Gbekeloluwa Oguntimein | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Gbekeloluwa Oguntimein | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Professor at Morgan State University, United States

Dr. Gbekeloluwa B. Oguntimein is an accomplished researcher and educator with over four decades of experience in chemical, environmental, and biochemical engineering. He holds a Ph.D. from Iowa State University and has held academic positions at leading institutions including the University of Ibadan, Morgan State University, and multiple U.S. universities. His research has received international recognition through prestigious fellowships such as the Alexander von Humboldt Fellowship (Germany), NSERC Fellowship (Canada), and CIES Fellowship (France). Dr. Oguntimein has contributed to cutting-edge projects at NASA, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, and the National Renewable Energy Laboratory. He is a registered Professional Engineer, a Board Certified Environmental Engineer, and serves on editorial boards of several scientific journals. His extensive service includes NSF review panels, international consulting, and leadership in professional societies like AIChE and ACS. Dr. Oguntimein’s career reflects a deep commitment to innovation, environmental sustainability, interdisciplinary research, and mentorship in engineering education.

Professional Profile 

Scopus Profile
ORCID Profile 

Education 

Dr. Oguntimein earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemical Engineering from Iowa State University in Ames, Iowa. He continued at the same institution to complete a Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering, reflecting strong academic foundations in process systems, reaction engineering, and environmental technologies. His education extended beyond the classroom through postdoctoral research training at the Laboratorie de Biotechnologie, Institut Nationale Politechnique de Lorraine in France, and the International Facility for Food Irradiation in the Netherlands. These advanced programs provided him with specialized knowledge in biotechnology and food safety technologies. His cross-continental education laid the groundwork for a rich and diverse career in both teaching and applied research. The academic journey Dr. Oguntimein pursued has been instrumental in equipping him to work across disciplines and contribute significantly to both academic and industrial scientific communities worldwide.

Experience

Dr. Oguntimein’s professional experience spans academia, industry, and government. In academia, he has held roles from instructor to associate professor at institutions including the University of Ibadan, Morgan State University, and the University of Maryland system, teaching courses in civil, chemical, and environmental engineering. His industrial experience includes working as a process development engineer at American Maize Product Company. He has also served as a consultant on enzyme technology, feasibility studies, and training programs for global institutions such as IITA and Zymetis Inc. Dr. Oguntimein’s government service includes time as a visiting professor at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, contributing to intergovernmental environmental policies. In research, he has held fellowships at major institutions such as NASA, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, and NREL. His experience reflects a well-rounded and impactful career that bridges theory and application across sectors and international borders.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Oguntimein has received numerous prestigious awards and honors throughout his career. Early in his academic life, he was recognized with multiple U.S. academic society honors, including membership in Tau Beta Pi, Phi Kappa Phi, and Omega Chi Epsilon. He has been awarded several elite research fellowships such as the CIES Postdoctoral Fellowship in France, the NSERC Fellowship in Canada, and the Alexander von Humboldt Fellowship in Germany. These honors underscore international recognition of his research excellence. He also received the Nigerian Federal Government Scholarship and has been recognized by the New York Academy of Sciences. His status as a Board Certified Environmental Engineer and a Fellow of the Nigerian Society of Chemical Engineers further validates his impact and expertise. Additionally, he has served on major grant review panels for organizations like the NSF and EPA, reflecting continued trust in his judgment and leadership in research evaluation.

Research Focus on Environmental Science

Dr. Oguntimein’s research focuses on environmental biotechnology, biochemical process engineering, and sustainable energy. His interdisciplinary projects integrate biological and chemical methods to address challenges in wastewater treatment, hazardous waste management, and resource recovery. He has worked on enzyme-based technologies, microbial remediation, and the development of environmentally friendly processing systems. His research engagements with NASA, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, and the National Renewable Energy Laboratory have centered on applying biotechnology for space exploration, bioenergy, and pollution control. He is actively involved in projects related to biological wastewater treatment, environmental impact assessment, and biochemical systems modeling. Dr. Oguntimein’s research is deeply connected to sustainability and the practical application of science to solve global environmental problems. His contributions to journals, editorial boards, and national funding panels also highlight his influence in shaping the direction of environmental and biochemical engineering research in both academic and industrial sectors.

