Jan Vlok Nelson | Environmental Science | Outstanding Scientist Award

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Mr. Jan Vlok Nelson | Environmental Science | Outstanding Scientist Award

Self employed at Mandela University, South Africa

Jan Vlok is a distinguished South African botanist and environmental scientist with over four decades of experience in plant ecology and conservation. Holding an MSc (Cum Laude) from the University of Natal, he has authored more than 50 scientific and popular publications and a book, earning over 1,700 citations. Vlok has made substantial contributions to vegetation classification and restoration, serving as a consultant to organizations like WWF-SA, SANPARKS, and CapeNature, with his work leading to land acquisitions exceeding R30 million. He is a recognized public communicator, having delivered over 300 outreach presentations, and has been honored with multiple prestigious awards, including the Marloth and Leslie Hill Medals. As a registered botanical scientist with SACNASP and a research associate at Nelson Mandela University, Vlok’s impact spans both scientific and practical realms. His lifelong dedication to South Africa’s biodiversity and environmental stewardship positions him as a leading figure in conservation science.

Professional Profile 

Scopus Profile
ORCID Profile

Education

Jan Vlok began his academic journey at Bellville High School, matriculating in 1975. He pursued his early tertiary education at Saasveld Forestry College, where he earned a Diploma in Forestry in 1982. Recognizing the need for deeper scientific training, he later completed his Master of Science degree (Cum Laude) at the University of Natal in 1997. His MSc studies provided a strong academic foundation in ecology and plant sciences, further enhancing his ability to contribute meaningfully to environmental research and management. Despite not holding a PhD, Vlok’s academic work and extensive field expertise have earned him considerable recognition within the scientific community. His education has supported a career deeply rooted in applied ecology, blending academic knowledge with practical environmental solutions. His continuous professional development and self-driven learning have enabled him to remain a respected figure in conservation, particularly in vegetation classification and restoration within South Africa’s diverse ecosystems.

Professional Experience

Jan Vlok has amassed over 40 years of professional experience in botany and environmental consultancy. He began his career in 1982 with the Department of Forestry, later transitioning to the Department of Water Affairs, Forestry, and Environmental Affairs as a research technician. From 1990 to 1997, he served as a regional botanist at Cape Nature Conservation, where he deepened his specialization in South African vegetation. Since 1997, he has operated independently as an environmental advisor through Regalis Environmental Services. In this role, Vlok has consulted for key institutions such as WWF-SA, SANPARKS, and CapeNature, contributing to major conservation and land acquisition projects. His expertise has informed numerous environmental impact assessments, restoration plans, and conservation strategies. As an expert witness in court cases and a referee for scientific journals and grants, Vlok holds a respected advisory role. His practical fieldwork and consulting achievements highlight a career defined by impact and integrity.

Research Interest

Jan Vlok’s research interests lie primarily in plant ecology, vegetation classification, and conservation biology, particularly within the unique biomes of South Africa such as Fynbos, Succulent Karoo, Forests, and Subtropical Thicket. His work is grounded in applied ecological research aimed at informing conservation strategies and land-use planning. A key focus of his studies has been the mapping and ecological description of vegetation units, often contributing directly to conservation priorities and land acquisition decisions. Vlok is also involved in ecological restoration, particularly in designing sustainable strategies for disturbed ecosystems. His work bridges scientific inquiry with real-world application, making him a sought-after consultant in environmental management and biodiversity planning. His communication of research findings to both scientific audiences and the general public reflects a broader interest in conservation education and public engagement. Vlok’s commitment to preserving South Africa’s botanical heritage is reflected in his continual research contributions, both independently and collaboratively.

