Inese Skapste | Algal biostimulants | Best Researcher Award

Posted on by sciencefather

Mrs. Inese Skapste | Algal biostimulants | Best Researcher Award

PhD candiate, Latvia University of Life Sciences and Technologies, Latvia

Inese Skapste is a dynamic professional from Latvia with a unique blend of experience in business, innovation, and academic research. 📊🌱 As a RIS3 Knowledge-Intensive Bioeconomy Expert at the Investment and Development Agency of Latvia, she leads bioeconomy ecosystem initiatives. Alongside, she is a PhD candidate in Agricultural Economics and a lecturer at Riga Technical University. Inese’s work bridges practical entrepreneurship and scientific exploration, with a strong focus on sustainable development and circular bioeconomy solutions, especially algae-based innovations. 🌿🌍

Profile

Orcid

🎓 Education

Inese holds multiple degrees reflecting her interdisciplinary knowledge. She is currently pursuing a PhD in Agricultural Economics at the Latvia University of Life Sciences and Technologies (LBTU) 📚🌾. Her academic journey also includes a Master’s degree in Economics (2021–2023), a Master’s in Business Administration from Ventspils University, and a Bachelor’s in Public Management from Turība University. She has completed certifications in pedagogy, mindfulness-based teaching, and deep tech innovation from Universidade Católica Portuguesa. 🧠💼

💼 Experience

With over two decades of professional experience, Inese has held leadership roles across various sectors. Currently, she serves as a RIS3 Bioeconomy Expert and Scientific Assistant at LBTU, contributing to research and investment strategy. 🧪📈 Previously, she managed algae research projects at Soli Progressi LLC, led marketing at Emil Company Europe, and held senior roles in BMS, Narvesen Baltija, and more. She also lectures on entrepreneurship, HR economics, and innovation at Riga Technical University’s Ventspils Centre. 👩‍🏫🌍

🔬 Research Interest

Inese’s research focuses on circular bioeconomy, sustainable resource use, and the agricultural application of macroalgae. Her PhD explores the economic potential of Baltic Sea algae 🌊 for creating bio-based agricultural inputs like biostimulants. She is actively involved in evaluating bioresource sustainability, biorefinery models, and biomass valorization strategies to enhance Latvia’s green transition. Her work integrates environmental impact assessments and practical innovations for algae-based products. 🌿🔁

🏆 Awards

Inese’s research and policy contributions have been recognized across national and EU initiatives. 🇪🇺 She is a current member of two European Commission Working Groups: Mission A Soil Deal for Europe and Mission Adaptation to Climate Change under Horizon Europe. Her strategic work in bioeconomy is part of RIS3 specialization areas, aiming at fostering innovation and climate resilience in Latvia and the Baltic region. 🌍🏅

📚 Publications

“Evaluation of the agrochemical properties of algae for plant fertilisation” (2022) – Read here 🧪🌱
Published under the EU Structural Funds Operational Programme “Growth and Employment” | Cited in regional agricultural R&D papers.

“From the Baltic Sea coastal wash macroalgae from the Baltic Sea preparation for use in organic farming” (2023) – Internal project under service contract No 3.2/2023/3 🌊🌾

“Assessment of the Resource Potential of Baltic Sea Macroalgae for agricultural production” (2023) – Research Grant No. DG4 by LBTU 📘 [Institutional Archive]

“Evaluation of the economically justified usability of Baltic Sea algae as a bioresource for the promotion of circular economy” (2024–ongoing) – Exploring algae biorefinery for climate-neutral solutions ♻️🌍

🏁 Conclusion

Inese Skapste is a highly suitable candidate for the Best Researcher Award in terms of innovation, sustainability, and applied research. Her multidisciplinary background, policy impact, and strong involvement in cutting-edge bioeconomy topics present her as a future-forward researcher. Strengthening her publication record and expanding international research visibility will further boost her profile for top-tier awards. ✅🌱

Maritza Chirinos Marroquín | Sustainability and environment | Best Researcher Award

Posted on by sciencefather

Prof. Maritza Chirinos Marroquín | Sustainability and environment | Best Researcher Award

MSc., Saint Paul Catholic University, Peru🌟

Dr. Maritza Chirinos Marroquín is a distinguished researcher and educator with a focus on sustainability, academic performance, and student well-being. Currently a RENACYT (Nivel VII) researcher at Consejo Nacional de Ciencia y Tecnología e Innovación Tecnológica in Lima, Peru, she is dedicated to advancing the understanding of the ecological footprint, happiness, and sustainability in universities. With a profound commitment to improving student experiences, Dr. Chirinos Marroquín’s work bridges the gap between academic success and environmental responsibility.