Publications Top Notes

  • Title: N-Butanol or Isobutanol as a Value-Added Fuel Additive to Inhibit Microbial Degradation of Stored Gasoline
    Authors: Elkins, J.G.; Rodriguez, M.; Cannon, O.N.; Connatser, R.M.; Oguntimein, G.B.; Kass, M.D.; West, B.; Davison, B.H.
    Year: 2022

  • Title: Best Practices for the Implementation of Home-based, Hands-on Lab Activities to Effectively Engage STEM Students During a Pandemic
    Authors: Owolabi, O.A.; Ladeji-Osias, J.; Shokouhian, M.; Alamu, O.S.; Lee, S.W.; Oguntimein, G.B.; Ariyibi, A.; Lee, H.J.; Bista, K.; Dugda, M.T. et al.
    Year: 2021

  • Title: Sustainability assessment of municipal solid waste in Baltimore USA
    Authors: Alamu, S.O.; Wemida, A.; Tsegaye, T.; Oguntimein, G.
    Year: 2021

  • Title: Anaerobic microplate assay for direct microbial conversion of switchgrass and Avicel using Clostridium thermocellum
    Authors: Oguntimein, G.B.; Rodriguez, M.; Dumitrache, A.; Shollenberger, T.; Decker, S.R.; Davison, B.H.; Brown, S.D.
    Year: 2018

  • Title: High Throughput Screening Technologies in Biomass Characterization
    Authors: Decker, S.R.; Harman-Ware, A.E.; Happs, R.M.; Wolfrum, E.J.; Tuskan, G.A.; Kainer, D.; Oguntimein, G.B.; Rodriguez, M.; Weighill, D.; Jones, P. et al.
    Year: 2018

  • Title: Engaging engineering graduate students in applied research at Morgan State University
    Authors: Chen, G.; Ladeji-Osias, J.; Oguntimein, G.B.; Lee, Y.-J.
    Year: 2015

  • Title: Biosorption of dye from textile wastewater effluent onto alkali treated dried sunflower seed hull and design of a batch adsorber
    Authors: Gbekeloluwa B. Oguntimein
    Year: 2015

  • Title: Application of chitosan in remediation of dyes
    Authors: Oguntimein, G.B.; Animashaun, O.; Okpere, I.
    Year: 2009

  • Title: Waters network’s potential to transform environmental engineering education
    Authors: Eschenbach, E.; Montgomery, J.; Johnson, J.; Brus, C.; Carlson, P.; Giammar, D.; Grauer, B.; Hotaling, L.; Oguntimein, G.; Safferman, S. et al.
    Year: 2007

  • Title: Transforming K-12 education via the collaborative large-scale engineering analysis network for environmental research (CLEANER) project
    Authors: Eschenbach, E.; Johnson, J.H.; Brus, C.; Carlson, P.; Giammar, D.; Grauer, B.; Hotaling, L.; Oguntimein, G.; Safferman, S.; Wentling, T.
    Year: 2006

  • Title: Work in progress: Eliciting input for transforming CSET education via the NSF Collaborative Large-scale Engineering Analysis Network for Environmental Research (CLEANER)
    Authors: Eschenbach, E.; Johnson, J.; Brus, C.; Carlson, P.; Giammar, D.; Grauer, B.; Hotaling, L.; Oguntimein, G.; Safferman, S.; Seiler, E. et al.
    Year: 2006

Conclusion

Dr. Gbekeloluwa B. Oguntimein stands as a distinguished figure in engineering and environmental science, with a legacy built on four decades of academic, research, and professional excellence. His work spans multiple continents, integrating chemical, environmental, and biochemical engineering to address critical global challenges such as waste management, sustainable energy, and environmental remediation. He has contributed significantly to STEM education through hands-on teaching, curriculum development, and mentoring, especially in underrepresented communities. His participation in national labs like NASA, ORNL, and NREL reflects the relevance and quality of his research, while his editorial, review, and leadership roles demonstrate his thought leadership. Through numerous publications, fellowships, and international collaborations, Dr. Oguntimein has left a profound mark on both scientific progress and educational equity. He embodies the spirit of a true researcher—curious, committed, and impactful—making him an inspiring candidate for high recognition and an enduring role model in the global scientific community.

