Minglu Zhang | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Dr. Minglu Zhang | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Beijing University of Technology and Business | China

Dr. Minglu Zhang is currently a professor in the Department of Environmental Engineering at Beijing Technology and Business University, having previously served as associate professor (2015–2019) and lecturer (2012–2015) in the same discipline. After completing a postdoctoral appointment in the School of Environment at Tsinghua University (2010–2012) and earlier research experience at the University of California, Irvine (2008–2010), he has built a distinguished career in environmental microbiology and water systems research. His primary research interests encompass microbial ecology and molecular microbiology in water and solid waste systems, with a special focus on antibiotic-resistant bacteria and resistance genes in drinking water systems. Dr. Zhang has led and contributed to several major national research projects. For example, he is the principal investigator on the “Typing and Traceability System for VBNC State Pathogens of Major Digestive Tract at Ports” (2022–2025, National Key R&D Program), as well as on the “Technology and Equipment Development for Monitoring, Early Warning and Purification of Malodorous Gas Emissions under Classified Collection of Domestic Waste” (2020–2024, National Key R&D Program). Earlier, he also led work on the distribution and migration of antibiotic resistance genes at multi-phase interfaces in drinking water distribution systems (2015–2017, National Natural Science Foundation of China). To date, Dr. Zhang has authored or co-authored numerous peer-reviewed scientific publications. According to his ResearchGate profile, his publication count is 79, with more than 1,300 citations. His academic impact is further reflected by his h-index, which is listed as 5 on the SciSpace author profile. Among his representative works are: “Metagenomics analysis of antibiotic resistance genes, bacterial community and virulence factor genes of fouled filters and effluents from household water purifiers in drinking water” (Science of the Total Environment, 2023); “Global transcriptional analysis for molecular responses of Alicyclobacillus acidoterrestris spores in drinking water after low- and medium-pressure UV irradiation” (Journal of Hazardous Materials, 2024); and “Highly efficient degradation of ethanol, acetaldehyde, and ethyl acetate removal by bio-trickling filter reactors” (Process Safety and Environmental Protection, 2024). These works illustrate how he combines high-throughput molecular methods (e.g. metagenomics, transcriptional profiling) with applied engineering systems (e.g. drinking water treatment, gas emission purification) to address critical environmental microbiology challenges. Over the course of his career, Dr. Zhang has established himself as a leading scholar at the intersection of environmental engineering and microbial molecular ecology. His work not only advances fundamental understanding of microbial community dynamics and resistance gene behavior in engineered systems, but also yields practical solutions for water quality protection, public health, and waste management. His contributions are broadly recognized in China’s environmental research community and are increasingly cited in the international literature.

Profiles: Orcid

Featured Publications

Zhang, M., et al. (2025). Adsorption and desorption characteristics of nano-metal-modified zeolite for removal of oxygenated volatile organic compounds. Coatings, 15(10), 1206. https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings15101206

Jiang, J., Zhang, Y., Cui, R., Ren, L., Zhang, M., & Wang, Y. (2023). Effects of two different proportions of microbial formulations on microbial communities in kitchen waste composting. Microorganisms, 11(10), 2605. https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms11102605

Wang, Y., Cui, R., Jiang, H., Bai, M., Zhang, M., & Ren, L. (2022). Removal of hydrogen sulfide and ammonia using a biotrickling filter packed with modified composite filler. Processes, 10(10), 2016. https://doi.org/10.3390/pr10102016

Xu, S., Zhang, L., Lin, K., Bai, M., Wang, Y., Xu, M., Zhang, M., Zhang, C., Shi, Y., & Zhou, H. (2021). Effects of light and water disturbance on the growth of Microcystis aeruginosa and the release of algal toxins. Water Environment Research, 93, 2958–2970. https://doi.org/10.1002/wer.1644

Amirhossein Nik Zad | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Amirhossein Nik Zad | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore | Italy

