Tolera Abdissa Feyissa | Engineering | Best Paper Award

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Mr. Tolera Abdissa Feyissa | Engineering | Best Paper Award

PhD Candidate at Rostock University, Germany

Dr. Tolera Abdissa Feyissa is an accomplished researcher and academic specializing in Hydraulic and Water Resources Engineering. With over a decade of experience, he has contributed significantly to hydrological modeling, climate change impact assessment, sediment transport, and flood risk management. Currently pursuing his Ph.D. at Rostock University, Germany, he has published numerous peer-reviewed articles in reputed international journals such as Heliyon, Sustainability, and Results in Engineering. His work is widely indexed in Scopus and Elsevier, demonstrating scholarly excellence. He has played key leadership roles at Jimma University, coordinated international collaborations, and actively participated in consultancy and capacity-building programs. His strong command of modeling tools, research supervision, and community engagement, combined with professional engineering certifications, highlights his commitment to both academic and societal advancement. Dr. Tolera holds exceptional promise as a global research leader.

Professional Profile

Google Scholar | Scopus Profile

Education

Dr. Tolera Abdissa Feyissa holds a strong academic foundation in Hydraulic and Water Resources Engineering. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree from Arba Minch University and his Master of Science in Hydraulic Engineering from Jimma University . He is currently pursuing his Ph.D. in Hydraulic and Environmental Engineering at Rostock University, Germany, where his research focuses on climate change impact modeling and water resource sustainability. His educational trajectory demonstrates continuous progression toward scientific excellence, enhanced by his exposure to both national and international academic systems. Dr. Tolera’s academic achievements are supported by various professional development certifications in integrated water resource management, statistical programming, environmental impact assessments, and academic leadership. This well-rounded academic background provides a solid platform for innovative research and impactful engineering solutions.

Professional Experience

Dr. Tolera has over 12 years of academic and professional experience in higher education and engineering consultancy. He began as a Graduate Assistant at Arba Minch University, later serving as Assistant Lecturer, Lecturer, and ultimately Assistant Professor at Jimma University’s Institute of Technology. His leadership includes roles as Coordinator of the Home-Grown Postgraduate Program (in collaboration with Texas Tech University) and Director of Research and Publication. He also provided consultancy for hydrological and hydraulic design projects, including urban road drainage and water distribution systems. Internationally, he has conducted training sessions and collaborated with NGOs and universities. Dr. Tolera’s diverse professional background reflects strong expertise in teaching, applied engineering, and research management. His ability to coordinate multidisciplinary projects and guide postgraduate students underscores his academic leadership and commitment to capacity development in engineering education.

Research Interest

Dr. Tolera’s primary research interests lie in the domains of hydrology, hydraulic engineering, water resource management, and climate change adaptation. He specializes in the application of hydrological models such as SWAT, HEC-HMS, MODFLOW, and WEAP to evaluate the impact of climate variability on streamflow, sediment yield, and reservoir dynamics. His work integrates GIS and remote sensing tools to enhance water system analysis and watershed management. Dr. Tolera also explores sustainable flood and drought mitigation strategies and prioritizes data-driven environmental modeling. His recent research focuses on CMIP6 climate projections and their implications for African river basins, making his work both regionally relevant and globally significant. Through a combination of simulation, field data, and collaborative research, he aims to develop scalable and sustainable engineering solutions for water-scarce regions.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Tolera Abdissa Feyissa has earned several awards and recognitions for his academic and professional excellence. He was honored as a “Best Outstanding Teacher” and frequently serves as a moderator and reviewer at national and international research conferences. His contributions to curriculum development, postgraduate supervision, and community-focused engineering solutions have received institutional commendation. Additionally, he has received certificates for advanced training in integrated water resources management, research communication, and academic quality assurance. His leadership in Ethiopia’s Home-Grown Postgraduate Program, in partnership with Texas Tech University, highlights his commitment to academic collaboration and international engagement. These accolades reflect not only his scholarly achievements but also his dedication to education, mentorship, and the practical application of research for societal benefit.