Jiang Youjing | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Jiang Youjing | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Master at Henan University, China

Ms. Youjing Jiang is a Master’s student at the College of Geographical Sciences, Henan University, China, specializing in climate change, agriculture, remote sensing, and environmental data analysis. With a strong academic foundation in Geographic Information Science from Harbin Normal University and ongoing postgraduate studies in Geography, she demonstrates a keen interest in applying geospatial technologies to address pressing environmental challenges. Her interdisciplinary background equips her with valuable analytical and technical skills, particularly in handling environmental data and satellite imagery. While still in the early stages of her research career, Ms. Jiang shows promise in contributing to the fields of climate science and sustainable agriculture. Her academic trajectory reflects a commitment to scientific inquiry and the pursuit of knowledge in areas vital to global development. As she continues her research and begins to publish and participate in academic forums, she is poised to make meaningful contributions to environmental and geographical sciences.

ORCID Profile

Education

Ms. Youjing Jiang has pursued a solid academic path in the field of geographical sciences. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Geographic Information Science from Harbin Normal University, where she developed a foundational understanding of spatial data analysis, GIS applications, and environmental systems. Currently, she is enrolled in a Master of Science program in Geography at Henan University, one of China’s respected institutions for environmental and earth sciences. Her graduate studies allow her to deepen her expertise in climate science, agricultural systems, and geospatial technologies. Through her education, Ms. Jiang has built a strong interdisciplinary knowledge base that combines theory, technical training, and applied environmental studies. This academic progression demonstrates her commitment to advancing her knowledge and skill set in critical areas of global importance such as climate change and sustainable land management. Her academic choices reflect a clear vision toward a research-driven and environmentally focused career.

Professional Experience

As a current Master’s student, Ms. Youjing Jiang’s professional experience is primarily grounded in her academic training and involvement in research-related activities. While no formal work experience is listed in her CV, her engagement in academic environments suggests exposure to research labs, data analysis tasks, and coursework involving practical applications of GIS and remote sensing technologies. Her role within the Faculty of Geographical Science and Engineering at Henan University likely involves collaborative research, environmental modeling, and the use of geospatial tools to analyze climate and agricultural trends. Although still at an early stage in her professional journey, her hands-on experience in handling environmental datasets and interpreting remote sensing imagery positions her well for research roles in academia or environmental consulting. As she progresses, opportunities such as internships, research assistantships, or field projects would greatly enhance her applied experience and provide a stronger professional foundation to complement her academic achievements.

Research Interest

Ms. Youjing Jiang’s research interests lie at the intersection of environmental science and geospatial analysis. She is particularly focused on climate change and its impacts on agriculture, as well as the application of remote sensing and environmental data analysis to monitor and address ecological changes. Her academic background in Geographic Information Science, combined with her current graduate studies in Geography, enables her to explore how spatial technologies can support sustainable development and environmental resilience. She is interested in using satellite imagery, geospatial modeling, and big environmental data to understand long-term patterns in land use, weather, and crop health. These interests place her at the forefront of contemporary environmental research, especially as global challenges related to food security and climate variability become increasingly urgent. Her work has the potential to inform both scientific understanding and policy recommendations for climate adaptation and agricultural sustainability in China and beyond.

Award and Honor

As of the current CV, there is no mention of specific awards or honors received by Ms. Youjing Jiang. This may be due to her early career stage as a graduate student, during which recognition typically comes in the form of scholarships, research grants, or academic performance awards. If she has received any academic distinctions, such as honors during her undergraduate studies or recognition for outstanding research at her current university, these would strengthen her profile considerably. As she continues to develop her research and begins to participate in academic conferences or publish in scientific journals, she may become eligible for honors related to innovation, academic excellence, or environmental research contributions. Tracking such achievements in the future will be important for establishing her credentials and visibility within the research community. Recognitions, even at the university or departmental level, will play a crucial role in demonstrating her commitment and impact within her chosen field.

Conclusion

Ms. Youjing Jiang is an emerging researcher with a strong academic background in geographical sciences and a growing interest in climate change, agriculture, and geospatial analysis. With formal education in Geographic Information Science and current graduate studies in Geography at Henan University, she possesses a solid technical and theoretical foundation for environmental research. Although still early in her career, her focus on high-impact issues such as climate variability and sustainable agriculture positions her well for future contributions to the field. While she has not yet accumulated significant professional experience or formal recognitions, her research direction is both timely and aligned with global scientific priorities. Continued engagement in research activities, academic publishing, and participation in scholarly forums will be key to her development as a leading environmental scientist. With dedication and mentorship, Ms. Jiang is well-placed to evolve into a respected figure in geospatial and climate-related research communities.

