Zhiyuan Qi | Ecology | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Zhiyuan Qi | Ecology | Best Researcher Award

Jianghan University | China 

Mr. Zhiyuan Qi is a dedicated Master Candidate in Biology at the College of Life Sciences, Jianghan University, specializing in aquatic biological resources protection. Holding a Bachelor’s degree in Biotechnology from Liaoning University, her undergraduate research focused on the anti-hepatoma activity of intracellular polysaccharides from Paecilomyces hepiali. Her academic journey reflects a strong commitment to aquatic ecology, with active participation in the Yangtze River “Ten-Year Fishing Moratorium” monitoring project aimed at supporting sustainable aquatic ecosystem management. Mr. Zhiyuan Qi has contributed to the field through publications, including one in an EI-indexed journal and another in the international journal Animals, showcasing her research in fish community ecology and freshwater ecosystem restoration. Her scholarly excellence was recognized through the “Excellent Graduate Report” Award at an academic meeting of the Fisheries Resources and Environment Branch of the China Society of Fisheries. Mr. Zhiyuan Qi research focuses on the ecological monitoring of freshwater systems, providing crucial data for resource management and biodiversity conservation in the Three Gorges Reservoir head area. Through her scientific contributions, she strives to advance understanding of aquatic ecosystem dynamics, offering insights that promote effective conservation policies and sustainable management practices for regional aquatic resources.

Profile: Orcid 

Featured Publications

Qi, Z., Zhai, D., Liu, H., Xiong, F., Liao, C., Tian, H., & Duan, X. (2025). Fish community structure and nested distribution pattern of the three tributaries at the head of the Three Gorges Reservoir. Journal of Lake Sciences, 33, Article 032.

Cai, F., Qi, Z., Hu, Z., Zhai, D., Chen, Y., Xiong, F., & Liu, H. (2025, September). Revealing phenotypic differentiation in Ochetobius elongatus from the Middle Yangtze River through geometric morphometrics. Animals, 15(19), 2870.

Sergio Susmallian | General Surgery | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Sergio Susmallian | General Surgery | Best Researcher Award

Assuta Medical Center | Israel

Dr. Sergio Susmallian is a distinguished general and bariatric surgeon whose career spans extensive clinical practice, academic contributions, and research excellence. He began his academic journey in physical and sport education before completing his medical training at the Faculty of Medicine of the National University of Cordoba, Argentina, where he investigated the use of polypropylene mesh for complex incisional hernias. His professional training includes residencies in general surgery in Argentina and Israel, advanced courses in microsurgery, molecular biology, and trauma life support, leading to board certification in general surgery in both Argentina and Israel. Dr. Sergio Susmallian has held senior surgical positions across major Israeli hospitals, serving as head of laparoscopic and general surgery departments, chief of operating rooms, and overseeing bariatric surgery programs. His academic appointments encompass instructor, lecturer, and assistant professor roles at Tel Aviv University, Hebrew University, and Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, with active participation in teaching undergraduate, postgraduate, and clinical students. He has contributed significantly to scientific literature with publications on bariatric procedures, hernia repair, and postoperative care, serving as reviewer and editorial board member for multiple journals, including BMC Surgery, Obesity Surgery, and the British Journal of Surgery. Dr. Sergio Susmallian is an active member of national and international professional societies in surgery, bariatric treatment, and endoscopic procedures, and has delivered invited lectures at global conferences. His research focuses on optimizing surgical outcomes, minimally invasive techniques, and patient recovery, reflecting his commitment to advancing surgical practice and education while integrating clinical expertise with innovative research in the field of general and bariatric surgery, with 1,137 citations by 1,100 documents, 39 publications, and an h-index of 17.

