Sufia Sultana | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Sufia Sultana | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Research Associate at Cranfield University, United Kingdom

Dr. Sufia Sultana is a dedicated environmental researcher with a strong academic and practical background in Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH), Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and Environmental Studies. With a passion for sustainable development and a keen focus on data-driven solutions, she has worked extensively to address sanitation challenges in low-resource settings. Her PhD research at Cranfield University, under the EPSRC Water-WISER program, involved spatially representing faecal pollution in unsewered urban catchments using open-source data, providing innovative methodologies for sanitation planning. Her academic journey has taken her from Bangladesh to the UK, consistently focused on the intersections of environment, health, and data science. Over the years, she has built a robust portfolio of publications and research contributions, particularly in environmental monitoring, spatial modeling, and water quality analysis. Beyond academia, she has demonstrated a strong commitment to community outreach and education, having volunteered in various support roles in both the UK and Bangladesh. Dr. Sultana’s unique blend of technical expertise, real-world field experience, and dedication to impactful research places her at the forefront of interdisciplinary environmental science, with a continued goal of contributing to resilient, sustainable, and equitable urban systems.

Professional Profile

Education

Dr. Sufia Sultana holds an exceptional academic record across multiple disciplines relevant to environmental and water sciences. She earned her PhD in Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) from Cranfield University (2019–2024), supported by the EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training in Water-WISER. Her doctoral research focused on spatial analysis of sanitation infrastructure using open-source data, contributing novel approaches to environmental health monitoring. Prior to her PhD, she completed an MSc in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) at the University of Portsmouth (2017–2018), graduating with Merit, where she focused on river water degradation using remote sensing. She also holds a Postgraduate Diploma in Water Resources Development from the Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology, where she explored wetland change using GIS. Her academic journey began with a BSc and MSc in Geography and Environmental Studies from the University of Rajshahi, Bangladesh. Throughout her education, she developed technical skills in spatial analysis, statistical modeling, and remote sensing tools such as ArcGIS, ERDAS Imagine, Python, and SQL. Her diverse academic background reflects a comprehensive understanding of environmental systems, data-driven analysis, and applied geospatial technologies—providing a solid foundation for addressing complex challenges in global sanitation and water sustainability.

Professional Experience

Dr. Sultana brings a rich and varied portfolio of professional experience across academic, technical, and community-based roles. Her research career includes working as a Research Assistant at the University of Portsmouth in 2019, where she contributed to a study on rural water supply in Myanmar, involving digital terrain analysis, satellite data, and hydrological modeling. Earlier in her career, she worked as a Remote Sensing and GIS Assistant at Bangladesh’s national space agency, SPARRSO, contributing to thematic mapping and aerial photo interpretation. She has also held several GIS roles with development consulting firms and government-supported urban planning projects in Bangladesh, enhancing her expertise in field data collection, map digitization, and client training. Beyond research, she has supported education and community service in the UK, working as a teaching assistant, outreach volunteer, and hospice volunteer. These roles reflect her ability to communicate complex topics, collaborate across diverse teams, and contribute to broader social initiatives. Dr. Sultana’s professional background is characterized by an effective blend of technical skill, practical fieldwork, and community engagement, reinforcing her value as a multidisciplinary researcher who can bridge science, policy, and public needs.

Research Interests

Dr. Sultana’s research interests are centered on environmental sustainability, sanitation management, spatial data science, and water quality monitoring. Her work often combines field-based data collection with advanced geospatial analysis to address pressing challenges in low-resource urban settings. A key focus of her research has been understanding and visualizing the distribution of faecal pollution and sanitation access in unsewered urban catchments. She is particularly interested in leveraging open-source geospatial data and developing new methods for spatial representation that can inform equitable infrastructure planning. Her past projects have included water quality degradation analysis in Dhaka megacity using satellite imagery, as well as wetland mapping and land use change detection over time. Dr. Sultana also has a growing interest in resilience planning, particularly within food and water systems, and how climate and urbanization impact environmental health. Through her academic work and collaborations, she continues to explore the intersections of geoinformatics, environmental justice, and sustainable development. Her multidisciplinary approach allows her to contribute meaningfully to research projects across sectors, from sanitation planning to environmental policy, and she remains committed to producing actionable research that supports both scientific advancement and community well-being.