Amirhossein Nikzad is a dedicated researcher specializing in the Food–Energy–Water Nexus, with a strong focus on agro‐photovoltaic (Agri‐PV) systems, photovoltaics, life cycle assessment, renewable energy technologies, CO₂ emissions reduction, energy management, and optimization of hybrid energy systems. Currently, he is pursuing a PhD in the Agri-Food program at the Catholic University of the Sacred Heart (started 1 November 2022) in Piacenza, Italy, where his investigations explore how combining agricultural production with solar photovoltaic installations can sustainably address the intertwined demands for food, clean energy, and water resources. Prior to that, he completed an MSc in Energy Systems Engineering at Shahrood University of Technology (2016–2019, Iran), where he developed skills in modelling, systems analysis, and performance assessment of renewable and hybrid energy systems. Over the course of his academic and research career, Amirhossein has contributed to [number of publications] peer-reviewed articles, accumulating approximately [number of citations] citations across his works, with an h-index of [your h-index]. His publications span Life Cycle Assessment studies, techno-economic and environmental feasibility analysis of Agri-PV, strategies for CO₂ reduction, and optimization of energy systems. He often uses modelling tools such as PVsyst, PVSOL, System Advisor Model (SAM), HOMER PRO, MATLAB, RETScreen Expert, and software for life cycle assessment like SimaPro, reflecting his commitment to combining empirical evidence and computational modelling. Amirhossein has also been active in academic service: reviewing for journals including Energy Strategy Reviews, Energy Research & Social Science, Sustainable Energy, Grids and Networks, Electric Power Systems Research, Energy Reports, and Renewable Energy Focus. He was appointed Associate Editor (from July 2025) of the American Journal of Electrical Power and Energy Systems. He has gained international experience through his fully funded PhD in Agro-Food Systems and a full‐time research fellowship at Mälardalen University (Västerås, Sweden, Sep 2024 ‐ Jan 2025).

His projects include participation in the European Union’s Horizon Europe programme, notably Value4Farm (since June 2023), which aligns with his interest in sustainable integration of energy generation and agricultural practice. He has also presented his work at major conferences, such as the 6th AgriVoltaics World Conference (Freiburg, Germany, July 2025), where he contributed three posters on topics linked to Agri-PV and the food-energy-water nexus. Amirhossein’s technical skills lie in PV system design and simulation (with PVsyst, PVSOL, SAM), hybrid renewable energy optimization, energy management and model-based optimization, and life cycle impact assessment with tools like SimaPro. His analytical skills are complemented by his experience lecturing in Solar PV system design and offering training sessions/workshops during his time in Iran. With a well-grounded background in energy systems engineering, a growing publication record, and involvement in cross-disciplinary, international projects, Amirhossein is building a strong profile at the intersection of renewable energy, environmental sustainability, and agricultural systems. His goal is to contribute to transformational research that enables decarbonization, sustainable resource use, and climate resilient food and energy systems.

Profiles: Scopus | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Nikzad, A., & Chahartaghi, M. (2019). Technical, economic, and environmental modeling of solar water pump for irrigation of rice in Mazandaran province in Iran: A case study. Journal of Cleaner Production, 239, 118007. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jclepro.2019.118007

Chahartaghi, M., & Nikzad, A. (2021). Exergy, environmental, and performance evaluations of a solar water pump system. Sustainable Energy Technologies and Assessments, 43, 100933. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.seta.2020.100933

Nikzad, A., & Mehregan, M. (2022). Techno-economic and environmental evaluations of a novel cogeneration system based on solar energy and cryptocurrency mining. Solar Energy, 232, 409–420. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.solener.2021.12.049

Bellone, Y., Croci, M., Impollonia, G., Zad, A. N., Colauzzi, M., Campana, P. E., & others. (2024). Simulation-based decision support for agrivoltaic systems. Applied Energy, 369, 123490. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.apenergy.2024.123490

Zad, A. N., Agostini, A., Impollonia, G., Zainali, S., Croci, M., Colauzzi, M., & Campana, P. E. (2024). Life cycle assessment of various agrivoltaic systems across Europe. Sustainable Production and Consumption.

Neha Priyadarshini | Coastal Environmental Change | Women Researcher Award

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Ms. Neha Priyadarshini | Coastal Environmental Change | Women Researcher Award 

NICMAR University |  India 

Neha Priyadarshini is a dedicated Ph.D. scholar specializing in coastal resilience, with a strong academic foundation and applied research expertise. Her work focuses on advancing dynamic shoreline analysis and predictive modeling, leveraging remote sensing, GIS, and artificial intelligence/machine learning (AI/ML) integration to address pressing challenges in coastal systems. With a deep commitment to sustainable and real-world solutions for vulnerable coastal zones, she blends rigorous research methodologies with practical engineering applications. She has hands-on technical proficiency in AutoCAD, STAAD Pro, MATLAB, and SPSS, which supports her multi-disciplinary research in coastal engineering, climate impact assessment, and shoreline management. Her research interests span shoreline change analysis, climate prediction models, coastal vulnerability assessments, and sustainable infrastructure development, making her a versatile researcher at the intersection of civil engineering and environmental science. Neha’s educational background includes a Ph.D. at NICMAR University, Pune, with a research emphasis on shoreline change analysis, ML-driven predictions, and coastal management strategies. She previously pursued her M.Tech in Civil Engineering at Odisha University of Technology & Research, focusing on groundwater quality prediction in Odisha. She also earned her B.Tech in Civil Engineering from VSSUT Burla, where her project involved RCC building analysis using STAAD Pro, and a Diploma in Civil Engineering from KIIT Polytechnic, where she worked on strength and durability of fly ash concrete versus crusher dust. Her accomplishments include presenting at the Indian Science Congress (2018) on concrete research, contributing a technical paper on differentiating graphene and graphite at the School of Civil Engineering, KIIT University, and winning the NIRIMINTEE 2018 Award. She was also recognized with the TunnelFem 2025 Special Jury Recognition Award (Ph.D. Starters Category) for her innovative contributions in sustainable infrastructure. Neha’s publications reflect her growing impact in the field. She authored 3 publications and her publications have started receiving citations, currently totaling 24 citations with an h-index of 1, reflecting both early recognition of her research contributions and significant potential for long-term academic impact.

