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.

Kamala Kannan | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Kamala Kannan | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award 

Assistant Professor | Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences | India

Professor Kamala Kannan is an exceptionally accomplished researcher whose extensive contributions in marine biology, biotechnology, and environmental sciences make her highly suitable for the Best Researcher Award. Currently serving as a Professor at Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Chennai, she brings a wealth of experience from her tenure as a National Postdoctoral Fellow at SRM University and as a Senior Research Fellow at the Central Institute of Fisheries Education, Mumbai. Her academic foundation includes a PhD and M.Phil in Marine Biology from Annamalai University, complemented by an M.Sc in Oceanography and a B.Sc in Zoology, reflecting a deep and progressive specialization in marine sciences. Over her prolific career, she has authored more than 34 publications in high-impact journals, encompassing groundbreaking work on antioxidant enzymes in gastropods, green synthesis of nanoparticles from marine plants, multi-drug resistant bacteria in marine fish, and marine bioactive compounds targeting oral squamous cell carcinoma, among others. She has also contributed numerous book chapters on marine actinobacteria, marine polymers, and bioremediation technologies, demonstrating her expertise in translating fundamental research into practical applications for environmental remediation and biomedical uses. Professor Kannan’s research has attracted competitive funding, such as the Science and Engineering Research Board grant for bioremediation of radionuclides using marine actinobacterial EPS, highlighting her capability to secure support for high-impact projects. Additionally, her service as a peer reviewer for international journals underscores her recognized authority in the field. Her work exemplifies innovation, interdisciplinary integration, and societal impact, particularly in environmental conservation, biotechnological applications, and public health. With a career marked by sustained scholarly productivity, mentorship of emerging scientists, and meaningful contributions to marine science and biotechnology, Professor Kamala Kannan embodies the qualities of an outstanding researcher whose achievements merit the highest recognition through the Best Researcher Award.

Profiles: Google Scholar | Scopus | ORCID | LinkedIn | ResearchGate

Featured Publications 

  1. Ambekar, A. A., Sivaperumal, P., Kamala, K., Kubal, P., & Prakash, C. (2023). Effect of temperature changes on antioxidant enzymes and oxidative stress in gastropod Nerita oryzarum collected along India’s first Tarapur Atomic Power Plant site. Environmental Research, 214, 114334.

  2. Sivaperumal, P., Kamala, K., Ganapathy, D. M., Dharani, G., Sundarrajan, S., & Ramakrishna, S. (2023). Fabrication of AgNPs mediated fibrous membrane from Rhizophora mucronata mangrove plant extract for biological properties. Journal of Drug Delivery Science and Technology, 79, 104710.

  3. Dilipan, E., Sivaperumal, P., Kamala, K., & Ramachandran, M. (2023). Green synthesis of silver nanoparticles using seagrass Cymodocea serrulata (R.Br.) Asch. & Magnus, characterization, and evaluation of anticancer, antioxidant, and antiglycemic index. Biotechnology and Applied Biochemistry, 70(3), 1078–1092.

  4. Kamala, K., Sivaperumal, P., Subramanian, K., Aruni, W., Shanmugam, R., & Rajaram, R. (2022). Baseline assessment of marine actinobacterial diversity around the nuclear power plant sites, India and its application to uranium remediation. Environmental Research, 211, 113135.

  5. Sivaperumal, P., Sekaran, S., Kamala, K., & Ganapathy, D. (2022). Marine bioactive compounds as potential therapeutic inhibitor for oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). Oral Oncology, 126, 105971.

Mr. Hayatullah Mushwani | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. Hayatullah Mushwani | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award 