Publications Top Notes

  • Title: Measurement of Suspended Sediment Concentration at the Outlet of the Yellow River Canyon: Using Sentinel-2 Images and Machine Learning

  • Authors: Genxin Song, Youjing Jiang, Xinyu Lei, Shiyan Zhai

  • Year: 2025

  • Journal: Remote Sensing

  • DOI: 10.3390/rs17142424

  • Publisher: Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute (MDPI

Caroline Malagutti Fassina | Environmental Science | Breakthrough Research Award

Ms. Caroline Malagutti Fassina | Environmental Science | Breakthrough Research Award

Blue Projects Manager at Santos Technological Park, Brazil

Caroline Malagutti Fassina, Ph.D., is an accomplished Brazilian environmental scientist and advisor with over 15 years of experience in ecosystem governance, climate policy, and marine conservation. Currently serving as a Science Advisor in the Santos Municipality’s Innovation Park, she holds a Ph.D. in Environmental Sciences from the State University of Campinas. Her research spans biodiversity offsets, environmental valuation, and climate justice, with international collaborations in Brazil, Australia, and the UK. Dr. Fassina has led and contributed to numerous funded projects, including BRANDED OCEAN and FISHERVOICES, and published in respected journals such as Ecosystem Services and Marine Policy. She bridges academic research and public policy, organizing environmental education initiatives and advising on sustainable development. Fluent in English and active in global networks like the Ecosystem Services Partnership, she is recognized for amplifying underrepresented voices, particularly fisherwomen, in climate adaptation efforts. Dr. Fassina exemplifies interdisciplinary leadership committed to inclusive and impactful environmental solutions.

Professional Profile 

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Education

Caroline Malagutti Fassina holds a robust academic background rooted in environmental science and coastal management. She earned her Ph.D. in Environmental Sciences from the State University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Brazil, where she explored the complexities of ecosystem service valuation and biodiversity offset policies in Brazil and Australia. Her thesis critically assessed the commodification of nature through international offset mechanisms. Prior to that, she completed her Master’s degree in Integrated Environmental Analysis at the Federal University of São Paulo (UNIFESP), focusing on marine ecosystems. Her academic journey began with a Bachelor’s in Coastal Management from Paulista State University, reflecting her early commitment to sustainability in coastal regions. Her education is complemented by international certifications and trainings, including capacity-building with UNESCO and environmental law workshops. This strong academic foundation supports her interdisciplinary approach to marine policy, environmental justice, and urban sustainability, combining both theoretical and applied dimensions of environmental governance.

Professional Experience

Dr. Fassina has held diverse and impactful roles across public service, academia, and international research. She currently serves as Science Advisor and Public Fundraising Coordinator for the Science, Technology and Innovation Park of Santos Municipality. Since 2011, she has worked as an Environmental Officer in various departments within the Santos Environmental Secretariat, including environmental inspection, licensing, and strategic advisory roles. She also served as Group Leader of the Environmental Inspection Division and was a council member for the São Paulo Marine Protected Area. Her postdoctoral work includes the BRANDED OCEAN project under FAPESP, and she is currently involved in the international EXTENDING RESPONSIBILITY initiative. Caroline’s experience reflects a blend of hands-on environmental regulation, urban sustainability planning, and scientific leadership. She also contributes to education through public speaking, mentoring, and organizing community outreach events like the Environmental Film Week. Her career demonstrates a long-term commitment to integrating science with public policy.

Research Interest

Caroline Fassina’s research interests lie at the intersection of environmental policy, ecosystem services, marine governance, and climate justice. She is particularly focused on biodiversity offsets, environmental valuation, and the governance of natural resources in urban and coastal zones. Her Ph.D. work compared offset practices between Brazil and Australia, questioning the commodification of nature in different regulatory contexts. More recently, she has expanded her work to include the cumulative impacts of port infrastructure on marine ecosystems, gendered dimensions of climate adaptation—especially the voices of fisherwomen—and transboundary environmental accountability linked to global trade. She is committed to interdisciplinary approaches, often integrating ecological economics, environmental sociology, and policy analysis. Caroline also explores environmental communication and the role of local governments in addressing global environmental challenges. Her research is both academic and applied, aiming to influence public policy and international frameworks for sustainable development, with a strong emphasis on social inclusion and ecological equity.