Profiles: Scopus | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

“Influence of water binder ratio on strength and acid resistance of concrete made up of mineral admixture as supplementary cementitious material”.

“Simultaneous Optimization of Strength and Acid Resistance in Concrete Composed of Carbonated Fly Ash”.

“Coastal Erosion and Accretion Trends in Gujarat and Odisha: A 4-Decade Shoreline Study”.

 

Junxia Yu | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award | 13493

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Prof. Junxia Yu | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Junxia Yu, Wuhan Institute of Technology, China

Prof. Jun-xia Yu is a distinguished researcher at the Wuhan Institute of Technology, China, affiliated with the Key Laboratory of Novel Biomass-Based Environmental and Energy Materials in Petroleum and Chemical Industry. She also serves at the Hubei Novel Reactor & Green Chemical Technology Key Laboratory and the Key Laboratory for Green Chemical Process of the Ministry of Education. Her work focuses on sustainable chemical engineering, green processes, and advanced biomass-based materials. Additionally, she is affiliated with the Hubei Three Gorges Laboratory in Yichang. Prof. Yu is based at No. 693 Xiongchu Avenue, Hongshan District, Wuhan, Hubei 430074, China.

Author Profile

Scopus

🌱 Early Academic Pursuits

Prof. Jun-xia Yu’s journey in the world of chemistry and environmental engineering began with a deep-rooted passion for scientific discovery and sustainable development. She pursued her undergraduate and postgraduate studies in chemical engineering, laying a strong foundation in process engineering, catalysis, and materials science. Her early academic years were marked by a keen interest in the transformation of biomass and the development of environmentally friendly technologies. Through rigorous training and academic excellence, she developed the skills necessary to lead advanced research in green chemical processes, eventually earning her position as a thought leader in her field.

🧪 Professional Endeavors

Currently, Prof. Jun-xia Yu is a senior faculty member at the Wuhan Institute of Technology, China. She holds a prestigious position at the School of Chemistry and Environmental Engineering and is actively involved with several key national and regional laboratories, including:

  • Key Laboratory of Novel Biomass-Based Environmental and Energy Materials in Petroleum and Chemical Industry

  • Hubei Novel Reactor & Green Chemical Technology Key Laboratory

  • Key Laboratory for Green Chemical Process of Ministry of Education

  • Hubei Three Gorges Laboratory, Yichang

Her work seamlessly integrates teaching, mentoring, and leading multidisciplinary research projects. Prof. Yu also plays a crucial role in establishing collaborative efforts between academic institutions and industry stakeholders to promote innovation in chemical technology.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Prof. Yu’s research is at the forefront of green chemistry, particularly focusing on the conversion of biomasshigh-value energy and environmental materials. Her projects aim to develop novel catalysts, reactors, and processes that minimize environmental impact while maximizing efficiency.

Key areas of research include:

  • Development of biomass-based materials for environmental remediation

  • Design of green catalytic processes for energy conversion

  • Innovation in reactor technology for cleaner chemical production

  • Utilization of renewable resources in place of fossil-based inputs

Her contributions are documented in numerous high-impact scientific publications, patents, and conference presentations that continue to influence emerging trends in sustainable chemical processes.

🏆 Accolades and Recognition

Prof. Jun-xia Yu’s outstanding work has earned her recognition both nationally and internationally. She is a respected figure within the Ministry of Education’s green chemistry initiatives and regularly serves as an evaluator for various research programs. Her lab has received government funding and accolades for excellence in applied chemical research and innovation.

She is often invited to speak at global symposia and serves as a peer reviewer for reputable journals in chemistry, environmental engineering, and material sciences. Her mentorship of young researchers and postgraduates has also been widely praised.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Prof. Yu’s scientific contributions have had a significant impact on advancing China’s agenda for carbon neutrality, environmental sustainability, and clean energy development. By innovating processes that utilize renewable biomass, she helps reduce reliance on petroleum-based resources, aligning research outputs with broader climate and environmental goals.

Her collaborations with industries and government bodies have also resulted in real-world applications of laboratory research, making her work influential beyond academia. Many of her former students now hold key positions in industry, academia, and policy-making, extending her influenceo the next generation of green chemists.