Lecturer | Kabul Institute | Afghanistan

Mr. Hayatullah Mushwani is a highly committed research scientist and lecturer in the Disaster Management Department, Environment Faculty, at Kabul University, Afghanistan. With over eight years of experience in teaching, research, and consulting, he has developed deep expertise in disaster risk reduction, climate change mitigation and adaptation, environmental management, and sustainable development. He holds a Master’s degree in Disaster Preparedness, Mitigation, and Management from the Asian Institute of Technology (AIT), Thailand, completed in 2023, and a Bachelor’s degree in Disaster Management from Kabul University in 2017. His professional experience includes serving as a lecturer since 2018, delivering courses in disaster risk reduction, climatic hazards, GIS, and resilience studies. He has also contributed to several humanitarian and research-driven organizations such as ADRA International, Redr UK, CWSA Japan, and the International Organization for Migration (IOM), focusing on climate adaptation, curriculum development, and resilience planning. His research interests encompass disaster risk analysis, climate change policy, hazard modeling, resilience assessment, and community-based risk management. He is skilled in GIS and remote sensing applications, AHP numerical modeling, SPSS data analysis, and advanced research design methodologies. Mr. Mushwani has published over ten peer-reviewed articles in international Q1 and Q2 journals, including ScienceDirect and Springer Nature, with an H-index of 4 and more than 46 citations and 7 Documents . His dedication to academic excellence is reflected through multiple honors, including appreciation letters from international institutions in Singapore, the USA, and India for outstanding teaching and volunteer contributions. His academic and professional journey reflects a strong commitment to environmental sustainability and knowledge transfer. In conclusion, Mr. Mushwani’s blend of scholarly rigor, teaching excellence, and global engagement demonstrates his potential to contribute meaningfully to international research and policy frameworks in disaster management and climate resilience.

Profiles: Google Scholar | Scopus | LinkedIn | ResearchGate

Featured Publications

  1. Safi, L., Mujeeb, M., Sahak, K., Mushwani, H., & Hashmi, S. K. (2024). Climate change impacts and threats on basic livelihood resources, food security, and social stability in Afghanistan. GeoJournal, 89(2), 85. Citations: 36

  2. Mushwani, H., Ahmadzai, M. R., Ullah, H., Baheer, M. S., & Peroz, S. (2024). A comprehensive AHP numerical module for assessing resilience of Kabul City to flood hazards. Urban Climate, 55, 101939. Citations: 13

  3. Morshed, M. A., Mushwani, H., Sahak, K., & Hairan, M. H. (2024). The current state of early warning system in South Asia: A case study of Afghanistan. International Journal of Disaster Risk Reduction, 100, 104201. Citations: 13

  4. Mushwani, H., Arabzai, A., Safi, L., Ullah, H., Afghan, A., & Parven, A. (2025). Evaluation of flood hazard vulnerabilities and innovative management strategies in Afghanistan’s central region. Natural Hazards, 121(4), 4639–4655. Citations: 6

  5. Mushwani, H., Arabzai, A., Safi, L., Chaiya, C., & Sahak, K. (2025). Evaluation of gender-based challenges during natural disasters in the central region of Afghanistan: A case study of Parwan Province. World Development Perspectives, 37, 100646. Citations: 2

Mudassir Khan | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. Mudassir Khan | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Mudassir Khan at Quaid-i-Azam University Islamabad, Pakistan

Summary:

Mudassir Khan is a dedicated environmental scientist with a passion for leveraging technology to understand and address environmental challenges. With a Master’s degree in Environmental Sciences specializing in GIS and RS, and currently pursuing a Ph.D., Mudassir has honed his skills in spatial analysis and data science. His research interests lie in analyzing land use/land cover changes, land surface temperature variations, and hydrological modeling using advanced techniques. Recognized for his academic excellence with gold and silver medals, Mudassir is committed to making meaningful contributions to the field of environmental science. Equipped with a diverse skill set in GIS, RS, programming, and statistical analysis, he aims to develop innovative solutions for sustainable environmental management.

Professional Profile:

👩‍🎓Education

Mr. Mudassir Khan holds a Ph.D. fellowship at Quaid-i-Azam University Islamabad since September 2021. Prior to this, he completed his Master of Sciences in Environmental Sciences with a specialization in GIS & RS from COMSATS University Islamabad in March 2020, achieving a remarkable CGPA of 3.81/4.00 and earning the Silver Medal. His master’s thesis focused on the estimation of Land Use Land Cover Changes and Land Surface Temperature in District Swabi, Pakistan. Mr. Khan’s academic excellence continued during his Bachelor of Sciences in Environmental Sciences at Abdul Wali Khan University Mardan, where he graduated as a Gold Medalist in July 2017 with a CGPA of 3.89/4.00. His bachelor’s thesis investigated the seasonal snow variation in District Chitral, a Hindukush Mountain Region of Pakistan, utilizing GIS and RS techniques.

