Shivukumar Rakkasagi | Climate Change | Young Scientist Award

Dr. Shivukumar Rakkasagi | Climate Change | Young Scientist Award

Indian Institute of Technology Indore | India

Dr. Shivukumar Rakkasagi is a dedicated researcher and educator in the Department of Civil Engineering at the Indian Institute of Technology Indore, India. He holds a Ph.D. in Civil Engineering from the same institution, an M.Sc. in Geoinformatics from Karnataka State Rural Development and Panchayat Raj University, and a B.E. in Civil Engineering from Visvesvaraya Technological University. His research focuses on hydroclimatic extremes, wetland resilience, and geospatial-AI integration for climate risk assessment and sustainable environmental management. Dr. Shivukumar Rakkasagi has contributed to the understanding of climate-induced hazards affecting Ramsar wetlands and biodiversity through novel frameworks combining hydrology, AI, and socio-technical perspectives. His previous experience includes roles at the Indian Institute for Human Settlements, Punjab Remote Sensing Centre, and the Indian Space Research Organisation, where he developed expertise in remote sensing, GIS, and environmental modeling. He has co-authored numerous high-impact journal papers and book chapters published by Springer, Elsevier, and Nature, contributing significantly to climate resilience research. With 136 citations across 81 documents, 12 publications, and an h-index of 6, his scholarly impact continues to grow in the field of environmental sciences. Dr. Shivukumar Rakkasagi has been recognized with multiple prestigious honors, including national fellowships, best presentation awards, and scientific distinctions for excellence in Earth and environmental sciences. He actively serves as a reviewer for international journals such as Scientific Reports, Remote Sensing of Environment, and Water Resources Management and is a member of various professional and scientific societies. His interdisciplinary work bridges research and policy, fostering sustainable solutions for climate adaptation, ecosystem protection, and water resource resilience.

Featured Publications

Goyal, M. K., Gupta, A. K., Jha, S., Rakkasagi, S., & Jain, V. (2022). Climate change impact on precipitation extremes over Indian cities: Non-stationary analysis. Technological Forecasting and Social Change, 180, 121685.

Rakkasagi, S., Goyal, M. K., & Jha, S. (2024). Evaluating the future risk of coastal Ramsar wetlands in India to extreme rainfalls using fuzzy logic. Journal of Hydrology, 632, 130869.

Goyal, M. K., Rakkasagi, S., Shaga, S., Zhang, T. C., Surampalli, R. Y., & Dubey, S. (2023). Spatiotemporal-based automated inundation mapping of Ramsar wetlands using Google Earth Engine. Scientific Reports, 13(1), 17324.

Rakkasagi, S., Poonia, V., & Goyal, M. K. (2023). Flash drought as a new climate threat: Drought indices, insights from a study in India and implications for future research. Journal of Water and Climate Change, 14(9), 3368–3384.

Goyal, M. K., Gupta, A. K., Das, J., Jain, V., & Rakkasagi, S. (2023). Heatwave magnitude impact over Indian cities: CMIP 6 projections. Theoretical and Applied Climatology, 154(3), 959–971.

Jitendra Pandey | Climate Change | Distinguished Scientist Award

Prof. Jitendra Pandey | Climate Change | Distinguished Scientist Award

Professor | Banaras Hindu University | India  

Prof. Jitendra Pandey is a distinguished Professor in the Environmental Science Division at the Centre of Advanced Study in Botany, Banaras Hindu University, India. With over three decades of research and teaching experience, he has become a leading authority in river ecology, environmental monitoring, sustainable agriculture, and water resource conservation. His pioneering work on the Ganga River and atmospheric deposition has contributed significantly to ecological sustainability and climate change understanding. He has supervised numerous doctoral and postgraduate students, led impactful research projects, and authored an extensive body of scientific publications, strengthening his reputation as a global environmental researcher.

Professional Profile

Scopus

Education

Prof. Jitendra Pandey pursued his higher studies at Banaras Hindu University, where he earned both his M.Sc. and Ph.D. in Environmental Science. His academic journey was driven by a deep interest in river ecosystems and environmental sustainability. During his research years, he received prestigious fellowships from the University Grants Commission and the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research, India. These formative experiences laid the foundation for his lifelong dedication to scientific inquiry, environmental monitoring, and conservation strategies. His strong academic training has equipped him to address complex challenges in river ecology, pollution assessment, and sustainable resource management.

Experience

Prof. Jitendra Pandey has accumulated rich academic and research experience, beginning as a Junior and Senior Research Fellow at Banaras Hindu University before serving as a Research Associate under CSIR. He worked as a Junior Scientific Officer at the Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeobotany, Lucknow, before joining M.L. Sukhadia University, Udaipur, as Assistant Professor. He later returned to Banaras Hindu University, where he rose through positions as Reader, Associate Professor, and Professor. With over twenty-five years of teaching and more than thirty-three years of research experience, he has trained hundreds of students while leading impactful projects of national and global relevance.

