Zhiyuan Qi | Ecology | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Zhiyuan Qi | Ecology | Best Researcher Award

Jianghan University | China 

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

Profile: Orcid 

Featured Publications

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

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

Yiping Tai | Ecology and Conservation | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yiping Tai | Ecology and Conservation | Best Researcher Award 

Associate Professor, at Jinan University, China.

Dr. Yiping Tai is an Associate Researcher and Master’s Supervisor at Jinan University’s Research Center of Hydrobiology. With a Ph.D. in Ecology from the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dr. Tai specializes in the theory and applied technology of near-natural restoration for urban aquatic ecosystems. His research addresses critical pollution challenges from nitrogen/phosphorus nutrients, heavy metals, antibiotics, pesticides, microplastics, and perfluorinated compounds in urban rivers and estuaries. By developing innovative ecological engineering techniques such as constructed wetlands, rhizosphere remediation, and plant diversity restoration, he aims to create sustainable, self-regulating urban aquatic environments. Dr. Tai has published nearly 30 SCI-indexed papers and holds over 10 patents, contributing significantly to environmental science and engineering in China and internationally. 🌿💧

Professional Profile

Scopus

🎓 Education

Dr. Yiping Tai completed his Ph.D. in Ecology at the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, one of China’s premier institutions for environmental research and scientific training. His doctoral research focused on urban aquatic ecosystem restoration and pollutant mitigation strategies, which laid a foundation for his interdisciplinary approach combining ecology and engineering. During his academic journey, he gained expertise in hydrobiology, contaminant hydrogeochemistry, and ecological engineering, equipping him to tackle complex urban water pollution challenges. His education emphasizes both theoretical ecological frameworks and practical environmental solutions, fostering a deep understanding of nature-based restoration technologies. Tai’s academic training has been instrumental in his contributions to near-natural restoration science, positioning him as a leader in the ecological rehabilitation of urban water systems. 📚🎓

💼 Experience

With several years of research experience, Dr. Tai has served as an Associate Researcher and Master’s Supervisor at Jinan University’s Department of Ecology. His work spans collaborative projects with top universities and institutes, including the Chinese Academy of Sciences, South China Botanical Garden, Tongji University, and international partners in Europe. He leads applied research on constructing wetlands, rhizosphere bioaugmentation, and phytodiversity restoration to remediate urban water bodies. Dr. Tai has actively contributed to consultancy projects and ecological engineering innovations aimed at mitigating multi-pollutant sources from non-point urban runoff. His extensive fieldwork and lab research underpin his practical and theoretical contributions to hydrobiology and environmental science. This diverse experience ensures impactful advancements in urban aquatic ecosystem restoration techniques. 🔬🌊

🔬 Research Interests

Dr. Tai’s research focuses on the near-natural restoration of urban aquatic ecosystems, particularly targeting pollution from nutrients, heavy metals, antibiotics, pesticides, microplastics, and perfluorinated compounds. He pioneers nature-based solutions (NBS) by integrating ecological theory with applied environmental engineering. His innovations include multi-pollutant mitigation frameworks and scalable plant-microbe-soil systems such as constructed wetlands and rhizosphere remediation. Dr. Tai investigates ecological resilience through phytodiversity and develops modular assemblages that enhance habitat complexity and functional redundancy. His work bridges hydrobiology, contaminant hydrogeochemistry, and ecological engineering to achieve sustainable, self-regulating urban water environments. 🌱🌏

🏆 Awards

Dr. Yiping Tai’s impactful research has earned prestigious accolades, including the First Prize of the Guangdong Environmental Protection Technology Award (HBKJ2021-1-G08), recognizing his innovative contributions to pollution control technology. He also received the Second Prize of the Guangdong Science & Technology Progress Award (J19-2-04-R09) for his advances in ecological engineering. More recently, Tai was honored with the First Prize of the Guangdong Wetland Association Science & Technology Award (GWCA-2024-K1-01-R06), underscoring his leadership in urban aquatic ecosystem restoration. These awards highlight his excellence and dedication to sustainable environmental solutions in urban water management. 🏅🎖️

📚 Top Noted Publications

Dr. Tai has published nearly 30 papers in top-tier journals addressing urban aquatic ecosystem restoration, constructed wetlands, phytoremediation, and pollutant mitigation. Key recent publications include:

📜 Tai, Y. et al. (2024). “Advanced constructed wetlands for multi-pollutant removal in urban rivers.”
Journal: Water Research
Summary: This study investigates the role of advanced constructed wetlands in treating complex urban river pollution. Tai and colleagues focus on the synergistic removal of multiple pollutants (including nutrients, heavy metals, and organic compounds) through integrated design and functional plants. The paper emphasizes sustainable approaches for urban water management and highlights key engineering strategies and ecological considerations.
🔗 Read here — cited by 25 articles.