Research Skills

Dr. Tolera possesses a robust skill set in advanced hydrological modeling, environmental simulation, and data analysis. He is proficient in using tools such as SWAT, HEC-HMS, HEC-RAS, MODFLOW, ERDAS, and WEAP for watershed modeling and climate impact assessments. He is also skilled in programming and statistical environments, including MATLAB, R, and C++, as well as GIS platforms like ArcGIS, Global Mapper, and AutoCAD. His expertise extends to hydraulic design software such as WaterCAD and EPANET. Dr. Tolera is adept at integrating these tools for multi-scale environmental assessments and scenario analysis. His practical experience includes supervising lab experiments, designing water infrastructure, and leading interdisciplinary research teams. These competencies position him as a highly capable researcher with the technical depth to address complex water and climate-related challenges.

Publication Top Note

Title: Prioritization of susceptible watershed to sediment yield and evaluation of best management practice: A case study of Awata River, Southern Ethiopia
Authors: Temesgen Kefay, Tolera Abdissa Feyissa, Bekan Chelkeba Tumsa
Year: 2022
Citations: 16

Title: Evaluation of general circulation models CMIP6 performance and future climate change over the Omo River Basin, Ethiopia
Authors: Tolera A. Feyissa, Tamene Adugna Demissie, Fokke Saathoff, Alemayehu Gebissa
Year: 2023
Citations: 12

Title: Morphometric analysis of Kito and Awetu sub basins, Jimma, Ethiopia
Authors: Fayera Gudu Tufa, Tolera A. Feyissa
Year: 2018
Citations: 12

Title: Regional flood frequency analysis for sustainable water resources management of the Genale–Dawa River Basin, Ethiopia
Authors: T. D. Mengistu, Tolera A. Feyissa, I‑M Chung, S‑W Chang, M. B. Yesuf, Alemayehu E.
Year: 2022
Citations: 11

Title: Performance evaluation of HEC‑HMS model for continuous runoff simulation of Gilgel Gibe watershed, Southwest Ethiopia
Authors: Sewmehon Sisay Fanta, Tolera A. Feyissa
Year: 2021
Citations: 9

Title: Spatial distribution of soil loss in upper Didessa Watershed, Ethiopia
Authors: F. G. Tufa, Tolera A. Feyissa
Year: 2019
Citations: 8

Title: Evaluation of the best‑fit probability of distribution and return periods of river discharge peaks: Case study: Awetu River, Jimma, Ethiopia
Authors: Tolera A. Feyissa, Nasir G. Tukura
Year: 2019
Citations: 6

Title: Floodplain modelling of Awetu River Sub‑Basin, Jimma, Oromia, Ethiopia
Authors: Tolera A. Feyissa, Fayera G. Tufa
Year: 2019
Citations: 5

Title: GIS‑based irrigation potential assessment on Shaya River sub‑basin in Bale Zone, Oromia region, Ethiopia
Authors: Nasir G. Tukura, Tolera Abdissa Feyissa
Year: 2020
Citations: 5

Title: Identification of soil erosion‑prone areas for effective mitigation measures using a combined approach of morphometric analysis and GIS
Authors: Ayana Asrat Duressa, Tolera Abdissa Feyissa, Nasir G. Tukura, Beekan Gurmessa Gudeta, Gadefa Fekadu Gechelu, Takele Sambeto Bibi
Year: 2024
Citations: 3

Title: Assessment of Effects of Turbidity Variation on Water Temperature and Evaporation of Gilgel Gibe I Reservoir, Omo‑Gibe River Basin, Ethiopia
Authors: Aduna Birmachu, Tolera Abdissa Feyissa, Nasir G. Tukura
Year: 2024
Citations: 1

Title: Hydrological responses projection to the potential impact of climate change under CMIP6 model scenarios in Omo River Basin, Ethiopia
Authors: Tolera Abdissa Feyissa, Tamene Adugna Demissie, Fokke Saathoff, Alemayehu Gebissa
Year: 2024

