Paulo Renato Matos Lopes | Bioremediation of agricultural soils | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Paulo Renato Matos Lopes | Bioremediation of agricultural soils | Best Researcher Award

Assistant Professor, São Paulo State University – Unesp, Brazil

Prof. Dr. Paulo Renato Matos Lopes is a dedicated Professor at the Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), with a focus on environmental and biological sciences. He coordinates the GAIA Group for Environmental Impact and has served in various academic roles since 2005. With a commitment to scientific innovation, he has contributed to both teaching and research in areas related to microbiology and environmental studies. 🌱📚

Profile

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Education🎓🔬

Prof. Dr. Paulo Renato Matos Lopes completed his Bachelor’s in Biological Sciences from UNESP-Rio Claro (2004), followed by a Master’s and Ph.D. in Applied Microbiology (2007-2014). He received postdoctoral training through CAPES and Unesp’s PROPe (2014) and worked as a Visiting Scholar at the University of Porto (2021-2022).

Experience🏫💼

Prof. Dr. Paulo Renato Matos Lopes has taught at UNESP Dracena since 2015, contributing to both undergraduate and graduate programs. He has also worked as a visiting researcher and professor at the University of Porto. He leads the GAIA Group and is a permanent faculty member in the Agronomy program.

Awards and Honors🏆

Prof. Dr. Paulo Renato Matos Lopes has been awarded the CAPES-PrInt Fellowship (2021-2022) and holds a CNPq Research Productivity Fellowship (2022). He is recognized for his contributions to innovation and environmental science, having led various impactful initiatives. 🎖️

Research Focus🌍🔬

Prof. Dr. Paulo Renato Matos Lopes focuses on environmental impact, applied microbiology, and sustainable agricultural practices. He leads research projects on ecological impacts and works on developing innovative solutions for environmental sustainability.

