Angeliki Paraskevopoulou | Landscape Architecture | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Angeliki Paraskevopoulou | Landscape Architecture | Best Researcher Award

Associated Professor | Agricultural University of Athens | Greece

Ms. Angeliki Paraskevopoulou is a distinguished researcher in landscape architecture, urban green infrastructure, and ornamental plant science, with extensive experience in academia and professional practice across Greece and the UK. Her work bridges agricultural science, environmental design, and landscape management, focusing on resilient public spaces, historical parks, therapeutic landscapes, and climate-responsive planting strategies. She has contributed significantly to sustainable landscape planning through numerous research projects funded by European, national, and local organizations, addressing themes such as urban heat mitigation, nature-based solutions, agroecology, and ecological restoration. Her research portfolio includes studies on schoolyard greening, healing gardens, post-fire landscape perceptions, visitor needs in historical parks, and the impact of environmental features on human wellbeing, employing innovative tools such as biosensors and perception analysis. Her publication record in reputable international journals showcases her interdisciplinary expertise and her ability to integrate scientific evidence into practical design approaches. With an early career shaped by agronomy and landscape architecture, she developed strong foundations in plant science, horticulture, and community-centered design, complemented by award-winning contributions at major horticultural exhibitions. She continues to enhance academic excellence through teaching, supervising research, and reviewing scientific manuscripts. Paraskevopoulou’s leadership in collaborative initiatives underscores her dedication to advancing inclusive, sustainable, and culturally informed landscape transformations, supporting greener cities and climate-adaptive public spaces, as reflected in her academic footprint with 430 citations by 399 documents, 49 documents, and an h-index of 13.

Profiles: Scopus | Orcid | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Kotsiris, G., Nektarios, P. A., & Paraskevopoulou, A. T. (2012). Lavandula angustifolia growth and physiology is affected by substrate type and depth when grown under Mediterranean semi-intensive green roof conditions. HortScience, 47(2), 311–317.

Akoumianaki-Ioannidou, A., Paraskevopoulou, A. T., & Tachou, V. (2016). School grounds as a resource of green space to increase child-plant contact. Urban Forestry & Urban Greening, 20, 375–386.

Gkoltsiou, A., & Paraskevopoulou, A. (2021). Landscape character assessment, perception surveys of stakeholders and SWOT analysis: A holistic approach to historical public park management. Journal of Outdoor Recreation and Tourism, 35, 100418.

Paraskevopoulou, A. T., & Kamperi, E. (2018). Design of hospital healing gardens linked to pre- or post-occupancy research findings. Frontiers of Architectural Research, 7(3), 395–414.

Paraskevopoulou, A. T., Kamperi, E., Demiris, N., Economou, M., Theleritis, C., & others. (2018). The impact of seasonal colour change in planting on patients with psychotic disorders using biosensors. Urban Forestry & Urban Greening, 36, 50–56.

Junghun Yeum | Urban Green Space | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Junghun Yeum | Urban Green Space | Best Researcher Award

Associate Professor | Gangneung-Wonju National University | South Korea

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Junghun Yeum is an Associate Professor at Gangneung-Wonju National University, Republic of Korea, specializing in landscape ecology with a strong focus on urban ecosystem conservation, ecological restoration, and green network design. His academic journey and professional contributions bridge science, policy, and practice, advancing strategies for biodiversity protection, sustainable planning, and resilience in urban landscapes. He has conducted extensive research on protected area management, ecological zoning, and urban green infrastructure, while also pioneering studies on the therapeutic value of natural environments in reducing stress and enhancing human well-being. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Junghun Yeum scholarly output includes numerous publications in indexed journals, co-authored books, and contributions to policy-driven frameworks for evaluating conservation effectiveness, many of which have been integrated into national strategies for wetland and ecological landscape management. His consultancy engagements with local governments and public agencies provide practical solutions for ecological mapping and conservation planning, while his collaborative projects supported by national research bodies have established innovative methodologies such as EEG-based studies on stress relief in urban parks. He is an editorial board member of leading environmental societies and holds leadership positions in professional organizations, contributing actively to knowledge dissemination and scientific governance. His contributions extend globally through his role as a national focal point to the Ramsar Convention’s Scientific and Technical Review Panel, reflecting his commitment to both ecological preservation and international collaboration. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Junghun Yeum work exemplifies a balanced integration of ecological science, applied research, and policy engagement, making him a leading figure in advancing nature-based solutions for urban sustainability.

Featured Publications

Kim, D. W., Han, B. H., Kim, J. Y., & Yeum, J. H. (2015). Plant community structure of Abies holophylla community from Sinseongam to Jungdaesa in Odaesan National Park. Korean Journal of Environment and Ecology, 29(6), 895–906.

