Anita Leovac Maćerak | Environmental Science | Research Excellence Award

Published on by Environmental Scientists

Assist. Prof. Dr. Anita Leovac Maćerak | Environmental Science | Research Excellence Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Anita Leovac Maćerak | Environmental Science | Assistant Professor at University of Novi Sad | Serbia

Assist. Prof. Dr. Anita Leovac Maćerak is a highly accomplished environmental scientist recognized for her significant contributions to sustainable wastewater management and nutrient recovery. She earned her Ph.D. from the University of Novi Sad, Serbia, establishing a strong academic foundation in environmental technology and innovation. Dr. Maćerak has since developed a distinguished professional career, leading and participating in multiple international research projects that focus on environmental sustainability, wastewater treatment, and resource recovery.

Citation Metrics (Scopus)

200

160

120

80

40

0

Citations
167

Documents
18

h-index
8

🟦 Citations 🟥 Documents 🟩 h-index

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Featured Publications:


Acetic acid pretreatment effects on biogas production from sewage sludge

– Bio4 Expanding the Horizon, International Bioscience Conference, 2024 ·

Application of sludge in agriculture

– Technological and resource aspects of the Circular Model of Sludge Management from Water Treatment, 2024 · 

 

Maria Eugenia Salgado Salomón | Climatic Change | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Maria Eugenia Salgado Salomón | Climatic Change | Best Researcher Award

Researcher | National University of Patagonia San Juan Bosco | Argentina 

Dr. María Eugenia Salgado Salomón is an accomplished forest engineer and biologist whose career seamlessly integrates research, teaching, and applied science in forest ecosystems, with a particular focus on mycorrhizal fungi, invasive species, and forest health in Patagonia. She holds advanced degrees in biology and forest engineering, complemented by international specialization in governance and integrated water management. Her professional journey includes leadership as head of the Phytopathology and Applied Microbiology department at CIEFAP and a researcher role at CONICET, where she has advanced projects on ectomycorrhizal interactions, fungal invasions, and forest resilience under climate change. She has mentored doctoral and professional students, supervised internships, and trained human resources, while contributing to knowledge transfer for forestry and agricultural producers. Her research, cited by 138 articles and reflected in 14 peer-reviewed documents with an h-index of 8, spans international collaborations, field studies, molecular techniques, and interdisciplinary approaches, yielding numerous publications, book chapters, and technical reports. She has engaged in global initiatives like INTACT, focusing on truffle cultivation and sustainable forest practices, and projects assessing forest biodiversity, post-wildfire resilience, and fungal taxonomy. As a dedicated educator, she teaches courses in biodiversity, conservation, topography, and remote sensing, nurturing future specialists in environmental and forest sciences. Her professional service includes thesis examination, journal peer review, and participation on editorial boards and international scientific committees. Through leadership, scientific rigor, and commitment to sustainable forest management, Dr. María Eugenia Salgado Salomón is a recognized authority in Patagonian forest ecology and mycorrhizal research.

Profile: Scopus

Featured Publications

Huymann, L., Salgado Salomón, M. E., Rüde, L., Seibl, C., Schön, R., Barroetaveña, C., Siewert, B., & Peintner, U. (2025). Unveiling hidden treasures: A revision of phlegmacioid Cortinariaceae with special focus on edible South American species of Thaxterogaster subgenus Cretaces. Persoonia. In preparation.

Giles, P. V., Salgado Salomón, M. E., Carrión, N. N., & Barroetaveña, C. (2025). Amanita muscaria invasion in native Nothofagus dombeyi and Lophozonia alpina in Patagonia, Argentina: Unravel belowground associations. Bosques. In preparation.

Giles, P. V., Salgado Salomón, M. E., Pildain, M. B., & Barroetaveña, C. (2025). Invasive Amanita muscaria in Nothofagus dombeyi forests in Patagonia, Argentina. Biological Invasion Note. In revision.

Arguiano, C., Salgado Salomón, M. E., Barroetaveña, C., & Roy, M. (2025). Wildfire impact on below-ground communities associated with Nothofagus forests in Patagonia. Fire Ecology. In revision.

Salgado Salomón, M. E., García Barreda, S., Mohr Bell, D., Pildain, M. B., & Barroetaveña, C. (2025). Mapeo de zonas aptas para truficultura en Patagonia Argentina. Forest Systems. In press.

Salgado Salomón, M. E., De Errasti, A., Talarico, S. S., Gianolini, S., Urretavizcaya, F., & Barroetaveña, C. (2024). Evaluation of abundance and viability of arbuscular mycorrhizal spores in Austrocedrus chilensis forests affected by wildfires in Patagonia, Argentina. Wild, 2(3), 36.

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

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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

Google Scholar

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. Mario Heredia | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

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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

Googlescholar

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.

Dr. Noora Al-Qahtani | environmental | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Environmental Scientists

Dr. Noora Al-Qahtani | environmental | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Noora Al-Qahtani, Acting Section Head of Central Laboratories Unit (CLU) Research Assistant Professor of Materials Science and Engineering- Center for Advanced Materials (CAM), Qatar University, Qatar

Dr. Noora Hamad Al-Qahtani is the Acting Head of the Central Lab Unit and a Research Assistant Professor in Materials Science and Engineering at the Center for Advanced Materials (CAM), Qatar University. 🌟 She holds a BSc in Physics and Biomedical Sciences from Qatar University (2008) and pursued her MSc and PhD at the University of Sheffield (2015) and Imperial College London (2020), respectively. Dr. Noora is recognized as the first Qatari female with a PhD in corrosion. Her academic and professional career spans over 15 years, during which she has significantly contributed to the field through her roles in various projects and committees, both locally and internationally. 🌍

Profile 🌟📋

Scopus

Orcid

Googlescholar

Based on the comprehensive profile provided, Dr. Noora Hamad AlQahtani appears to be an exceptionally strong candidate for recognition in research excellence. Here’s an analysis of her strengths, areas for improvement, and a conclusion on her suitability for the award:

Strengths for the Award 💪🏆✨

Outstanding Academic Background:

Dr. AlQahtani holds advanced degrees from prestigious institutions (Imperial College London, University of Sheffield), specializing in materials science and corrosion, a field in which she is notably pioneering as the first Qatari female PhD in corrosion.