Featured Publications

Paran, H., Wider, T., Mayo, A., Neufeld, D., Susmallian, S., Shwartz, I., & Freund, U. (1998). The effect of the somatostatin analogue octreotide on experimental intestinal obstruction in rats. Acta Cir. Bras., 13(4), 207–211. (CI ISI N/A, IF 1.564, JR 169/197, Q3)

Paran, H., Neufeld, D., Shwartz, I., Kidron, D., Susmallian, S., Mayo, A., Dayan, K., Vider, I., Sivak, G., & Freud, U. (1996). Perforation of the terminal ileum induced by blast injury: Delayed diagnosis or delayed perforation? J Trauma, 40(3), 472–475. (CI ISI 36, IF 2.961, JR 31/204, Q1)

Kleeff, J., Friess, H., Simon, P., Susmallian, S., Buchler, P., Zimmermann, A., Büchler, M. W., & Korc, M. (1999). Over-expression of Smad 2 and co-localization with TGF-β in human pancreatic cancer. Dig Dis Sci, 44(9), 1793–1802. (CI ISI 24, IF 2.819, JR 46/80, Q3)

Susmallian, S., Dewurtz, G., Ezri, T., & Charuzi, I. (2001). Seroma after laparoscopic repair of hernia with PTFE patch: Is it really a complication? Hernia, 5(3), 139–141. (CI ISI N/A, IF 1.932, JR 89/197, Q2)

Susmallian, S., Ezri, T., & Charuzi, I. (2002). Laparoscopic repair of access port site hernia after Lap-Band system implantation. Obes. Surg., 12(5), 682–684. (CI ISI 21, IF 3.947, JR 19/197, Q1)

Ivan Beloev | Ecology | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Ivan Beloev | Ecology | Best Researcher Award

Angel Kanchev University of Ruse | Bulgaria

Prof. Ivan Beloev is a distinguished academic and researcher at the University of Ruse “Angel Kanchev,” where he serves as Head of the Center for Continuing Education and the Department of Transport. His expertise lies in technology and transport management, with extensive experience in developing innovative systems for sustainable mobility, intelligent transport, and emission control. A PhD graduate in Transport, Shipping and Aviation, he has designed and researched modular systems for combined energy supply and emission monitoring in road transport. Over the years, Prof. Ivan Beloev has advanced from assistant to full professor, contributing significantly to the academic and research excellence of the institution. His work encompasses national and international projects focusing on low-carbon transport, intelligent mobility, and driver behavior analysis. He has authored monographs, scientific articles, and conference papers on alternative energy vehicles, hydrogen fuel technologies, and digital transformation in transport systems. Recognized for his scientific achievements, Prof. Ivan Beloev has received numerous awards for innovation, research, and academic excellence. He is also actively engaged in international collaborations, Erasmus programs, and scientific societies, enhancing global cooperation in sustainable transport development. Fluent in Bulgarian, English, and German, he demonstrates strong communication, leadership, and analytical skills, fostering a dynamic environment for research and education. With 495 citations from 476 documents, 80 publications, and an h-index of 11, his impactful research continues to advance transport technology and shape the future of intelligent and sustainable mobility.

Featured Publications

Ozkan-Okay, M., Akin, E., Aslan, Ö., Kosunalp, S., Iliev, T., Stoyanov, I., & Beloev, I. (2024). A comprehensive survey: Evaluating the efficiency of artificial intelligence and machine learning techniques on cyber security solutions. IEEE Access, 12, 12229–12256.

Beloev, I. H. (2016). A review on current and emerging application possibilities for unmanned aerial vehicles. Acta Technologica Agriculturae, 19(3), 70–76.

Beloev, I., Kinaneva, D., Georgiev, G., Hristov, G., & Zahariev, P. (2021). Artificial intelligence-driven autonomous robot for precision agriculture. Acta Technologica Agriculturae, 24(1), 48–54.

Iliev, T. B., Ivanova, E. P., Stoyanov, I. S., Mihaylov, G. Y., & Beloev, I. H. (2021). Artificial intelligence in wireless communications—evolution towards 6G mobile networks. 44th International Convention on Info, Communication and Electronic Technology (MIPRO), 2021.

Bulgakov, V., Antoshchenkov, R., Adamchuk, V., Halych, I., Ihnatiev, Y., & Beloev, I. (2022). Investigation of the tractor performance when ballasting its rear half-frame. INMATEH-Agricultural Engineering, 68(3).

