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

Naseraldeen Asadalla | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

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Naseraldeen Asadalla | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research | Kuwait

Dr. Naseraldeen Asadalla’s research has focused on arid land ecology, invasive alien species, ecosystem restoration, and biodiversity assessment in the Arabian Peninsula and the GCC region. He has developed specialized expertise in species distribution modeling (MaxEnt), remote sensing, ecological indicators, and machine learning-based environmental data analysis. His Ph.D. research examined the dynamics of alien bird species, particularly the Common Myna in Bahrain, providing foundational insights into biodiversity trends in urban ecosystems. Building on this work, his recent research has concentrated on ecological modeling of plant and animal species in desert environments, with a focus on the influence of abiotic factors such as precipitation and dust storms on species distribution and habitat suitability. Dr. Asadalla has authored and co-authored over 12 peer-reviewed scientific publications in reputable journals including Restoration Ecology, Environmental Monitoring and Assessment, and the Journal of Arid Environments. His work has received over 185 citations (as of September 2025) and he holds an h-index of 7 (Scopus). His research has directly contributed to regional conservation strategies, such as the identification of green water zones using annual plants as ecological indicators and the development of habitat suitability models for native desert flora and vulnerable species like the Asian Houbara Bustard. In addition to his academic contributions, he is an active member of multi-disciplinary research teams at the Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research (KISR), playing a key role in nationally funded projects and the formulation of regional environmental policies. Dr. Asadalla continues to pursue applied ecological research by integrating remote sensing tools with conservation science to address environmental challenges associated with climate change, species displacement, and urban expansion across the Arabian Peninsula.

Profiles: Scopus | Orcid

Featured Publications  

Asadalla, N. B. A., Abdullah, M., Gharabi, Y., Mohan, M., Al Naabi, S., Al Ali, Z., Al Hashash, N., Srinivasan, S., Al Awadhi, T., & Abulibdeh, A. (2024). Predictive modeling of green water availability: The role of annual plants as an ecological indicator in dryland ecosystems. Journal of Arid Environments, 223, 105179.

Asadalla, N. B. A., & Marafi, M. (2023). Overlooked Colotis phisadia (Godart, 1819) (Lepidoptera: Pieridae) – A new record for the butterfly fauna of Kuwait with remarks on host plant. Entomologist’s Monthly Magazine, 159(1), 66–72.

Asadalla, N. B. A., Abdullah, M. M., Gharabi, Y., Mohan, M., Al Naabi, S., Srinivasan, S., & Al Awadhi, T. (2022). The use of annual plants as ecological indicators to identify locations with high levels of green water in arid ecosystems using remote sensing and MaxEnt modeling. SSRN Electronic Journal.

Asadalla, N. B. A., Abdullah, M. M., Al-Ali, Z. M., & Abdullah, M. T. (2021). Vegetation restoration targeting approach to identify the optimum environmental conditions for the restoration of native desert plants using remote sensing and MaxEnt modeling. Restoration Ecology, 29(6), e13425.

Al-Ali, Z., Abdullah, M., Asadalla, N. B. A., & Gholoum, M. (2020). A comparative study of remote sensing classification methods for monitoring and assessing desert vegetation using a UAV-based multispectral sensor. Environmental Monitoring and Assessment, 192, Article 370.

Abdullah, M. M., Assi, A. T., & Asadalla, N. B. A. (2019). Integrated ecosystem sustainability approach: Toward a holistic system of thinking of managing arid ecosystems. Open Journal of Ecology, 9(11), 493–508.

Asadalla, N. B. A., Abido, M. S., Abahussain, A., & Shobrak, M. (2015). Assembly of optimum habitats for Asian Houbara Bustard (Chlamydotis macqueenii) in the Arabian Peninsula: The vegetation aspects. International Journal of Biodiversity, 2015, Article 925093.

Jinhua Zhu | Separation Sciences | Best Researcher Award

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Prof Dr. Jinhua Zhu | Separation Sciences | Best Researcher Award 

Prof Dr. Jinhua Zhu | Henan University | China

Prof. Dr. Jinhua Zhu, a distinguished Professor and Doctoral/Master’s Supervisor at Henan University, is recognized as an Outstanding Youth of Henan Province. Her research centers on life separation science and the theory and application of chromatography technology, with impactful contributions in active component screening and functional drug delivery systems. She has published extensively in leading journals and has led numerous national and provincial research projects, advancing both theoretical and applied aspects of analytical chemistry.

Author Profile
Orcid

Education

Prof. Dr. Jinhua Zhu began her academic journey with a strong foundation in chemistry, cultivating an early passion for scientific inquiry and innovation. Her undergraduate studies provided her with a comprehensive understanding of core chemical principles, analytical thinking, and practical laboratory skills. This academic base ignited her curiosity in analytical chemistry, encouraging her to pursue advanced research in the field. As she progressed into doctoral studies, she immersed herself deeply in the study of separation science, chromatography, and applied chemical methodologies. Her doctoral training not only sharpened her research abilities but also nurtured her interest in solving real-world challenges related to drug discovery, environmental monitoring, and biochemical analysis. These formative years set the stage for her emergence as a respected academic, shaping her professional identity and building the foundation for her future contributions.

