Rabaka Sultana | Environmental Engineering | Excellence in Innovation

Mrs. Rabaka Sultana | Environmental Engineering | Excellence in Innovation

Research graduate, Charles Darwin University, Australia

Rabaka Sultana is an accomplished academic and construction professional recognized for advancing sustainable building practices through pioneering research, innovative teaching, and industry leadership. With expertise in life cycle assessment (LCA) and integrating traffic and machinery noise impacts into construction assessments, she contributes to academic knowledge and practical solutions for sustainable development.

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Education 🎓

Rabaka holds a PhD in Civil Engineering (2021-present) from Charles Darwin University, a Master of Civil and Environmental Engineering from the University of South Australia (2015), and a Bachelor of Civil Engineering from Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (2005). She also has various certificates in training and assessment, building construction, and early childhood education.

Experience 💼

Rabaka has diverse experience as a lecturer, building supervisor, and educator. She has worked as a Lecturer at Sunbeam International College, Building Supervisor at Kingsford Homes, Teaching Assistant at Charles Darwin University, and Lecturer at Daffodil International University. She has also led projects focusing on quality, environmental impact, and client satisfaction in the construction industry.

Research Interest 🔍

Rabaka Sultana’s research focuses on advancing sustainable construction practices through innovative approaches. Her work encompasses life cycle assessment (LCA), a methodology used to evaluate the environmental impacts of buildings and construction materials throughout their entire life cycle. She is also dedicated to integrating environmental impacts, including noise pollution, into construction evaluation frameworks. This involves developing comprehensive assessment tools that consider not only traditional factors like energy consumption and material usage but also the effects of noise on human health and the environment. By exploring these areas, Rabaka aims to contribute to the development of more sustainable and environmentally responsible construction practices.

Awards 🏆

Rabaka received the Award for Developing Online Platform for Engineering Course (2019) from Daffodil International University, recognizing her innovative and efficient online platform to deliver engineering courses.

Publications 📄

Sultana, R., Rashedi, A., Khanam, T. (2022). “Life Cycle Environmental Sustainability and energy assessment of Timber Wall Construction: A comprehensive overview.” Sustainability, 14(7), 4161. (link unavailable)

Sultana, R., Khanam, T., Rashedi, A., Rajabipour, A. (2025). “Integrating Noise into Life Cycle Assessment for Sustainable High-Rise Construction: A Comparative Study of Concrete, Timber, and Steel Frames in Australia.” Sustainability, 17(9), 4040.

Conclusion

Based on her research achievements, innovative teaching methods, and industry experience, Rabaka Sultana is a suitable candidate for the Research for Excellence in Innovation award. Her dedication to advancing sustainable building practices and her commitment to education and mentorship demonstrate her potential to make a lasting impact in her field. With further emphasis on interdisciplinary collaboration and practical application, she is well-positioned to continue driving innovation in sustainable construction.

 

Maral Habibi | Climate Change | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Maral Habibi | Climate Change | Best Researcher Award

climate and environment, University of Graz: Karl-Franzens-Universitat Graz, Austria 

Dr. Maral Habibi is a Climate Research Scientist at the University of Graz, Austria 🌍. With over a decade of experience in climatology, remote sensing, and environmental modeling, she has significantly contributed to drought monitoring, snow drought analysis, and climate vulnerability studies. Her research bridges science and policy, focusing on sustainable solutions for climate challenges such as water scarcity and extreme weather events 💧🌪️. She has served at leading institutions like GeoSphere Austria and ASMERC, and remains actively involved in EU and national climate projects, delivering impactful science that informs SDG policy and resilience planning 📊.

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Education 🎓

Dr. Habibi holds a Ph.D. in Physical Geography with a specialization in Climate Impacts, where she developed advanced modeling tools to assess climate-induced vulnerabilities across arid and mountainous terrains 🏔️📚. Her academic journey was shaped by rigorous training in geospatial analysis, meteorology, and environmental systems at esteemed institutions, building a strong foundation in climate sciences. Her education not only provided technical expertise but also fostered a passion for translational research — turning data into decisions for communities and ecosystems under stress 🌿.