Mohamed Bey Zekkoub | Environmental Modelling | Young Researcher Award

Dr. Mohamed Bey Zekkoub | Environmental Modelling | Young Researcher Award

Researcher | Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology | Switzerland

Dr. Mohamed Bey Zekkoub is a dedicated environmental scientist and water expert with extensive experience in water quality analysis, environmental risk assessment, and predictive modeling of complex environmental systems. His work bridges experimental research, numerical simulations, and machine learning approaches to understand and mitigate the impacts of chemical pollutants and plastic waste in aquatic ecosystems. He has contributed to major studies on industrial effluents, riverine pollution, and the fate of polymers in water systems, providing actionable insights for sustainable water management and ecological protection. Dr. Mohamed Bey Zekkoub has held research and consultancy roles in leading institutions, where he developed advanced numerical models, conducted ecological risk assessments, and guided mitigation strategies for environmental compliance. His expertise spans hydro informatics, chemistry, environmental modeling, and natural resource management, enabling him to support evidence-based policy development and sustainable practices. He has been recognized for his innovative contributions with prestigious awards and has presented his research at international conferences while publishing in top-tier journals. In addition to research, he has actively contributed to the development of environmental modeling tools, enhancing the accuracy of pollutant transport simulations. With a strong foundation in computational fluid dynamics, numerical modeling, and programming languages, Mohamed combines technical proficiency with a passion for addressing global environmental challenges, particularly in water security, pollution management, and the sustainable stewardship of natural resources. He continues to advance knowledge in environmental science through interdisciplinary collaboration, experimentation, and innovative modeling approaches to support a healthier and more resilient planet. His work has been cited once since 2020, with an h-index of 1, reflecting recognition of his contributions to the field.

Featured Publications

Bey-Zekkoub, M., Tassi, P., Lucas, C., & Chhim, N. (2025). Modeling solute transport in rivers: Analytical and numerical solutions. Environmental Modelling & Software, 106580.

Bey-Zekkoub, M., Tassi, P., & Chhim, N. (2025). Assessing the impacts of sodium polyacrylate discharge into the Seine River: A numerical modeling approach. Journal of Contaminant Hydrology, 104740.

Bey-Zekkoub, M., Tassi, P., Chhim, N., Bretaud, M., & Harnichard, A. (2024). Interaction between sodium polyacrylate and sediment transport in a simplified river reach configuration. Telemac User Conference TUC 2024.

Bey-Zekkoub, M., Tassi, P., Lucas, C., & Chhim, N. (2024). Analytical and numerical solutions for one-dimensional solute transport in rivers: Advection, adsorption, degradation, and bed accumulation. Journal of Hydrology.

Kaouthar Feki | Plants Gene Transformation | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Kaouthar Feki | Plants Gene Transformation | Best Researcher Award

Associate Professor | Centre of Biotechnology of Sfax | Tunisia

Dr. Kaouthar Feki is an accomplished Associate Professor at the Biotechnology and Plant Improvement Laboratory, Centre of Biotechnology of Sfax, Tunisia. Her expertise lies in plant biotechnology, molecular genetics, stress response, genome-wide analysis, plant transformation, and protein purification. She has made significant contributions to the understanding of plant adaptation mechanisms under abiotic stress through her extensive research on wheat, legumes, and other model plants. Dr. Kaouthar Feki has a strong academic background with advanced degrees in biological, molecular, and cellular sciences from the University of Sfax. As a passionate educator, she has taught and supervised graduate students in genetics, microbiology, and plant sciences at several Tunisian universities, guiding numerous master’s and doctoral researchers. She has participated in several international workshops focusing on genomics, metagenomics, and bioinformatics, enhancing her interdisciplinary research capabilities. A respected scholar, Dr. Kaouthar Feki serves on the editorial board of the Journal of Plant Sciences and is an active peer reviewer for multiple high-impact journals. Her research achievements include 672 citations across 546 documents, with 29 publications and an h-index of 14, reflecting her strong academic impact and recognition. Her international publications and book chapters highlight her dedication to advancing sustainable agricultural practices through biotechnological innovation. Multilingual and collaborative, she continues to foster scientific excellence and mentorship within the global research community, contributing profoundly to the field of plant molecular biology and stress physiology.

