Cherice Bock | Ecospirituality | Best Research Article Award

Posted on 23/11/202423/11/2024 by ScienceFatherLeave a Comment

Dr Cherice Bock | Ecospirituality | Best Research Article Award

Adjunct Faculty, Earlham School of Religion,United States

Cherice Bock is a scholar and advocate at the intersection of spirituality and environmental sustainability. With a deep commitment to ecospirituality and climate justice, she is currently a Climate Policy Manager at 350PDX in Portland, OR, and an adjunct professor of Spirituality & Ecospirituality at the Earlham School of Religion. Her research and teaching explore the connections between faith, ecological action, and environmental policy. Bock holds a Ph.D. in Environmental Studies from Antioch University New England and has extensive experience in academic and nonprofit sectors. She has contributed to several publications on ecotheology, creation care, and sustainable faith practices. Her academic work integrates theology, environmental science, and spiritual practices to address the urgent ecological challenges of our time. Cherice’s diverse experience and dedication to environmental advocacy make her a leading voice in ecospirituality and climate justice.

Profile

Strengths for the Award

Strong Educational Foundation: The individual holds a Ph.D. in Environmental Studies from Antioch University New England (2024), complemented by an M.S. in the same field (2018), which demonstrates significant expertise in environmental studies. This, combined with degrees in theology (M.Div., 2009) and psychology (B.A., 2001), reflects a diverse, multidisciplinary academic background that integrates environmental science with spirituality, ethics, and human psychology.
Extensive Teaching Experience: The individual has extensive teaching experience across a wide range of institutions, including prominent positions at Earlham School of Religion, University of Portland, George Fox University, and others. The variety of courses taught (e.g., Spirituality & the Mystics, Ecospirituality, Environmental Justice, Introduction to Environmental Science) highlights their broad intellectual reach, especially in the interdisciplinary integration of theology, environmental studies, and spirituality. This experience speaks to their ability to effectively communicate complex ideas to students and mentor future scholars.
Research and Publication: The individual has contributed significantly to academic research and publication, as evidenced by their book chapters such as “Quaker Pneumatology” in the T and T Clark Handbook of Pneumatology and “Watershed Discipleship: Communicating Climate Change Within a Christian Framework” in Climate Change Management. These contributions are particularly notable for integrating climate change communication with religious and theological frameworks, demonstrating a novel approach to addressing ecological crises.
Leadership in Climate Advocacy and Ecospirituality: The individual has played a leadership role in multiple organizations, including as the Climate Policy Manager for 350PDX, where they have been involved in environmental advocacy, climate policy, and interfaith initiatives. Their work as a Creation Justice Advocate at Ecumenical Ministries of Oregon and Oregon Interfaith Power & Light further demonstrates their commitment to environmental justice from both a faith-based and policy perspective. This combination of environmental activism and spiritual leadership is a rare and valuable strength.
Recognition and Fellowships: They have received numerous prestigious fellowships, including the GreenFaith Fellowship and the Re:Generate Fellowship. These accolades demonstrate recognition from leading institutions in the fields of faith, environmental stewardship, and leadership.
Contributions to Quaker Thought: As a Quaker Scholar, their work, such as their lectures on “Better Together with the Community of Creation” and involvement in various Quaker residencies, illustrates a deep commitment to integrating Quaker theology with contemporary environmental issues. Their research and advocacy work position them as a thought leader in ecospirituality, particularly within the Quaker tradition.

Areas for Improvement

Wider Public Engagement: While the individual has demonstrated excellence in academia and faith-based advocacy, there may be an opportunity to engage more extensively with a broader public audience. Their expertise in ecospirituality and environmental policy could be better showcased through popular publications, media appearances, or community-based outreach initiatives that bring these ideas to wider audiences outside of academia and faith communities.
Broader Research Dissemination: Although they have contributed to significant academic works, further efforts to disseminate research in peer-reviewed journals or through collaborative interdisciplinary research projects would enhance their visibility in the global research community. Expanding their research portfolio to include more empirical studies and case studies could deepen their impact in both the environmental science and theology fields.
Research Funding: While they have received grants and fellowships, pursuing more targeted funding opportunities for large-scale research projects, particularly those that merge environmental science with spirituality or theology, could strengthen their research capacity and enable them to make an even greater impact on global climate policy discussions.