Profile

Orcid

Education 🎓

Dr. Maritza Chirinos Marroquín holds the prestigious RENACYT (Nivel VII) qualification, awarded by the Consejo Nacional de Ciencia y Tecnología e Innovación Tecnológica (CONCYTEC) in Peru, which she has held since September 2023. Her research explores sustainability in higher education, with an emphasis on enhancing the overall academic and ecological performance of students.

Experience 🧑‍🔬

With a deep commitment to academia and research, Dr. Chirinos Marroquín is currently engaged as an Investigadora RENACYT at CONCYTEC in Lima, Peru. Her academic career has seen her work on several projects aimed at improving sustainability in higher education institutions and fostering better student outcomes in academic performance and happiness.

Research Interests 🔬

Dr. Chirinos Marroquín’s research interests are centered around sustainability, particularly its integration within universities. She investigates the relationships between ecological footprints, student happiness, and academic performance. Her work seeks to develop models for assessing and enhancing sustainability practices in higher education, focusing on the balance between environmental impact and student well-being.

Awards 🏆

Dr. Chirinos Marroquín’s dedication to advancing sustainability in education has earned her recognition through the RENACYT (Nivel VII) qualification, which is a testament to her outstanding contributions to scientific research in the field of sustainability.

Publications 📚

Sustainability in Universities: The Triad of Ecological Footprint, Happiness, and Academic Performance Among Brazilian and International Students (Sustainability, 2025): 10.3390/su17030950

Characteristics of University Happiness Conditions and Academic Performance: A Case Study of a University in Arequipa, Peru (ICACIT, 2024): 10.1109/ICACIT62963.2024.10788632

A Quantitative Assessment Model for Students’ Sustainability: Evidence from a Peruvian University (International Journal of Sustainability in Higher Education, 2023): 10.1108/ijshe-07-2022-0234

Conclusion

Maritza Chirinos Marroquín is a highly deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award due to her significant contributions to sustainability research, particularly within the realm of higher education. Her work is not only academically robust but also socially and globally relevant. By broadening her collaborative and outreach activities, she could further enhance the societal impact of her research. Overall, her dedication to advancing sustainability through education makes her an exemplary candidate for this prestigious award.

Dr. Vlaicu Petru Alexandru | Agricultural Science | Young Scientist Award

Posted on by sciencefather

Dr. Vlaicu Petru Alexandru | Agricultural Science | Young Scientist Award

Dr. Vlaicu Petru Alexandru, National Research and development Institute for Animal Biology and Nutrition, Romania

👨‍🔬 VLAICU Petru Alexandru is a dedicated scientific researcher with over eight years of experience in animal science. His focus lies in developing functional foods of animal origin by utilizing alternative feed ingredients in poultry nutrition. Through his work, he aims to improve animal production, enhance consumer health, and contribute positively to the environment. He has been an integral part of numerous research projects and has garnered recognition for his contributions to the scientific community.

Profile

Orcid

Strengths for the Award

Research Excellence: With over eight years of experience, Petru Alexandru’s work in animal science stands out, particularly in the development of functional foods and sustainable poultry nutrition. His focus on using alternative feed ingredients aligns with current environmental and health concerns.

Publication Record: Having authored or co-authored over 90 scientific papers, 70% of which are in high-impact Q1/Q2 journals, Petru demonstrates strong scientific communication skills.

Patents and Innovation: His 13 patent applications (4 granted) show innovation in animal science, supporting his potential for groundbreaking research in the future.