Experience

After completing her academic preparation, Prof. Zhu embarked on a professional journey that showcased her dedication to both teaching and research. She began her career in higher education, taking on roles that balanced classroom instruction with laboratory exploration. Her teaching portfolio has grown to include key undergraduate and graduate courses such as Instrumental Analysis, Separation Technology, and Modern Environmental Analysis Technology. Through these courses, she has not only transferred technical knowledge but also instilled scientific curiosity and critical problem-solving skills in her students. Alongside teaching, she pursued postdoctoral research, gaining deeper insights into advanced chemical analysis and international exposure through academic exchange programs. Her visiting scholarship abroad further broadened her scientific vision, allowing her to connect with global research trends and establish meaningful collaborations. Over time, her professional trajectory advanced steadily, reflecting her commitment to both academic excellence and innovative research leadership.

Research Focus

At the core of Prof. Zhu’s work lies her extensive contribution to life separation science and chromatography technology. Her research delves into both theoretical advancements and practical applications, making her work highly impactful in modern analytical chemistry. She has been particularly dedicated to the screening of bioactive components with hypoglycemic and anti-inflammatory properties, which has significant implications for therapeutic drug development. Another important dimension of her research is the construction and application of functional drug delivery systems, aimed at enhancing the effectiveness and precision of medical treatments. By combining fundamental chemical principles with applied research goals, Prof. Zhu bridges the gap between laboratory research and societal needs. Her publications in respected journals such as Separation and Purification Technology, Analytica Chimica Acta, Colloids and Surfaces B, and Talanta reflect her ability to contribute knowledge that is both novel and widely recognized in the scientific community.

Accolades and Recognition

Prof. Zhu’s academic journey has been marked by numerous awards, grants, and recognitions that highlight her leadership in chemistry and separation science. She has successfully led a variety of funded research projects, ranging from national-level grants to provincial programs that underscore her innovative contributions. Being recognized as an Outstanding Youth of Henan Province reflects not only her academic achievements but also her role as a model for emerging researchers in her region. These honors demonstrate her ability to consistently produce high-quality research, mentor the next generation of chemists, and push the boundaries of analytical methodologies. Her leadership in securing key projects at both national and provincial levels stands as testimony to her expertise, trustworthiness, and scientific vision.

Impact and Influence

The influence of Prof. Zhu extends beyond academic publications and research projects—her impact resonates within the broader scientific community and in real-world applications. Her work in drug delivery systems and natural product analysis offers pathways toward improved medical therapies, addressing health challenges such as diabetes and inflammation-related diseases. By developing innovative chromatography technologies, she has provided researchers with more efficient and precise analytical tools that can be applied in pharmaceutical, environmental, and food sciences. As a mentor and teacher, she has inspired numerous students, cultivating a culture of curiosity, discipline, and innovation in scientific practice. Her dual role as a researcher and educator ensures that her influence is both immediate in advancing scientific frontiers and long-lasting through the students she continues to guide.

Publication

Dual-monomer magnetic molecularly imprinted polymer for highly efficient luteolin separation from natural products.

Author: Yunfeng Yuan, Xiaoqi Liu, Chenjia Jiang, Haodong Zhou, Jinhua Zhu, Abdelhadi El Jaouhari, Xiuhua Liu, Minghua Lu*
Journal: Separation and Purification Technology,
Year: 2025

Three-dimensional ordered macro-microporous ZIF-8-α-Glu microreactors for α-glucosidase inhibitors screening from green tea.

Author: Xiaoqi Liu, Haodong Zhou, Chenjia Jiang, Yunfeng Yuan, Jinhua Zhu, Minghua Lu*
Journal: Talanta
Year: 2025

Phenylboronic acid functionalized magnetic ferroferric oxide nanoparticles and capillary electrophoresis for efficient isolation of flavonoid compounds from leaves of Lonicera japonica Thunb.

Author: Chenjia Jiang, Xiaoqi Liu, Yunfeng Yuan, Haodong Zhou, Jinhua Zhu, Minghua Lu*
Journal: Chromatography A,
Year: 2025

Conclusion

Prof. Dr. Jinhua Zhu stands as a leading figure in the field of analytical and separation science, with her research bridging theoretical chemistry and real-world biomedical applications. Through her pioneering work in chromatography, bioactive compound screening, and functional drug delivery systems, she has advanced both scientific knowledge and practical healthcare solutions. Her impactful publications, successful research leadership, and dedication to mentoring young scholars highlight her as a role model in academia. With continued innovation and global collaborations, Prof. Zhu’s contributions are set to leave a lasting legacy, shaping the future of separation science and strengthening its role in improving human health and well-being.

