Sufia Sultana | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

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).

Rakshit Jakhar | Environmental Science | Young Scientist Award

Mr. Rakshit Jakhar | Environmental Science | Young Scientist Award

PhD at AGH University of Krakow, Poland

Rakshit Jakhar is a dedicated early-career researcher from India with a strong academic foundation in geography and a growing portfolio of research addressing pressing global and regional challenges. Born in 1997 in Rajasthan, India, Rakshit has shown a commitment to integrating academic study with practical inquiry, especially in areas involving climate change, environmental sustainability, and social development. His interdisciplinary approach reflects a deep concern for both ecological and human systems, with a special interest in how geography shapes and responds to social inequalities and environmental stress. Driven by intellectual curiosity and a desire to make meaningful contributions to society, Rakshit has pursued research that explores the intersection of technology and environmental policy, as well as the socio-economic dimensions of gender inequality and natural disasters. Through a blend of academic publications and grassroots-level project work, he continues to build his research portfolio with relevance and impact. Fluent in English and an effective communicator, Rakshit is also a promising candidate for collaborative and international scientific work. His vision is to contribute to sustainable development and climate resilience, especially in vulnerable regions of India, through evidence-based research and policy recommendations. Rakshit’s evolving career reflects ambition, adaptability, and a genuine passion for scientific and societal advancement.

Professional Profile

Education

Rakshit Jakhar holds a Master of Arts in Geography from the University of Mumbai, completed between 2017 and 2019, where he developed a comprehensive understanding of spatial science, climate systems, and human-environment interactions. During his postgraduate studies, he engaged with advanced geographic methodologies and research approaches, which laid the foundation for his later work in climate change and environmental policy. Prior to that, he earned his Bachelor of Arts in Geography from the University of Delhi (2014–2017), graduating with a solid academic record and exposure to core themes like physical geography, regional planning, and human development. Rakshit’s academic background has equipped him with a strong theoretical and practical grasp of the dynamics shaping both natural landscapes and societal transformations. While his academic grades were moderate, his passion for learning, critical thinking, and on-ground research more than compensates, showcasing his growth beyond traditional assessment metrics. His studies emphasized the importance of geography in tackling global issues like climate resilience, food security, and sustainable urban development. Rakshit’s education is distinguished not only by formal coursework but also by a proactive engagement in research-driven projects and thematic studies, marking him as a geographer with both academic and applied field knowledge.

Professional Experience

Rakshit Jakhar has built a diverse professional profile that reflects both leadership and a deep interest in communication and training. From 2019 to 2021, he served as a Marketing Manager at JB Medical Cure India Private Limited, based in Gurugram. In this role, he was responsible for overseeing marketing strategies and training programs for the company’s operations in India and abroad. While not directly tied to academia, this experience enhanced his skills in project management, strategic communication, and stakeholder engagement—competencies highly valuable in scientific research and dissemination. Rakshit also completed an internship with L-Comps & Impex Private Limited in 2017, where he gained experience in corporate operations and business processes. His professional journey, though industry-oriented in its early phase, reflects a strong ability to manage projects and lead cross-functional teams. These experiences have refined his interpersonal and organizational skills, which he now leverages in his academic pursuits. His ability to operate across disciplines and sectors gives him a unique advantage in research translation and public engagement. Rakshit’s professional experience showcases a well-rounded individual who bridges academic inquiry with practical implementation and effective outreach.

Research Interests

Rakshit Jakhar’s research interests center around environmental geography, climate change, social equity, and the role of emerging technologies in addressing ecological challenges. He is particularly focused on how global warming affects agricultural patterns, livelihoods, and regional sustainability in India. His work explores the socioeconomic dimensions of environmental stress, including how natural hazards influence human settlements and economic stability, with a special focus on the Indian states of Rajasthan and Gujarat. He has also demonstrated a growing interest in the use of artificial intelligence to combat climate change, reflecting his ability to integrate technological perspectives with geographic inquiry. Rakshit’s research extends to the study of gender inequality, particularly in rural regions like Shekhawati, Rajasthan, examining the intersections of education, health, and labor force participation among women. His interdisciplinary approach enables him to tackle complex problems at the interface of society and environment. With a blend of field-based research and data analysis, Rakshit aims to contribute to policy-relevant knowledge and community-level interventions. His future goals include deepening his expertise in climate adaptation, environmental policy, and sustainable development practices, making him a strong candidate for further academic or collaborative research initiatives.