Education

Cherice Bock holds a Ph.D. in Environmental Studies from Antioch University New England (2024), where she has focused on integrating spirituality and environmental sustainability. She also earned an M.S. in Environmental Studies from the same institution in 2018. Prior to her environmental studies, she completed a Master of Divinity (M.Div.) at Princeton Theological Seminary in 2009, where she specialized in the intersection of faith and ecological justice. Her undergraduate degree in Psychology from George Fox University (2001) provided her with a foundation in human behavior and mental health, which she has applied to her work in spiritual formation and eco-psychology. Bock’s academic background combines theology, psychology, and environmental science, offering a multidisciplinary approach to addressing the complex issues of climate change, faith, and ecological restoration.

Experience

Cherice Bock has a diverse career in both academia and activism, with a focus on ecospirituality and climate policy. She currently serves as the Climate Policy Manager at 350PDX in Portland, OR, where she advocates for policies addressing climate change. As an adjunct professor, Bock teaches courses on spirituality and ecospirituality at Earlham School of Religion and has taught Environmental Studies and Theology at the University of Portland. She has been deeply involved in faith-based environmental activism, serving as a Creation Justice Advocate with Ecumenical Ministries of Oregon. Bock’s work also extends to curriculum development, having edited the Illuminate Friends Bible Study Curriculum for Barclay Press. Her role as a tutor at Woodbrooke Quaker Learning & Research Organization further demonstrates her commitment to educational leadership. Bock’s experience uniquely positions her as a leader in the integration of spiritual practice and environmental action.

Awards and Honors

Cherice Bock has received numerous prestigious awards and fellowships in recognition of her contributions to ecospirituality, climate justice, and faith-based environmental advocacy. She was named a Quaker Lecturer in 2022 for her work on creation care and spirituality, and served as Friend in Residence for North Pacific Yearly Meeting in 2021. In 2018, she was a Research Fellow in the Creation Care Program at Portland Seminary, where she focused on sustainable faith practices. Bock has also been a Scholar in Residence at the Center for Christian Studies and Quaker Heritage Day. Her work has been supported by grants such as the Clarence & Lily Pickett Endowment for Quaker Leadership and GreenFaith Fellowship. Through these honors, Bock has gained recognition as a leader in the integration of theology and environmental justice, influencing both academic and activist communities.

Research Focus

Cherice Bock’s research focuses on the intersection of spirituality and environmental sustainability, with an emphasis on ecospirituality and climate justice. Her work explores how religious and spiritual practices can inspire ecological awareness and motivate environmental action. She is particularly interested in the role of Christian theology and faith-based communities in addressing climate change and creation care. Her research includes examining mystical experiences and ecojustice within religious contexts, as well as developing educational frameworks that help individuals and communities navigate the ecological crisis from a faith-based perspective. Bock’s focus also includes eco-theology, spiritual formation, and environmental policy. Her goal is to bridge the gap between spiritual beliefs and environmental practices, helping to create more sustainable, faith-driven responses to climate challenges. Through her academic work and activism, Bock seeks to advance restorative justice for the environment.

Publications

Quaker Pneumatology – T and T Clark Handbook of Pneumatology (2020), pp. 235–242 🌿
Watershed Discipleship: Communicating Climate Change Within a Christian Framework: A Case Study Analysis – Climate Change Management (2018), pp. 161–182 🌍

Conclusion

The individual is a highly deserving candidate for the “Best Researcher Award” based on their impressive academic credentials, significant teaching and leadership roles, and groundbreaking research at the intersection of environmental studies and spirituality. Their interdisciplinary approach to climate advocacy, combined with a deep commitment to faith-based action, positions them as a unique and influential voice in both academic and activist circles.While there is room for growth in terms of public engagement and broader research dissemination, their current body of work and recognized leadership in both environmental and theological circles demonstrate the potential for further contributions that will have a lasting impact on the fields of ecospirituality and environmental policy.In conclusion, this candidate not only fulfills but exceeds the qualifications typically required for the “Best Researcher Award” through their academic achievements, innovative research contributions, and ongoing leadership in environmental advocacy and ecospirituality.