Research Interests

Prof. Jitendra Pandey research interests span multiple interdisciplinary domains, including river ecology, water resource conservation, sustainable agriculture, and cross-domain carbon linkages. He has extensively studied the ecological functioning of the Ganga River, with a focus on nutrient cycling, carbon fluxes, and anthropogenic impacts on aquatic systems. His investigations also address air and water pollution, atmospheric deposition, and ecosystem responses to climate change. Additionally, his work explores the relationship between ecological health and food security. Through his studies, he emphasizes the integration of ecological principles with practical conservation and sustainable management strategies to mitigate human-induced environmental degradation.

Awards

Prof. Jitendra Pandey has received numerous national and international awards for his contributions to environmental science. His early recognition includes the prestigious INTER Research Essay Grand Prize” (Japan) for a new hypothesis on ozone layer destruction. He later received the Ibaraki Kasumigaura Prize (Japan) for outstanding work in lake conservation. His accolades also include the World Green Award (INGP, New Delhi), the Twenty First Century Development Award, and the First Best Article Award by IMSA. Additionally, he earned research fellowships from UGC and CSIR and was fully sponsored to participate in the Planet under Pressure Conference at Oxford University, London.

Top Noted Publications

Title: Impact of DOC trends resulting from changing climatic extremes and atmospheric deposition chemistry on periphyton community of a freshwater tropical lake of India
Year: 2013
Cited by: 37

Title: Impact of changing atmospheric deposition chemistry on carbon and nutrient loading to Ganga River: integrating land–atmosphere–water components to uncover cross-domain carbon linkages
Year: 2014
Cited by: 76

Title: Alternative alert system for Ganga River eutrophication using alkaline phosphatase as a level determinant
Year: 2017
Cited by: 42

Title: An ecological response index for simultaneous prediction of eutrophication and metal pollution in large rivers
Year: 2019
Cited by: 46

Title: Benthic hypoxia in anthropogenically-impacted rivers provides positive feedback enhancing the level of bioavailable metals at sediment-water interface
Year: 2020
Cited by: 14

Conclusion

Prof. Jitendra Pandey demonstrates a rare combination of scientific excellence, leadership, and commitment to environmental sustainability. His pioneering studies on river ecology and ecosystem linkages, his sustained mentorship of future scientists, and his recognized global contributions make him a highly deserving candidate for the Research for Distinguished Scientist Award. While there remain opportunities for broader translation of his findings into policy and global partnerships, his achievements reflect both depth and breadth of scholarship. In conclusion, his career exemplifies the qualities of a distinguished scientist, making him eminently suitable for this recognition.

Muhammad Babar Ramzan | Sustainability | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Muhammad Babar Ramzan | Sustainability | Best Researcher Award

Assistant Professor | National Textile University | Pakistan

Dr. Muhammad Babar Ramzan is an accomplished academic and researcher serving as an Assistant Professor at the School of Engineering Technology, National Textile University, Faisalabad. With expertise spanning industrial and management engineering, textile engineering, and quality management systems, he combines academic excellence with industry-oriented problem-solving. His professional journey bridges academia and industry, marked by impactful research contributions in sustainability, process improvement, and textile innovation. Through international publications, conference presentations, and funded projects, he has developed a strong reputation for advancing circular economy practices and human-based quality control systems, inspiring innovation in textile engineering and management education.

Professional Profile

Scopus

Orcid

Google Scholar

Education

Dr. Muhammad Babar Ramzan pursued his PhD in Industrial and Management Engineering at Hanyang University, South Korea, where he specialized in composite modeling for evaluation of human-based inspection systems. His research emphasized quality management and advanced optimization methodologies. He also holds an MS degree in Textile Engineering from National Textile University, Pakistan, where he investigated dimensional stability in knitwear. Earlier, he completed a BS in Textile Engineering with a focus on garment manufacturing. This solid academic foundation reflects his continuous pursuit of interdisciplinary knowledge, blending engineering management, textile sciences, and sustainability to address challenges in modern manufacturing environments.

Experience

Dr. Muhammad Babar Ramzan career encompasses an enriching blend of academic and industrial roles. Currently, he is an Assistant Professor at National Textile University, where he has been actively teaching, mentoring, and leading research initiatives. He previously served as Assistant Professor at the University of Management and Technology, Lahore, and Lecturer at The University of Faisalabad. His industrial experience includes leadership roles at Masood Textile Mills Limited, where he gained practical expertise in production operations, quality control, and assurance. This dual exposure allows him to integrate theory and practice, contributing effectively to both academic excellence and industrial competitiveness.

Research Interests

Dr. Muhammad Babar Ramzan research is centered on data-driven process improvement, mathematical modeling, and sustainable industrial practices. His scholarly pursuits explore human-based quality inspection systems, supply chain resilience, lean methodologies, and consumer-focused textile innovation. He is deeply engaged in developing models that enhance efficiency, reduce waste, and promote responsible consumption through circular economy approaches. His interdisciplinary research spans textile engineering, operations research, and industrial engineering, addressing challenges in productivity, environmental impact, and design for sustainability. With a passion for innovation, he continuously investigates novel strategies that merge industry needs with academic insights to foster long-term sustainable growth.