Experience 💼

Dr. Habibi has served in multiple scientific and academic roles across Europe and the Middle East 🗺️. She is currently a Climate Research Scientist at the University of Graz, contributing to EU-funded projects such as HISTALP and SDGHub. At GeoSphere Austria, she supported climate reporting systems and national adaptation strategies 🛰️. As a researcher at ASMERC/RIMAS, she focused on dust storm dynamics and extreme climate events in arid regions. With visiting research experience at Padova University (Italy), she’s also involved in international collaborations on hydrological modeling and bias correction for climate data 🌧️🌬️.

Research Interests 🔬

Dr. Habibi’s research centers on climate change impact assessment, drought and snow drought monitoring, and geostatistical climate data interpolation 📡. She specializes in satellite-based environmental change detection, mountain hydrology, dust storm modeling, and sustainability indicators aligned with SDGs 🌎📈. Her innovations, such as improved kriging-based interpolation techniques and multi-index vulnerability frameworks, support risk mapping and policy applications. Her work applies remote sensing and AI to model environmental extremes and inform adaptation planning, making her research vital for climate-resilient futures 🔄.

Awards 🏅

Recognized for her impactful work in climate modeling and sustainability, Dr. Habibi is a prime candidate for the Best Researcher Award by Environmental Scientists Awards 🏆. Her portfolio includes over 25 peer-reviewed publications, coordination in national and EU-level projects, and active participation in global research networks such as the EGU and Copernicus 🌐. Her contributions to climate services, drought detection, and SDG indicator development have supported policy initiatives in Austria and beyond, marking her as a leader in applied environmental science 🏛️.

Publications 📚

📘 Drought Characteristics and Variability in the Urmia Lake Basin: Application of the SPI and SPEI, Water, 2022 – Cited by 17

📘 Assessing Snow Drought in the Alpine Region Using Homogenized Time Series, Atmosphere, 2023 – Cited by 9

📘 Climate Vulnerability Index for Drying Lakes: A Case from Iran, Theoretical and Applied Climatology, 2022 – Cited by 6

📘 Geostatistical Interpolation of Climate Indicators: Kriging with External Drift Method, Remote Sensing, 2021 – Cited by 11

📘 Impact of Climate Change on Water Resources in Arid Regions, Land, 2022 – Cited by 8

Conclusion

Dr. Maral Habibi is highly suitable for the Best Researcher Award. Her interdisciplinary research, international collaborations, and application of climate science for real-world environmental planning strongly support her candidacy. With continued growth in citation impact and expanded leadership roles, her contributions to sustainable environmental solutions are both commendable and forward-looking.

Suleiman Usman | Soil and Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Dr Suleiman Usman | Soil and Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Department of Soil Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Federal University Dutse, Jigsaw State Nigeria📝

Dr. Suleiman Usman is an accomplished soil scientist and researcher with expertise in soil and water resources management. His academic journey spans top institutions across Nigeria, the UK, and South Africa, shaping his extensive knowledge in agriculture and environmental science. With over a decade of experience in research and teaching, he has contributed significantly to advancing soil science, particularly in sustainable land management practices. Dr. Usman currently serves as a Senior Lecturer at Federal University Dutse, Nigeria, and actively participates in numerous international soil-related initiatives. 🌍🌱

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Academic Qualifications 🎓

Dr. Usman’s academic path includes a B.Agri. in Soil/Crop Science from Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Nigeria (1999–2004), an MSc in Natural Resources (Plant Health and Protection) from the University of Greenwich, UK (2006–2007), and a PhD in Soil Science (Soil and Water Resources Management) from Nasarawa State University (2023/2024). He also holds certificates in Environmental Security, Research Methodology, and Digital Transformation from prestigious global institutions like the UN Environment Programme and University of Pretoria. 📜🌍

Professional Experience 💼

Dr. Usman has made remarkable contributions as a Research Assistant at the University of Greenwich (2011–2014) and as a Senior Lecturer at Federal University Dutse, Nigeria (2015–2024). His roles include supervising students, coordinating academic programs, and conducting groundbreaking research. As a Research Fellow at the Centre for Agricultural Research and Extension Services (CARES), he focused on innovative solutions for agricultural development. 📚🌿