Awards and Honors

While Rakshit Jakhar is still early in his career and has not yet received major national or international honors, his academic contributions have been recognized through publication in respected peer-reviewed journals. Notably, his work on the impact of global warming on agriculture was published in a Scopus-indexed journal—a significant achievement for an early-career researcher. In 2022 alone, he authored multiple research papers, including studies on climate change, natural disasters, and the use of artificial intelligence to address environmental issues. These publications indicate peer recognition and validate the relevance and quality of his work. Additionally, his active participation in thematic research projects, such as the study of gender inequality in Rajasthan, has contributed to his growing academic presence. Although he has not listed specific awards, his consistent publication record and commitment to addressing socially critical issues suggest strong potential for future accolades. With continued scholarly output and engagement in academic conferences or funded research, Rakshit is well-positioned to receive honors that reflect his contributions to geographic and environmental research. His emerging profile exemplifies promise, dedication, and a readiness to scale his impact within the academic and policy-making communities.

Conclusion

Rakshit Jakhar demonstrates potential and merit as a young researcher, particularly through his interdisciplinary and socially relevant research in geography, climate change, and societal issues. His published work in peer-reviewed journals, including one Scopus-indexed, is commendable for someone early in their career.

Publications Top Notes

  • Author(s): R Jakhar, L Samek, K Styszko
    Year: 2023
    Title: A comprehensive study of the impact of waste fires on the environment and health
    Cited by: 19

  • Author(s): R Jakhar, P Sachar
    Year: 2023
    Title: A Study and Analysis on Waste Fires in India and Their Corresponding Impacts on Environment and Human Health
    Cited by: 5

  • Author(s): R Jakhar, G Singh, R Raj, K Kumari, P Sachar, PS Prasad
    Year: 2022
    Title: Different Applications of Artificial Intelligence to Combat Climate Change Issues
    Cited by: 5

  • Author(s): R Jakhar, G Singh, P Sachar
    Year: 2022
    Title: Impact of global warming on agricultural pattern: A case study of select agricultural spaces in Rajasthan
    Cited by: 4

  • Author(s): S Garima, RR Jakhar Rakshit, S Preeti
    Year: Not specified
    Title: A Comprehensive Study on Impacts of Air Pollution on Environment and Human Health
    Cited by: 4*

  • Author(s): TCATR Jakhar
    Year: 2024
    Title: Beyond Borders: CBAM’s Revolutionary Potential and Challenges in Achieving Carbon Neutrality
    Cited by: 2

  • Author(s): R Jakhar, L Samek, K Styszko
    Year: 2023
    Title: Comprehensive Study of the Impact of Waste Fires on the Environment and Health. Sustainability
    Cited by: 1

  • Author(s): G Singh, R Jakhar, P Sachar
    Year: 2022
    Title: Impact on people’s lives and livelihoods in Gujarat due to Natural hazards
    Cited by: 1

  • Author(s): L Samek, E Diapouli, A Ryś, S Papagiannis, V Vassilatou, R Jakhar, …
    Year: 2025
    Title: Determination of equivalent Black Carbon Concentrations by MABI…
    Cited by: Not specified

  • Author(s): R Jakhar, P Furman, A Skiba, D Widel, M Zimnoch, L Samek, K Styszko
    Year: 2025
    Title: Seasonal Trends, Sources, and Health Impacts of PAH-Bound PM10 in Krakow Amidst the COVID-19 Pandemic
    Cited by: Not specified

  • Author(s): R Jakhar, G Singh, K Kumari, P Sachar
    Year: 2022
    Title: A Comprehensive Study of Climate Change and their Corresponding Impacts on Environment and Lives
    Cited by: Not specified

  • Author(s): RR Rakshit Jakhar
    Year: Not specified
    Title: A Review on the Impacts of Climate Change on the Power Systems
    Cited by: Not specified

Guang-Hui Dong | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr Guang-Hui Dong | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Associate Dean at School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University China

Prof. Dr. Guang-Hui Dong is a renowned researcher in environmental health and epidemiology, currently serving as a Professor at the School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, China. His work primarily focuses on the impacts of environmental pollutants, urban greenness, and climate factors on human health, particularly in children. Over the years, he has contributed extensively to global research in environmental epidemiology, with numerous publications in high-impact journals. His studies integrate advanced methodologies such as spatial analysis, machine learning, and toxicological assessments to address pressing public health concerns. Dr. Dong is also actively involved in international collaborations, fostering scientific advancements in environmental health. His contributions have significantly influenced policies on air pollution and urban planning. With a strong commitment to academia and research, he continues to push the boundaries of knowledge in environmental science, making valuable contributions to both theoretical research and real-world applications.

