Andsera Adugna Mekonen | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

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Mrs. Andsera Adugna Mekonen | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award 

PhD Student | University of Naples | Italy

Mrs. Andsera Adugna Mekonen is an exceptionally promising young researcher in Earth and Environmental Sciences, demonstrating remarkable academic excellence, research innovation, and international recognition. Currently pursuing her Ph.D. in Industrial Engineering at the University of Naples Federico II, Italy, she focuses on developing sustainable agroforestry ecosystems using Earth Observation, AI, and drone technologies. Her research integrates remote sensing, GIS, machine learning, and UAS-based surveys to enhance biomass estimation and precision agriculture, reflecting a powerful blend of environmental sustainability and technological innovation. She has previously served as a Lecturer and Graduate Assistant at Addis Ababa University, Ethiopia, building a strong foundation in geoinformatics and academic mentorship. Her ENI Award 2022, a highly prestigious global recognition, underscores her excellence in energy and environmental research, while her participation in international training programs (ESA, AUVSI, Virginia Tech, and African Drone & Data Academy) highlights her commitment to continuous learning and scientific leadership. Mrs. Mekonen’s scholarly output includes peer-reviewed publications in high-impact journals such as Environmental Challenges (Elsevier) and conference papers presented at IEEE MetroAerospace 2024 and 2025, showcasing her global engagement and research relevance. With technical mastery across remote sensing software (ArcGIS, QGIS, ENVI), programming (Python, R, Google Earth Engine), and AI modeling, she embodies a multi-disciplinary scientist driving innovation in Earth observation and climate-smart agriculture. Her work directly contributes to addressing climate change adaptation, land degradation, and sustainable resource management—core priorities in global sustainability research. Given her academic distinction, technical expertise, and impactful contributions, Mrs. Andsera Adugna Mekonen is highly suitable for the Best Researcher Award, representing the next generation of transformative scientific leaders in environmental and Earth system innovation.

Profiles: Scopus | ORCID

Featured Publications

  1. Mekonen, A. A., Raghuvanshi, T. K., Suryabhagavan, K. V., & Kassawmar, T. (2022). GIS-based landslide susceptibility zonation and risk assessment in a complex landscape: A case study of the Beshilo watershed, northern Ethiopia. Environmental Challenges, 8, 100586.

  2. Mekonen, A. A., Accardo, D., & Renga, A. (2024). Above-ground biomass estimation in an agroforestry environment by UAS and RGB imagery. In 2024 11th International Workshop on Metrology for Aerospace (MetroAerospace) (pp. 272–277). IEEE.

  3. Mekonen, A. A., Accardo, D., & Renga, A. (2025). Above-Ground Biomass Prediction in Agroforestry Areas Using Machine Learning and Multispectral Drone Imagery. In 2025 IEEE 12th International Workshop on Metrology for Aerospace (MetroAerospace) (pp. 63–68). IEEE.

  4. Mekonen, A. A., Conte, C., & Accardo, D. (2025). An effective process to use drones for above-ground biomass estimation in agroforestry landscapes. Aerospace, 12(11), 1001.

  5. Mekonen, A. A. (2021). GIS-based modeling and assessment of landslide susceptibility in mountainous terrain: A case study from Northern Ethiopia. Addis Ababa University, MSc Thesis.

Mrs. Andsera Adugna Mekonen’s pioneering research in Earth observation, AI, and drone-based agroforestry monitoring is transforming how we measure and manage environmental resources. Her innovative integration of remote sensing and machine learning enhances sustainable agriculture, supports climate change mitigation, and drives global innovation in precision ecosystem management—bridging science, technology, and sustainability for a resilient future.