Bae, J. Y., Kim, J. S., Lee, K. J., Kim, J. Y., & Yeum, J. H. (2013). Changes of vegetation structure in Naejangsan District, Najangsan National Park for twenty years (1991–2010), Korea. Korean Journal of Environment and Ecology, 27(1), 99–112.

Yeum, J. H., Han, B. H., Choi, J. W., & Jeong, H. U. (2013). Mapping of the damaged forest by oak wilt disease in Bukhansan National Park. Korean Journal of Environment and Ecology, 27(6), 704–717.

Yeum, J. H., Han, B. H., & Lee, K. J. (2010). A study on designation potential as Ramsar site and management method of massive scale of wetland: A case of Jang Hang estuary wetland, Han River, Korea. Korean Journal of Environment and Ecology, 24(3), 249–257.

Kim, K., Lee, K. J., Choi, J. W., Yeum, J. H., & Ahn, I. S. (2014). A study on vegetation structure of cultural landscape forest of Dongbaek Island, Busan. Korean Journal of Environment and Ecology, 28(2), 205–214.

Kwang-Joo Moon | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Kwang-Joo Moon | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Senior Researcher, National Institute of Environmental Research, South Korea

Dr. Kwang-Joo Moon 🇰🇷 is a Senior Research Scientist in the Global Environment Research Division at the National Institute of Environmental Research (NIER), Korea. With deep expertise in real-time monitoring of air pollutants and greenhouse gases (GHGs), Dr. Moon has played a crucial role in shaping air quality research in Korea and beyond. His interdisciplinary work spans mobile monitoring via drones, aircraft, and vehicles, coupled with advanced statistical techniques for source apportionment. He actively contributes to cross-national projects that enhance understanding of particulate matter (PM) and GHG emissions for cleaner, healthier air. 🌍📊✈️

Profile

Orcid

Education 🎓

Dr. Moon pursued both his undergraduate and doctoral studies at INHA University in Incheon, Korea. 🎓 He earned his B.A. in Environmental Engineering in 2001 and continued to obtain his Ph.D. in Environmental Engineering in 2014. His academic foundation reflects a strong commitment to atmospheric science, air quality management, and environmental monitoring—topics that continue to guide his research and professional pursuits. 🧪📚

Experience 💼

Dr. Moon’s distinguished career began as a Research Assistant at NIER from 2001 to 2005. He then served as a Research Scientist at Korea’s Ministry of Environment from 2006 to 2008, gaining valuable policy-level experience. From 2009 to 2020, he rejoined NIER as a Research Scientist, focusing on national air quality initiatives. 🌫️ From 2017 to 2018, he took part in a strategic offshore assignment with the Korea-China Air Quality Joint Research Team at CRAES, China. Since 2021, he has served as Senior Research Scientist at NIER, contributing to pioneering work in mobile emission monitoring and pollutant tracking. 🚛🌐📡

Research Interest 🔍

Dr. Moon’s research primarily focuses on real-time monitoring of air pollutants and greenhouse gases using sensor networks, mobile units, and statistical models. 📈 His expertise includes source apportionment of PM and GHGs using Positive Matrix Factorization (PMF) and Hybrid Receptor Models. He is highly skilled in deploying unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), mobile laboratories, and airborne platforms for emission source tracking. His work integrates environmental engineering with advanced analytics and geo-informatics, targeting cleaner urban and industrial environments. 🚁🌫️📡

Awards 🏆

While formal individual awards are not listed, Dr. Moon has made impactful contributions to international air quality initiatives, such as the KORUS-AQ (Korea–United States Air Quality) field study (2016), the Korea-China PM2.5 joint research (2017–2018), and EAREX 2005 under UNEP’s ABC project. 🌐 These programs demonstrate his leadership in multinational collaborations and highlight his influence on air quality research across East Asia. 🧭🌎

Publications 📄

Han, S., et al. (2024)Modification of Hybrid Receptor Model for Atmospheric Fine Particles (PM2.5) in 2020 Daejeon, Korea, Using an ACERWT Model, Atmosphere, 15(4): 477
🔗 Read here
Cited in works using hybrid models for PM2.5 source analysis. 📑

Chae, J., et al. (2023)The Study on Emission Characteristics of Gas-phase Hazardous Air Pollutants Generated at the Large-scale Industrial Complexes, J. Kor. Soc. Atmos. Environ., 40(1): 27-47
🔗 Read here
Cited in research on hazardous emissions in industrial zones. 🏭