Research Interests 🔬

Dr. Usman’s research interests encompass soil health, sustainable land management, and the impact of environmental factors on agriculture. His work integrates advanced methodologies, including digital soil mapping, soil biodiversity, and sustainable fertilizer use, to improve agricultural practices and promote food security. 🌾📊

Awards and Recognitions 🏆

Dr. Usman’s dedication to excellence has earned him several national and international accolades, including the National Youth Service Certificate of Merit (2005) and certifications from FAO and Research4Life programs for his contributions to soil science and sustainable development. His leadership in global soil initiatives reflects his commitment to addressing critical environmental challenges. 🌟🌍

Publications 📖

Corporate attributes and share value of listed pharmaceutical firms in Nigeria
Published in: Journal of Arts, Science & Commerce, 2016. Cited by: 41.

Roles of soil biota and biodiversity in soil environment – A concise communication
Published in: Eurasian Journal of Soil Science, 2016. Cited by: 32.

Effects of organophosphate herbicides on biological organisms in soil medium – A mini review
Published in: Journal of Ecology and Toxicology, 2017. Cited by: 30.

Sustainable Soil Management of the Dryland Soils in Northern Nigeria
Published by: GRIN Verlag, 2011. Cited by: 22.

Dynamic surface soil components of land and vegetation types in Kebbi State Nigeria
Published in: Eurasian Journal of Soil Science, 2016. Cited by: 21.

Surface soil factors and soil characteristics in geo-physical milieu of Kebbi State Nigeria
Published in: Eurasian Journal of Soil Science, 2016. Cited by: 17.

Soil problems in dryland environment of sub-Saharan Africa: A review of the impact on soil erosion and desertification
Published in: Biol. Environ. Sci. J. Trop, 2017. Cited by: 8.

Preliminary experimental assessments of 12 different organic materials for soil quality and soil fertility management exercises
Published in: International Journal of Current Research and Review, 2013. Cited by: 7.

New method of soil classification in defining the dynamic condition of agricultural surface soils
Published in: J Environ Sci Toxicol Food Technol, 2013. Cited by: 7.

Socio-ecological indices of farmer-herder conflicts: Implications for conflict prevention in northern senatorial district of Kaduna state, Nigeria
Published by: Hub Rural, 2019. Cited by: 5.

Climate change and soil degradation impact: Farmers’ viewpoints in Kebbi State Nigeria
Published in: International Journal of Current Research and Review, 2013.

Conclusion

Dr. Suleiman Usman’s impressive academic credentials, global training experience, and commitment to soil and environmental research make him an outstanding nominee for the Best Researcher Award. Addressing gaps in published works and emphasizing tangible impacts will enhance his eligibility.

 

Rodica Siminiuc | Climate Change and Sustainability | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr Rodica Siminiuc | Climate Change and Sustainability | Best Researcher Award

Director of Doctoral School, Technical University of Moldova, Moldova 🌟

Rodica Siminiuc is a highly accomplished academic and researcher from Moldova, currently serving as the Director of the Doctoral School at the Technical University of Moldova (UTM). With an extensive career in academia, she has held numerous roles including Head of the Doctoral and Postdoctoral Directorate and Vice-Dean for Scientific Activity at UTM. Her dedication to advancing scientific knowledge and food safety research has made her a respected leader in her field.

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Education 🎓

Rodica earned her Bachelor’s degree in 2005, followed by a Master’s in Food Quality in 2007, and a Doctorate in Engineering Sciences in 2011 from the Technical University of Moldova. She recently obtained her Habilitated Doctorate in 2024, specializing in “Exploratory Analysis of Food Security in the Republic of Moldova,” adding to her impressive academic portfolio.

Experience 💼

Rodica has been an integral part of UTM since 2011, starting as a lecturer and progressing to her current role as Director of the Doctoral School. Her leadership has shaped many research initiatives, including projects on personalized nutrition, sustainable food security, and digital transformation in doctoral studies. Her expertise spans food safety, product technology, and public food management.