Publications Top Notes📚
  1. Antibacterial action and target mechanisms of zinc oxide nanoparticles against bacterial pathogens
    • Authors: CR Mendes, G Dilarri, CF Forsan, VMR Sapata, PRM Lopes, et al.
    • Journal: Scientific Reports
    • Volume/Issue: 12 (1), 1-10
    • Citations: 302
    • Year: 2022
  2. Microbial biodegradation potential of hydrocarbons evaluated by colorimetric technique: a case study
    • Authors: ED Bidoia, RN Montagnolli, PRM Lopes
    • Journal: Current research, technology and education topics in applied microbiology
    • Citations: 107
    • Year: 2010
  3. Assessing Bacillus subtilis biosurfactant effects on the biodegradation of petroleum products
    • Authors: RN Montagnolli, PRM Lopes, ED Bidoia
    • Journal: Environmental Monitoring and Assessment
    • Volume/Issue: 187 (1), 4116
    • Citations: 92
    • Year: 2015
  4. Screening the toxicity and biodegradability of petroleum hydrocarbons by a rapid colorimetric method
    • Authors: RN Montagnolli, PRM Lopes, ED Bidoia
    • Journal: Archives of Environmental Contamination and Toxicology
    • Volume: 68, 342-353
    • Citations: 57
    • Year: 2015
  5. Biodegradation and toxicological evaluation of lubricant oils
    • Authors: IS Tamada, PRM Lopes, RN Montagnolli, ED Bidoia
    • Journal: Brazilian Archives of Biology and Technology
    • Volume/Issue: 55 (6), 951-956
    • Citations: 55
    • Year: 2012
  6. Phytotoxicity of soil contaminated with petroleum derivatives and biodiesel
    • Authors: JM Cruz, PRM Lopes, RN Montagnolli, IS Tamada, NMMG Silva, et al.
    • Journal: Ecotoxicology and Environmental Contamination
    • Volume/Issue: 8 (1), 49-54
    • Citations: 52
    • Year: 2013
  7. Applied models to biodegradation kinetics of lubricant and vegetable oils in wastewater
    • Authors: RN Montagnolli, PRM Lopes, ED Bidoia
    • Journal: International Biodeterioration & Biodegradation
    • Volume/Issue: 63 (3), 297-305
    • Citations: 51
    • Year: 2009
  8. Toxicity assessment of contaminated soil using seeds as bioindicators
    • Authors: JM Cruz, PRM Lopes, RN Montagnolli, IS Tamada, NMMG Silva, et al.
    • Journal: Journal of Applied Biotechnology
    • Volume/Issue: 1 (1), 1
    • Citations: 48
    • Year: 2013
  9. Toxicological evaluation of vegetable oils and biodiesel in soil during the biodegradation process
    • Authors: IS Tamada, RN Montagnolli, PRM Lopes, ED Bidoia
    • Journal: Brazilian Journal of Microbiology
    • Volume/Issue: 43 (4), 1576-1581
    • Citations: 47
    • Year: 2012
  10. Toxicity and biodegradation in sandy soil contaminated by lubricant oils
    • Authors: PRM Lopes, RN Montagnolli, R de Fátima Domingues, ED Bidoia
    • Journal: Bulletin of Environmental Contamination and Toxicology
    • Volume: 84, 454-458
    • Citations: 44
    • Year: 2010
  11. Evaluation of the biodegradation of different types of lubricant oils in liquid medium
    • Authors: PRM Lopes, ED Bidoia
    • Journal: Brazilian Archives of Biology and Technology
    • Volume/Issue: 52 (5), 1285-1290
    • Citations: 35
    • Year: 2009
  12. Biodegradation and phytotoxicity of biodiesel, diesel, and petroleum in soil
    • Authors: JM Cruz, IS Tamada, PRM Lopes, RN Montagnolli, ED Bidoia
    • Journal: Water, Air & Soil Pollution
    • Volume: 225, 1-9
    • Citations: 34
    • Year: 2014
  13. The effects of fluoride-based fire-fighting foams on soil microbiota activity and plant growth during natural attenuation of perfluorinated compounds
    • Authors: RN Montagnolli, PRM Lopes, JM Cruz, EMT Claro, GM Quiterio, et al.
    • Journal: Environmental Toxicology and Pharmacology
    • Volume: 50, 119-127
    • Citations: 33
    • Year: 2017
  14. Microbial bioremediation of pesticides in agricultural soils: an integrative review on natural attenuation, bioaugmentation, and biostimulation
    • Authors: PRM Lopes, VH Cruz, AB de Menezes, BP Gadanhoto, BRA Moreira, et al.
    • Journal: Reviews in Environmental Science and Bio/Technology
    • Volume/Issue: 21 (4), 851-876
    • Citations: 32
    • Year: 2022
  15. Contamination by Remazol Red Brilliant Dye and its Impact in Aquatic Photosynthetic Microbiota
    • Authors: ML de Sousa, PB de Moraes, PRM Lopes, RN Montagnolli, DF de Angelis, et al.
    • Journal: Environmental Management and Sustainable Development
    • Volume/Issue: 1 (2), 129-138
    • Citations: 31
    • Year: 2012

Conclusion

The individual is a highly capable candidate for the Best Researcher Award, with a robust background in environmental impact studies and sustainable agriculture. Their leadership roles, international exposure, and current research initiatives demonstrate their potential to make significant contributions to both academic and practical fields. By expanding their publication record and engaging in broader dissemination strategies, they could further enhance their impact and recognition. Given their current achievements and potential for growth, they stand out as a strong contender for the award.

Vesna Tomašić | Photocatalysis | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Vesna Tomašić | Photocatalysis | Best Researcher Award

Prof,  University of Zagreb, Faculty of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Croatia 

Vesna Tomašić is a full professor at the Faculty of Chemical Engineering and Technology, University of Zagreb, specializing in chemical reaction engineering and catalysis. Since earning her doctorate in 1999, she has held key academic and administrative positions, including head of the doctoral program in Chemical Engineering. She has mentored numerous students and supervised several international collaborations, contributing significantly to chemical engineering advancements in Croatia and abroad. Known for her dedication to environmental protection technologies, particularly air pollution abatement, her work has earned her prestigious national and international recognitions. Tomašić actively participates in global scientific communities, furthering research in catalyst development and reactor optimization. 🧪🌍