Title: Evaluation of the impacts of turbidity on Gilgel‑Gibe I reservoir storage, Omo‑Gibe River Basin, Ethiopia
Authors: Aduna Birmachu, Tolera Abdissa Feyissa, Bikila Diriba
Year: 2024

Conclusion

Dr. Tolera Abdissa Feyissa exemplifies the qualities of a dedicated researcher, academic leader, and professional engineer. With a strong educational foundation, rich teaching and consultancy experience, and a well-defined research focus, he brings a holistic approach to engineering and sustainability challenges. His contributions to climate resilience, water resource modeling, and academic development have tangible societal impacts, especially within the African context. As an emerging global researcher, he continues to expand his academic influence through international collaboration and high-quality publications. Dr. Tolera’s blend of technical expertise, leadership, and community engagement makes him a valuable asset to both academic and professional circles. His ongoing work holds significant promise for addressing future water resource and climate adaptation needs worldwide.

João Felipe C L Costa | Engineering | Best Research Article Award

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Prof. João Felipe C L Costa | Engineering | Best Research Article Award

Professor at Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil

Dr. João Felipe Costa 🎓 is a distinguished Professor of Mining Engineering at the Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, with over four decades of expertise in geostatistics, mineral exploration, and mine planning ⛏️. He holds a PhD in Geostatistics from the University of Queensland and has published 300+ peer-reviewed papers 📚. A respected mentor, he has guided over 110 theses and dissertations and received multiple teaching accolades, including the prestigious John Cedric Griffiths Teaching Award 🏅. As head of the mineral exploration lab for 30+ years and an active member of leading international mining societies 🌍, Dr. Costa has led significant resource estimation projects globally, especially in phosphate deposit modeling. His career exemplifies academic excellence, innovation, and impactful contributions to mining sciences and education 🔍.

Professional Profile

🎓 Education

Dr. João Felipe Costa earned his BSc (1983) and MSc (1992) in Mining Engineering from the Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul 🇧🇷, where he currently serves as Professor. He advanced his academic journey by earning a PhD in Geostatistics from the University of Queensland, Australia 🇦🇺 in 1997. His education bridges deep technical knowledge with applied innovation, particularly in geological modeling and statistical data analysis 📊. His foundation in mining engineering and specialization in geostatistics has positioned him as an expert in both practical and academic settings. Dr. Costa’s education reflects a strong commitment to continuous learning and excellence in the evolving field of mineral resources and spatial data science 🧠.

💼 Professional Experience

Dr. Costa began his career as a mining engineer at a major coal operation in southern Brazil, where he optimized unit operations using early computer applications in the 1980s 🖥️⛏️. He joined the Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul in 1986 and has served as a Professor in the Mining Engineering Department ever since. His professional journey includes roles as Department Head, research lab coordinator, and consultant on numerous mineral resource evaluation projects 🌐. With over 30 years of teaching and field experience, he has balanced academic leadership with applied industrial insight, making significant contributions to both sectors. His dedication to education, project execution, and resource modeling showcases his deep engagement with both theory and practice ⚙️📘.

🔬 Research Interest

Dr. João Felipe Costa’s core research interests lie in geostatistics, mineral resource estimation, mine planning, and phosphate deposit modeling 📈. He is especially known for developing robust techniques for spatial data analysis, resource classification, and geological uncertainty evaluation. His work extends to a variety of geological settings, including sedimentary and carbonatite phosphate formations in Brazil and Peru 🌍. Passionate about data-driven solutions, his research integrates statistical modeling with software tools to improve decision-making in exploration and mining processes 💡. As a leading voice in mathematical geosciences, Dr. Costa’s interdisciplinary research not only enhances mining efficiency but also supports sustainable resource management 🔎🧭.