Awards and Honors

Throughout her academic and research career, Dr. Sufia Sultana has earned recognition for her scholarly contributions and technical skills. Her most prominent academic distinction is being selected for the prestigious EPSRC-funded Water-WISER Doctoral Training Programme, which is a collaborative initiative between Cranfield University, the University of Leeds, and Loughborough University. This program supports top-tier researchers in the field of water and sanitation and is highly competitive. Dr. Sultana has also published several peer-reviewed journal articles in respected international journals such as Environmental Science and Pollution Research, Journal of Water, Sanitation and Hygiene for Development, and Journal of Environmental Advances, further affirming her credibility and contribution to the research community. Her early research on wetland area changes in Dhaka also received commendation for its relevance to urban environmental policy. While formal awards beyond her doctoral funding are limited in the current record, her continuous academic achievements, including a Merit in her MSc and leadership in field and research projects, reflect her dedication and excellence. As she continues to expand her research collaborations and engage in policy-relevant science, Dr. Sultana is well-positioned for future honors and leadership roles in the global environmental research arena.

Conclusion

Sufia Sultana is a highly suitable and deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Her work combines technical excellence, interdisciplinary approaches, and social relevance—particularly in environmental sustainability, public health, and sanitation. Her published research, particularly using open-source data to address WASH issues in vulnerable regions, reflects innovation and a deep commitment to impactful science. With continued focus on expanding global collaborations and translating research into practice, she is poised to make even greater contributions to her field.

Publications Top Notes

Author(s): Sultana, M.S., Waine, T.W., Bari, M.N., Tyrrel, S.F.

Year: 2025

Title: An analysis of factors that influence the spatial pattern of faecal matter flow in unsewered cities

Journal: Science of the Total Environment

Citations: As of now, the article has 0 citations (based on the information you provided).

Balasubramanian D | Environmental Science | Excellence in Research Award

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Prof. Dr. Balasubramanian D | Environmental Science | Excellence in Research Award

Professor at Arunachal University of Studies, India

Dr. D. Balasubramanian is an esteemed academic and researcher specializing in ecosystem ecology, biogeochemistry, and environmental science. He is currently a Professor and Head of the Department of Botany at Arunachal University of Studies, Namsai, Arunachal Pradesh, India. With a career spanning over two decades, Dr. Balasubramanian has significantly contributed to understanding the dynamics of soil organic matter, greenhouse gas emissions, biodiversity conservation, and climate change. He has worked in various prestigious roles, including as a Research Associate at the State Climate Change Cell in Arunachal Pradesh and a Postdoctoral Fellow at the Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden in China. Dr. Balasubramanian’s work involves interdisciplinary approaches that integrate environmental management, ecological studies, and climate change mitigation. He is a recognized expert in his field, known for his in-depth research and dedication to advancing knowledge in ecosystem sustainability and biogeochemical processes. His educational journey and professional experiences reflect a commitment to scientific excellence and collaboration, both locally and internationally.

Professional Profile

Education

Dr. Balasubramanian’s academic journey is marked by his exceptional performance and academic distinctions. He holds a Ph.D. in Botany from Rajiv Gandhi University, Arunachal Pradesh, India, where his thesis focused on ecological studies of Eichhornia crassipes and its application in soil nutrient management. He completed his M.Phil. at Ayya Nadar Janaki Ammal College, Tamil Nadu, where he studied the numerical phenetic taxonomy of certain members of the Leguminosae family. He earned his M.Sc. in Botany from the same institution, with a project on the anatomical and physiological adaptations of Cassytha filiformis. His rigorous academic background is complemented by various postdoctoral fellowships and professional training, including his work at the Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden under the Chinese Academy of Sciences. His research during these stages focused on soil biogeochemistry and ecosystem functions, further cementing his expertise in these areas. This combination of formal education and specialized training has provided him with a solid foundation to excel in his academic and research endeavors.