Mukululi Ndlovu | Environmental Science | Best Research Article Award

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Mr. Mukululi Ndlovu | Environmental Science | Best Research Article Award 

Ecologist | Zimbabwe Parks an Wildlife Management Authority | Zimbabwe

Mr. Ndlovu Mukululi is a Zimbabwean terrestrial ecologist whose professional trajectory and research output make him a strong candidate for a Best Research Article Award, supported by over a decade of progressive experience in wildlife management, ecological monitoring, and biodiversity conservation. Beginning his career as Assistant Park Manager at Umfurudzi Park from 2013 to 2016, he advanced to Ecologist at the same park until 2019, and currently serves as a Terrestrial Ecologist with the Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority, where he contributes to national conservation programs and scientific assessments. His academic foundation includes an MSc in Biodiversity Conservation, earned with a First Class degree, and a Bachelor of Science Honours in Wildlife and Safari Management, demonstrating strong theoretical competence reinforced by extensive field experience. His professional development includes international capacity-building training under CITES in China, as well as specialized preparation in field ranger operations and wildlife management processes. His broad expertise covers ecological research and monitoring, environmental impact assessments, habitat suitability evaluations for wildlife introductions and reintroductions, game capture and translocation, fire management, park infrastructure planning, and mining administration, reflecting a comprehensive skill set aligned with modern conservation science. With six research publications, he has contributed meaningful scientific insights that address regional biodiversity challenges and inform evidence-based conservation decisions. Operating from Sengwa Wildlife Research Institute, he conducts rigorous ecological assessments that support species protection, habitat restoration, and sustainable wildlife management. His academic excellence, applied ecological knowledge, and peer-reviewed research collectively demonstrate the originality, scientific merit, and practical impact expected of work recognized by the Best Research Article Award.

Profile: Scopus

Featured Publications

  1. Ndlovu, M., Hungwe, C., Kusangaya, S., Muzamba, C., & Chinoitezvi, H. (2024). Modelling poaching risk zones in Sengwa Wildlife Research Area: A progressive step towards poaching management. Open Access Library Journal, 11, 1–16.

  2. Ndlovu, M. (2021). An analysis of the effect of COVID-19 pandemic on wildlife protection in Zimbabwean protected areas in 2020. Science of the Total Environment – Regional Studies, 3, 100052.

  3. Ndlovu, M., et al. (2022). Exploring opportunities and threats associated with conservation of ground pangolin (Smutsia temminckii) in Zimbabwe. Journal of Wildlife Research, 9(2), 112–120.

  4. Ndlovu, M., et al. (2022). Seasonal trend and distribution of wire-snaring activities and possible hotspots in the Sengwa Wildlife Area, Zimbabwe. Open Access Library Journal, 9, 1–12.

  5. Ndlovu, M., et al. (2024). Climate and weather monitoring research at the Terrestrial Ecology Unit, Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority. Terrestrial Research and Monitoring Projects Report, 32, 1–40.

The nominee’s work advances environmental science through evidence-based research that strengthens ecosystem resilience and informs sustainable resource management. His contributions support policy development, enhance conservation effectiveness, and provide scalable solutions that improve societal well-being and long-term environmental security.

Indu Sharma | Environment | Best Researcher Award

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Indu Sharma | Environment | Best Researcher Award

Associate Professor at Career Point University, India

Dr. Indu Sharma is an accomplished physicist specializing in nano ferrites, vacuum science, and materials science. With over two decades of research experience and 14 years of teaching expertise, she has significantly contributed to academia and research. Currently an Associate Professor at Career Point University, Hamirpur, she has also served in key leadership roles, including Head of Department and Associate Director of the Center for Green Energy Research. Dr. Sharma’s research endeavors, spanning over 50 publications, 6 book chapters, and 7 patents, focus on innovative applications in physics and sustainable technologies. She is a life member of the Indian Road Congress and the Innovative Science Research Society.

Publication Profile

Scopus

Orcid

Google Scholar

Educational Details

  • Ph.D. in Physics (2012): Department of Physics, National Institute of Technology, Hamirpur, Himachal Pradesh, India.
  • M.Phil. in Physics (2004-2005): Department of Physics, Himachal Pradesh University, Shimla, India (First Division).
  • M.Sc. in Physics (2002): Gurukul Kangri University (GKU), Roorkee, Haridwar, India.

Professional Experience

Dr. Indu Sharma has over 20 years of research experience and 14 years of teaching experience in the field of physics. She is currently an Associate Professor in the Department of Physics at Career Point University (CPU), Hamirpur, where she has been teaching since 2013. Previously, she taught at the National Institute of Technology (NIT), Hamirpur, from 2010 to 2012.