Award and Honor

Jan Vlok has received numerous accolades recognizing his outstanding contributions to botany and conservation. Among his most notable honors are the Leslie Hill Medal (2003) from the Succulent Society of South Africa and the Marloth Medal (2010) from the Botanical Society of South Africa—both prestigious awards in South African botanical science. In 2006, he received a Gold Award from the C.A.P.E. program and a Certificate of Appreciation from the Western Cape Conservation Stewardship Association, further affirming his role in promoting sustainable land management and conservation. CapeNature recognized him in 2008 with a Special Award for his contributions to ecological assessment and stewardship. These awards reflect a career characterized by both scientific excellence and practical environmental impact. Vlok’s work is respected not only by academic peers but also by government bodies and conservation organizations, marking him as a leader in his field and a role model in South African environmental science.

Conclusion

Jan Vlok exemplifies the ideal of a scientist whose work extends far beyond academia into meaningful, real-world conservation impact. With over four decades of experience, his career blends rigorous ecological research, practical fieldwork, and a deep commitment to preserving South Africa’s rich botanical heritage. His contributions have shaped conservation policy, led to significant land acquisitions for environmental protection, and engaged both scientific and public audiences. Vlok’s numerous awards, consulting roles, and scientific publications reflect a lifetime dedicated to excellence in botany and ecological sustainability. Though lacking a PhD, his field expertise, advisory roles, and influence across conservation sectors underscore his unique value as a practitioner-scholar. His ability to translate complex ecological knowledge into applied solutions and public education marks him as a leader not only in science but in environmental stewardship. Jan Vlok’s legacy is one of action, influence, and deep care for South Africa’s natural world.

Publications Top Notes

  • Title: Parent versus seedling survival in Watsonia fourcadei (Iridaceae); testing a hypothesis on the survival strategy of a Cape geophyte

    • Author: Vlok, Johannes H.J.

    • Year: 2025

  • Title: New species of Euryops (Asteraceae: Senecioneae) from the Klein Karoo in the Western Cape Province, South Africa

    • Author: Vlok, Johannes H.J.

    • Year: 2025

Zuleide Ferreira | Earth and Planetary Sciences | Best Researcher Award

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Ms. Zuleide Ferreira | Earth and Planetary Sciences | Best Researcher Award

PhD at Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Brazil

Zuleide Ferreira is a professor in the Geomatic Area at the Federal Institute of Education, Science, and Technology of Tocantins, Brazil. With a strong academic foundation, she holds a Ph.D. in Information Management with a focus on Geographic Information Systems (GIS) from Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Portugal. She also holds a Master’s in Environmental Sciences from the Federal University of Tocantins and a postgraduate specialization in Environmental Management and Planning. Her career spans both academic and professional spheres, with significant contributions to the field of Geomatics. As a professor, she has dedicated herself to teaching and research in GIS, making a significant impact in her field. In addition to her academic roles, Zuleide has a wealth of experience in land surveying, having worked in various surveying and engineering companies, which enriches her research with practical insights into environmental and geographical challenges.

Professional Profile

Education

Zuleide Ferreira’s academic journey is marked by a rich and diverse educational background. She earned her Ph.D. in Information Management, specializing in Geographic Information Systems (GIS), from Universidade Nova de Lisboa (Nova IMS), Portugal, which provided her with deep knowledge and expertise in GIS applications. She also holds a Master’s in Environmental Sciences from the Federal University of Tocantins, equipping her with a strong foundation in environmental issues and sustainability. In addition to her advanced degrees, she completed a postgraduate specialization in Environmental Management and Planning, further enhancing her knowledge of environmental systems. Zuleide’s undergraduate degree in Land Surveying from the Federal Institute of Education, Science, and Technology of Goiás laid the groundwork for her expertise in Geomatics. Her varied academic qualifications showcase her commitment to understanding the intersection of technology and environmental sciences, positioning her as an expert in her field.