Research Interests 🔬

Rodica’s research focuses on food safety, personalized nutrition, and sustainable food security, particularly in the context of Moldova. She has been involved in various state and international research projects, such as the analysis of food security metrics and gluten-free nutrition. Her work aims to enhance nutritional quality and promote health through innovative food technology.

Awards 🏆

Rodica has received numerous accolades for her exceptional contributions to research. She was awarded the Merit Diploma by the Ministry of Education, Culture, and Research for outstanding work in promoting women in science. Additionally, she received a Diploma from UTM for her professional achievements and significant contributions to scientific progress.

Publications Top Notes 📚

“Exploratory Analysis of Food Security in the Republic of Moldova Based on Sustainable Nutritional Quality (CNuD) Metrics of Food Products”

Published: 2024

Journal: Research and Innovation Project (2024-2025)

Cited by: N/A

“Personalized Nutrition and Smart Technologies for My Well-being”

Published: 2020-2023

Journal: State Project No. 20.80009.5107.10

Cited by: N/A

“University Governance and Digital Transformation – Support for the Digital Transformation of Doctoral and Postdoctoral Studies at UTM”

Published: 2021-2023

Journal: AUF-Funded Project

Cited by: N/A

Conclusion

Rodica Siminiuc is an exceptional candidate for the Best Researcher Award. With her extensive experience in food security, nutritional science, and academic leadership, she has made significant contributions to advancing the research landscape in Moldova and beyond. Her research achievements, coupled with her leadership roles, demonstrate her profound impact on both the academic and scientific communities. While there is potential for even greater international collaboration and multidisciplinary work, her track record and dedication to improving food safety and security make her a strong contender for this prestigious award.

Agnieszka Iwan | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Agnieszka Iwan | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

professor, General Tadeusz Kosciuszko Military University of Land Forces, Poland

Agnieszka Iwan is a distinguished professor at both the Akademia Wojsk Lądowych imienia Generala Tadeusza Kościuszki and the Wojskowy Instytut Techniki Inżynieryjnej, Wrocław, Poland. She has been contributing to scientific advancements since 2016, specializing in photovoltaic technology and energy storage systems. Dr. Iwan holds several significant research grants funded by the National Centre for Research and Development in Poland. She is known for her groundbreaking work on perovskite solar cells, polymer-based photovoltaic cells, and hybrid energy storage systems, aiming to innovate and optimize sustainable energy solutions. 🌞🔬

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Education

Dr. Agnieszka Iwan has earned her academic credentials from leading institutions, and she is actively involved in teaching and mentoring future engineers and researchers in the fields of photovoltaics and energy systems. 📚🎓

Experience

With extensive experience, Agnieszka Iwan has been a faculty member in the fields of security and safety research and engineering at two prestigious institutions in Wrocław. Her research spans cutting-edge energy solutions and sustainable technologies, making significant contributions to the academic and industrial landscapes. 💼🌍

Research Interests

Her primary research interests include photovoltaic technology, perovskite solar cells, organic solar cells, energy storage systems, and the integration of renewable energy sources with advanced materials like supercapacitors. Dr. Iwan’s work is essential in pushing the boundaries of clean energy solutions. ⚡🌱

Awards

Dr. Iwan’s innovative research has earned her multiple grants and awards from Poland’s National Centre for Research and Development, recognizing her pioneering work in renewable energy and sustainable technology. 🏅🌟

Publications

Photovoltaic Cells and Scintillators Towards Carbon Footprint Reduction: Advantages and Challenges for Ecological Safety
Materials, 2024-12-03
DOI: 10.3390/ma17235909
Cited by: 0

On the Feasibility of an LCD-Based Real-Time Converter for Ionizing Radiation Imaging
Materials, 2024-07-04
DOI: 10.3390/ma17133320
Cited by: 0

Influence of imine symmetry and triphenylamine moieties on photovoltaic properties of BHJ organic solar cells
Materials Science and Engineering: B, 2023-10
DOI: 10.1016/j.mseb.2023.116701
Cited by: 0

Solar chargers based on new dye-based photovoltaic modules and new supercapacitors
Bulletin of the Polish Academy of Sciences Technical Sciences, 2023-06-23
DOI: 10.24425/bpasts.2023.146452
Cited by: 0