Ermias Debie | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Posted on 15/10/202415/10/2024 by ScienceFather

Dr. Ermias Debie | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Associate Professor at Bahir Dar University, Ethiopia

Dr. Ermias Debie is a dedicated academic in the field of Environment and Natural Resources Management, currently serving as an Associate Professor at Bahir Dar University, Ethiopia. With a strong commitment to addressing pressing environmental issues, he integrates research with community engagement to enhance sustainable practices and improve livelihoods in the Northwest Highlands of Ethiopia.

Profile

Scopus Profile

Education 🎓

Dr. Debie holds a Ph.D. in Environment and Natural Resources Management from Addis Ababa University, Ethiopia. He has furthered his expertise with a specialized certificate in GIS and remote sensing applications for water resources management from a prestigious institution in the Netherlands, showcasing his commitment to leveraging technology in environmental studies.

Experience 💼

With a rich background in academia, Dr. Debie has held various positions, including Assistant Professor and Department Head at Bahir Dar University and Debre Markos University. His roles have spanned teaching, research supervision, and course leadership, reflecting his dedication to fostering academic excellence. He has supervised over 50 MA and MSc students and is currently mentoring a Ph.D. student, further contributing to the development of future scholars in his field.

Research Interests 🔍

Dr. Debie’s research interests encompass a wide array of topics, including livelihood resilience, climate change and variability, food insecurity, climate-smart innovations, agrobiodiversity, and sustainable land management. His work aims to understand and mitigate the impacts of climate change while promoting ecological restoration across different levels.

Publications 📚

Dr. Debie has a robust publication record, contributing significantly to the field of environmental management. Here are some of his key publications:

A local perspective on the links between flora biodiversity and ecosystem services in the Northwest Highlands of Ethiopia (2024), Journal of Environmental Management.
Analysis of the decision to convert croplands into E. Camaldulensis woodlot and its impact on income diversification in Mecha district, Northwest Ethiopia (2024), Trees, Forests and People.
Endemic plant species and threats to their sustainability in Ethiopia: A systematic review (2024), Trees, Forests and People.
Effectiveness of sustainable land management initiatives in the highlands of Ethiopia (2024), Regional Environmental Change.
The impacts of land use/cover changes on values of ecosystem service in Tul watershed, northwest Ethiopia (2023), ERJSSH.
Perceived determinants of smallholder households’ resilience to livelihood insecurity in Goncha District, Northwest Highlands of Ethiopia (2023), SAGE Open.

His extensive publication list reflects his active engagement in scholarly research and contributions to understanding environmental challenges in Ethiopia.

Conclusion ✨

Dr. Ermias Debie’s commitment to education, research, and community service positions him as a key figure in environmental management in Ethiopia. His work not only contributes to academic knowledge but also fosters sustainable practices that positively impact local communities. As he continues to explore new avenues for research and community engagement, his influence in the field will undoubtedly grow, driving forward the agenda of environmental sustainability and resilience.

Dimuthu Punsara Colambage | Energy Economics | Young Scientist Award

Posted on 14/10/202414/10/2024 by ScienceFatherLeave a Comment

Mr. Dimuthu Punsara Colambage | Energy Economics | Young Scientist Award

Postgraduate Student, University of Moratuwa, Sri Lanka

Dimuthu Punsara Colambage is a dedicated electrical engineer, researcher, and lecturer from Sri Lanka, passionate about various aspects of Electrical Engineering, particularly in Energy, Computer, Electrical, and Electronic Engineering. He thrives in diverse environments, addressing real-world challenges and aspiring to pursue a PhD to enhance his analytical and critical thinking skills. 🌍⚡

Publication Profile

Google Scholar

Education

Dimuthu earned his Bachelor of Science in Engineering (Hons) with a specialization in Electrical Engineering from the University of Moratuwa, Sri Lanka, in 2016, followed by a Master of Science in 2018. He is currently completing his Master of Philosophy, further solidifying his academic credentials in the field. 🎓📚