Professional Profile

Education

Dr. Guang-Hui Dong has an extensive academic background in medicine and environmental health. He earned his Bachelor of Medicine from China Medical University in 1999, followed by a Master of Medicine in 2004 from the same institution. His passion for environmental health led him to pursue a Ph.D. in Epidemiology and Environmental Health at China Medical University, which he completed in 2009. His doctoral research focused on the health effects of air pollution, specifically fine particulate matter and its association with respiratory diseases. To further his expertise, Dr. Dong expanded his academic exposure internationally. In 2011, he joined Saint Louis University, USA, as a Visiting Scholar, where he worked on environmental epidemiology and public health research. His strong educational foundation, combined with international exposure, has equipped him with a deep understanding of the complex interactions between environmental factors and human health.

Professional Experience

Dr. Dong began his professional career as an Assistant Professor at China Medical University in 2004, gradually rising to the position of Associate Professor and later full Professor by 2014. His tenure at the institution involved extensive research on environmental health, exposure assessment, and disease epidemiology. In 2014, he joined Sun Yat-sen University as a Professor at the School of Public Health, where he continues to lead research on environmental pollution and its health impacts. Additionally, he has served as an Adjunct Associate Professor at Saint Louis University, strengthening his collaborations with international researchers. His leadership extends to supervising doctoral students, securing research grants, and participating in policy advisory roles related to environmental health. Through his dedicated work, he has made significant contributions to advancing knowledge on air pollution, climate change, and public health, influencing both scientific research and environmental policies.

Research Interest

Dr. Dong’s research interests encompass environmental health, air pollution, climate change, and their effects on human health, particularly in vulnerable populations like children. He has conducted extensive studies on how exposure to particulate matter, ozone, and other pollutants influences respiratory diseases, cardiovascular health, and neurological disorders. His recent work also explores the impact of urban greenness, street-view environmental factors, and anthropogenic heat emissions on mental and physical health. By integrating epidemiological methods with cutting-edge technologies such as machine learning and spatial regression, Dr. Dong aims to develop predictive models for disease risk assessment. Additionally, his research delves into the role of non-coding RNAs in pollution-related diseases, providing molecular insights into environmental toxicology. His findings contribute to urban planning, environmental regulations, and public health policies, aiming to mitigate the adverse health effects of pollution and climate change.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Guang-Hui Dong has received several prestigious awards and research grants in recognition of his outstanding contributions to environmental health. He has been a recipient of funding from the National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC), supporting his groundbreaking research on air pollution and respiratory health. His contributions to international collaborations have also earned him grants from the Guangdong Provincial International Cooperation Foundation. As a respected figure in his field, he has been invited to serve as an editorial board member for journals such as Environmental Pollution, Frontiers in Public Health, and Journal of Epidemiology Research. Additionally, he has been honored as a Lead Guest Editor for the International Journal of Hypertension. Through these roles, Dr. Dong continues to shape global research in environmental health, reinforcing his position as a leader in the field. His work has not only expanded scientific knowledge but also informed policies and interventions aimed at improving public health.

Conclusion

Prof. Dr. Guang-Hui Dong is a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award based on his high research productivity, interdisciplinary work, and focus on pressing environmental health issues. However, given the current low citation count and limited first/last authorship, his impact might not yet be fully established in global research rankings. If the award criteria emphasize research volume and innovative approaches, he is a strong contender. However, if citation impact and leadership in research are prioritized, he may need more time to solidify his position.

Publications Top Noted

  • The association between anthropogenic heat and parent-report symptoms of childhood attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in China: A novel perspective reflecting climate change

    • Authors: T. Yu, Y. Wen, P. Dong, Z. Lin, G.H. Dong
    • Year: 2025
    • Citations: 0
    • Journal: International Journal of Hygiene and Environmental Health
  • Novel perspective on particulate matter and Alzheimer’s disease: Insights from adverse outcome pathway framework

    • Authors: S. Qin, Q. Zeng, H. Zeng, G.H. Dong, X. Zeng
    • Year: 2025
    • Citations: 0
    • Journal: Environmental Pollution
  • Ozone concentration, physical activity, and emotional and behavioral problems in children and adolescents

    • Authors: Y. Zhang, W. Bao, W. Ji, G.H. Dong, Y. Chen
    • Year: 2025
    • Citations: 0
    • Journal: Environmental Research
  • U-shaped association between residential greenness and keratoconus

    • Authors: L. Li, W. Cheng, W. Wang, G.H. Dong, L. Liang
    • Year: 2025
    • Citations: 0
    • Journal: Environmental Research
  • Circular RNA circ_0061183 regulates microglial polarization induced by airborne ultrafine particles in HMC3 cells via sponging miR-98-5p

    • Authors: H. Zeng, S. Qin, Q. Wu, G.H. Dong, X. Zeng
    • Year: 2025
    • Citations: 0
    • Journal: Journal of Hazardous Materials
  • The emerging roles of particulate matter-changed non-coding RNAs in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer’s disease: A comprehensive in silico analysis and review