Shriram Sankurantripati | Environmental science | Best Researcher Award

Mr Shriram Sankurantripati | Environmental science | Best Researcher Award

PhD student, CERFACS, France 📜

Shriram Sankurantripati is a dedicated Fluid Mechanics Engineer pursuing a Ph.D. at CERFACS and VALEO in Toulouse, France. His research focuses on using high-fidelity computations to study the propagation of airborne viruses in closed environments, contributing to advancements in health and safety. With a strong foundation in computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and aerodynamics, Shriram combines academic excellence and hands-on experience to tackle real-world challenges.

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🎓 Education

Shriram holds a Master of Science in Aerospace Engineering from ISAE-SUPAERO (2018-2020), specializing in turbulence, turbomachinery, and numerical fluid mechanics. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering from Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham (2014-2018), gaining expertise in aerodynamics, aircraft propulsion, and CFD.

💼 Experience

Currently working at CERFACS, Shriram is developing simulation tools to predict airborne virus trajectories in enclosed spaces like aircraft and cars. He interned at IFP Energies Nouvelles in Paris, where he modeled wind turbine wakes using the Vortex Ring method. His work integrates computational techniques in C++ and Python to advance fluid mechanics applications.

🔬 Research Interests

Shriram’s research interests span computational fluid dynamics, turbulence modeling, aerodynamic optimization, and bio-inspired design. His passion lies in leveraging high-fidelity simulations to address challenges in health, renewable energy, and aerodynamics.

🏆 Awards and Achievements

Shriram has contributed to impactful projects like bio-inspired aerodynamic optimization of bluff bodies and avian airfoil analysis. His research has led to publications and conference presentations, showcasing his innovative approaches in fluid mechanics and aerodynamics.

📚 Publications Top Notes

Aerodynamics of Avian Airfoils – Published in ICAMEO 2019. DOI:10.1063/1.5120190.

Bio-Inspired Wing Planform for Micro Air Vehicles – Submitted to JMES 2019.

Conclusion

Shriram Sankurantripati is a highly deserving candidate for a best researcher award in fluid mechanics or interdisciplinary computational science. His groundbreaking work on airborne virus propagation in enclosed environments demonstrates innovation, technical expertise, and societal relevance. Addressing areas like interdisciplinary collaboration and publication breadth will further solidify his standing in the research community.

Dr. Lisette Alcantara S | Environmental Science | Best Scholar Award

Dr. Lisette Alcantara S | Environmental Science | Best Scholar Award

Graduate Researcher, University of Rochester, United States

Dr. Lisette Alcántara S. is a medical doctor, biomedical researcher, and Ph.D. candidate with over 15 years of clinical practice and 7 years of experience in medical affairs and clinical research. She is dedicated to advancing global health through her work on HIV care, COVID-19 vaccine responses, and evidence-based medical education. As an expert in pharmacotherapy and clinical research methodologies, she mentors and educates healthcare professionals, having trained over 260 individuals in family medicine and community outreach. Her research and expertise bridge clinical practice with scientific discovery to address pressing health challenges. 💉🧑‍⚕️🔬

Publication Profile

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Education

Dr. Alcántara holds a Doctor of Medicine degree from the Instituto Tecnológico de Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic (2009). She also earned a Master of Science in Health Systems Administration, with advanced certificates in Healthcare Finance and Project Management from the Rochester Institute of Technology (2017). She is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Translational Biomedical Science at the University of Rochester, with an expected graduation date of 2025. 🎓📚

Experience

Dr. Alcántara’s professional journey spans clinical practice, research, and teaching. She has served as a graduate researcher at the University of Rochester, contributing to impactful research in infectious disease and immunology. In her role as a Data Analyst & Academic Detailer, she led a successful collaboration with the New York State Department of Health, training over 600 healthcare professionals in HIV care. She has also worked as a physician and medical science liaison for the Ministry of Public Health of the Dominican Republic and as a professor of family medicine at Universidad Iberoamericana (UNIBE). 👩‍⚕️📊📝

