & Landscape Ecology

Ecological dynamics of grasslands and agroecosystems

Biodiversity conservation in managed landscapes

Remote Sensing & GIS Applications

Spatial analysis of socio-ecological systems (SES)

Monitoring land-use changes and environmental impacts

Socioecology & Human-Nature Interactions

Sustainable resource use and rural development

Policy and governance for socio-ecological resilience

🏆 Awards & Achievements

H-index: 17 | i10-index: 27 | Scopus H-index: 10

30 SCI/Scopus-indexed journal publications

4 books published (ISBN)

30 research projects completed

International & national funding grants recipient

Leader in ecological resilience research

📚 Notable Publications

Remote Sensing & Forest Conservation

Multi-Temporal Remote Sensing for Forest Conservation and Management: A Case Study of the Gran Chaco in Central Argentina
Remote Sensing, 2025-02-21
Contributors: Francisco G. Alaggia, Michele Innangi, Laura Cavallero, Dardo Rubén López, Federica Pontieri, Flavio Marzialetti, Ramon Riera-Tatché, Paolo Gamba, Maria Laura Carranza

Avance de la frontera urbana a expensas de bosques nativos en diferentes categorías de protección en el valle de Traslasierra, Córdoba (Argentina)
Boletín de la Sociedad Argentina de Botánica, 2024-03-08 
Contributors: Laura Cavallero, Francisco G. Alaggia, Dardo Rubén López

Ecosystem & Vegetation Studies

Tracking Floristic Archetypes of Patagonian Steppes
Applied Vegetation Science, 2024-01 
Contributors: Marcos Horacio Easdale, Valeria Leticia Martin‐Albarracin, Daiana Vanesa Perri, Dardo Rubén López, Octavio Augusto Bruzzone

Degradation Influences Equilibrium and Non‐Equilibrium Dynamics in Rangelands: Implications in Resilience and Stability
Applied Vegetation Science, 2022-07 
Contributors: Dardo Rubén López, Laura Cavallero, Priscila Willems, Brandon Thomas Bestelmeyer, Miguel Angel Brizuela

Sustainable Land Use & Silvopastoral Systems

Conceptual Framework to Define Management Strategies for Silvopastoral Systems in Native Forests
Ecología Austral, 2022-08 
Contributors: Dardo R. López, Pablo L. Peri, Yamina M. Rosas, María V. Lencinas, Laura Cavallero, Guillermo Martínez Pastur

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ms. Chia Min Ho | Environmental Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Chia Min Ho | Environmental Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Beihang University, Malaysia.

Prof. Ho Chia Min is a dedicated researcher and academic specializing in Environmental Engineering, Materials Science, and Sustainable Materials. With expertise in structural engineering, he focuses on developing innovative materials for construction and environmental sustainability. Currently pursuing a PhD in Environmental Science (Materials Science and Engineering) at Beijing Aeronautics and Astronautics University, China, he has a strong academic background and professional experience in research and industry. His work has been recognized through multiple publications in high-impact journals, contributing significantly to the advancement of eco-friendly and high-performance construction materials.

Profile

Scopus
Google Scholar

🎓 Education

Ms. Chia Min Ho is an emerging researcher in environmental science and materials engineering, currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Environmental Science (Materials Science and Engineering) at Beijing Aeronautics and Astronautics University, China (2024 – Present). She holds a Master of Science in Civil Engineering (Materials and Structures) from University Malaysia Pahang (2021 – 2023) and a Bachelor’s Degree (Hons) in Civil Engineering from the same university (2017 – 2021). Her academic journey began with a Diploma in Civil Engineering from Polytechnic Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah, Malaysia (2014 – 2017). With a strong foundation in civil and materials engineering, her research interests focus on sustainable construction materials, structural performance, and environmental-friendly innovations in engineering.

💼 Experience

Ms. Chia Min Ho is a dedicated Civil and Structural Engineer with experience in both industry and research. She has been working at Brown Consulting Pte Ltd, Singapore from October 2022 to September 2024, where she specializes in designing and analyzing structural systems for commercial and residential projects. Her role involves conducting site assessments, ensuring compliance with safety and building codes, and preparing technical reports and presentations for clients.

Before this, she served as a Research Assistant at University Malaysia Pahang, Malaysia from October 2021 to October 2022. During this time, she contributed to research in structural engineering and material science, developing testing methodologies, analyzing experimental data, and assisting in the publication of research findings. Her combined experience in both practical engineering and academic research makes her a well-rounded professional in the field of civil and structural engineering.

🔬 Research Interests

Environmental Engineering – Sustainable construction materials and eco-friendly practices

Materials Engineering – Development of high-performance and durable building materials

Sustainable Materials – Utilizing industrial byproducts like steel slag in cement and concrete applications

Structural Engineering – Evaluating material performance under extreme conditions (elevated temperatures, water absorption, etc.)