🏅 Awards and Honors

Dr. Costa has been honored multiple times throughout his career. Most notably, he received the John Cedric Griffiths Teaching Award in 2014 from the International Association for Mathematical Geosciences, recognizing his excellence in geoscience education 🎖️. He has also been named Distinguished Professor by graduating classes over the past 20 years, reflecting his lasting impact on student learning 👨‍🏫. As an esteemed member of professional societies like AusIMM, IAMG, SME (USA), and SAIMM (South Africa), his global contributions have earned widespread recognition 🌐. His leadership in Brazil’s mineral resources committee further reinforces his influence in shaping mining policy and academic standards 🏆.

🛠️ Research Skills

Dr. Costa possesses advanced research skills in geostatistical modeling, orebody evaluation, spatial data interpretation, and mineral resource classification 🔍. He is proficient in using industry-relevant software for data simulation, variography, and risk assessment 🖥️📊. His methodological rigor is evident in over 300 peer-reviewed publications and advisory roles in complex exploration projects worldwide 🌎. As the head of a leading mine planning lab for three decades, he has cultivated a dynamic research environment integrating computational tools with field data. His skills also include thesis supervision, technical writing, and collaborative research management, making him a versatile and highly capable scientific contributor 🔧📘.

Publications Top Note 📝

Title: Localized conditional simulation to integrate production data in grade control models
Authors: R. L. Silva, J. F. C. L. Costa, D. M. Marques
Year: 2021
Source: Computers & Geosciences
Citation: Computers & Geosciences, Vol. 150, 104722

Title: Uncertainty in the modeling of lateritic nickel ores by multiple indicator kriging
Authors: A. L. F. Duarte, J. F. C. L. Costa
Year: 2016
Source: Ore Geology Reviews
Citation: Ore Geology Reviews 73, 223–233

Title: Conditional simulation of iron ore deposit grades using co-simulation with proportional correction
Authors: J. F. C. L. Costa, R. H. Rubio, D. M. Marques
Year: 2018
Source: Revista Escola de Minas
Citation: Rev. Esc. Minas 71(4), 531–538

Title: Application of indicator kriging to define cutoff grades for iron ore
Authors: J. F. C. L. Costa, D. M. Marques
Year: 2013
Source: Revista Escola de Minas
Citation: Rev. Esc. Minas 66(1), 37–43

Title: Geostatistical conditional simulation to define grade control strategy for a bauxite mine
Authors: D. M. Marques, J. F. C. L. Costa
Year: 2015
Source: J. South African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy
Citation: J. SAIMM 115(6), 533–540

Title: Geostatistical simulation of mineral grades using multiple-point statistics
Authors: F. G. da Silva, J. F. C. L. Costa
Year: 2016
Source: Computers & Geosciences
Citation: Computers & Geosciences 94, 1–12

Title: Simulation of grade control based on inverse distance weighting
Authors: D. M. Marques, J. F. C. L. Costa
Year: 2018
Source: Revista Escola de Minas
Citation: Rev. Esc. Minas 71(1), 123–129

Title: Geostatistical modeling in lateritic nickel ore: A comparative study between ordinary kriging and indicator kriging
Authors: A. L. F. Duarte, J. F. C. L. Costa
Year: 2015
Source: Natural Resources Research
Citation: Nat. Resour. Res. 24(2), 213–225

Title: Use of stochastic simulation to support mining strategy selection
Authors: D. M. Marques, J. F. C. L. Costa
Year: 2016
Source: Journal of the Southern African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy
Citation: J. SAIMM 116(7), 669–676

Title: Comparison of multivariate conditional simulation techniques for iron ore grade modeling
Authors: R. H. Rubio, J. F. C. L. Costa
Year: 2017
Source: Computers & Geosciences
Citation: Computers & Geosciences 101, 1–12

✅ Conclusion

Dr. João Felipe Costa is a world-class academic and professional in mining engineering and geostatistics, blending education, research, and leadership with remarkable consistency 🌟. His impact spans over 40 years of scholarly excellence, with hundreds of publications, international collaborations, and influential teaching. A mentor, innovator, and geoscience leader, he continues to shape the future of mineral exploration and resource evaluation 🔬🧭. With his global recognition, research depth, and technical command, Dr. Costa stands as a compelling candidate for top honors in scientific research and academic excellence 🎓🏅.

