Mr. Mohit Phulara | Dendroclimatology | Best Researcher Award

Doctoral sholar, University of Silesia, Poland

🌱 Mohit Phulara is a dedicated doctoral student at the International Environmental Doctoral School, affiliated with the University of Silesia, Katowice. His research is focused on the dendroclimatic responses of Arctic and high mountain plants to contemporary environmental changes. Mohit has actively participated in various international workshops and seminars, presenting his findings and engaging with fellow researchers.

Strengths for the Award

Diverse Academic Background: Mohit has a strong academic foundation with multiple certificates and diplomas in areas relevant to his research. His education in disaster management, climate change, and remote sensing demonstrates his interdisciplinary approach to environmental issues.

Extensive Research Experience: As a doctoral student at the International Environmental Doctoral School, Mohit is actively engaged in significant research projects, including his thesis on wood anatomical traits in response to environmental changes. His work on Arctic and high mountain plants is particularly relevant in the context of global climate change.

Robust Publication Record: Mohit has co-authored several publications in reputable journals. His work contributes to understanding the effects of climate change on Himalayan ecosystems, highlighting his commitment to advancing knowledge in his field.

International Collaboration and Training: His participation in numerous international training programs, workshops, and conferences showcases his commitment to continuous learning and professional development. This exposure enhances his research capabilities and network.

Strong Presentation Skills: Mohit has demonstrated effective communication skills by presenting his research at various national and international conferences. This ability to share knowledge is essential for a researcher and contributes to the broader scientific community.

Areas for Improvement

Broader Research Focus: While Mohit has excelled in dendrochronology and its applications, exploring additional facets of environmental science could enhance his research profile. Diversifying his research topics may provide a more comprehensive view of ecological changes.

Increased Public Engagement: Engaging with the community through outreach programs or public seminars could enhance the impact of his research. Greater public awareness and involvement in environmental issues can foster a more profound societal change.

Collaborative Publications: While he has a solid publication record, increasing the number of collaborative publications can enhance visibility and foster interdisciplinary research. Collaborative projects can bring together diverse perspectives and resources, leading to more comprehensive outcomes.

Long-Term Project Leadership: Taking on more leadership roles in research projects can further develop his skills in project management and strategic planning. This experience would be valuable for his future career, especially if he aims for senior research positions.

Education

🎓 Mohit earned his M.Sc. in Geology from Kumaun University, Nainital, with an impressive score of 68.8%. He also holds a B.Sc. in Physics, Math, and Geology, graduating with 64.5%. In addition to his formal degrees, he has completed several certificate courses, including Disaster Management and Mountain Ecosystem and Climate Change, enhancing his expertise in environmental science.

Experience

🧪 Mohit’s extensive research experience includes working as a Technical Assistant and a Senior Project Fellow on the NMHS-IHTP Project, focusing on timberline and altitudinal gradient ecology in the Himalayas. His current doctoral research explores wood anatomical traits in relation to climate change, complemented by involvement in various international projects and research visits to locations like Svalbard and Slovenia.

Research Focus

🌍 Mohit’s research interests lie at the intersection of climate change, dendroecology, and the ecological responses of high-altitude vegetation. His work investigates how environmental factors influence the growth patterns of tree species, contributing valuable insights into climate resilience and adaptation.

Awards and Honors

🏆 Throughout his academic journey, Mohit has been recognized for his contributions to environmental research. He has received various scholarships and fellowships, enabling him to pursue advanced studies and participate in international conferences, where he has shared his research with a global audience.

Conclusion

Mohit Phulara’s dedication to research, combined with his extensive qualifications and experience, makes him a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His ability to conduct significant research in the context of climate change, along with his effective communication and presentation skills, showcases his potential to contribute meaningfully to the scientific community. By addressing the areas for improvement, Mohit can further enhance his research profile and impact in the field of environmental science.