Professional Experience

Mr. Mudassir Khan has a rich professional experience that complements his academic achievements. Notably, he completed an internship at the National Agriculture Research Center Islamabad, Pakistan, during July-August 2016. In this role, he worked on modeling groundwater quality for irrigation purposes in District Bahawalpur, Pakistan. This experience provided him with valuable insights into real-world applications of environmental research and analytical skills.

Research Interest

Mr. Mudassir Khan’s research interests span a wide spectrum within the field of environmental sciences, with a particular focus on Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Remote Sensing (RS). His expertise lies in several key areas, including Land Use Land Cover Analysis, Land Surface Temperature Analysis, and the application of Machine Learning techniques for simulating environmental phenomena. Additionally, he is deeply engaged in Hydrological Modeling, Landslide Susceptibility Analysis, and Species Distribution Modeling/Habitat Suitability Modeling. Mr. Khan’s research agenda is characterized by an interdisciplinary approach, leveraging advanced spatial analysis methods and cutting-edge technologies to address complex environmental challenges.

Award and Honors

Mr. Mudassir Khan has garnered prestigious awards and honors throughout his academic journey, recognizing his outstanding achievements and contributions to the field of environmental sciences. Notably, he was awarded the Silver Medal for his exceptional performance during his Master of Sciences in Environmental Sciences program at COMSATS University Islamabad, where he specialized in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Remote Sensing (RS). Furthermore, he was honored with the Gold Medal for his exemplary academic performance during his Bachelor of Sciences in Environmental Sciences program at Abdul Wali Khan University Mardan. These accolades underscore Mr. Khan’s dedication to academic excellence and his significant contributions to the advancement of environmental research and technology.

Research Skills

Mr. Mudassir Khan possesses a comprehensive skill set in research methodologies and data analysis techniques, enabling him to conduct rigorous and insightful environmental research. Proficient in both quantitative and qualitative research approaches, he excels in data collection, processing, and interpretation. His expertise includes advanced spatial analysis using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Remote Sensing (RS) technologies, allowing him to analyze complex environmental phenomena such as land use/land cover changes and land surface temperature variations. Moreover, Mr. Khan is adept at employing statistical software such as SPSS, Minitab, and R for data analysis and modeling, facilitating the generation of valuable insights from environmental datasets. His proficiency in programming languages like R, Python, and JavaScript further enhances his research capabilities, enabling him to develop innovative solutions and predictive models for environmental challenges. With a strong foundation in research methodology and a diverse skill set in data analysis and programming, Mr. Mudassir Khan is well-equipped to address complex environmental issues and contribute significantly to the advancement of environmental science research.

Publications

  1. Machine learning-based assessment and simulation of land use modification effects on seasonal and annual land surface temperature variations
    • Authors: Khan, M., Qasim, M., Tahir, A.A., Farooqi, A.
    • Year: 2023
    • Citations: 2
    • Journal: Heliyon
  2. Spatial and temporal analyses of land use changes with special focus on seasonal variation in snow cover in District Chitral; a Hindu Kush mountain region of Pakistan
    • Authors: Qasim, M., Khan, M., Rashid, W.
    • Year: 2023
    • Citations: 3
    • Journal: Remote Sensing Applications: Society and Environment
  3. Trends and projections of land use land cover and land surface temperature using an integrated weighted evidence-cellular automata (WE-CA) model
    • Authors: Khan, M., Tahir, A.A., Ullah, S., Shahid, S.U., Nazir, A.
    • Year: 2022
    • Citations: 4
    • Journal: Environmental Monitoring and Assessment
  4. Remote sensing-based quantification of the relationships between land use land cover changes and surface temperature over the lower Himalayan region
    • Authors: Ullah, S., Tahir, A.A., Akbar, T.A., Khan, A.J., Khan, M.
    • Year: 2019
    • Citations: 94
    • Journal: Sustainability (Switzerland)

 

Ghaffar Ali | Environmental Management | Academic Excellence Paper Award

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Assoc Prof Dr. Ghaffar Ali, Environmental management, Academic Excellence Paper Award

Professor at Shenzhen University, China

Summary:

Dr. Ghaffar Ali is an accomplished academic with expertise in Urban Environmental Management, Environmental Science & Management, Environment/Energy Economics, Sustainability Pathways, Renewable Energy, and Project Management & Evaluation. He holds a Ph.D. in Urban Environmental Management from the Asian Institute of Technology (AIT), Thailand, where his research focused on assessing carbon mitigation potential for low-carbon society development. With extensive experience spanning various research and teaching roles across institutions in China, Thailand, and Pakistan, Dr. Ali has made significant contributions to the fields of climate change, spatial heterogeneity, urban environmental dynamics, and low-carbon society modeling. He has authored numerous publications in reputable journals and actively engages in multidisciplinary research aimed at addressing pressing environmental challenges.