Experience

With extensive teaching experience, Dimuthu has served as a Lecturer and Academic Coordinator at the Royal Institute of Colombo and the University of Vocational Technology, where he taught a range of modules in Electrical Engineering. He has also worked as a Research Assistant at the University of Moratuwa and interned as a Trainee Electrical Engineer at Ceylon Electricity Board and Resource Management Associates. 👨‍🏫💼

Research Focus

His research primarily focuses on addressing practical problems in electrical engineering, with notable contributions to topics such as electricity generation costs, economic impacts of electricity interruptions, and the value of water in generation planning. His work aims to contribute to the sustainable energy landscape in Sri Lanka. 🔍💡

Awards and Honours

Dimuthu has been recognized for his research excellence, receiving multiple Senate Research Grant (SRC) awards and a National Science Foundation (NSF) travel grant. His academic contributions underscore his commitment to advancing knowledge in electrical engineering. 🏆🎖️

Publication Top Notes

Dimuthu has published several impactful articles, including:

Analysing the Impact of Diverse Factors on Electricity Generation Cost: Insights from Sri Lanka (2024) in Energy Journal.

Economic Impact of Electricity Interruptions: A Case Study Based on Sri Lanka (2022) in American Journal of Electrical Power and Energy Systems.

A Novel Approach of Exploring Water Value: A Study based on Sri Lanka (Accepted: 2024) in Engineer Journal of IESL.

Exploring the Dynamic Landscape of Economic Dispatch: A Comprehensive Review of Stochastic Programming Techniques (Submitted to Renewable Energy Journal).

Seasonal and Time-of-Day Electricity Costing: A Case Study of Sri Lanka (Submitted to The Electrical Engineering Journal).

Seohee Yang | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Posted on 13/09/202413/09/2024 by ScienceFatherLeave a Comment

Ms. Seohee Yang | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Postdoctoral Researcher, Myongji university, South Korea

Seohee H. Yang is a dedicated Postdoctoral Researcher at the East Asia Future Environment Institute, specializing in atmospheric chemistry and climate modeling. Her research focuses on improving aerosol optical properties and climate impact assessments, with significant contributions to understanding the effects of organic aerosols on regional climate patterns. 🏆

Publication Profile

ORCID

Strengths for the Award

Innovative Research Focus: Seohee H. Yang’s work on developing a brown carbon scheme for the Atmospheric Chemistry-Climate Integrated Model (ACCM) is highly innovative and relevant. This work addresses critical gaps in understanding aerosol optical properties and their impact on climate, which is vital for improving climate models.
Strong Academic Background: With a Ph.D. in Environmental Engineering and Energy, Yang has a solid educational foundation. Her dissertation on the climate effect of light absorption by organic aerosols demonstrates deep expertise in atmospheric chemistry and climate modeling.
Notable Achievements: Yang has received multiple awards, including the Outstanding Paper Presentation Award and recognition at the European Geosciences Union (EGU). These accolades reflect the high quality and impact of her research.
Relevant Publications: Yang has published impactful research in reputable journals like Atmosphere and Atmospheric Environment. Her work is both current and significant in the field of atmospheric science.
Diverse Research Experience: Her involvement in various projects, including climate and air quality modeling, shows a breadth of experience and application of her research in different contexts.
Advanced Technical Skills: Proficiency in programming languages such as IDL, Fortran, and Python enhances her research capabilities, particularly in data processing and modeling.

Areas for Improvement

Publication Diversity: While Yang has published in reputable journals, increasing the number of publications in high-impact journals and expanding into interdisciplinary journals could further enhance her research visibility.
Collaborative Efforts: Although her individual contributions are significant, increasing collaboration with other researchers or institutions could provide new perspectives and strengthen her research outcomes.
Broader Impact: To further strengthen her candidacy, Yang could emphasize the practical applications of her research in policy-making or real-world environmental strategies.
Outreach and Communication: Increasing efforts in communicating research findings to broader audiences through popular science articles or public talks could enhance the impact of her work beyond the academic community.