Professional Experience

Zuleide Ferreira’s professional experience spans both academia and industry, offering a balanced perspective on the practical and theoretical aspects of Geomatics. Since 2010, she has been a professor at the Federal Institute of Education, Science, and Technology of Tocantins, where she teaches courses in Geomatics and GIS. In addition to her teaching responsibilities, she has held leadership roles as the coordinator of the Geomatics department, where she guided the academic direction of the program and contributed to the development of curriculum and research initiatives. Before her academic career, Zuleide gained hands-on experience in the field of land surveying, working as a topographer at various companies, including VALEC Engenharia and Meridional Agrimensura Ltda. This practical experience in surveying and infrastructure planning has informed her academic work, giving her a unique perspective on the application of Geomatics in real-world scenarios, particularly in environmental and land management contexts.

Research Interests

Zuleide Ferreira’s research interests lie at the intersection of Geomatics, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and Environmental Sciences. Her work focuses on the application of GIS in environmental management, land planning, and sustainable development. Through her research, she seeks to leverage spatial data and technological solutions to address complex environmental challenges, including land degradation, urban planning, and resource management. Zuleide is particularly interested in how GIS can support decision-making processes in environmental conservation and development projects, ensuring a balance between progress and sustainability. Her interdisciplinary approach combines the technical aspects of GIS with a strong focus on environmental sustainability, aiming to create more effective strategies for managing natural resources. Zuleide’s work also includes exploring innovative ways to integrate GIS technologies into education, fostering the next generation of professionals in the Geomatics field.

Awards and Honors

Although specific awards and honors are not detailed in her biography, Zuleide Ferreira’s distinguished career in academia and industry is indicative of recognition within her field. Her significant contributions to Geomatics and GIS education, coupled with her applied research in environmental management, reflect the impact of her work. As a professor and researcher, Zuleide has likely received commendations for her excellence in teaching and research within her institution. Her leadership roles in academia and involvement in important projects related to Geomatics further highlight her standing in the field. With a strong focus on both practical and theoretical aspects of her research, Zuleide’s continued dedication to advancing the field of Geomatics and contributing to environmental solutions positions her for future recognition in both academic and professional circles.

Conclusion

Zuleide Ferreira is a highly qualified and experienced professional in her field, with a solid academic and practical background in Geomatics and Information Management. Her strengths in teaching, research, and applied knowledge position her well for the Best Researcher Award. However, her research visibility, publication track record, and interdisciplinary collaborations could further enhance her candidacy. With these improvements, Zuleide could make even greater contributions to the field and strengthen her impact on both academia and industry.

Publications Top Noted

Author(s): Zuleide Alves Ferreira, Ana Cristina Costa, P. Cabral
Title: Analysing the spatial context of the altimetric error pattern of a digital elevation model using multiscale geographically weighted regression
Journal: European Journal of Remote Sensing
Year: 2023
Citations: 2 citations

 

Farid Touati | Energy and Environment | Best Researcher Award

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Prof Farid Touati | Energy and Environment | Best Researcher Award

Prof Farid Touati, Qatar University, Qatar

Professor Farid Touati is a distinguished faculty member in the Electrical Engineering Department at Qatar University, specializing in electronics and embedded systems. With extensive academic and professional experience spanning multiple countries, including Japan, Tunisia, Saudi Arabia, and the USA, he has made significant contributions to both research and teaching. His work in sensors, biomedical systems, and organic electronics reflects his commitment to advancing engineering education and innovation. Professor Touati is recognized for his influential research, innovative teaching methods, and active role in industry collaborations.