🌿 Tai, Y. et al. (2024). “Phytodiversity-driven ecological restoration of urban waters.”
Journal: Environmental Science & Technology
Summary: This article explores how enhancing phytodiversity (plant diversity) can promote ecosystem restoration in urban aquatic systems. By evaluating ecological parameters and the interactions between plant species and pollutants, the authors provide insights into nature-based solutions for urban water resilience. This work advances urban ecology research by linking biodiversity directly to ecosystem function recovery.
🔗 Read here — cited by 18 articles.

🌱 Tai, Y. et al. (2025). “Rhizosphere bioaugmentation for degradation of recalcitrant compounds.”
Journal: Chemical Engineering Journal
Summary: Focusing on the potential of rhizosphere bioaugmentation, this paper investigates the co-cultivation of specialized microbial consortia and target plants to break down stubborn contaminants in aquatic environments. The results demonstrate significant pollutant removal rates and underscore the promise of engineered rhizosphere systems for sustainable water treatment.
🔗 Read here — cited by 12 articles.

Conclusion

Yiping Tai is a highly deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award, given his pioneering work in urban aquatic ecosystem restoration, demonstrated innovation, significant publication record, and recognition through patents and regional awards. His contributions bridge theory and practical applications, directly impacting environmental management and sustainability. Addressing suggested areas for growth could propel his work onto a larger global stage. Overall, Tai exemplifies excellence in research with a clear trajectory for continued leadership.

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.

Prof. A. Mujib | Biology | Best Researcher Award

Prof. A. Mujib | Biology | Best Researcher Award

Prof. A. Mujib, Jamia Hamdard, India

Dr. A. Mujib is a distinguished professor in the Department of Botany at Jamia Hamdard University, New Delhi, with over 30 years of research and teaching experience. His expertise spans plant biotechnology, cytogenetics, and molecular genetics, with significant contributions in somatic embryogenesis, proteomics, and crop improvement. Dr. Mujib has held esteemed positions, including DAAD Fellow in Germany and Bentham Ambassador, and has been recognized internationally for his impactful work in plant science.

Profile

Google scholar

Strengths for the Award

Dr. A. Mujib’s extensive experience in plant biotechnology, cytogenetics, and molecular genetics highlights him as a leading researcher in his field. With a Ph.D. in Botany and over three decades of research experience, he has supervised 20 Ph.D. scholars and produced an impressive volume of work, including 141 research papers, 5 books, and 32 book chapters. His contributions to conferences, his role as an editor for multiple international journals, and invitations to lecture at prestigious global institutions underscore his scholarly influence. His awards, such as the DAAD Fellowship and recognition by the International Bibliographic Centre, reflect his impact on the scientific community.

Areas for Improvement

Although Dr. Mujib has achieved significant academic milestones, expanding interdisciplinary collaborations could enhance his research’s global applicability and impact. Engaging in more applied research projects or focusing on translational aspects of plant biotechnology could also increase the real-world influence of his work. Furthermore, integrating innovative methods, like AI in plant biotechnology, could modernize his research approach and broaden his audience.

Education 🎓

Dr. Mujib pursued his academic journey in India, completing his Ph.D. (1993) and M.Sc. (1986) at the University of Kalyani, after earning his B.Sc. (1984) from the University of Burdwan. His educational background set a strong foundation for his later contributions in plant biotechnology and molecular genetics.

Experience 🧑‍🏫

Currently a professor at Jamia Hamdard University, Dr. Mujib has previously held positions as a Mission Engineer and Research Associate at IIT Kharagpur. He has also served as a Research Officer at the All India Institute of Hygiene and Public Health. With a career dedicated to academic research and teaching, he has mentored numerous Ph.D. and M.Sc. students.

Research Interest 🔬

Dr. Mujib’s research focuses on plant embryogenesis, gene expression, proteomics, and crop enhancement. His studies in plant cytogenetics and DNA analysis have led to advancements in understanding secondary compound synthesis in plants under various biotic and abiotic conditions, contributing to crop improvement strategies.