Education

Seohee earned her Ph.D. in Environmental Engineering and Energy from Myongji University, South Korea, in February 2024, under the supervision of Minjoong J. Kim. Her dissertation investigated the climate effects of light absorption by organic aerosols over East Asia. She completed her B.S. in Environmental Engineering and Energy from the same institution in 2017, with additional language studies at East China Normal University. 🎓

Experience

Since March 2024, Seohee has been working as a Postdoctoral Researcher at the East Asia Future Environment Institute, focusing on aerosol-climate interactions and advanced modeling techniques. Her previous experience includes various research projects on air quality and climate modeling, where she developed detailed air quality models and studied the impacts of brown carbon. 🌍

Research Focus

Seohee’s research revolves around developing a brown carbon scheme for atmospheric models, investigating nonlinear climate changes due to aerosol properties, and enhancing predictive capabilities for air quality changes using machine learning. Her work includes studying aerosol direct radiative forcing and exploring the interactions between aerosols and the climate system. 🔬

Awards and Honors

Seohee has been recognized for her outstanding contributions to atmospheric science, receiving the Outstanding Paper Presentation Award at the Korean Meteorological Society fall conference in 2021. She was also among the top 20% at the Oral Outstanding Student and PhD Candidate Presentation (OSPP) Award contest at the European Geosciences Union (EGU) 2022 and won the Outstanding Research Award at Myongji University Graduate School in February 2024. 🏅

Publication Top Notes

Yang, S.H.; Jeong, J.I.; Park, R.J.; Kim, M.J. Impact of Meteorological Changes on Particulate Matter and Aerosol Optical Depth in Seoul during the Months of June over Recent Decades. Atmosphere 2020, 11, 1282. DOI: 10.3390/atmos11121282

Yang, S.H.; Park, R.J.; Lee, S.; Jo, D.S.; Kim, M.J. Impact of changes in refractive indices of secondary organic aerosols on precipitation over China during 1980–2019. Atmospheric Environment 2023, 299, 119644. DOI: 10.1016/j.atmosenv.2023.119644

Yang, S.H.; Park, R.J.; Lee, S.; Jo, D.S.; Kim, M.J. Evaluation of Optical properties of Integrated Climate–Atmospheric Chemistry Model through Brown Carbon simulation in East Asia. (In preparation for Geoscientific Model Development (GMD) journal)

Yang, S.H.; Park, R.J.; Lee, S.; Jo, D.S.; Kim, M.J. Long-term Impacts of Direct Radiative Effects of Brown Carbon on Climate Change in East Asia. (In preparation)

Conclusion

Seohee H. Yang is a strong candidate for the “Best Research Award” due to her innovative research, solid academic background, notable achievements, and relevant technical skills. Her work on brown carbon and its effects on climate change is both timely and impactful. Addressing areas such as publication diversity and broader impact could further bolster her profile. Overall, her contributions to atmospheric chemistry and climate modeling make her a deserving candidate for the award.

Xinghua Liu | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Posted on 13/09/202413/09/2024 by ScienceFatherLeave a Comment

Assoc Prof Dr. Xinghua Liu | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Ass Prof, Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences Institute of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, China

🌿 Xinghua Liu is an accomplished Associate Professor at the Institute of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences. With a strong foundation in environmental sciences and soil sciences, Dr. Liu has made significant contributions to understanding the interactions between organic matter and antibiotics in soil and sediment systems. She has published numerous research papers and holds multiple patents related to environmental sustainability and agricultural practices. Recognized for her innovative research, Dr. Liu has received several prestigious awards, highlighting her expertise in the field of environmental sciences.