Yan Wang | Sustainable Materials | Best Researcher Award

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Assoc Prof Dr. Yan Wang | Sustainable Materials | Best Researcher Award 

Assoc Prof Dr. Yan Wang, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, China

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yan Wang, a dedicated researcher at the Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, specializes in advanced oxidation processes for water treatment. With over a decade of expertise, she has led innovations in catalytic materials, environmental functional membranes, and contaminant removal technologies. She has authored over 40 SCI-indexed publications, holds 8 patents, and actively collaborates on national projects focused on wastewater reclamation. Dr. Wang’s impactful contributions have earned her prestigious honors, including the IWA China Star Program Member and multiple national science awards, reinforcing her role as a key figure in sustainable water treatment research.

Author Profile

Scopus

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Yan Wang embarked on her academic journey with a deep-rooted passion for environmental science and sustainability. She pursued her doctoral degree at Shandong University, where she laid the foundation for her future in eco-environmental research. Her early academic focus on chemistry and materials science seamlessly blended with environmental applications, particularly in the realm of water treatment. This strong academic preparation not only shaped her scientific perspective but also inspired her to delve into the complex challenges facing global water systems.

In 2015, following her Ph.D., she joined the Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences (RCEES), Chinese Academy of Sciences—one of China’s most prestigious environmental research institutions. This marked the beginning of a prolific research career dedicated to solving pressing water contamination issues through scientific innovation.

🧪 Professional Endeavors

Currently serving as an Associate Researcher and Master’s Supervisor at RCEES, Dr. Wang has cultivated an impressive research portfolio that includes:

  • 12 completed/ongoing projects

  • 40+ high-impact publications in SCI/Scopus-indexed journals

  • 8 patents (published/under process)

  • 1 authored book

  • 2 consultancy/industry collaborations

Her editorial contributions are notable as well, holding roles such as Guest Editor and Editorial Board Member for the journal Water Emerging Contaminants & Nanoplastics, showcasing her thought leadership in the field.

Dr. Wang is a key contributor to the National Natural Science Foundation of China-funded project: “Strengthening mechanism in wastewater reclamation by multiple micro-interface processes and water quality risk control,” where she designs novel materials for water remediation systems.

🧬 Contributions and Research Focus

Over the past decade, Dr. Wang has established herself as a prominent expert in advanced oxidation processes (AOPs), specializing in:

  • Development of environmental functional materials

  • Catalytic mechanisms for photo/electrochemical and Fenton-like systems

  • Removal of emerging contaminants and nanoplastics from water

A hallmark of her research is the development of self-supporting catalytic membranes via an in-situ synthesis approach—an innovation that enhances the stability and reusability of catalysts used in water treatment. Furthermore, she proposed a pioneering strategy to promote the regeneration of Fe(Ⅱ) from Fe(Ⅲ), addressing a long-standing limitation in Fenton catalytic cycles.

With an H-index of 27 (Web of Science), her research is both scientifically impactful and practically applicable, often bridging the gap between laboratory findings and real-world water purification systems.

🏆 Accolades and Recognition

Dr. Wang’s outstanding work has earned her national and international recognition, including:

  • IWA China Young Committee Member & Star Program Member

  • First Prize – Science and Technology Award, China Surface Engineering Association

  • Second Prize – Scientific and Technological Progress Award, Ministry of Environmental Protection

Her association with esteemed organizations like the International Water Association (IWA) and the Beijing Ecological Restoration Society further highlights her commitment to both the scientific community and sustainable development goals.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Dr. Wang’s influence extends beyond academia. Through collaborative partnerships with environmental companies, several of her technologies have been successfully commercialized and applied in water treatment plants across China. Her work not only contributes to improving water quality but also plays a critical role in shaping policy and best practices for water sustainability.

Her mentorship of graduate students fosters the next generation of eco-environmental scientists, and her editorial involvement ensures the advancement of scientific discourse on water contamination and remediation.

🔮 Legacy and Future Contributions

Looking ahead, Dr. Yan Wang aims to lead transformative projects that address climate-adaptive water purification, nanomaterials for pollutant capture, and low-energy AOP systems. Her future research will likely focus on risk assessment and quality control frameworks for wastewater reuse, crucial for achieving circular water economies.

With her proven track record and visionary outlook, Dr. Wang is well-positioned to become a global leader in eco-environmental innovation, with a legacy grounded in scientific excellence, environmental impact, and public health protection.

✍️Publication Top Notes

📘 Ozone Reactions with Olefins and Alkynes: Kinetics, Activation Energies, and Mechanisms

Author: Yan Wang, Eva M. Rodríguez, Daniel Rentsch, Zhimin Qiang, Urs von Gunten

Journal: Physico-Chemical Treatment and Resource Recovery

Year: 2025

📘Synergistic photogeneration of reactive oxygen species by Fe species self-deposited on resorcinol-formaldehyde towards the degradation of phenols under visible light

Author: Wenxiang Ji, Huiyu Dong, Yan Wang, Zhimin Qiang

Journal: Chemosphere

Year: 2024