Professional Experience

Dr. Balasubramanian’s professional experience spans multiple roles in academia and research. He is presently serving as a Professor and Head of the Department of Botany at Arunachal University of Studies, where he has been a key figure in teaching, mentoring, and driving research excellence. His previous role as an Associate Professor at the same institution allowed him to contribute significantly to the development of the Department’s academic framework and research initiatives. Dr. Balasubramanian’s career includes valuable research experiences as a Postdoctoral Fellow in China, working under the Chinese Academy of Sciences, where he studied soil organic matter decomposition and its responses to climate change. His time as a Research Associate at the State Climate Change Cell in Arunachal Pradesh involved developing strategies to sustain the fragile Himalayan ecosystem in the face of climate variability. He has also held positions in various other research and academic institutions, such as NERIST and ICAR, where he conducted groundbreaking work on climate-resilient agriculture and high-altitude ecosystems. These diverse roles have allowed Dr. Balasubramanian to cultivate a multifaceted approach to research and environmental management.

Research Interests

Dr. Balasubramanian’s research interests are centered around ecosystem ecology, biogeochemistry, and biodiversity conservation. He has a particular focus on the study of soil organic matter dynamics, including its decomposition and the role of microbial communities in terrestrial ecosystems. His work on greenhouse gas emissions, particularly in wetland and forest ecosystems, contributes to a better understanding of climate change and its impact on natural environments. Additionally, Dr. Balasubramanian investigates the effects of land use changes, such as the conversion of rainforests into monoculture plantations, on soil carbon dynamics and ecosystem functions. His research extends to the interactions between plants, soil, and microbes, particularly in agroecosystems, and the role of invasive species in altering ecosystem processes. Dr. Balasubramanian’s interdisciplinary approach brings together ecology, environmental science, and climate change research, with the ultimate goal of developing sustainable management strategies for natural resources and biodiversity. His expertise in ecosystem services and environmental biotechnology further complements his commitment to addressing the pressing environmental challenges of the 21st century.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Balasubramanian has received numerous awards and honors throughout his career in recognition of his contributions to science and research. He was conferred the prestigious Eminent Scientist Award in 2020 by the Society for Science of Climate Change and Sustainable Environment (SSCE), acknowledging his exemplary work in the field of ecosystem services and environmental biotechnology. His contributions to the global scientific community were further recognized when he was awarded the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) President’s International Fellowship for Postdoctoral Research, allowing him to conduct high-impact research at the Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden. Dr. Balasubramanian is also a Fellow of the Society for Science of Climate Change and Sustainable Environment (SSCE), a testament to his standing as a leader in the field. In addition to these honors, he has earned several gold medals for academic excellence during his M.Sc. and B.Sc. degrees, demonstrating his outstanding performance in his academic pursuits. These awards and recognitions reflect Dr. Balasubramanian’s dedication to advancing environmental science and his impact on both national and international scientific communities.

Conclusion

Dr. D. Balasubramanian is highly deserving of the Excellence in Research Award. His strong academic foundation, high-impact research contributions, international collaborations, and recognition within the scientific community establish him as a leading expert in his field. While there are opportunities for improvement in community engagement and outreach, his continued dedication to advancing ecological and environmental sciences makes him a standout candidate for this prestigious award.

Publications Top Noted

Author(s):
F. Bibi, D. Balasubramanian, M.F. Ilyas, M. Shah, S.A. Rather

Title:
Seasonal Variations of Fine Root Dynamics in Rubber-Flemingia macrophylla Intercropping System in Southwestern China

Journal:
Plants, 2022

Citations:
0 (as per the available data)

Janusz Gołaszewski | Sustainable Development | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Janusz Gołaszewski | Sustainable Development | Best Researcher Award

Retirement, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Poland

Prof. Janusz Gołaszewski, born on January 23, 1957, is a distinguished scholar in agricultural sciences. Over the course of a career spanning four decades, he has established himself as a leader in biometry, precision agriculture, and biomass conversion technologies. Currently, he serves as the Head of the Centre for Bioeconomy and Renewable Energies at the University of Warmia and Mazury (UWM) in Olsztyn and presides over the Baltic Eco-Energy Cluster in Gdańsk. His pivotal work has fueled advancements in renewable energy and bioeconomy, leaving an indelible mark on agricultural research and sustainable energy practices. 🌱🔬