Featured Publications

Feki, K., Quintero, F. J., Khoudi, H., Leidi, E. O., Masmoudi, K., Pardo, J. M., & Brini, F. (2014). A constitutively active form of a durum wheat Na+/H+ antiporter SOS1 confers high salt tolerance to transgenic Arabidopsis. Plant Cell Reports, 33(2), 277-288.

Saibi, W., Feki, K., Ben Mahmoud, R., & Brini, F. (2015). Durum wheat dehydrin (DHN-5) confers salinity tolerance to transgenic Arabidopsis plants through the regulation of proline metabolism and ROS scavenging system. Planta, 242(5), 1187-1194.

Feki, K., Tounsi, S., Mrabet, M., Mhadhbi, H., & Brini, F. (2021). Recent advances in physiological and molecular mechanisms of heavy metal accumulation in plants. Environmental Science and Pollution Research, 28(46), 64967-64986.

Feki, K., Quintero, F. J., Pardo, J. M., & Masmoudi, K. (2011). Regulation of durum wheat Na+/H+ exchanger TdSOS1 by phosphorylation. Plant Molecular Biology, 76(6), 545-556.

Kaouthar, F., Ameny, F. K., Yosra, K., Walid, S., Ali, G., & Faical, B. (2016). Responses of transgenic Arabidopsis plants and recombinant yeast cells expressing a novel durum wheat manganese superoxide dismutase TdMnSOD to various abiotic stresses. Journal of Plant Physiology, 198, 56-68.

Tianyi Gao | Nanotechnology | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Tianyi Gao | Nanotechnology | Best Researcher Award

Postgraduate | Nanotechnology and Catalysis Research Centre | China

Ms. Tianyi Gao is a passionate researcher specializing in nanotechnology and electrochemical energy systems, currently pursuing her Master of Applied Science at the University of Malaya, Malaysia. Her research interests encompass electrochemical energy storage, energy conversion, and computational materials science, focusing on batteries, supercapacitors, and catalytic reactions for sustainable energy technologies. She has made significant contributions through publications in reputed journals such as Toxics, Journal of Physics: Conference Series, and Catalysts, where her work on MXene-based materials and transition metal dichalcogenides has gained notable attention. Ms. Tianyi Gao has participated in several advanced research projects, including the development of MOF-derived metal oxides and high-entropy alloys for energy applications, as well as microstructural analysis of duplex stainless steels and high-entropy alloys in collaboration with international institutions. Skilled in computational simulations, material characterization, and electrochemical analysis, she integrates both theoretical and experimental approaches to design high-performance materials. Her dedication to sustainable science, innovation, and academic excellence reflects her commitment to addressing global energy challenges.

Profile: Orcid 

Featured Publications

Gao, T., Li, Y., Lai, C. W., Xiang, P., Badruddin, I. A., Dhiman, P., & Kumar, A. (2025). Recent advances in transition metal dichalcogenide-based electrodes for asymmetric supercapacitors. Catalysts, 15(10), 945.

Li, Y., Li, Y., Zhang, S., Gao, T., Gao, Z., Lai, C. W., Xiang, P., & Yang, F. (2025). Global distribution, ecotoxicity, and treatment technologies of emerging contaminants in aquatic environments: A recent five-year review. Toxics, 13(8), 616.

Gao, T., & Li, Z. (2023). Preparation of mesoporous γ-alumina from red mud waste. Journal of Physics: Conference Series, 2553(1), 012022.

Meshack Rodgers Wafula | Cytogenetics | Young Scientist Award

Mr. Meshack Rodgers Wafula | Cytogenetics | Young Scientist Award

Mr. Meshack Rodgers Wafula | Masisnde Muliro University of Science and Technology | Kenya