Research Interests

Dr. Alcántara’s research focuses on translational biomedical sciences, particularly in infectious diseases, immunology, and global health. She has conducted pioneering research on the antibody response to SARS-CoV-2 vaccines in vulnerable populations, including transplant recipients and hemodialysis patients. Additionally, she explores vaccine skepticism and gender identity’s impact on healthcare practices, with a focus on improving public health outcomes through innovative clinical and educational initiatives. 🧬🔬💉

Awards

Throughout her career, Dr. Alcántara has demonstrated excellence in both research and clinical care. She has received accolades for her contributions to HIV care and vaccine research, particularly in underrepresented populations. She has also been recognized for her dedication to healthcare education and for training hundreds of healthcare professionals to improve patient outcomes and public health. 🏆🌍👩‍⚕️

Publications

Alcantara Sanchez, L.; Alvarez Guerra, E.; Li, D.; King, S.M.; Hilchey, S.P.; Zhou, Q.; Dewhurst, S.; Fiscella, K.; Zand, M.S. Antibody Response to SARS-CoV-2 Vaccines in Transplant Recipients and Hemodialysis Patients: Data from the Dominican Republic. Vaccines, 2024, 12, 1312. Link to article

Zand MS, Spallina S, Ross A, Zandi K, Pawlowski A, et al. (2024) Correction: Ventilation during COVID-19 in a school for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). PLOS ONE, 19(11): e0313792. Link to article

Dye, Timothy D. PhD; Eckert, Cody; Levandowski, Brooke A. PhD; Farovitch, Lorne PhD; Alcántara, Lisette MD, MS; Pressman, Eva K. MD. Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity, and COVID-19 Vaccine Skepticism: A Global Assessment [ID 2683475]. Obstetrics & Gynecology, 143(5S): p 5S, May 2024. DOI

Zand, M. S., Spallina, S., Ross, A., Zandi, K., Pawlowski, A., Seplaki, C. L., . . . Foxe, J. J. (2023). Ventilation during COVID-19 in a school for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). medRxiv, 2023.200. Link to article

 

Dr. Dora Pugliese | Environmental | Best Innovation Award

Dr. Dora Pugliese | Environmental | Best Innovation Award

Dr. Dora Pugliese, Ph.D. Research & Teaching assistant, University of Miami, United States

Dora Pugliese is a dedicated Ph.D. student at the University of Miami, specializing in structures and restoration of architecture and cultural heritage. With extensive experience in restoration techniques, structural design, and innovative composite materials, she is actively involved in both research and teaching, bridging practical applications and academic rigor.

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Dora Pugliese appears to be an excellent candidate for the “Best Innovation Award,” particularly for her research focused on sustainable construction practices and materials. Here’s a structured overview assessing her strengths, areas for improvement, and a conclusion regarding her suitability for the award:

Strengths for the Award

Innovative Research: Dora has made significant contributions in developing biodegradable and recyclable composite materials incorporating cork aggregates, which directly align with sustainable construction practices. Her recent publication in Materials demonstrates a commitment to eco-friendly building solutions.

Extensive Academic Background: With a Ph.D. in Structures and Restoration of Architecture and Cultural Heritage, Dora’s educational credentials underpin her expertise in civil and architectural engineering. Her involvement in multiple teaching and research assistant roles enhances her practical knowledge and academic prowess.

Technical Skills: Proficiency in advanced software (e.g., AutoCAD, Abaqus, MATLAB) and programming languages (Python) equips her to tackle complex engineering challenges using cutting-edge technologies, such as Finite Element Analysis and Machine Learning.

Recognized Achievements: Winning the 1st prize at the 2022 ASSOCOMPOSITI competition highlights her innovative contributions to the field, affirming her potential impact in sustainable architecture and engineering.

International Experience: Her roles in diverse academic settings, including the University of Miami and the University of Florence, reflect her global perspective on engineering challenges and solutions, facilitating a broader application of her innovative ideas.

Areas for Improvement

Broader Impact Metrics: While Dora has several publications and contributions, articulating the practical implications and real-world applications of her research could strengthen her impact narrative. Engaging in more collaborative projects with industry partners might amplify the applicability of her innovations.