Award and Honor

Throughout her career, Dr. Caroline Fassina has received numerous grants and fellowships that reflect the originality and impact of her research. Her early scientific work was supported by the São Paulo Research Foundation (FAPESP) during her undergraduate and doctoral studies. In 2019, she was awarded a prestigious internationalization grant from CAPES for her research on biodiversity offsets in Brazil and Australia. She also secured funding from the British Council for the FISHERVOICES project, which amplified the perspectives of fisherwomen in climate policy discussions. In 2023, she received the Young Doctors Nationalization Grant from FAPESP for her BRANDED OCEAN postdoctoral project. Most recently, she began work under a major grant from Brazil’s Science and Technology Ministry to study marine litter and global trade. In addition to research funding, she has been selected as a speaker and participant in influential global programs and conferences, marking her as a recognized leader in environmental research and public engagement.

Conclusion

Caroline Malagutti Fassina is a dynamic and visionary environmental scientist whose work bridges academia, public policy, and grassroots environmental action. With a solid foundation in coastal and environmental science, she has translated her expertise into impactful public service roles and internationally relevant research. Her career reflects a deep commitment to ecological sustainability, social justice, and inclusive governance, particularly in vulnerable coastal communities. From local environmental inspections to advising major international research initiatives, Caroline consistently integrates science with actionable policy solutions. Her contributions to environmental valuation, marine policy, and climate adaptation—especially gender-sensitive approaches—position her as a rising leader in the global environmental arena. Her growing portfolio of publications, grants, and public engagement initiatives demonstrates both intellectual depth and civic responsibility. Dr. Fassina embodies the qualities of an interdisciplinary scholar-practitioner whose work is shaping a more just and resilient environmental future. She is a highly suitable candidate for honors such as the Breakthrough Research Award.

Publications Top Notes

  • Title: Governance challenges for the newest Brazilian marine protected areas: Preliminary considerations for stakeholder participation

    • Authors: C.M. Fassina, D.H.Q. Telles, A.C.A. Mazzuco

    • Year: 2020

    • Citations: 12

  • Title: Valuation of ecosystem services through offsets: Why are coastal ecosystems more valuable in Australia than in Brazil?

    • Authors: C. Fassina, D. Jarvis, S. Tavares, A. Coggan

    • Year: 2022

    • Citations: 9

  • Title: Convivencialidade e sustentabilidade: estudos de caso sobre a governança de recursos naturais no Brasil

    • Authors: T. Juliano, C.M. Fassina, C.I.B. Silva, F.A.V. Andrade, E.P.S. Leão Neto

    • Year: 2024

  • Title: Conviviality and sustainability: Case studies on the governance of natural resources in Brazil

    • Authors: T. Juliano, C.M. Fassina, C.I.B. Silva, F.A.V. Andrade, E.P.S. Leão Neto

    • Year: 2024

  • Title: O clima como novo comum urbano: conforto térmico na agenda do direito à cidade

    • Authors: J. Nichi, C.M. Fassina, M.R.C. Soeira

    • Year: 2023

  • Title: Versão Final

    • Authors: APDES DA MATA

    • Year: 2021

  • Title: A ecologia urbana em prol da infraestrutura verde: cenários de adesão e efeitos na drenagem em Santos, São Paulo

    • Author: C.M. Fassina (Master’s thesis)

    • Year: 2016

Matevz Mihelic | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Matevz Mihelic | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Professor at University of Ljubljana, Slovenia

Dr. Matevž Mihelič is an accomplished researcher and assistant professor at the University of Ljubljana, specializing in forest techniques, biomass production, and sustainable forest harvesting. With over 15 years of experience, his work focuses on the economic and environmental aspects of forest operations, contributing to both academic advancement and practical forest management. He has played key roles in numerous national and European research projects, often leading work packages aimed at improving forestry technologies and practices. Dr. Mihelič has been actively involved in academic teaching since 2010 and has contributed to international education through summer schools and collaborative programs. His extensive participation in international conferences highlights his active engagement with the global forestry research community. Known for bridging science and practice, Dr. Mihelič’s research supports the development of innovative, sustainable solutions in forestry. His dedication, leadership, and applied research impact make him a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