Moon, K. (2023)Study on the Distribution of VOCs in the Ambient Air of Domestic Industrial Complexes using Mobile SIFT-MS, J. Kor. Soc. Urban Environ., 22(4): 207–227
🔗 Read here
Referenced in studies applying mobile VOC sensing technology. 🚙

Lee, C., et al. (2023)A Study on the Concentrations Calibration for NO, NO₂, SO₂, CO and VOC Sensors Reflecting the Influence of Temperature and Relative Humidity, J. Kor. Soc. Urban Environ., 21(4): 259–266
🔗 Read here
Cited in sensor calibration research for environmental monitoring. 🌡️

Lee, C., et al. (2021)Performance Test of Gas Sensors Measuring Air Pollutants of NO, NO₂, SO₂, CO and VOC, J. Kor. Soc. Urban Environ., 21(1): 13–20
🔗 Read here
Referenced in evaluations of low-cost air quality sensors. 💨

Yoo, H., et al. (2020)Validation for SOC Estimation from OC and EC concentration in PM2.5 measured at Seoul, Particle and Aerosol Research, 16(1): 19–30
🔗 Read here
Cited in studies quantifying secondary organic carbon in PM. 🔍

Lim, S., et al. (2020)Fossil-driven secondary inorganic PM2.5 enhancement in the North China Plain, Environmental Pollution, 266(2): 115163
🔗 Read here
Cited in research on fossil fuel-related PM formation. 🛢️

Park, J., et al. (2020)Application of Chemical Ionization Mass Spectrometry in Airborne SO₂ Observation on Hanseo Beechcraft 1900D, Asian J. Atmos. Environ., 14(4): 413–421
🔗 Read here
Referenced for airborne chemical sensor applications. ✈️

Moon, K.J., et al. (2008)Source apportionment of fine carbonaceous particles by PMF at Gosan, Environment International, 34(5): 654–664
🔗 Read here
Widely cited in East Asian PM source studies. 🌏

Han, J.S., Moon, K.J., et al. (2006)Identification of source regions of fine particles using hybrid receptor models, J. Geophys. Res.: Atmos., 111(D22)
🔗 Read here
Cited in hybrid model development for long-range transport. 🌬️

Han, J.S., Moon, K.J., et al. (2006)Size-resolved source apportionment of ambient particles by PMF at Gosan, Atmospheric Chemistry and Physics, 6(1): 211–223
🔗 Read here
Foundational in PMF model applications across Asia. 📏

Conclusion

Based on his research achievements, publications, and experience, Kwang-Joo Moon is a suitable candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His contributions to environmental research, particularly in air quality and pollution monitoring, demonstrate his potential to make a significant impact in the field. With some further emphasis on interdisciplinary collaboration and publishing in top-tier journals, he is well-positioned to continue making meaningful contributions to research.

Dr. Minjin Jeong | Biology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Minjin Jeong | Biology | Best Researcher Award

Instructor, Stanford University, United States

🎓 Dr. Minjin Jeong is an accomplished researcher and educator at Stanford University, specializing in auditory science and inner ear disorders. Her pioneering work includes developing human pluripotent stem cell-derived otic organoids and elucidating the mechanisms behind COVID-19-induced hearing loss. With experience spanning South Korea, Europe, and the U.S., Dr. Jeong bridges international collaboration in auditory science research, contributing transformative advancements in her field. 🌍🔬

Publication Profile

Google Scholar

Education

📘 Dr. Jeong’s academic journey began with a B.S. in Molecular and Life Science (2010, Hanyang University, Korea), followed by an M.S. in Biochemistry (2012, Hanyang University) and a Ph.D. in Genetic Medicine (2017, Newcastle University, UK). Her global education underscores her commitment to advancing auditory research. 🌱📚

Experience

💡 Dr. Jeong’s career spans prestigious roles, including postdoctoral fellowships at Harvard and Stanford University, where she investigated inner ear biology and auditory disorders. She has also served as a research associate at Newcastle University and an instructor at Stanford, contributing to cutting-edge advancements in stem cell and auditory research. 🏛️🧬

Research Interests

🧠 Dr. Jeong’s research focuses on human inner ear biology using pluripotent stem cells, addressing the global challenge of hearing loss. Her work aims to develop innovative treatments for inner ear disorders, with a special emphasis on COVID-19-induced audiovestibular dysfunction and congenital hearing loss. 👂🌟

Awards

🏅 Dr. Jeong has received numerous honors, including the Newcastle University Overseas Research Scholarship and Hanyang University’s Science and Technology Scholarship. She graduated summa cum laude and has been recognized for her impactful contributions to auditory science. 🌟🎖️