Profile

Scopus

Education

Prof. Gołaszewski’s educational journey began at UWM, where he earned an Engineer’s diploma in agriculture in 1982. He followed this with an M.Sc. in plant breeding in 1983. By 1989, he had secured a Ph.D. in agriculture with a specialization in biometry, focusing on agricultural experimentation methodology. His academic excellence continued with a habilitation degree in 1997, and in 2003, he was awarded the prestigious title of Professor of Agricultural Sciences by the President of Poland. 🎓📚

Experience

Starting as a Research Assistant at UWM from 1983 to 1989, Prof. Gołaszewski progressed to adjunct (1990-1997) and later Visiting Professor at the University of British Columbia in 1994. He became an Associate Professor in 1998 and has been a full Professor at UWM since 2008. His tenure includes leading research and coordinating EU-funded R&D projects, emphasizing biomass conversion and energy efficiency. His leadership roles in bioenergy clusters have further strengthened his expertise in sustainable energy research. 🌍👨‍🏫

Research Interests

Prof. Gołaszewski’s research is deeply rooted in bioeconomy and renewable energy. His focus extends to the biochemical processes of biomass conversion and the development of autonomous energy regions. He has coordinated multidisciplinary projects addressing biofuel technologies, including biogas, bioethanol, and bio-oil production. His work champions eco-friendly advancements in biorefineries and small-scale energy systems, contributing significantly to sustainable agricultural practices. 🌾💡🎖️🏆

Publications Top Notes

Prof. Gołaszewski has an extensive list of publications contributing to high-impact journals. Some notable works include:

“Edible Insect Farming in the Context of the EU Regulations and Marketing—An Overview” (2022, Insects, DOI, IF: 3.1)

“Avoiding Food Neophobia and Increasing Consumer Acceptance of New Food Trends—A Decade of Research” (2022, Sustainability, DOI, IF: 3.9)

“An automated, modular system for organic waste utilization using Hermetia illucens larvae” (2022, Journal of Cleaner Production, DOI, IF: 11.1)

“Foodborne Diseases in the Edible Insect Industry in Europe—New Challenges and Old Problems” (2023, Foods, DOI, IF: 5.561)

 

Piotr Holnicki l Environmental Science l Most Shared Article Award

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Prof. Piotr Holnicki l Environmental Science l Most Shared Article Award

Research at Polish Academy of Sciences, Systems Research Institute, Poland

Publication Profile

scopus

Strengths for the Award

  1. Extensive Expertise in Computational and Environmental Sciences: Professor Piotr Holnicki has a wide-ranging skill set that spans computational science, mathematical modeling, and environmental engineering. His expertise in areas such as air pollution dispersion, optimization, and decision support systems for regional planning is cutting-edge and has significant relevance in tackling global environmental challenges.
  2. Interdisciplinary Knowledge: His contributions lie at the intersection of computer science, environmental science, and mathematical modeling, making his work particularly relevant in fields where computational models can drive impactful solutions, such as climate change and air quality management.
  3. Prolific Academic Output: With 94 research items on ResearchGate, his academic activity showcases a commitment to advancing knowledge in his field. His engagement with a broad range of issues, including atmospheric pollution, computational intelligence, and environmental impact assessments, signals a strong research record.
  4. Real-World Applications: Holnicki’s research into air pollution dispersion modeling, control theory, and optimization techniques has clear, practical implications. His work directly influences policy-making and planning, especially in emission control and air quality forecasting, making it not only theoretical but also highly actionable.
  5. Optimization and Control Expertise: His skills in optimization and control theory for distributed parameter systems, along with proficiency in numerical methods, reflect a high level of specialization in solving complex environmental problems, such as those related to greenhouse gas emissions and energy systems.

Areas for Improvement

  1. Broader Recognition Beyond Academia: While Professor Holnicki’s academic credentials are strong, it would be beneficial to see wider collaboration or recognition in industry-led initiatives or global environmental policy platforms. Expanding the impact of his research beyond academic circles could enhance his visibility and influence.
  2. Diversity in Research Topics: Though his research in environmental science and pollution dispersion is critical, diversifying his focus into more emergent fields such as renewable energy systems, environmental sustainability, or bioinformatics could increase his relevance to broader scientific and technological developments.
  3. Greater Focus on Public Engagement: Encouraging more public-facing outreach, such as through media interviews, conferences, or governmental advisory roles, would help translate his technical work into more accessible formats, thereby extending its influence on societal and political levels.