🏆 Awards & Honors

Young Researcher Excellence Award – Recognized for outstanding contributions to environmental and materials engineering research

Best Paper Award – Awarded for innovative research on cement replacement using steel slag

Top 10 Emerging Scientists in Materials Engineering – Recognized for advancements in sustainable materials

📚 Selected Publications

1️⃣ Ho, C. M., Doh, S. I., Chin, S. C., & Li, X. (2024). The effect of particle sizes of steel slag as cement replacement in high strength concrete under elevated temperatures. Construction and Building Materials, 411, 134531. (Cited by: 0)

2️⃣ Ho, C. M., Doh, S. I., Chin, S. C., & Li, X. (2023). Prediction of concrete residual compressive strength under elevated temperatures: Response surface methodology (RSM) approach. Materials Today: Proceedings. (Cited by: 0)

3️⃣ Ho, C. M., Doh, S. I., Jing, G., Chin, S. C., & Li, X. (2023, May). Investigation of superplasticizer dosage on fresh and hardened properties of steel slag mortar. AIP Conference Proceedings, 2688(1).  (Cited by: 0)

4️⃣ Ho, C. M., Doh, S. I., Li, X., Chin, S. C., & Ashraf, T. (2022). RSM-based modelling of cement mortar with various water-to-cement ratio and steel slag content. Physics and Chemistry of the Earth, 128, 103256. (Cited by: 3)

5️⃣ Ho, C. M., Doh, S. I., Al-Btoush, A. M., Li, X., & Chin, S. C. (2022). The impact of alkali activator dosage on the compressive strength and water absorption of steel slag concrete. Materials Today: Proceedings, 51, 1323-1326. (Cited by: 2)

Dr. Despoina Tounta | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Despoina Tounta | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Greece.

Despoina D. Tounta is a Doctoral Candidate at the Department of Geology and Geoenvironment, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens. With a strong background in environmental science, disaster management, and public health, her research focuses on the interplay between climate change, pandemics, and zoonotic diseases. She has presented her work at international conferences and published in renowned scientific journals.

Profile

Scopus

Orcid

🎓 Education

Despoina D. Tounta holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Geology and Geoenvironment from the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, which she earned in 1991. Building on her expertise in environmental sciences, she pursued a Master’s Degree in Environmental, Disaster, and Crisis Management Strategies at the same institution, graduating in 2017. Currently, she is a Ph.D. candidate at the Department of Geology and Geoenvironment, where her research focuses on the impact of climate change and pandemics from zoonotic diseases. Her doctoral thesis, titled “Climate Change and Pandemics from Zoonoses: Emerging Risks for Public Health and Strategies for Prevention in the Cyclades Island Complex,” explores the intersection of environmental changes and public health risks, with an emphasis on developing policies for disaster preparedness and mitigation.

💼 Experience

Despoina D. Tounta has actively contributed to environmental research and disaster management through training, conferences, and presentations. In 1993, she completed specialized training in Remote Sensing at the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, focusing on natural environment protection. Her expertise in disaster resilience led her to present at SafeGreece 2017 (SafeAthens), where she discussed seismic risk prevention in public buildings. In 2021, she presented her research at the International CEST Conference, exploring the impact of weather conditions on COVID-19 spread. Continuing her work on environmental health, she spoke at the Climate Crisis Conference in 2022, analyzing the link between air pollution and COVID-19 mortality. Most recently, in 2023, she participated in COMECAP 2023, where she examined the association between solar irradiance, pollution, and COVID-19 cases in Athens, further reinforcing her role in climate and public health research.

🔬 Research Interests

🌍 Climate Change & Public Health – Investigating the link between environmental factors and zoonotic disease outbreaks.

🦠 Epidemics & Pandemics – Studying the spread of infectious diseases and their correlation with weather and pollution.

🏢 Seismic Risk Prevention – Assessing non-structural vulnerability in public buildings.

📡 Remote Sensing & Environmental Monitoring – Applying geospatial tools to analyze climate-related health risks.

🏆 Awards & Recognitions

Speaker & Contributor at multiple international conferences on environmental hazards, pandemics, and disaster management.

Recognized Researcher for work on COVID-19, climate change, and public health strategies.

📚 Publications

Human Activities and Zoonotic Epidemics: A Two-Way Relationship – The Case of the COVID-19 Pandemic

📌 Authors: Tounta, D.D.; Nastos, P.T.; Tesseromatis, C.
📌 Journal: Global Sustainability (2022)
📌 Volume: 5, e19
📌 Citations: 3

Could Saliva Play a Role in Controlling the COVID-19 Pandemic?

📌 Authors: Papadopoulou, A.; Tounta, D.; Tesseromatis, C.
📌 Journal: Stomatologija

 

 

 

Dr. Shixian Bai | Energy | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Shixian Bai | Energy | Best Researcher Award

School of Electrical Engineering, Xi’an University of Technology, China.