Mr. Meshack Rodgers Wafula is a vision-driven Biology and Agriculture teacher and Agronomist with extensive experience in agronomy, agricultural extension, capacity building, and resource mobilization. He is a strategic and analytical professional dedicated to promoting sustainable agricultural practices, community empowerment, and poverty alleviation through innovative farming initiatives. His expertise encompasses planning and managing farm operations, conducting training in good agronomic practices, supervising field activities, and enhancing productivity through scientific approaches. Mr. Meshack Rodgers Wafula has demonstrated excellence in greenhouse management, pest and disease control, dairy and poultry production, and crop research focusing on high-value vegetables. He has also contributed to agricultural education as a lecturer, developing lesson plans, teaching crop and animal production, and guiding students in fieldwork. His career spans working with diverse institutions including Hydroponics Africa Ltd, Nyabon Enterprise Ltd, and Kit Mikayi Vegetable Farm Company, where he played key roles in agronomic training, community mobilization, and sustainable value chain development. A passionate advocate for environmental stewardship and inclusivity, he possesses strong leadership, communication, and project management skills. He is proficient in using modern tools and technologies to optimize agricultural outcomes and remains deeply committed to transforming farming systems for food security and economic growth. Beyond his professional pursuits, Mr. Meshack Rodgers Wafula enjoys farming, handball, social interaction, and football, reflecting his dynamic and community-oriented personality.

Profile: Orcid 

Featured Publications

Wafula, M. R., Muyekho, F. N., Muleke, E. M., Wamocho, L. S., Munyasi, J. W., & Hoka, A. I. (2025). Exploiting polyploidy in Napier grass (Cenchrus purpureus Schumach) for increased forage yield. Grasses, 4(4), Article 0039.

Nikos Theodoulidis | Geophysics | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Nikos Theodoulidis | Geophysics | Best Researcher Award

Research Director | Institute Engineering Seismology and Earthquake Engineering | Greece

Dr. Nikos Theodoulidis is a distinguished geologist and seismologist serving as Research Director with extensive experience in engineering seismology and earthquake engineering. He has been a dedicated researcher at the Institute of Engineering Seismology and Earthquake Engineering in Thessaloniki, Greece, where he also held the position of Director. His work focuses on strong ground motion modeling, seismic hazard assessment, surface geophysics, and evaluating site effects using both earthquake and ambient noise data. He has made significant contributions to understanding the consequences of destructive earthquakes and has been instrumental in planning, operating, and analyzing data from accelerometric networks. As a lead scientist, he has overseen numerous national and European research projects, contributing to advancements in earthquake engineering practice and policy. He has authored and co-authored over 108 documents, cited more than 3,556 times across 2,631 documents, and holds an h-index of 30, reflecting his sustained impact on the field. His expertise bridges theoretical research and practical application, providing critical insights into earthquake risk mitigation, infrastructure resilience, and public safety, while demonstrating a long-standing commitment to advancing seismology and mentoring the next generation of researchers.

Profile: Scopus | Orcid 

Featured Publications

Xun, Z., Theodoulidis, N., et al. Estimation of vertical amplification correction function (VACF) in Greece based on the generalized inversion technique of strong motion and diffuse field concept on earthquakes. Bulletin of the Seismological Society of America.

Xun, Z., Theodoulidis, N., et al. Ground-motion dependency on seasonal variations: Observations at the ARGONET array, Cephalonia, Greece. Bulletin of the Seismological Society of America.

Xun, Z., Theodoulidis, N., et al. Analyzing the stability of P-wave seismogram method for estimating VS30: Insights from two accelerometer arrays in Greece. Bulletin of the Seismological Society of America.

Xun, Z., Theodoulidis, N., et al. Towards site-specific ground motion estimates in Greece using a partially non-ergodic, mixed-effects, neural network approach. Soil Dynamics and Earthquake Engineering.

Xun, Z., Theodoulidis, N., et al. Constraining the near-surface VS structure by the joint inversion of SH wave transfer function, Rayleigh wave dispersion and ellipticity information. Geophysical Journal International.