Collaborations: Strong partnerships with farmers, universities, and industry stakeholders, along with six industry contracts, reveal a high level of interdisciplinary collaboration.

Awards and Recognition: His 27 international exhibition awards and the 2024 Best Reviewer honor from Foods Journal reflect his excellence and impact on the field.

Areas for Improvement

International Exposure: While his experience includes international collaboration, he could further enhance his profile by leading or participating in more global research initiatives and projects.

Focus on Industry Impact: While there is mention of successful industry collaborations and products on the market, highlighting more specific outcomes and impacts of these products on the market could strengthen his case.

Education

🎓 Educational Background: Dr. Vlaicu earned his Ph.D. in Animal Science in 2018 with a thesis on functional foods developed from alternative feed materials. He also holds a master’s degree in Food Biosecurity, making him well-versed in both animal science and food safety sectors.

Professional Experience

💼 Experience: With a decade of expertise, VLAICU Petru Alexandru has been involved in over 25 research projects, including national and international collaborations. He is currently engaged in five ongoing projects, and his role has often been as a project manager or key researcher. Notably, he has worked extensively with farmers and private industry to bring innovative functional foods to the market.

Research Interests

🔬 Research Interests: His research focuses on poultry nutrition, food waste reduction, antioxidants, and the production of functional foods. He has particularly excelled in developing enriched eggs with omega-3, lutein, and vitamins D and E, which are now available in Romanian supermarkets. His work emphasizes sustainability and the integration of environmentally friendly practices into animal science.

Awards

🏆 Awards and Recognition: Dr. Vlaicu has received 27 prestigious prizes at international exhibitions, including gold, silver, and bronze medals. In 2024, he was recognized as the “Best Reviewer” by the Foods journal, reflecting his commitment to advancing research in animal nutrition and functional foods.

Publication Top Notes

Vlaicu PA, et al., “Study on the effects of natural antioxidants on poultry meat quality”. Foods, 2022. Cited by 15.

Vlaicu PA, et al., “Functional eggs enriched with bioactive compounds”. Animals, 2021. Cited by 22.

Vlaicu PA, et al., “Innovative feeds with environmental benefits”. Agriculture, 2020. Cited by 30.

Conclusion

Petru Alexandru is a highly suitable candidate for the “Young Scientist Award.” His impressive contributions to animal science, innovation in functional foods, numerous publications, and patents make him a strong contender. Focusing on broadening international exposure and emphasizing industry impact would further enhance his application.

Prof.Wilson PARAWIRA | Environmental Science | Excellence in Research

Posted on by sciencefather

Prof.Wilson PARAWIRA | Environmental Science | Excellence in Research

Prof .Wilson  PARAWIRA , Deputy CEO, ZIMBABWE COUNCIL FOR HIGHER EDUCATION, Zimbabwe.

Professor Wilson Parawira is a renowned academic and researcher in the field of Ehttps://environmentalscientists.org/?p=12763&preview=truenvironmental Biotechnology. With over two decades of experience, he has served in various academic and leadership roles at prominent institutions, including the University of Zimbabwe, University of Rwanda, and Stellenbosch University. Currently, he is the Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the Zimbabwe Council for Higher Education, after previously serving as Pro Vice Chancellor at Bindura University of Science Education (BUSE).

Profile

orcid

scopus

Professor Wilson Parawira is a distinguished scholar whose work has had a profound impact on environmental biotechnology and related fields. Below is an assessment of his suitability for the “Excellence in Research” award.

Strengths for the Award

1. Academic Contributions

Professor Parawira’s academic journey, from earning his BSc Honours in Biological Sciences and MSc in Biotechnology at the University of Zimbabwe to obtaining a PhD in Environmental Biotechnology from Lund University in Sweden, showcases his commitment to excellence in research and education. His work has spanned various esteemed institutions, both in Africa and abroad, contributing to knowledge and innovation.

2. Pioneering Research in Biotechnology
With more than 60 scientific publications and four book chapters, Professor Parawira has made substantial contributions to environmental biotechnology, biofuels, and food microbiology. His research has advanced understanding in these critical fields, providing valuable insights into sustainable development and environmental management. His work on biofuels, in particular, is aligned with global efforts to develop cleaner energy sources.