Publication Profile

Scopus

Strengths for the Award

  1. Extensive Academic Background:
    • Farid Touati has a robust educational background with a Ph.D. and habilitation qualification in Electrical Engineering. His academic credentials are complemented by continuing education and workshops, showing a commitment to staying current in his field.
  2. Significant Research Contributions:
    • He has published several papers in reputable journals and conferences, with notable contributions to various fields including sensors, embedded systems, biomedical systems, and organic electronics.
    • His work has been recognized internationally, with multiple citations and awards for his research, such as the Distinguished Scientist Award and various Best PhD Dissertation Awards.
  3. Awards and Recognition:
    • He has received numerous accolades for his research and academic contributions, including the Distinguished Scientist Award (April 2021) and top-cited scholar recognition by Stanford University since 2019.
    • His research outcomes have been highlighted in prominent conferences and publications, adding to his credibility as a leading researcher.
  4. Innovative Projects:
    • His involvement in innovative projects, such as the TRL8 product on air quality monitoring and successful consultancy projects, demonstrates his capability to translate research into practical applications.
  5. Supervision and Mentorship:
    • He has successfully supervised students who have won prestigious competitions and awards, indicating his effectiveness as a mentor and educator.
  6. Industry Engagement:
    • His experience with industry collaborations and consultancy, such as the project with Daewoo Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering, reflects his ability to bridge the gap between academia and industry.

Areas for Improvement

  1. Broadening Research Scope:
    • While his research is diverse, focusing on emerging areas or interdisciplinary fields might further strengthen his profile. For instance, exploring collaborations with other disciplines could enhance the impact of his work.
  2. Increased Publication Impact:
    • Although he has published numerous papers, increasing the impact factor of the journals and conferences where his work is published could further elevate his research profile.
  3. Enhanced Public Engagement:
    • Increasing engagement with the general public through outreach activities or popular science publications could help in demonstrating the broader societal impact of his research.
  4. International Collaboration:
    • Expanding international research collaborations could provide new perspectives and opportunities for innovation. Engaging with global research networks may enhance the visibility and impact of his work.

Education

Professor Farid Touati holds a Habilitation Qualification for Research Leadership from the French Ministry of Higher Education and Research (2007), a Ph.D. (1995), and an M.Sc. (1992) from Nagoya Institute of Technology, Japan. He also earned his B.Sc. in Electrical Engineering from Monastir College of Engineering, Tunisia, in 1988. His educational background, complemented by numerous professional development workshops, underpins his expertise in electrical engineering and education.

Experience

Professor Touati’s career includes roles at Qatar University, Sultan Qaboos University, and Tuskegee University, with prior appointments in Saudi Arabia and Japan. He has served as a Research Associate and Teaching Assistant at Nagoya Institute of Technology and has worked in industry roles, including a consultancy project for Daewoo Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering. His tenure at these institutions highlights his extensive experience in both academia and industry.

Awards and Honors

Professor Touati’s accolades include the Distinguished Scientist Award from Qatar University (2021), recognition among the top 2% cited scholars globally by Stanford University (since 2019), and several Best PhD Dissertation and Graduate Thesis awards. His achievements also encompass prestigious grants, a Gold Medal for Excellent Graduate Student Award, and numerous student competition victories, reflecting his impact on both research and education.

Research Focus

Professor Farid Touati’s research interests lie in sensors, embedded system design, biomedical systems, and organic electronics. His work emphasizes advancing technology in these areas, aiming to improve applications in healthcare, environmental monitoring, and electronics. His innovative research contributes to both fundamental science and practical engineering solutions, with a focus on integrating advanced technologies into real-world applications.

Publication Top Notes

Hierarchical BaTiO3/NiFe2O4 nanocomposite as an efficacious photoanode for photoelectrochemical water splitting

Thermal and mechanical stability of microwave sintered cold compact bismuth telluride thermoelectric material

Synthesis and photoelectrochemical performance of Co doped SrTiO3 nanostructures photoanode

IoT-Based Bi-Cluster Forecasting Using Automated ML-Model Optimization for COVID-19

Autonomous SkyCube Testbench using UAV-Assisted Ka-Band OFDM Transceiver

Conclusion

Farid Touati is a strong candidate for the Research for Best Researcher Award due to his extensive research contributions, significant awards, innovative projects, and effective mentorship. His achievements reflect a high level of expertise and impact in his field. Addressing areas for improvement, such as broadening research scope and increasing public engagement, could further enhance his qualifications. Overall, his demonstrated excellence in research and academia makes him a deserving candidate for the award.