Professional Profile:

Scopus Profile

Orcid Profile

Google Scholar Profile

👩‍🎓Education & Qualification:

Professional Experience:  

Dr. Ghaffar Ali has a rich and diverse professional experience in the fields of environmental management, economics, and academia. He has held various academic and research positions at prestigious institutions around the world. Currently serving as an Associate Professor at the College of Management, Shenzhen University, China, he contributes to the academic community through teaching and research. Prior to this, he worked as a Visiting Professor at the Key Lab of Urban Environment and Health, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen, China. Dr. Ali has also served as a Postdoctoral Fellow at the Faculty of Environment and Resource Studies, Mahidol University, Thailand, and as an Adjunct Assistant Professor at the Department of Development and Sustainability, Asian Institute of Technology, Thailand. He has actively engaged with international organizations, having served as a Special Member on Mission at the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP) in Bangkok, Thailand. With his extensive research background and interdisciplinary expertise, Dr. Ghaffar Ali continues to make significant contributions to the fields of urban environmental management, environmental science, sustainability, renewable energy, and project management.

Research Interest:

Dr. Ghaffar Ali’s research interests span several areas within the realm of environmental management and sustainability. He is particularly focused on decarbonization strategies in urban environments, aiming to assess and implement measures to reduce carbon emissions and promote low-carbon society development. Additionally, Dr. Ali is deeply involved in environmental science and management, exploring various aspects of sustainable resource utilization and conservation. His research extends to the fields of environment and energy economics, where he investigates the economic implications of environmental policies and renewable energy initiatives. Dr. Ali is also interested in sustainability pathways, seeking to identify and evaluate pathways toward achieving sustainable development goals. Furthermore, his research encompasses renewable energy technologies, with a focus on their adoption and integration into existing energy systems. Finally, Dr. Ghaffar Ali’s research portfolio includes project management and evaluation, where he examines the effectiveness and impact of environmental projects and policies. Through his diverse research interests, Dr. Ali aims to contribute to the advancement of knowledge and practices that promote environmental sustainability and resilience.

Publication Top Noted:

Title: Pricing behavior of monopoly market with the implementation of green technology decision under emission reduction subsidy policy

  • Authors: J Hussain, Y Pan, G Ali, Y Xiaofang
  • Journal: Science of the Total Environment
  • Volume: 709
  • Pages: 136110
  • Citations: 59
  • Year: 2020

Title: Spatial–temporal characterization of rainfall in Pakistan during the past half-century (1961–2020)

  • Authors: G Ali, M Sajjad, S Kanwal, T Xiao, S Khalid, F Shoaib, HN Gul
  • Journal: Scientific Reports
  • Volume: 11
  • Issue: 1
  • Pages: 6935
  • Citations: 51
  • Year: 2021

Title: Climate Change and Spatial Heterogeneity of Pakistan: Empirical Evidence using Multidisciplinary Approach

  • Author: G Ali
  • Journal: Science of The Total Environment
  • Volume: 634
  • Pages: 95-108
  • Citations: 51
  • Year: 2018

Title: Urban environment dynamics and low carbon society: multi-criteria decision analysis modeling for policy makers

  • Authors: G Ali, S Abbas, Y Pan, Z Chen, J Hussain, M Sajjad, A Ashraf
  • Journal: Sustainable Cities and Society
  • Volume: 51
  • Pages: 101763
  • Citations: 47
  • Year: 2019

Title: Decarbonization Action Plan Using Hybrid Modeling for Low Carbon Society: A Case of Bangkok Metropolitan Area

  • Authors: G Ali, N Pumijumnong, S Cui
  • Journal: Journal of Cleaner Production
  • Citations: 44
  • Year: 2017