3. Leadership and Mentorship
Professor Parawira has held several significant leadership positions, including serving as the Executive Dean of Faculty of Science and Pro Vice Chancellor at Bindura University of Science Education. He has supervised numerous MSc and PhD students, ensuring that the next generation of scientists is well-trained. His roles as an External Examiner across multiple universities further affirm his expertise and recognition as a leader in the academic community.

4. International Collaboration
His international postdoctoral experience at Lund University in Sweden and Stellenbosch University in South Africa, along with his work at various African institutions, reflects his ability to collaborate across borders. These international collaborations have not only broadened his research perspectives but also contributed to the global scientific community.

Areas for Improvement

1. Diversifying Research Focus
While Professor Parawira has made significant contributions to environmental biotechnology and biofuels, expanding his research scope to include emerging topics such as climate change mitigation, advanced microbial engineering, or artificial intelligence in biotechnology could enhance his relevance in contemporary scientific discourse.

2. Increasing Public Engagement
Although Professor Parawira has published extensively in scientific journals, there may be opportunities to increase engagement with the general public or policymakers. Publishing opinion pieces, giving public lectures, or contributing to global discussions on biotechnology’s role in sustainable development could amplify the societal impact of his work.

3. Collaborative Grants and Large-scale Projects
While his individual research achievements are notable, Professor Parawira could further elevate his profile by leading large-scale, collaborative research projects that address global challenges. Participation in international research consortia or securing high-profile grants may help him to drive more impactful, interdisciplinary projects.

Education 🎓

Prof. Parawira holds a BSc Honours in Biological Sciences and an MSc in Biotechnology from the University of Zimbabwe. He completed his PhD in Environmental Biotechnology at Lund University, Sweden. Postdoctoral research further enriched his academic journey, conducted at Lund University and Stellenbosch University, South Africa, focusing on process engineering and microbiology.

Experience 💼

Prof. Parawira has risen through the academic ranks, holding positions as Lecturer, Senior Lecturer, Associate Professor, and Full Professor. He served as the Executive Dean of the Faculty of Science at Bindura University of Science Education for six years before his role as Pro Vice Chancellor. His diverse experience includes working in Zimbabwe, South Africa, and Rwanda, where he contributed significantly to the academic and scientific community.

Research Interests 🔬

Prof. Parawira’s research focuses on Environmental Biotechnology, with particular attention to biofuels, food microbiology, and science and technology policy. His work emphasizes sustainable solutions for global environmental challenges and bioinnovation in developing regions. His research has had significant influence in policymaking, technological advancements, and environmental management practices.

Awards 🏆

Professor Parawira’s contributions have earned him various research accolades and recognition for his work in Environmental Science and Biotechnology. His leadership roles in academia, including being a key figure in Zimbabwe’s Higher Education sector, highlight his continued commitment to scientific excellence and educational development.

Publication Top Notes 📚

Parawira W., et al. (2020). Biofuels and Waste Management: Innovations in Environmental Biotechnology. Journal of Renewable Energy Studies. Cited by 75 articles.

Parawira W., et al. (2018). Advances in Anaerobic Digestion for Sustainable Energy. International Journal of Environmental Biotechnology. Cited by 120 articles.

Parawira W., et al. (2015). Microbial Pathways in Biofuel Production. Journal of Microbial Biotechnology. Cited by 95 articles.

Parawira W., et al. (2012). Optimization of Waste Degradation for Biogas Production. African Journal of Biotechnology. Cited by 110 articles.

Conclusion

Professor Wilson Parawira’s prolific contributions to environmental biotechnology and biofuels, combined with his extensive academic leadership and mentorship roles, make him a highly deserving candidate for the “Excellence in Research” award. His strengths in pioneering research, international collaboration, and mentoring the next generation of scientists reflect his excellence in the field. With minor improvements in research diversification and public engagement, Professor Parawira could further expand his impact on the scientific community and beyond.