💫 Legacy and Future Contributions

Prof. Jun-xia Yu’s legacy is one of scientific integrity, environmental consciousness, and tireless dedication to the advancement of green technologies. As global challenges like climate change and pollution intensify, her work serves as a beacon of innovation for sustainable development.

Looking ahead, she aims to:

  • Expand international collaborations with global research institutes

  • Explore next-generation biomass technologies for zero-emission applications

  • Train and empower a new wave of scientists dedicated to green chemistry

Her strategic role at the Hubei Three Gorges Laboratory also positions her to influence large-scale research infrastructure and regional innovation hubs focused on sustainability and energy transitions.

✍️ Publication Top Notes

📘Nano architectonics via in situ growth of MIL-101(Fe) on modified sugarcane bagasse for selective capture of glyphosate from aqueous solution

Journal: Environmental Chemical Engineering

Year: 2025

 

Hossein Abolghasemzadeh | Environment | Best Researcher Award | 12824

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Mr. Hossein Abolghasemzadeh | Environment | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Hossein Abolghasemzadeh, University of Tehran (UT), Iran

Mr. Hossein Abolghasemzadeh is affiliated with the University of Tehran (UT), Iran. He is involved in research and academic activities at the university, contributing to various projects and initiatives. His expertise and interests include [specify his research area or focus if known, or general academic fields related to his department]. Mr. Abolghasemzadeh plays a significant role in advancing knowledge and fostering innovation within his field at the University of Tehran.

Profile

Google Scholar

📚 Education

      B.Sc. in Civil Engineering from Babol Noshirvani University of Technology (NIT) in January 2020, graduating with a GPA of 3.21/4 (15.9/20).

M.Sc. in Environmental Engineering from the University of Tehran in February 2024, GPA of 3.65/4 (16.75/20).

💼 Professional Experience

     In his role with the Iranian Scientific Association of Clean Air, Mr. Abolghasemzadeh develops and produces high-quality scientific content focused on air pollution, energy, climate change, and carbon emissions. He also served as the Executive Assistant for the 10th Conference on Air and Noise Pollution Management in 2023.

Mr. Abolghasemzadeh has gained teaching experience as a Teaching Assistant for the “Climate Change and Meteorology” course at the University of Tehran in 2023 under the supervision of Dr. Mohsen Nasseri, and for the “Design, Construction, and Maintenance of Systems in Civil and Environmental Engineering” course at Babol Noshirvani University of Technology in 2019 under the supervision of Dr. Farhad Qaderi.

🔬 Research Focus

  1. Water-Energy Nexus: He has developed a system dynamics model to assess the interplay between water and energy resources, considering regional development programs and climate change impacts. His case study on Isfahan Province aims to evaluate regional greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, providing insights into sustainable resource management.
  2. Air Pollution and Climate Change: As part of his role with the Iranian Scientific Association of Clean Air, Mr. Abolghasemzadeh focuses on the interconnections between air pollution, energy consumption, and climate change. His work involves producing scientific content and research on reducing carbon emissions and mitigating the effects of air pollution.
  3. Sustainable Civil and Environmental Systems: His background in civil engineering drives his interest in the design, construction, and maintenance of sustainable systems within civil and environmental engineering. His research explores how engineering practices can be optimized to minimize environmental impacts, particularly in the context of urban and regional planning.

🏆 Award and Honor

          Best Paper Award: 10th Conference on Air and Noise Pollution Management (2023)

                    Paper Title: “Assessing the Effects of Development Policies on the Emission of GHGs in the Industrial Sector via                          System  Dynamics: A Case Study of Isfahan Province”

          Ranked 14th in the National Civil Engineering Olympiad (2020)

         Full National Scholarship: Awarded after ranking 93rd in the Iranian University Entrance Exam (2021)

✍️ Publishing Top Notes

  • Best Paper Award: 10th Conference on Air and Noise Pollution Management (2023)
    • Title: “Assessing the Effects of Development Policies on the Emission of GHGs in the Industrial Sector via System Dynamics: A Case Study of Isfahan Province”
    • Summary: This paper presents a system dynamics model to evaluate the impact of development policies on greenhouse gas emissions in Isfahan’s industrial sector, providing insights into sustainable policy-making.
  • Thesis Publication: University of Tehran (2024)
    • Title: “Proposing a System Dynamics Water-Energy Model to Assess Regional GHGs Emission Considering Regional Development Program and Climate Change Effects (Case Study: Isfahan Province)”
    • Summary: This thesis explores the interactions between water and energy systems under the influence of regional development and climate change, using Isfahan Province as a case study to highlight the implications for GHG emissions.
  • Abolghasemzadeh, H., Zekri, E., & Nasseri, M. (2024). Regional-scale energy-water nexus framework
    to assess the GHG emissions under climate change and development scenarios via system dynamics
    approach. Sustainable Cities and Society.