Public Outreach: Enhancing visibility through public engagement initiatives, workshops, or community projects could further promote her research findings and foster greater awareness of sustainable practices in construction.

Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Expanding collaboration with professionals in other disciplines, such as environmental science or urban planning, may yield more holistic approaches to sustainable architecture and engineering.

Education 🎓

Dora holds a Ph.D. in Structures and Restoration of Architecture and the Cultural Heritage from the University of Florence, where she also obtained her Master of Architecture. Additionally, she acquired 24 ECTS Credits in Teaching and has participated in various seminars focused on seismic safety and the safeguarding of built heritage.

Experience 🛠️

Currently, Dora works as a Research and Teaching Assistant at the University of Miami and previously served as a Graduate Teaching Fellow at the University of Florence. Her professional experience includes working on seismic safety enhancements for municipal schools and engaging in various architectural projects, reflecting her commitment to sustainable practices in construction.

Research Interests 🔍

Dora’s research interests lie in developing innovative and sustainable materials for the seismic and energetic upgrade of historic masonry buildings. Her work focuses on the integration of machine learning and advanced modeling techniques to enhance structural performance and sustainability.

Awards 🏆

In 2022, Dora received the 1st prize at the ASSOCOMPOSITI competition, recognizing her innovative contributions to composite materials in construction. Her dedication to excellence is evident in her ongoing participation in prestigious engineering societies.

Publication Top Notes 📚

A New Compatible and Sustainable FRLM Composite for the Seismic and Energetic Upgrade of Historic Buildings

Influence of different mortar matrices on the effectiveness of FRCM composites for confining masonry columns

Innovative and Sustainable Composite Material for the Seismic and Energetic Upgrade of Historic Masonry Buildings

Innovative and eco-compatible materials for the regeneration of the historical buildings located in the med area

Evaluation of vertical irregularity effects of historical masonry buildings through a simplified procedure: the case of Florence city center

Seismic and energetic renovation of existing masonry buildings by innovative FRLM composite materials

Full-scale dynamic measurements system for FE-model updating of masonry buildings aggregates

Development of Biodegradable and Recyclable FRLM Composites Incorporating Cork Aggregates for Sustainable Construction Practices

PROGETTAZIONE DI UN MATERIALE COMPOSITO ECOSOSTENIBILE PER LA RIDUZIONE DELLA VULNERABILITÀ SISMICA E LA RIQUALIFICAZIONE ENERGETICA DEL PATRIMONIO EDILIZIO STORICO IN MURATURA

Progettazione di un materiale composito ecosostenibile per la riduzione della vulnerabilità sismica e la riqualificazione energetica del patrimonio edilizio storico in muratura.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Dora Pugliese’s impressive academic achievements, innovative research in sustainable construction materials, and her recognized contributions to the field make her a highly suitable candidate for the “Best Innovation Award.” Addressing the identified areas for improvement could further enhance her profile and broaden the impact of her work, paving the way for greater advancements in environmentally sustainable building practices.

Dr. Mario Heredia | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Mario Heredia | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Mario Heredia, Scientific Ambassador, Aveiro University, Ecuador

Mario Alejandro Heredia Salgado is an accomplished Ecuadorian engineer, specializing in energy systems and sustainability. Born on September 17, 1985, he graduated cum laude in 2008 and has extensive experience in the implementation of energy conversion systems across various sectors in Ecuador and Peru. His expertise includes greenhouse gas emissions reduction, decarbonization strategies, and carbon capture technologies. Currently, he collaborates with the Ministry of the Environment, Water, and Ecological Transition, playing a pivotal role in designing national emissions offset projects.

Profile

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Education 🎓

Mario earned his degree in Engineering with honors in 2008. He continued his academic journey by obtaining an MSc in Energy and Sustainability in 2013, followed by a Ph.D. in Climate Change and Energy Systems in 2020. His educational background underpins his innovative approaches to addressing environmental challenges through sustainable energy practices.