 

Assoc Prof. Dr. Paula Milheiro-Oliveira | Environmental | Best Researcher Award

Posted on by sciencefather

Assoc Prof. Dr. Paula Milheiro-Oliveira | Environmental | Best Researcher Award

Assoc Prof. Dr. Paula Milheiro-Oliveira, University of Porto, Portugal

Paula M. L. P. Milheiro de Oliveira is an esteemed Associate Professor at the University of Porto, specializing in applied mathematics and statistical modeling. With over three decades of experience in research and academia, she has contributed significantly to engineering projects and supervised PhD candidates. Her expertise lies in data-driven solutions for cementitious materials, and she has authored influential papers recognized globally. Paula is a key figure in Portugal’s academic community, with her research contributing to international patents and industry innovations.

Profile

Orcid 

Googlescholar

Based on the provided information, Paula Manuela Lemos Pereira Milheiro de Oliveira is a strong candidate for the “Best Researcher Award.” Here’s a breakdown of her strengths, areas for improvement, and conclusion:

Strengths for the Award

Academic and Research Excellence: With a PhD in Applied Mathematics and habilitation, her research spans over three decades, showcasing substantial contributions to engineering projects and statistical modeling.

Impactful Publications: Author of 34 Scopus-indexed publications, including 4 highly cited papers and contributions in top journals by CiteScore.

Leadership in Research: Supervision of PhD theses, participation in prestigious projects, collaborations with global teams, and serving on advisory boards highlight her leadership and international reach.

Innovative Solutions: Notable contributions include the development of statistical methodologies for optimizing cementitious materials and creating a new robustness measure for SCC mixtures.

Areas for Improvement

Broaden Scope of Consultancy: While she has engaged in two consultancy projects, expanding this into more industry collaborations could strengthen her practical application portfolio.

Increase Patents: Although she has patents cited internationally, additional patents could further demonstrate her innovation in practical solutions.

Education 🎓

Paula holds a Ph.D. in Applied Mathematics from Aix-Marseille I (1990) and recently completed her Habilitation at the University of Porto (2024). Her academic journey has been marked by groundbreaking research, contributing to both applied mathematics and civil engineering disciplines. She has been an active member of various research units such as CMUP and CONSTRUCT, where she has applied her expertise to complex mathematical modeling challenges.

Experience 💼

With over 30 years of experience, Paula has worked on numerous engineering projects and served in various prestigious roles. She was a member of the Superior Statistical Council of Portugal (Northern Regional Section) until 2003 and played a critical role in the Civil Engineering Department at FEUP until 2022. Her expertise extends beyond academia, collaborating on industry-sponsored projects and contributing to ISO standards. She has also led significant research in performance mix design for sustainable cementitious materials.

Research Interests 🔬

Paula’s research primarily focuses on the statistical modeling and optimization of new cementitious materials. She applies advanced data-driven methods to innovate sustainable construction materials, optimizing their performance under various environmental conditions. Her work has made substantial contributions to the concrete industry, particularly in enhancing the robustness of self-compacting concrete (SCC) mixtures.

Awards 🏆

Throughout her distinguished career, Paula has received numerous accolades for her contributions to research and academia. She has been recognized for her high-impact publications, with several of her papers appearing in the top 25% of the most-cited documents globally. Her research has also been cited in international patents, highlighting the industrial relevance of her innovations in construction materials.

Publication Top Notes 📚

Comparative effects of bevacizumab, ranibizumab and pegaptanib at intravitreal dose range on endothelial cells

Design of self-compacting high-performance concrete: Study of mortar phase

Estimation of the tensile strength of UHPFRC layers based on non-destructive assessment of the fibre content and orientation

Robust SCC mixes through mix design

Queues with server vacations as a model for pretimed signalized urban traffic

Modeling and simulation of traffic movements at semiactuated signalized intersections

Bayesian statistical methods for modeling and prediction of major landslides in coastal cliffs

Coastal cliff recession: development and application of prediction methods

A Methodology for Modelling and Prediction of Coastal Cliffs Recession

Eco-efficient high performance white concrete incorporating waste glass powder

Conclusion

Paula’s extensive academic background, research leadership, and impactful contributions to materials science and statistical modeling position her as a strong contender for the Best Researcher Award. Her ongoing projects and collaborations reflect a commitment to sustainable and innovative research. With a few advancements in consultancy and patent development, she could further bolster her already impressive portfolio.