Forough Sanjarian | Secondary Metabolite | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Forough Sanjarian | Secondary Metabolite | Best Researcher Award

Faculty member at National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (NIGEB), Tehran, Iran.

Dr. Forough Sanjarian is a seasoned plant molecular biologist affiliated with the National Institute for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (NIGEB), Tehran. Her interdisciplinary research bridges plant stress physiology, genetic regulation of secondary metabolites, and biomaterial applications. With over two decades of experience in academic and applied research, she has contributed significantly to understanding how environmental factors influence plant molecular responses. She has received a research scholarship from NIGEB and was a guest scientist at the University of Agricultural Sciences in Vienna, Austria.

Publication Profile

Scopus 

Orcid

Google Scholar

Education

  • Ph.D. in Biology (2001–2006)
    Razi University, Faculty of Science, in collaboration with the National Institute for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (NIGEB), Tehran, Iran.

  • M.Sc. in Biology (1995–1998)
    Tehran University, Faculty of Science, Iran.

  • B.Sc. in Biology (1991–1995)
    Isfahan University, Faculty of Science, Iran.

Professional Experience

Dr. Sanjarian has served as a Researcher at the National Institute for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (NIGEB) since 2002, contributing to advancements in plant biotechnology, genetic expression, and stress physiology. She previously worked as an Invited Tutor in Molecular Biology at Azad University (1998–2006), where she taught and mentored undergraduate and graduate students.

Research Interest 

  • Plant molecular biology and gene expression under abiotic stress

  • Secondary metabolite biosynthesis (e.g., monoterpenes, thymol)

  • Hormetic responses to low-dose gamma irradiation

  • Genetic engineering for enhanced oil and metabolite production in plants

  • Development of biomaterials for medical applications (e.g., wound dressings)

Google Scholar Profile (est.):

  • Total Citations: ~500+

  • h-index: ~10

  • Most Cited Paper: Nigella sativa anti-inflammatory study, 160 citations

Top Noted Publication

Anti-inflammatory Effect of Seeds and Callus of Nigella sativa L. Extracts on Mix Glial Cells with Regard to Their Thymoquinone Content

  • Journal: AAPS PharmSciTech
  • Citation: 160
  • Year: 2013
The effects of nanoencapsulated curcumin-Fe3O4 on proliferation and hTERT gene expression in lung cancer cells
  • Journal: Anti-Cancer Agents in Med. Chem.
  • Citation: 80
  • Year: 2017
Changes in Antioxidant Enzymes Activities and Proline, Total Phenol and Anthocyanin Contents in Hyssopus officinalis L. Plants Under Salt Stress
  • Journal: Acta Biologica Hungarica
  • Citation: 57
  • Year: 2016
Transcriptional Responses in Root Tissue of Bread Wheat Reveal Drought Avoidance Mechanisms
  • Journal: PLOS ONE
  • Citation: 37
  • Year: 2019
Comparative Study of Magnetic Nanoparticles in Plasmid DNA Extraction
  • Journal: Analytical Biochemistry
  • Citation: 36
  • Year: 2016

Conclusion

Dr. Zhigang Shang is a highly deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award in Engineering. His cutting-edge research in underwater acoustics, national defense systems, and intelligent sensing platforms, combined with leadership roles, innovation output, and national-level recognition, make him a standout nominee. While international exposure and citation breadth could be further enhanced, his contributions already position him as a strategic research leader with real-world impact.

 

Zhigang Shang | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Zhigang Shang | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Professor at Harbin Engineering University, China.

Dr. Zhigang Shang is a leading expert in underwater acoustic engineering and marine information systems. He serves as Deputy Director of the Key Laboratory of Marine Information Acquisition and Security at Harbin Engineering University. With a Ph.D. from the Chinese Academy of Sciences and extensive experience in national defense research, he has led and participated in over 20 major national and military R&D projects. Dr. Shang is widely published, holding more than 50 patents and authoring 7 monographs. He is actively involved in multiple editorial and advisory boards and has received numerous national awards for innovation and excellence in unmanned and acoustic system technologies.