Experience 🛠️

With over a decade of professional experience, Mario has held key positions in both the public and private sectors. Currently, as a National Project Associate at the United Nations Development Program, he designs and manages a national portfolio of emissions mitigation projects. Previously, he served as a senior consultant for various organizations, including the European Committee for Training and Agriculture, where he implemented sustainable technologies in agricultural settings across Ecuador.

Research Interests 🔍

Mario’s research focuses on climate change mitigation, carbon capture and storage technologies, and the development of low-cost bioeconomy materials from agro-residues. His work involves studying carbon footprint reduction mechanisms, carbon neutrality strategies, and exploring innovative pathways to monetize emissions reductions through voluntary carbon markets.

Awards 🏆

Throughout his career, Mario has been recognized for his contributions to sustainable development and climate action. His work has been instrumental in advancing projects that not only address environmental issues but also empower local communities through sustainable practices. He continues to strive for excellence in his field, aiming for recognition in international environmental initiatives.

Publication Top Notes 📚

Adsorption of cadmium using biochars produced from agro-residues

Thermoeconomic analysis of integrated production of biochar and process heat from quinoa and lupin residual biomass

Palm oil kernel shell as solid fuel for the commercial and industrial sector in Ecuador: tax incentive impact and performance of a prototype burner

Simultaneous production of biochar and thermal energy using palm oil residual biomass as feedstock in an auto-thermal prototype reactor

Energetic valorization of the residual biomass produced during Jatropha curcas oil extraction

Analysis of combined biochar and torrefied biomass fuel production as alternative for residual biomass valorization generated in small-scale palm oil mills

Potential for farmers’ cooperatives to convert coffee husks into biochar and promote the bioeconomy in the north Ecuadorian amazon

Producción de biochar como alternativa para la valorización energética de la biomasa residual generada en el sector agroindustrial Ecuatoriano: un enfoque participativo

Modeling of paper mill sewage sludge drying using artificial neural networks: reduction of the training database through Taguchi’s method

Cuesco de palma africana, un nuevo combustible para uso comercial en Ecuador: análisis económico y evidencia experimental.

Mr. Andrés Fraiz Toma | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Andrés Fraiz Toma | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Andrés Fraiz Toma, Wetlands International, Panama

Andrés Emiliano Fraiz Toma is a 45-year-old Panamanian environmentalist dedicated to managing projects that address climate change and the restoration of wetlands, particularly mangrove ecosystems. With a strong academic background and extensive experience, he has become a key player in environmental management in Panama. 🌍

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Education

Andrés holds a Post-Graduate degree in Environmental Management from the Federal University of São Carlos, Brazil (2006-2008). He also earned a Bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences from Campinas State University, Brazil (1999-2003) and has completed a teaching program in Biological Sciences there (1999-2004). 🎓

Experience

Since 2014, Andrés has been the Program Manager at Wetlands International, where he coordinates various environmental projects focused on vulnerability to climate change, wetland restoration, and environmental management in protected areas. He collaborates with diverse stakeholders to generate proposals and address pressing environmental issues. 🛠️

Research Interest

Andrés is particularly interested in the ecological assessment of mangroves and wetlands, climate resilience, and the application of nature-based solutions to enhance community sustainability. His research also includes evaluating the ecological state of aquatic ecosystems and improving urban resilience through innovative approaches. 📚

Award

Andrés has been recognized for his impactful contributions to environmental management, particularly in coastal and wetland restoration projects. His work has received accolades for promoting sustainable practices and biodiversity conservation in Panama. 🏆

Publication Top Notes

Carbon Stocks in Two Aquatic Marshes on the Caribbean and Pacific Coast of Panama (2024, Climate).

Physicochemical, Coliform and Agrochemical Analysis to Evaluate the Water Quality of Coastal Freshwater Wetlands in Tonosí in Panama (2024, International Journal of Environmental Impacts).

Including Local Ecological Knowledge (LEK) in Mangrove Conservation & Restoration. A Best-Practice Guide for Practitioners and Researchers (2024, Global Mangrove Alliance).

Mangroves of the Tropical Northwestern Atlantic (2024, UICN Red List).

Range extension of Isthmoheros tuyrensis, a threatened species of fish (Cichlidae) in Panama: including new ecological and morphological data (2023, Journal of Threatened Taxa).