Publications

Jeong M., Kurihara S., Stankovic KM. (2024). An In Vitro Oxidative Stress Model of the Human Inner Ear Using Human-Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell-Derived Otic Progenitor Cells. Antioxidants. Read more

Harding AT., Ocwieja K., Jeong M., et al. (2024). Human otic progenitor cell models of congenital hearing loss reveal potential pathophysiologic mechanisms of Zika virus and cytomegalovirus infections. mBio. Read more

Jeong M., et al. (2021). Direct SARS-CoV-2 infection of the human inner ear may underlie COVID-19-associated audiovestibular dysfunction. Commun Med (Lond). Read more

Stojkovic M., Han D., Jeong M., et al. (2021). Human induced pluripotent stem cells and CRISPR/Cas-mediated targeted genome editing: Platforms to tackle sensorineural hearing loss. Stem Cells. Read more

Jeong M., et al. (2018). Generating inner ear organoids containing putative cochlear hair cells from human pluripotent stem cells. Cell Death Dis. Read more

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. 🌍

profile

Orcid

 

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).

Mr. Bin Liu | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Bin Liu | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Bin Liu, State Key Laboratory of Urban and Regional Ecology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese, Academy of Sciences, China

🎓 Bin Liu is a second-year master’s student specializing in landscape ecology at the Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences. With a solid foundation in economic statistics and landscape ecology, his research interests lie at the intersection of big data, urbanization, ecological sustainability, and carbon emissions. Liu has participated in multiple national and international projects and has presented his research at prestigious conferences. His work focuses on using spatial analysis, GIS, and remote sensing to address critical issues in urban ecology.

Profile

orcid

Strengths for the Award

Interdisciplinary Research Approach: Bin Liu’s work integrates various fields, including remote sensing, GIS, big data, and landscape ecology. His interdisciplinary methods address critical urbanization and ecological issues, aligning well with the award’s focus on impactful research.

Published Research: He has already published research articles in recognized journals like Energies and Forestry Economics, demonstrating an early yet impactful academic presence.

Project Leadership: Bin Liu has successfully led projects, such as the National Undergraduate Innovation Training Program, showcasing leadership in research.

Focus on Sustainability: His research on urban land use and carbon emissions is directly relevant to sustainable development, a global concern in academia and industry.

Current Research Relevance: Bin’s ongoing research on urbanization in the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei area addresses critical contemporary environmental challenges in rapidly developing regions.

Areas for Improvement

Broader Professional Network: While he has shown strong collaboration within academia, Bin could strengthen his professional profile by joining professional memberships and participating in more international collaborations.

Industry Engagement: Bin’s current research focuses on academic contributions. Broadening his impact to include industry consultancy or practical applications could enhance his research visibility.

Citation Impact: His articles are newly published, and citation metrics are still building. More citations over time will solidify his research’s influence.

Editorial Roles: Gaining editorial appointments in recognized journals would further boost his professional standing in the research community.

Education

🎓 Education History:

  • Master’s Degree in Landscape Ecology (2023–present), Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.
  • Bachelor’s Degree in Economic Statistics (2019–2023), College of Economics and Management, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin, China.

Experience

💼 Bin Liu has led and contributed to several research projects during his academic career. As a Project Leader in the National Undergraduate Innovation Training Program, he analyzed forest wellness services and urban aging. He also contributed as a Research Assistant to projects analyzing greenhouse gas emissions and forest carbon sinks. His experience includes leveraging GIS and remote sensing for urban land-use analysis and sustainability research in rapidly urbanizing regions such as Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei.

Research Interests

🔬 Research Focus: Bin Liu is passionate about landscape ecology, urbanization, and carbon emissions. His research delves into the ecological impacts of rapid urbanization, using tools like GIS, remote sensing, and spatial analysis. He applies these methods to study urban land-use changes, carbon emissions, and sustainability, focusing on regions like Northeast China and Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei.

Awards

🏅 Bin Liu has been actively involved in research and has completed several significant projects, earning recognition for his academic contributions. He led a National Undergraduate Innovation Training Program project and played key roles in nationally funded research projects.

Publications

Spatiotemporal Evolution and Tapio Decoupling Analysis of Energy-Related Carbon Emissions Using Nighttime Light Data: A Quantitative Case Study at the City Scale in Northeast China

Conclusion

Bin Liu is a promising candidate for the Best Researcher Award, particularly given his strong academic foundation and research on sustainability, urban land use, and carbon emissions. While his professional network and industry connections could be strengthened, his interdisciplinary approach and research relevance make him a competitive applicant for the award.