Publication Profile

Scopus

Strengths for the Award:

Strong Academic Background and Continuous Research Involvement: Xinghua Liu has a robust academic background in Environmental Sciences, with a Ph.D. in the field and continuous involvement in scientific research since 2018 as an Assistant Professor at the Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences.
Extensive Research Publications: Liu has published numerous research articles as the first or corresponding author in high-impact journals such as Science of The Total Environment and Journal of Environmental Management. The topics cover important areas in environmental science, including soil and sediment contamination, antibiotic sorption mechanisms, and organic matter distribution, reflecting both depth and diversity in research focus.
Patents and Practical Contributions: Liu holds multiple patents, including innovative methods for measuring soil particulate organic matter and integrated systems for managing livestock and poultry manure. These patents demonstrate a significant contribution to both theoretical and practical aspects of environmental management and technology.
Recognition and Awards: Liu has received several prestigious awards, including the “Youth Science and Technology Award” from the Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, the “Innovative Talents Outstanding Contribution Award,” and multiple “Major Scientific Research Progress Awards.” These awards highlight Liu’s impact and recognition within the scientific community.
Successful Project Leadership: Liu has led multiple high-impact research projects funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China and other institutions, reflecting strong project management skills and the ability to secure competitive funding.

Areas for Improvement:

Focus on Broader Research Impact: While Liu has contributed extensively to the field of Environmental Sciences, focusing on soil and organic matter studies, there could be more emphasis on the broader application of this research, such as addressing global environmental challenges (e.g., climate change mitigation, pollution control). Diversifying research topics and aligning them with pressing global issues could enhance Liu’s impact.
International Collaboration and Visibility: Increasing international collaborations and publications in globally recognized journals could further elevate Liu’s profile. Attending international conferences, contributing to global policy discussions, or engaging in multinational research projects would strengthen global visibility and impact.
Enhanced Use of Modern Research Tools: Leveraging advanced analytical techniques and computational modeling could add value to Liu’s research, especially in quantifying environmental phenomena or predicting future environmental changes.

Education

🎓 Xinghua Liu completed her Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Sciences from China Agricultural University (2006-2010). She pursued a Master’s degree in Soil Sciences at Shandong Agricultural University (2010-2013) and earned her Doctorate in Environmental Sciences from the Yantai Institute of Coastal Zone Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences (2014-2018).

Experience

🔬 Xinghua Liu has been serving as an Associate Professor at the Institute of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences since 2018. Her work focuses on the environmental impact of agricultural practices, particularly the behavior of antibiotics in soil and sediment environments. She has also authored numerous peer-reviewed articles and developed innovative methods for environmental assessment and sustainable agricultural management.

Research Focus

🌱 Xinghua Liu specializes in studying the sorption and desorption mechanisms of antibiotics in soil and sediments, the spatial heterogeneity of particulate organic matter, and the ecological impacts of agricultural waste management. Her research aims to enhance sustainable agricultural practices through innovative environmental assessment techniques and the development of environmentally friendly agricultural technologies.

Awards and Honours

🏆 Dr. Liu has been recognized with numerous awards, including the Youth Science and Technology Award from the Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences (2022), the Qilu Agricultural Science and Technology Award, the Innovative Talents Outstanding Contribution Award (Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences), and the Major Scientific Research Progress Award (2022, 2024). She is also acknowledged as a High-E-level talent in Jinan and a Jinan Licheng District high-end talent.

Publication Top Notes

📚 Xinghua Liu has authored several impactful publications, including:

Liu, X., Luo, Y., Zhang, H., et al. “Spatial heterogeneity of particulate organic matter for the sorption of ciprofloxacin at the microstructure scale.” Science of The Total Environment, 2022.

Liu, X., Zhang, H., Luo, Y., et al. “Sorption of oxytetracycline on particulate organic matter in soils and sediments: Roles of pH, ionic strength and temperature.” Science of the Total Environment, 2020.

XH. Liu, YY. Xie. “Sorption and desorption behavior and mechanism of oxytetracycline on soil aggregates organic matter separated from soils and sediments in the Yellow River Delta.” Journal of Environmental Management, 2024.

Conclusion:

Xinghua Liu is a highly suitable candidate for the Research for Best Research Award due to a strong academic foundation, extensive research output, practical contributions through patents, and recognition through numerous awards. Liu’s dedication to environmental research, evidenced by leading multiple funded projects, further supports this suitability. However, to maximize potential, a stronger emphasis on global collaboration, diversified research focus, and enhanced use of modern tools could improve the candidacy for the award. Overall, Liu’s profile demonstrates significant strengths and promising potential for further impact in the field of environmental sciences.