    • Authors: H. Zeng, S. Qin, J. Andersson, G.H. Dong, X. Zeng
    • Year: 2025
    • Citations: 0
    • Journal: Environmental Pollution
  • Associations between anthropogenic heat emissions and serum lipids among adults in northeastern China

    • Authors: J. Cong, H. Zhang, M. Sun, X. Sun, G.H. Dong
    • Year: 2025
    • Citations: 0
    • Journal: International Journal of Environmental Health Research
  • Exploring the associations between street-view green space quantity and quality, and influenza in Guangzhou, China through machine learning and spatial regression: A socio-economic equity perspective

    • Authors: R. Wang, M. Sun, S. Yi, G. Grekousis, G.H. Dong
    • Year: 2025
    • Citations: 1
    • Journal: Environment and Planning B: Urban Analytics and City Science

 

Małgorzata Kowalska | Epidemiology | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Małgorzata Kowalska | Epidemiology | Best Researcher Award

nomination, Medical University of Silesia, Poland

Prof. Małgorzata Kowalska is a distinguished expert in Environmental Epidemiology and Environmental Health, currently serving as a professor at the Department of Epidemiology, Medical University of Silesia in Katowice, Poland. With a career spanning decades, she has become a leading figure in the study of the health effects of environmental factors such as air pollution and their impact on public health. Prof. Kowalska has held key leadership roles, including Vice President of the Polish Society of Environmental Epidemiology and Secretary of the Polish Society of Hygiene. She is widely recognized for her research and contributions to the field of epidemiology and environmental health, particularly concerning the effects of air pollution on respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. Prof. Kowalska’s work has not only enhanced scientific understanding but has also influenced health policies in Poland and beyond.

Profile

Orcid

Education 

Prof. Kowalska holds a Master of Science in Chemistry from the Silesian University of Technology (1983) and earned a Ph.D. in Medicine in 1998. In addition to her doctoral studies, she completed a diploma in Environmental Health from the Polish Ministry of Health in 2005 and training in Epidemiology from the same institution in 2008. She became an Associate Professor in Medicine (medical biology) in 2012 and achieved the title of Professor in Medicine (medical biology) in 2018. Her educational background is complemented by extensive training in both medical biology and environmental health, forming the foundation for her distinguished research career in epidemiology. Prof. Kowalska’s academic achievements are a testament to her dedication to advancing public health through research and education, particularly in the areas of environmental exposures and their effects on human health.

Research Focus 

Prof. Małgorzata Kowalska’s research focuses on the intersection of environmental factors and public health, specifically in the fields of environmental epidemiology and environmental health. She investigates how environmental pollutants, including air pollution (NOx, NO2), affect respiratory and cardiovascular health, with a particular emphasis on the impact of these factors on vulnerable populations. Her studies also examine the role of essential elements and vitamins during pregnancy and the health effects of exposure to environmental hazards like ozone. Prof. Kowalska’s research extends to exploring mental health and quality of life, particularly among healthcare professionals, and the use of voice technology in managing chronic conditions. Additionally, her work includes evaluating public health responses to the COVID-19 pandemic and other pressing health issues in the Silesian Voivodeship. Through her multifaceted research, she seeks to improve public health policies and interventions, with an emphasis on prevention and community well-being.

Publications

  • Determinants of the Essential Elements and Vitamins Intake and Status during Pregnancy: A Descriptive Study in Polish Mother and Child Cohort 🍼🍏
  • Seroprevalence of Anti-SARS-CoV-2 Antibodies in a Random Sample of Inhabitants of the Katowice Region, Poland 🦠💉
  • Readiness for Voice Technology in Patients With Cardiovascular Diseases: Cross-Sectional Study 📱❤️
  • Acute FeNO and Blood Pressure Responses to Air Pollution Exposure in Young Adults during Physical Activity 🌫️🏃‍♂️
  • The Reliability and Compatibility of the Paper and Electronic Versions of the POLLEK Cohort Study Questionnaire 📋💻
  • The Review of Prospective Studies on Mental Health and the Quality of Life of Physicians and Medical Students 🧠👩‍⚕️
  • Assessment of Risk Hospitalization due to Acute Respiratory Incidents Related to Ozone Exposure in Silesian Voivodeship (Poland) 🌬️🏥
  • Decreasing the Impact of Anxiety on Cancer Prevention through Online Intervention 😷💻
  • Effect of NOx and NO2 Concentration Increase in Ambient Air to Daily Bronchitis and Asthma Exacerbation, Silesian Voivodeship in Poland 🌫️🌡️
  • Parental Declaration of Adverse Event Following Immunization in a Cross-Sectional Study in Poland 💉👶
  • Comorbidities in Asthma and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease among Adult Inhabitants of Silesian Voivodeship, Poland 🌬️💨