Professional Profile 

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Education

Dr. Matevž Mihelič completed his entire academic training at the University of Ljubljana, Biotechnical Faculty. He earned his doctoral degree in Biological and Biotechnical Sciences in 2014 with a dissertation focusing on the economic and environmental aspects of forest harvesting for energy biomass—highlighting his early commitment to sustainable forestry solutions. His academic journey began with a university degree in Forestry (2000–2006), culminating in a graduation thesis on digital tools in forestry advisory services. Before this, he completed his grammar school education at Ledina Grammar School in Ljubljana. Throughout his academic studies, he consistently focused on the intersection of technology, sustainability, and forest resource management. The combination of technical forestry education and a research-driven doctoral program provided Dr. Mihelič with a strong foundation in applied science, forest economics, and environmental responsibility—areas that would go on to shape his professional and research career in the years to follow.

Professional Experience

Dr. Matevž Mihelič has built a progressive and well-rounded professional career centered at the University of Ljubljana. Since 2019, he has served as an Assistant Professor at the Department of Forestry and Renewable Forest Resources, following nearly a decade as a teaching assistant and earlier roles as a researcher and technical worker. His career began in 2006 with the Public Forest Service of Slovenia, where he worked as a district forester and planning apprentice. Over the years, Dr. Mihelič has developed expertise in forest harvesting, biomass utilization, and the design of technological systems, contributing significantly to both academic teaching and applied forestry projects. In addition to his teaching duties, he has led or contributed to several national and EU research initiatives. His career reflects a balanced mix of academic instruction, field-based research, and technical coordination—demonstrating his strong commitment to advancing sustainable forestry practices in Slovenia and beyond.

Research Interest

Dr. Matevž Mihelič’s research interests lie at the intersection of forest engineering, biomass production, and sustainable forest management. He focuses primarily on forest harvesting systems, the economic evaluation of forestry operations, and the efficient utilization of wood biomass. His doctoral work on the economic and environmental aspects of biomass harvesting set the stage for his subsequent research contributions. He has actively participated in and led numerous national and European research projects addressing key challenges in forest operations, contractor evaluation, and the use of innovative technologies for forest stand management. Dr. Mihelič also investigates the sustainability of forest supply chains and seeks to optimize forest operations through the integration of new technologies and data-driven planning. His research is applied in nature, aiming to inform forest policy, improve operational efficiency, and support the transition to a bioeconomy. Through his work, he contributes to the development of environmentally sound and economically viable forestry practices.

Award and Honor

While Dr. Matevž Mihelič’s curriculum vitae does not specifically list formal awards or honors, his professional track record reflects recognition through substantial research funding, leadership in high-impact projects, and regular invitations to speak and participate at international conferences. His involvement in major EU initiatives such as COST Actions and ERA-NET projects demonstrates trust and credibility in the European research community. Additionally, his repeated participation in international symposiums and summer schools showcases acknowledgment of his academic and scientific contributions. The consistent leadership roles in project work packages and his long-standing teaching role at the University of Ljubljana further indicate a high level of institutional and professional respect. Although not formally detailed with titles of awards, Dr. Mihelič’s body of work, collaborations, and influence in the field of forest engineering and biomass utilization suggest that he is a highly regarded expert, whose applied contributions have significantly impacted forestry research and practice in Slovenia and across Europe.

Conclusion

Dr. Matevž Mihelič stands out as a dedicated researcher, educator, and practitioner in the field of forestry and forest engineering. His academic background, combined with a career rooted in applied research and teaching, has equipped him to make lasting contributions to sustainable forestry and biomass utilization. Through leadership in national and European projects, he has addressed critical issues in forest harvesting technologies and forest operations management. His consistent engagement with international academic forums and educational programs underscores his commitment to knowledge dissemination and collaboration. While formal awards are not listed, his sustained impact through research output, teaching excellence, and project leadership positions him as a key figure in his domain. Dr. Mihelič’s career reflects a rare blend of scientific rigor and practical application, making him not only a valuable academic but also a contributor to sustainable forest policy and practice. He is a highly deserving candidate for recognition such as the Best Researcher Award.