Impressive Research Contributions:

Her research portfolio includes over 50 published articles in high-impact journals and conference proceedings. Her involvement in mega projects funded by the Qatar National Research Fund (NPRP) demonstrates significant contributions to her field.

Dr. AlQahtani’s research interests span crucial areas such as corrosion, catalysis, fuel cells, and water treatment, which align well with contemporary scientific and environmental needs.

Recognition and Awards:

She has received numerous awards, including the Best Researcher Award at the International Research Awards on Advanced Nanomaterials and Nanotechnology and multiple international medals and special awards at iCAN 2023. These accolades reflect her innovative research and leadership in her field.

Leadership and Administrative Roles:

Her roles as Acting Head of the Central Lab Unit and Research Assistant Professor showcase her leadership and administrative skills. Her involvement in various committees and projects at Qatar University highlights her dedication and impact beyond research.

Teaching and Student Mentorship:

Dr. AlQahtani is actively involved in teaching and mentoring students, evident from her students’ achievements in various competitions and research poster contests. This reflects her commitment to education and fostering new talent in the field.

Technological and Research Expertise:

Her proficiency in diverse technological areas related to materials science and environmental chemistry, including advanced techniques and methodologies, underscores her technical expertise and readiness to drive innovation.

Areas for Improvement 🚀📈🔧

Broader Impact and Outreach:

While her research is highly specialized, expanding her outreach to broader, interdisciplinary applications could further enhance the impact of her work. Collaborating with industries and institutions beyond her current network might provide new opportunities for applying her research findings.

Public Engagement and Communication:

Increasing public engagement through popular science communication, media appearances, or public lectures could help in raising awareness about her research and its societal benefits. This could also enhance the visibility of her work to a wider audience.

Diversity in Research Funding:

Although she has secured significant funding from Qatar National Research Fund, exploring additional sources of international funding or partnerships could provide more stability and opportunities for diverse research projects.

Education 🎓📚

Dr. Al-Qahtani earned her PhD in Materials Science and Engineering from Imperial College London, UK (2020), with a dissertation on corrosion mechanisms and kinetics. 📜 Prior to this, she completed her MSc in Materials Science and Engineering at the University of Sheffield, UK (2015). Her academic journey began with a BSc in Physics and Biomedical Sciences from Qatar University (2008). Her educational background is complemented by additional certifications in leadership and technology entrepreneurship. 🎓

Experience 🛠️💼📆

Dr. Al-Qahtani’s extensive experience includes serving as the Acting Section Head of CLU and Research Project Manager at CAM. She has held various academic and research roles, including Graduate Faculty with Supervisory Status and Section Head of Student and Mentor Training at Qatar University. 🏛️ Her experience also includes significant industry collaborations and leadership positions in professional committees.

Research Interests 🔬🧠📊

Dr. Al-Qahtani’s research interests focus on corrosion, catalysis, fuel cells, water treatment, and electrocoalescence. 🔬 She is particularly passionate about waste recycling and developing innovative solutions in these areas. Her work integrates advanced methodologies to address critical challenges in materials science.

Awards 🏅🏆🎖️

Dr. Al-Qahtani has received numerous accolades, including the Best Researcher Award at the International Research Awards on Advanced Nanomaterials and Nanotechnology (2023). 🏆 She has also earned multiple awards for her innovative projects at various international competitions, such as iCAN 2023, where she received several gold and silver medals.

Publications TOp Notes 📝📖⭐

 

Monitoring of under deposit corrosion for the oil and gas industry: A review

Electrospun highly corrosion-resistant polystyrene–nickel oxide superhydrophobic nanocomposite coating

Synthesis and characterization of sodium alginate/polyvinyl alcohol/zinc oxide/iron oxide nanocomposites for electrochemical applications

Heterogeneous catalysts for conversion of biodiesel-waste glycerol into high-added-value chemicals

Synthesis of Gemini cationic surfactants based on natural nicotinic acid and evaluation of their inhibition performance at C-steel/1 M HCl interface: electrochemical and …

Vapour-phase selective hydrogenation of γ-Valerolactone to 2-methyltetrahydrofuran biofuel over silica-supported copper catalysts

Preparation and Preliminary Dielectric Characterization of Structured C60-Thiol-Ene Polymer Nanocomposites Assembled Using the Thiol-Ene Click Reaction

Active sites engineered biomass-carbon as a catalyst for biodiesel production: Process optimization using RSM and life cycle assessment

Non-covalent functionalization of surfactant-assisted graphene oxide with silver nanocomposites for highly efficient photocatalysis and anti-biofilm applications

Sustainable conversion of biodiesel-waste glycerol to acrolein over Pd-modified mesoporous catalysts

Conclusion ✨🔍

Dr. Noora Hamad AlQahtani is an exemplary candidate for the “Excellence in Research” award. Her academic credentials, prolific research output, leadership roles, and recognition from both local and international bodies highlight her outstanding contributions to the field of materials science and engineering. Her dedication to teaching and mentoring further amplifies her impact on the academic community.