Shixian Bai is a distinguished researcher at the School of Electrical Engineering, Xi’an University of Technology, specializing in power electronic control technology, renewable energy generation systems, and electrochemical energy storage solutions. His pioneering work focuses on SOC equalization control methods that improve the performance and efficiency of energy storage systems, particularly in DC–DC converter cascaded energy storage setups. Bai's innovative research has made a significant impact on enhancing both charging and discharging capacities, contributing to the advancement of energy storage technologies.

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🎓 Education

Shixian Bai holds a degree in Electrical Engineering. His academic background is centered on power electronic control technology and renewable energy generation systems, equipping him with the expertise necessary for his groundbreaking research in energy storage solutions.

💼 Experience

Bai is currently engaged in research at the School of Electrical Engineering, Xi’an University of Technology, where he leads projects on electric-thermal balance control among battery modules in DC–DC cascaded energy storage systems. His work has not only contributed to advancing theoretical understanding but has also provided practical solutions for enhancing energy storage performance. Bai’s involvement in industry-related projects has not been reported, but his academic contributions are notable.

🔬 Research Interests

Power Electronic Control Technology: Developing advanced control methods to enhance the performance and reliability of electronic systems, particularly in energy storage applications.

Renewable Energy Generation Systems: Exploring the integration of renewable energy sources with efficient storage and conversion technologies to support sustainable energy solutions.

Electrochemical Energy Storage Solutions: Focusing on innovative ways to improve the efficiency, lifespan, and capacity of energy storage systems, with an emphasis on electrochemical solutions such as batteries.

Control Mechanisms for Energy Storage Systems: Addressing the complexities of managing energy storage systems, particularly through the optimization of SOC (State of Charge) and SOH (State of Health) variations to maximize performance and sustainability.

Publication 📚

Bai, S. (2024). SOC Equalization Control Method Considering SOH in DC–DC Converter Cascaded Energy Storage Systems. Energies, 17(24), 6385. Link

 

 

 

Ms. Yaqi Xiao | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Yaqi Xiao | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Sun Yat-sen University, China

Xiao Yaqi is a master's student at Sun Yat-sen University's School of Geography and Planning, specializing in National Space Planning and Smart Urban and Rural Construction. A dedicated scholar and a passionate community contributor, she brings a strong interdisciplinary foundation in marine science and geography to her academic and project work. Xiao is recognized for her outstanding achievements, having won several prestigious awards and scholarships, and she actively participates in cultural, academic, and volunteer activities.

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Education 🎓

Ms. Xiao Yaqi is pursuing a Master’s degree in Geography and Planning (2022-2025) at Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, where her studies focus on cutting-edge topics like Big Data and Spatial Analysis and Machine Learning in Geoscience Applications. She previously earned a Bachelor’s degree in Marine Sciences (2018-2022) from the same institution in Zhuhai, achieving a GPA of 3.9/5.0 and ranking among the top 7% of her class.

Experience 💼

Ms. Xiao Yaqi has gained diverse experience through her roles in research, teaching, and student leadership. At the Guangdong Provincial Marine Development Planning Research Center (2024.07-2024.09), she conducted island planning and ecological protection research, delivering a detailed analysis report. Her involvement in Zhuhai marine economy projects (2024.01-2024.09) focused on carbon emissions, green industry upgrades, and economic development, leading to impactful policy recommendations. Additionally, as an Undergraduate Teaching Assistant (2022.09-2023.09), she supported courses on Human Geography and Big Data Applications, efficiently managing course materials and assignments. Her five-year commitment to Sun Yat-sen University’s Student Union (2018-2023) saw her organizing cultural and academic events, significantly enriching campus life.

Research Interests 🔬

Urban and Regional Planning

Focused on smart city development, Ms. Xiao Yaqi explores innovative approaches to urban management, integrating technology and sustainable practices to enhance urban functionality and resilience.

Marine Science and Economy

Her expertise extends to marine science, with an emphasis on carbon emissions reduction, ecological sustainability, and fostering green industry upgrades to support the blue economy.

GIS and Remote Sensing Applications

Proficient in GIS and remote sensing technologies, Ms. Xiao applies these tools in geography and marine studies to analyze spatial patterns and inform data-driven decision-making.

Awards 🏆

Sun Yat-sen University Scholarship First Prize (2022)

Outstanding Student Third Prize (2019, 2020, 2021)

Star Volunteer (2022, 2023)

Publication 📚

Impact of Turbidity on Satellite-Derived Bathymetry: Comparative Analysis Across Seven Ports in the South China Sea

Journal: Remote Sensing; Publication Date: November 2024; Contributors: Chunzhu Wei, Yaqi Xiao, Dongjie Fu, Tingting ZhouLink. Link