Prof. Gabi Drochioiu | Agricultural | Best Researcher Award

Posted on by sciencefather

Prof. Gabi Drochioiu | Agricultural | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Gabi Drochioiu, Alexandru Yong Kusa Obi Ichi University, Romania

👨‍🔬 Prof. Gabi Drochioiu is a Romanian chemist and biochemist with an extensive academic career in the fields of biochemistry and toxicology. Born on January 23, 1954, in Unţeni, Botosani County, Romania, he currently serves as a Ph.D. supervisor at the Chemistry Faculty of Al. I. Cuza University of Iasi. With over four decades of research experience, Prof. Drochioiu has made significant contributions to organic and peptide chemistry, having authored over 190 papers and received numerous prestigious awards.

Profile

Orcid

Strengths for the Award

Extensive Research Experience: Gabi Drochioiu has a distinguished career in biochemistry and toxicology, evidenced by over 93 impactful papers, numerous patents, and over 1,000 citations. His work on peptides, proteins, and metal ion interactions contributes significantly to fields like neurodegenerative diseases and environmental remediation.

Leadership in Funded Projects: Prof. Drochioiu has successfully directed multiple high-value research projects, demonstrating leadership and innovation.

International Recognition: His visiting professorships, DAAD awards, and role in prestigious journals enhance his global academic presence.

Areas for Improvement

While his focus on biochemical applications is impressive, expanding into interdisciplinary collaborations could further amplify his influence.

Education

🎓 Prof. Gabi Drochioiu completed his high school education at the Military High School in Cîmpulung Moldovenesc (1973). He then graduated from Gh. Asachi Polytechnic Institute of Iasi, Faculty of Chemistry in 1978, and obtained his Ph.D. in Biochemistry from Al. I. Cuza University of Iasi in 1997. His doctoral thesis focused on the screening of cereal inbred lines through the characterization of their amino acids and proteins.

 

Experience

💼 Prof. Gabi Drochioiu began his career as a chemist in the Suceava Cellulose and Paper Factory (1978-1980) and the Agricultural Research Station of Suceava (1980-1985). He later became a main researcher at Suceava Genebank, advancing to manage Tao Biochemicals Ltd before joining the Al. I. Cuza University of Iasi. He was promoted to Professor of Biochemistry and Toxicology in 2005 and is now a Ph.D. supervisor and member of the Doctoral School of Chemistry.

Research Interests

🔬 Prof. Gabi Drochioiu‘s research focuses on the biochemical and toxicological analysis of proteins and peptides, metal-peptide interactions, and mass spectrometric methods. His interest also extends to the environmental impacts of heavy metals and neurodegenerative diseases. He is highly skilled in organic synthesis, peptide characterization, and spectroscopic techniques such as NMR and FT-IR.

Awards

🏆 Prof. Gabi Drochioiu has received several prestigious awards, including the Nicolae Teclu Prize from the Romanian Academy in 2013 for his contributions to chemistry. He also secured DAAD scholarships to conduct research at the University of Konstanz, Germany, and has been awarded multiple prizes for his scientific papers from CNCS Bucharest.

Publication Top Notes

📚 Prof. Gabi Drochioiu has published over 93 papers with a cumulative impact factor exceeding 180. He has authored books, book chapters, and presented at international conferences. Below are a few selected publications:

Interaction of metal ions with amyloid peptides involved in neurodegenerative diseases (2021). Journal of Molecular Biology. Cited by: 34 articles. Link.

Mass spectrometric studies on peptides under metal stress (2018). Analytica Chimica Acta. Cited by: 20 articles. Link.

Conformational modifications of neurodegenerative peptides (2016). Biomacromolecules. Cited by: 15 articles. Link.

Conclusion

Gabi Drochioiu’s extensive academic achievements, leadership in research, and dedication to biochemistry and environmental issues make him a strong candidate for the “Best Researcher Award.”