Zhifeng Xun | Soil Carbon | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Zhifeng Xun | Soil Carbon | Best Researcher Award

Lecturer | Liaoning Agricultural Vocation and Technical College | China

Dr. Zhifeng Xun is a lecturer at Liaoning Agricultural Vocational and Technical College with a strong academic background in Grassland Science and Turfgrass Resources and Utilization. His research focuses on soil carbon and nitrogen cycling and the microbial pathways responsible for the production of the greenhouse gas nitrous oxide (N₂O). Through a combination of biological inhibition experiments and high-throughput sequencing, he has identified fungi, particularly Ascomycota, as significant contributors to N₂O emissions under nitrogen fertilization, revealing that moderate nitrogen input disproportionately stimulates fungal-driven emissions. Dr. Zhifeng Xunhas contributed to multiple major research programs, enhancing the understanding of microbial mechanisms in urban lawn soils and providing a scientific foundation for sustainable nitrogen management in green spaces. He has authored four journal publications and a book, advancing knowledge in ecosystem management and climate change mitigation. His work integrates soil science and microbial ecology to inform practical strategies for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting resilient, sustainable urban landscapes. His research has garnered 16 citations across 16 documents, with an h-index of 2.

Profile: Scopus | Orcid 

Featured Publications

Xun, Z., Zhao, M., Zhao, X., Wang, M., Liu, Y., Han, X., Zhang, Y., Wu, Y., & Quan, Z. (2025-10). Role of fungi in N<sub>2</sub>O emissions from nitrogen-fertilized lawn soil. Nitrogen.

Quan, Z., Li, S., Xun, Z., Liu, C., Liu, D., Wang, Y., Zhao, X., Yang, M., Lu, C., Chen, X., et al. (2024-07). Evaluating the effects of reduced N application, a nitrification inhibitor, and straw incorporation on fertilizer-N fates in the maize growing season: A field <sup>15</sup>N tracer study. Nitrogen.

Quan, Z., Li, S., Xun, Z., Liu, C., Liu, D., Wang, Y., Zhao, X., Yang, M., Lu, C., Chen, X., et al. (2024). Effects of reduced N application, nitrification inhibitor, and straw incorporation on fertilizer-N fates in maize cropping system: A field <sup>15</sup>N tracer study in Northeastern China. Working paper.

Diego Guevara Torres | Remote Sensing | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Diego Guevara Torres | Remote Sensing | Best Researcher Award

The University of Adelaide | Australia

Dr. Diego Guevara Torres is a passionate ecologist whose work bridges field-based ecology, remote sensing, and environmental management. With an academic foundation in biology and applied ecology, he earned his doctorate in ecology and evolutionary biology from the University of Adelaide, where his research explored restoration and monitoring of temperate grasslands using advanced remote sensing and drone-based mapping. His professional experience spans roles as Senior Environmental Scientist, Research Scientist, and Environmental Consultant across Australia and Peru, where he has contributed to vegetation mapping, ecological modeling, impact assessments, and biodiversity monitoring. Skilled in GIS, project coordination, and data analysis using R, Python, ArcGIS, and Google Earth Engine, he brings a data-driven approach to conservation and restoration projects. His field expertise includes bird surveys, vegetation assessment, and habitat suitability modeling. With 12 citations across 12 documents, 5 publications, and an h-index of 2, Dr. Diego Guevara Torres has established a growing scientific footprint. A licensed drone pilot and active member of several ecological societies, he is dedicated to advancing environmental sustainability, promoting ecosystem restoration, and conserving biodiversity across diverse landscapes.

Featured Publications

Guevara, T. (2012). Avifauna of the forest nursery of the National Agrarian University La Molina. Xilema, 25(1), 83–87.

Guevara-Torres, D. R., & Facelli, J. M. (2023). Choose local: Dung addition from native herbivores can produce substantial positive effects on the growth of native grasses compared to livestock dung. Journal of Soil Science and Plant Nutrition, 23(3), 4647–4655.

Guevara-Torres, D. R., Williams, M., & Palacios, G. (2022). Use of the rock pigeon (Columba livia) as a biomonitor of trace metal pollution in Lima, Peru. Ecología Aplicada, 21(2), 103–112.

Guevara-Torres, D. R., Salvador, J., Antezana, M., Hernández, F., Chumpitaz, K., & Saravia, P. (2017). Records of Vireo flavoviridis on the central coast of Peru. Boletín de la Unión de Ornitólogos del Perú, 12, 15–19.

Guevara-Torres, D. R. (2017). La Molina. Universidad Nacional Agraria La Molina.

Chanchamayo, J. P. (2021). Preliminary list of fauna from Fundo La Génova, Chanchamayo, Junín, Peru.