Dr. Nkabeng Maruping-Mzileni | Ecology and Conservation | Women Researcher Award

Dr. Nkabeng Maruping-Mzileni, General Manager: Scientifc Services, South African National Parks, South Africa

Dr. Nkabeng Maruping-Mzileni, renowned for her expertise in Ecology and Conservation, has been honored with the prestigious Women Researcher Award. Serving as the General Manager of Scientific Services at South African National Parks, she exemplifies dedication to biodiversity preservation and sustainable practices. Dr. Maruping-Mzileni’s leadership underscores her commitment to advancing ecological research and fostering conservation initiatives. Her contributions are pivotal in shaping environmental stewardship in South Africa and beyond. 🌿🏆

Profile

Google Scholar

Academic Record

Dr. Nkabeng Maruping-Mzileni has a rich academic background spanning over a decade, culminating in a DTech in Nature Conservation from Tshwane University of Technology. Her research journey began with a BSc in Zoology and Ecology from St. Francis Xavier University, Canada, followed by an Honors BSc in Wildlife Management and an MSc in Wildlife Management from the University of Pretoria. Her doctoral work focused on the emergence of bovine tuberculosis in lions at Kruger National Park, South Africa, from 2011 to 2015. 🦁 Her expertise extends to reintroducing captive-bred cheetahs into the wild, demonstrating a deep commitment to wildlife conservation and management.

Work Experience

Dr. Nkabeng Maruping-Mzileni brings a wealth of expertise to her role as General Manager of the Cape and Arid Research Units at South African National Parks. With a career spanning from ecological consulting to regional ecology, she excels in coordinating biodiversity conservation research across national parks. Her leadership emphasizes adaptive management principles, ensuring effective science-management interfaces. Previously a lecturer and research manager, she has nurtured future conservationists through training and mentoring. Dr. Maruping-Mzileni’s contributions extend globally, shaping conservation strategies and fostering a deep understanding of wildlife management. 🌿🔬

Teaching Experience

Dr. Nkabeng Maruping-Mzileni offers a range of specialized diploma and BTech courses focused on environmental conservation and wildlife management. The curriculum includes diverse programs such as Nature Conservation, Ecotourism Management, and Wildlife/Game Ranch Management. These courses are designed to equip students with practical skills and knowledge essential for preserving biodiversity and managing natural resources sustainably. Dr. Nkabeng Maruping-Mzileni’s dedication to education in these fields ensures that graduates are prepared to tackle current and future challenges in conservation and ecotourism 🌿🦒.

Research Achievements

Dr. Nkabeng Thato Maruping-Mzileni’s research illuminates critical insights into the dynamics of African wildlife. 🦁 Her recent study explores the impact of ecological factors on Roan Antelope populations in Mokala National Park, South Africa, highlighting the intricate balance between environmental drivers and species survival. Previous works delve into diverse aspects of wildlife ecology, including disease transmission in lions, spatial patterns of large cats, and shifts in lion prey selection. 🌍 Through her comprehensive approach, Dr. Maruping-Mzileni contributes significantly to our understanding of biodiversity conservation and ecosystem management in African savannas.

Relevant Field skills

Dr. Nkabeng Maruping-Mzileni brings a wealth of experience in Conservation Biology, spanning diverse regions like Canada, Namibia, and South Africa. 🌍 Her expertise includes telemetry, Cybertracker, CMore, and extensive surveys—both aerial and ground-based—focusing on various animal and vegetation surveying techniques. She specializes in the capture and monitoring of large, free-roaming mammals such as cheetahs, leopards, lions, rhinos, and various African ungulates. 🦁🦏 Dr. Maruping-Mzileni also excels in vegetation surveys, encompassing woody and herbaceous plants, plant taxonomy, classification, dynamics, and phenology. Additionally, her skills extend to captive animal care and handling, including species like vervet monkeys, chacma baboons, spotted hyenas, and more. 🌿

Community Engagement and Outreach

Dr. Nkabeng Maruping-Mzileni brings a wealth of experience and passion to her roles across various platforms. As a former board member of the International Wildlife Fellowship Foundation 🌍, her focus on promoting sustainable wildlife use for biodiversity conservation is evident. She also actively engages with the Next Einstein Forum, advocating for science and inspiring Lesotho’s youth since 2015 🧬. At the National University of Lesotho, she shares her expertise, emphasizing science as a catalyst for development 🎓. Her contributions to The Conversation Africa from 2014 to 2019 highlight her commitment to bridging scientific research with public awareness on conservation 📚.