Publication Profile

Scopus 

Education

Dr. Zhigang Shang earned his Bachelor’s degree in Electronic Information Engineering (Underwater Acoustics) from Harbin Engineering University in 2010. He then completed his Ph.D. at the Institute of Acoustics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, in 2015, where he specialized in acoustic signal processing and underwater sensing technologies.

Professional Experience

Dr. Shang began his professional career in July 2015 at the China Academy of Electronic Sciences, where he worked until October 2021. Following this, he held a short tenure at the China Star Network Innovation Research Institute until April 2022. Since then, he has been a faculty member at Harbin Engineering University, where he currently serves as the Deputy Director of the Key Laboratory of Marine Information Acquisition and Security, under the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology.

Dr. Shang holds several academic and professional positions, including:

  • Young Editorial Board Member of Piezoelectric and Sound and Light, Journal of Unmanned Systems, and Journal of Harbin Engineering University.

  • Senior Member of the Chinese Institute of Electronics.

  • Secretary General of the Youth Working Committee of the Acoustics Society.

  • Mentor at the Beijing Institute of Technology.

  • Recognized leader in Underwater Acoustic Engineering as noted in the Blue Book of the Chinese Academy of Engineering.

Research Interest 

Dr. Shang’s research focuses on:

  • Underwater acoustics

  • Marine information acquisition

  • Unmanned systems

  • Intelligent sensing

  • Signal processing

  • Acoustic stealth and detection technologies

  • Multimodal marine data fusion

He is particularly recognized for his contributions to unmanned underwater and aerial platforms, with practical applications in military defense, marine security, and autonomous systems.

Author Metrics

  • Academic Publications: 50+ peer-reviewed papers

  • National Invention Patents: 50+

  • Software Copyrights: 10+

  • Books/Monographs: 7

  • Major R&D and Military Projects: 20+

Awards:

  • Best Paper Award, 2022 International Unmanned Systems Conference
  • Excellence Award, 2023 China Conversion Application Competition
  • Multiple awards in national UAV and underwater platform competitions
  • Provincial Excellent Youth Fund recipient
  • National Key R&D Young Scientist designation

Top Noted Publication

1. DOA Estimation Exploiting a Single Moving Acoustic Vector Sensor: A Cramér-Rao Bound-Based Study

Authors: Qu, Xinghao; Shang, Zhigang; Qiao, Gang; Liu, Songzuo
Published in: IEEE Transactions on Vehicular Technology, 2025
Citation Count: 0 (as of now)
Summary:
This study presents a novel method for Direction of Arrival (DOA) estimation using a single moving Acoustic Vector Sensor (AVS). The methodology is evaluated through a Cramér-Rao Bound (CRB)-based framework, providing theoretical limits and accuracy benchmarks for DOA performance. The results are particularly relevant for mobile underwater acoustic platforms and defense-related sensing systems.

2. Cross-Domain Communication Buoy System Based on Optimal Communication Link Selection

Authors: Xing, Minghan; Shang, Zhigang; Qiao, Gang; Li, Tianshui; Xie, Jiaxuan
Published in: Journal of Unmanned Undersea Systems, 2024
Citation Count: 0 (as of now)
Summary:
This paper introduces an innovative communication buoy system that optimizes cross-domain (air-sea) communication via dynamic link selection algorithms. The system enhances signal reliability and adaptability across varying marine environments, contributing significantly to unmanned maritime system interoperability and real-time data exchange.

Conclusion

Dr. Zhigang Shang is a highly deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award in Engineering. His cutting-edge research in underwater acoustics, national defense systems, and intelligent sensing platforms, combined with leadership roles, innovation output, and national-level recognition, make him a standout nominee. While international exposure and citation breadth could be further enhanced, his contributions already position him as a strategic research leader with real-world impact.