She has served in several academic and administrative capacities, including:

  1. Head of Department of Physics (2018–2021)
  2. Public Relations Officer (2014–2018)
  3. Chairperson of Prevention of Sexual Harassment Committee (2015–present)
  4. Associate Director, Center for Green Energy Research (2024–present)
  5. Assistant Dean of Academics (2016–2018)
  6. Member of the Academic Council of CPU (2018–present)

Dr. Sharma has revised the curriculum for B.Sc., M.Sc., and Ph.D. programs in physics and contributed to institutional inspections such as NAAC accreditation.

Research Interest

  • Nano Ferrites and their functional properties.
  • Bio Physics and Vedic Physics.
  • Computational Materials Science.
  • Vacuum Science, Cryogenics, and Nuclear Physics.

Author Metrics

  • Publications in Indexed Journals: 50
  • Book Chapters: 6

Publication Top Notes

1. Structural, Magnetic, and Mössbauer Studies of Nd-doped Mg-Mn Ferrite Nanoparticles

  • Authors: I. Sharma, R.K. Kotnala, M. Singh, A. Kumar, P. Dhiman, V.P. Singh, K. Verma, et al.
  • Published In: Journal of Magnetism and Magnetic Materials, 2017
  • Citation Count: 47
  • Summary: This study explores the structural, magnetic, and Mössbauer spectroscopy properties of neodymium (Nd)-doped magnesium-manganese (Mg-Mn) ferrite nanoparticles. The research provides valuable insights into the influence of Nd substitution on the magnetic behavior and crystallographic structure of ferrite nanoparticles.

2. Structural, Electrical, and Magnetic Studies of Cu²⁺ Substituted MnFe₂O₄ Nanoferrites Synthesized via Solution Combustion Technique

  • Authors: H.R. Sharma, K.M. Batoo, P. Sharma, S. Bhardwaj, P. Kuchhal, R. Jasrotia, et al.
  • Published In: Journal of Materials Science: Materials in Electronics, 2022
  • Citation Count: 30
  • Summary: This paper examines copper (Cu²⁺)-substituted manganese ferrites (MnFe₂O₄) synthesized using a solution combustion method. It focuses on structural, electrical, and magnetic properties, highlighting the potential applications of these materials in electronics and magnetism.

3. Investigation of Electrical, Magnetic, and Optical Properties of Silver-Substituted Magnesium–Manganese Ferrite Nanoparticles

  • Authors: Somnath, K.M. Batoo, E.H. Raslan, S.F. Adil, I. Sharma, G. Kumar
  • Published In: Journal of Materials Science: Materials in Electronics, 2020
  • Citation Count: 25
  • Summary: This research investigates silver (Ag)-substituted magnesium-manganese ferrite nanoparticles, focusing on their electrical, magnetic, and optical properties. The study presents their potential for use in advanced electronic and photonic applications.

4. Citrate Precursor Route for Y³⁺ Substituted M-type Ba-Hexaferrite: Synthesis, Effect of Doping on Structural, Optical, Magnetic, and Antibacterial Properties

  • Authors: I. Sharma, T. Kumari, N. Thakur, P. Sharma, K.M. Batoo, R. Verma
  • Published In: Materials Chemistry and Physics, 2023
  • Citation Count: 18
  • Summary: Using a citrate precursor method, this study synthesizes yttrium (Y³⁺)-substituted barium hexaferrite. It evaluates the doping effect on structural, optical, magnetic, and antibacterial properties, showcasing its multifaceted applications in materials science.

5. Applications of Multiferroics

  • Authors: R.V. Rohit Jasrotia, Suman, Rohit Khargotra, Indu Sharma
  • Published In: Ferrites and Multiferroics: Fundamentals to Applications, 2021
  • Citation Count: 18*
  • Summary: This book chapter discusses the various applications of multiferroic materials, which exhibit coupled electric, magnetic, and structural order parameters, emphasizing their roles in multifunctional device technologies.

Conclusion

Dr. Indu Sharma is a highly accomplished researcher with a commendable record of contributions to physics and materials science. Her strengths in nano ferrites, extensive publication history, leadership roles, and interdisciplinary expertise make her a strong contender for the Best Researcher Award. To further strengthen her profile, she could focus on enhancing her global research collaborations, increasing the impact of her publications, and exploring commercialization opportunities for her patents.

Given her academic and research achievements, Dr. Sharma is a deserving nominee, reflecting excellence in her field and a commitment to advancing sustainable technologies through innovative research.