Education

Professor Piotr Holnicki holds a PhD and DSc, indicating advanced academic qualifications and expertise in his fields of study. His education has provided him with a strong foundation in computational science, environmental engineering, and mathematical modeling, which he has applied to research in areas such as air pollution dispersion, optimization, and decision support systems. His academic background, coupled with his position at the Systems Research Institute of the Polish Academy of Sciences, highlights his dedication to both theoretical and applied scientific pursuits, making him a respected figure in computational and environmental sciences.

Experience

Professor Piotr Holnicki is an expert in computational science, applied mathematics, and environmental engineering, with extensive experience in modeling air pollution dispersion and developing decision support systems for environmental management. His research spans various fields, including mathematical modeling, optimization, and control theory, with a focus on practical applications such as emission control, air quality forecasting, and environmental impact assessments. Holnicki’s work leverages advanced computational techniques like simulated annealing and numerical methods to address complex environmental challenges, particularly in air pollution, greenhouse gas emissions, and atmospheric pollution analysis. With 94 research items on ResearchGate, he has made significant contributions to both theoretical research and practical applications, positioning him as a leading figure in his field.

Research Focus

Professor Piotr Holnicki’s research focuses on the modeling and analysis of air pollution dispersion on both urban and regional scales, with an emphasis on developing environment-oriented decision support systems. His work integrates computational techniques, such as optimization and numerical modeling, to assess the environmental impact of air pollution, including population exposure, emission control, and environmental costs. He employs advanced tools like CALMET/CALPUFF models for air quality forecasting and optimal site selection for new investments. Additionally, he explores uncertainty analysis in air quality management and applies control theory and optimization in distributed parameter systems, contributing to a deeper understanding of how to mitigate the effects of atmospheric pollution.

Awards and Honours

Professor Piotr Holnicki has earned notable recognition for his contributions to computational science, environmental modeling, and optimization techniques, particularly in the context of air pollution dispersion and environmental impact assessments. His expertise spans multiple disciplines, including computer science, applied mathematics, and environmental engineering, with a focus on developing decision support systems for emission control and regional planning. Although specific awards and honors are not detailed in the provided information, his prolific research output and significant contributions to both theoretical and practical aspects of environmental science suggest that he is a well-regarded figure in his field. His work’s applicability to real-world challenges positions him as a strong candidate for prestigious academic and research accolades.

Publication Top Notes

  • Intra-urban variability of the intake fraction from multiple emission sources
    • Authors: Holnicki, P., Kałuszko, A., Nahorski, Z., Tainio, M.
    • Year: 2018
    • Citations: 8
  • Intake Fraction (iF) Assessment in an Urban Area
    • Authors: Holnicki, P., Nahorski, Z., Kałuszko, A.
    • Year: 2018
    • Citations: 5
  • Burden of mortality and disease attributable to multiple air pollutants in Warsaw, Poland
    • Authors: Holnicki, P., Tainio, M., Kałuszko, A., Nahorski, Z.
    • Year: 2017
    • Citations: 36
  • Air quality modeling for Warsaw agglomeration
    • Authors: Holnicki, P., Kałuszko, A., Nahorski, Z., Stankiewicz, K., Trapp, W.
    • Year: 2017
    • Citations: 45
  • An urban scale application and validation of the CALPUFF model
    • Authors: Holnicki, P., Kałuszko, A., Trapp, W.
    • Year: 2016
    • Citations: 60

Conclusion

Professor Piotr Holnicki is a highly qualified and suitable candidate for the Best Researcher Award due to his interdisciplinary research, technical expertise, and contributions to the field of computational science and environmental modeling. His work has a direct impact on addressing environmental challenges, such as air pollution, and is grounded in both theoretical and practical applications. While his academic accomplishments are impressive, further recognition and outreach outside academic settings could enhance his overall influence and contributions to global scientific advancements.