Profile

scholar

Education 🎓

1999: Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Chemical Engineering and Technology, University of Zagreb1993: Master of Science in Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Chemical Engineering and Technology, University of Zagreb1990: Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering Her academic journey laid a robust foundation for her expertise in catalysis, chemical reactors, and environmental protection technologies. 📘🔬

Professional Experience  🏢

2017 – Present: Full Professor in Tenure, Faculty of Chemical Engineering and Technology, University of Zagreb2011 – 2017: Full Professor2006 – 2011: Associate Professor2002 – 2006: Assistant Professor Throughout her career, Tomašić has led various departmental roles, including Vice-Dean for Teaching and Science, and served on significant scientific committees, contributing to the institution’s growth and international collaborations. 🏫👩‍🏫

Awards and Honors 🏆

2011: Special Award for Doctoral Training Quality Promotion, University of Zagreb2008: Franjo Hanaman Award for Faculty Promotion2005: Recognition for Chemical Engineering Promotion, Croatian Society of Chemical Engineers These accolades underscore her dedication to academic excellence, research mentorship, and chemical engineering advocacy. 🎖️👏

Research Focus 🔍

Her research revolves around catalytic reaction engineering, air pollution abatement, and the development of advanced oxidation technologies. Key collaborations include projects with France, China, and regional European institutions, focusing on novel catalysts for environmental sustainability. She is renowned for her work on monolithic and membrane reactors, VOC removal, and zeolite-based catalysts. 🌿🔧

📚 Publications Top Notes

State-of-the-art in the monolithic catalysts/reactors” (2006)
Comprehensive review of monolithic catalysts and reactors, focusing on their preparation, properties, and applications in various chemical processes, particularly environmental catalysis. The study highlights advantages such as low pressure drop and high mass transfer efficiency.

“Application of the monoliths in DeNOx catalysis” (2007)
This work discusses the utilization of monolithic structures in DeNOx systems for NOx removal. Emphasis is placed on their efficiency in selective catalytic reduction (SCR) processes and their potential to meet stringent environmental regulations.

“Photocatalytic oxidation of toluene in the gas phase” (2008)
The study models an annular photocatalytic reactor for toluene degradation, providing insights into the kinetics and efficiency of gas-phase photocatalytic reactions, essential for air pollution control technologies.

“Heterogena fotokataliza: osnove i primjena za obradu onečišćenog zraka” (2011)
A foundational text in Croatian on heterogeneous photocatalysis, detailing its principles and practical applications for air purification, particularly in removing volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

“Photocatalytic degradation of imidacloprid” (2021)
Focuses on the degradation of the pesticide imidacloprid in a flat-plate photoreactor under UVA and simulated solar conditions, analyzing operating parameters, reaction kinetics, and environmental implications.

“Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in PM10, PM2.5 and PM1 particle fractions in an urban area” (2018)
Investigates the distribution and health impact of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in particulate matter of different sizes, emphasizing urban air pollution monitoring and mitigation strategies.

“Catalytic reduction of NOx over Cu/ZSM-5 catalyst” (1998)
This early work explores Cu/ZSM-5 catalysts’ performance in NOx reduction, addressing challenges in developing effective catalytic systems for exhaust gas purification.

“Non-ideal flow in an annular photocatalytic reactor” (2012)
Analyzes flow dynamics in annular reactors, critical for optimizing photocatalytic processes in real-world applications by improving reaction efficiency and reactor design.

“Photocatalytic degradation of the herbicide terbuthylazine” (2015)
Examines the degradation of terbuthylazine using TiO₂/chitosan composite layers, focusing on immobilized photocatalysts for sustainable herbicide removal from water sources.

Conclusion:

Vesna Tomašić is an outstanding candidate for the Best Researcher Award due to her significant contributions in teaching, research, and mentorship. Her leadership in organizing scientific events and her recognition from prominent institutions further affirm her status as a leading expert in chemical engineering. While there are always opportunities for broader collaboration, her proven track record makes her a highly deserving nominee for this prestigious award.