Awards

Throughout his career, Dr. Muhammad Babar Ramzan has been recognized for his academic and research excellence through various professional milestones. His achievements include successfully completing funded research projects sponsored by higher education institutions and industry collaborations. He has been entrusted with national-level responsibilities such as serving as a curriculum reviewer for garment engineering programs, reflecting his expertise and academic leadership. His patents, conference presentations, and impactful journal publications also stand as significant academic honors. Additionally, his guidance in producing industrial innovations like eco-friendly textile processes and sustainable product designs further highlight his contributions to applied research and industry advancement.

Top Noted Publications

Title: A robust possibilistic flexible programming approach toward a resilient and cost-efficient biodiesel supply chain network
Year: 2022
Cited by: 120

Title: Competency framework development for effective human resource management
Year: 2021
Cited by: 92

Title: Effect of inspection performance in smart manufacturing system based on human quality control system
Year: 2018
Cited by: 81

Title: Medicine supply chain model for an integrated healthcare system with uncertain product complaints
Year: 2018
Cited by: 73

Title: Interactive fuzzy multi criteria decision making approach for supplier selection and order allocation in a resilient supply chain
Year: 2019
Cited by: 53

Conclusion

Considering his impactful contributions in academia, industry, and research, Dr. Muhammad Babar Ramzan stands as a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His extensive record of publications, innovation in sustainable textile solutions, active role in higher education, and leadership in research supervision collectively showcase excellence. With further global collaborations and interdisciplinary engagement, he has the potential to make even greater contributions to industrial engineering and sustainable development.

Ashish Sharma | Sustainability | Best Academic Researcher Award

Dr. Ashish Sharma | Sustainability | Best Academic Researcher Award

Founding CEO | Sustainability Alternatives Ltd | India

Dr. Ashish Sharma is a globally recognized environmental researcher and consultant with deep expertise in air pollution mitigation, sustainability assessment, and Net‑Zero strategy design. Currently engaged as a Scientific Consultant at India’s MoEFCC NATCOM Cell, Manager for Air Quality at WRI India Ross Center, and Co‑founder of Sustainability Alternatives Ltd., UK, he blends cutting-edge analysis with policy influence across multiple continents.

Professional Profile

Scopus

Google Scholar

Education

Dr. Sharma earned his Ph.D. in Civil and Environmental Engineering from the University of Surrey (2017–2021), UK, focusing on quantifying and mitigating particulate matter exposure in young children. He earlier obtained an MRes in Environmental Science from Macquarie University, Australia (2015–2016), and an M.S. in Environmental Engineering from Gwangju Institute of Science & Technology, South Korea (2012–2014). His academic training builds a strong foundation in climate policy, life cycle assessment, and exposure modeling.

Experience

Dr. Sharma has led high-impact roles across governmental, nonprofit, academic, and consulting sectors. At MoEFCC, he coordinated India’s GHG inventory reporting, developed the Net Zero Portal, and championed transparency under the UNFCCC Enhanced Transparency Framework. At WRI India, he manages air quality programs for urban environments, engages with cities and stakeholders, and produces research-driven policy briefs. As founder of Sustainability Alternatives Ltd., he advises clients globally on decarbonization, circular economy, and sustainability integration.

Research Interests

His research spans multiple domains: air pollution exposure assessment, climate policy, Net Zero strategy development, life cycle sustainability, and environmental governance. He has led interdisciplinary international projects in India, the UK, the USA, Australia, and South Korea, using tools like MOVES, GREET, SimaPro, GaBi, ArcGIS, and R to deliver policy-relevant analysis.

Awards

Dr. Sharma was awarded the EPSRC NPIF PhD fellowship at Surrey, the iMQRES scholarship at Macquarie University, and a Korean government scholarship at GIST. He has consistently delivered in leadership, communication, and capacity-building roles, having presented at high-profile forums such as the India 2047 Summit and the WRI City platforms.

Top Noted Publications

Title: Urban energy transition in smart cities: a comprehensive review of sustainability and innovation
Year: 2025
Cited by: +13

Title: Air pollution exposure assessment simulation of babies in a bike trailer and implication for mitigation measures
Year: 2022
Cited by: +5

Title: Quantification of air pollution exposure to in‑pram babies and mitigation strategies
Year: 2020
Cited by: +3

Title: Navigating the impact of climate change in India: a perspective on SDG11 & 13
Year: 2023
Cited by: +6

Conclusion

On balance, Dr. Ashish Sharma is highly qualified for a Best Academic Researcher Award. His strengths in high-impact research, cross-sectoral leadership, technical excellence, and policy engagement align well with the criteria of research excellence and real-world impact.

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).