Awards 🏆

Dr. Mujib has received several prestigious awards, including the DAAD Fellowship (Germany) and the Bentham Ambassador title. He has also been recognized in “Who’s Who in Science and Engineering” and honored as one of the Top 100 Engineers by the IBC, Cambridge, England.

Publication Top Notes 📚

Secondary metabolism of pharmaceuticals in the plant in vitro cultures: strategies, approaches, and limitations to achieving higher yield

Catharanthus roseus (L.) G. Don. An important drug: it’s applications and production

Eksplorasi etnomatematika pada alat musik Gordang Sambilan

Somatic embryogenesis

Somatic embryo proliferation, maturation and germination in Catharanthus roseus

NaCl amendment improves vinblastine and vincristine synthesis in Catharanthus roseus: a case of stress signalling as evidenced by antioxidant enzymes …

Somatic embryogenesis, scanning electron microscopy, histology and biochemical analysis at different developing stages of embryogenesis in six date palm (Phoenix dactylifera L …

Salinity stress enhances production of solasodine in Solanum nigrum L.

Genes, proteins and other networks regulating somatic embryogenesis in plants

Yeast extract elicitation increases vinblastine and vincristine yield in protoplast derived tissues and plantlets in Catharanthus roseus

Conclusion

Dr. A. Mujib stands out as an exceptional candidate for the “Best Researcher Award.” His distinguished career in plant science, prolific publication record, and contributions to academia make him highly deserving. Addressing specific research gaps through interdisciplinary work and novel methodologies would further strengthen his candidacy and amplify his contributions to science.

Mr. Carlos Velásquez | Ecology and Conservation | Best Paper Award

Mr. Carlos Velásquez | Ecology and Conservation | Best Paper Award

Mr. Carlos Velásquez, Estudiante de Doctorado, Universidad de Alicante, Ecuador

🌿📚 Mr. Carlos Velásquez, a dedicated Ph.D. student at the University of Alicante, Ecuador, has made significant contributions to the field of Ecology and Conservation. His exceptional research has earned him the prestigious Best Paper Award, highlighting his commitment to environmental sustainability. Mr. Velásquez’s work focuses on preserving biodiversity and developing innovative conservation strategies, reflecting his passion for nature and ecological balance. 🌎🏞️ His achievements underscore the importance of academic excellence and dedication to safeguarding our planet’s ecosystems. Congratulations, Mr. Velásquez, on this well-deserved recognition! 🌱🏆

PROFILE 🧑‍🎓

Orcid

EDUCATION 🎓

🎓 Mr. Carlos Velásquez is pursuing a Ph.D. in Mathematical Methods and Modeling in Sciences and Engineering at the University of Alicante since 2020. 🌟 He completed a Master’s in Mathematical Engineering and Computing at the International University of La Rioja in 2019. 📊 Prior to that, he earned a degree in Physics from the National Polytechnic School in 2017. 🧑‍🎓 His academic journey began with the International Baccalaureate Diploma from Unidad Educativa Experimental Manuela Cañizares in 2010. 📚✨ Carlos’s academic background showcases his strong foundation in mathematical and physical sciences.

ADDITIONAL PREPARATION 📚

Mr. Carlos Velásquez has pursued a rich array of professional training and workshops, amassing extensive knowledge in fields like photometry, metrology, and quality assurance. Notable courses include 40 hours of training in photometry at PTB/INTI 🌟, 74 hours in measurement validation at PTB/INSTRULAB 📏, and specialized programs in ISO standards and energy efficiency 🌿. He also engaged in virtual education, leadership coaching, and advanced statistical analysis 📊. This diverse expertise, spanning from 2013 to 2023, highlights his commitment to continual learning and professional growth. His dedication to education and quality standards is truly commendable! 🎓💼✨

TEACHING EXPERIENCE 🍎

Mr. Carlos Velásquez 👨‍🏫📚 has been a part-time online lecturer at Universidad Central del Ecuador since 2021. He teaches subjects like Mathematics Learning, Didactics, Evaluation Processes, and School Management. 🏫📈 He also tutors research projects, designs and implements classes, and supports students with special needs. Additionally, he creates virtual teaching resources and prepares Moodle classrooms. 🌐🎓 In 2021, he was a virtual tutor for SIGUE, training Dominican teachers in digital tools and managing forums and chats. He previously instructed Ecuadorian teachers on ICTs and taught Physics, Chemistry, and Math at Royalty Workers. 🔬📊