Publications Top Notes

  • Title: Techniques and productivity of coppice harvesting operations in Europe: a meta-analysis of available data

    • Authors: R. Spinelli, E. Cacot, M. Mihelič, L. Nestorovski, P. Mederski, E. Tolosana

    • Year: 2016

    • Citations: 61

  • Title: Comparison of electric and petrol chainsaws in terms of efficiency and safety when used in young spruce stands in small-scale private forests

    • Authors: A. Poje, I. Potočnik, M. Mihelič

    • Year: 2018

    • Citations: 44

  • Title: Exposure to noise in wood chipping operations under the conditions of agro-forestry

    • Authors: A. Poje, R. Spinelli, N. Magagnotti, M. Mihelič

    • Year: 2015

    • Citations: 42

  • Title: Production of wood chips from logging residue under space-constrained conditions

    • Authors: M. Mihelič, R. Spinelli, A. Poje

    • Year: 2018

    • Citations: 32

  • Title: Influence of chain filing, tree species and chain type on cross cutting efficiency and health risk

    • Authors: J. Marenče, M. Mihelič, A. Poje

    • Year: 2017

    • Citations: 23

  • Title: Performance of a new industrial chipper for rural contractors

    • Authors: M. Mihelič, R. Spinelli, N. Magagnotti, A. Poje

    • Year: 2015

    • Citations: 21

  • Title: A low-investment option for the integrated semi-mechanized harvesting of small-scale, short-rotation poplar plantations

    • Authors: R. Spinelli, N. Magagnotti, C. Lombardini, M. Mihelič

    • Year: 2021

    • Citations: 18

  • Title: Analysis of inclusion of wood forwarding into a skidding model

    • Authors: M. Mihelič, J. Krč

    • Year: 2009

    • Citations: 14

  • Title: Influence of chain sharpness, tension adjustment and type of electric chainsaw on energy consumption and cross-cutting time

    • Authors: A. Poje, M. Mihelič

    • Year: 2020

    • Citations: 12

  • Title: The effect of feedstock, knife wear and work station on the exposure to noise and vibrations in wood chipping operations

    • Authors: A. Poje, R. Spinelli, N. Magagnotti, M. Mihelič

    • Year: 2018

    • Citations: 10

  • Title: Intensifying the management of protection forests in the Alps

    • Authors: M. Mihelič, R. Spinelli, A. Poje

    • Year: 2018

    • Citations: 6

  • Title: Coppice products

    • Authors: N. Magagnotti, J. Schweier, R. Spinelli, E. Tolosana, P. Jylhä, M. Mihelič

    • Year: 2018

    • Citations: 6

  • Title: Vodila dobrega ravnanja pri strojni sečnji

    • Authors: J. Krč, J. Beguš, J. Primožič, J. Levstek, V. Papler-Lampe, J. Klun, M. Mihelič

    • Year: 2014

    • Citations: 5

  • Title: Seventeen years of forest restoration with small-scale technologies: Time and fuel consumption for alternative operations and techniques

    • Authors: N. Magagnotti, M. Mihelič, A. Perazzolo, R. Spinelli

    • Year: 2023

    • Citations: 4

  • Title: Productivity and cost assessment of two harvesting methods for medium-rotation poplar plantations

    • Authors: R. Spinelli, N. Magagnotti, B. Kovacs, P. Heger, M. Mihelič

    • Year: 2023

    • Citations: 4

Wentao Yan | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Prof Dr. Wentao Yan | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Professor, Tongji university, China

📜 Dr. Wentao Yan is a distinguished Professor in the College of Architecture and Urban Planning (CAUP) at Tongji University in Shanghai, China. He has also served as a visiting scholar at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, USA. Dr. Yan’s research primarily focuses on ecological urban and sustainable spatial development, urban resilience, and green infrastructure. His work addresses environmental sustainability in urbanization and urban growth, and he explores methods to make rapid urban growth processes more equitable, transparent, and socially and ecologically sustainable.

Education

🎓 Dr. Yan obtained his Ph.D. in Environmental Engineering from the University of Chongqing in 2007. He also holds a Master of Science in Urban Planning, earned in 1994, and a Bachelor of Science in Urban Planning, awarded in 1991, both from the University of Chongqing.

Experience

👨‍🏫 Dr. Yan has an extensive professional background. He has been a Professor at Tongji University since 2017. He was a visiting scholar at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (2013-2014) and at the Royal College of Science and Engineering in Melbourne, Australia (2011). Before his current role, he served in various academic positions at the University of Chongqing, including Associate Professor and Post-Doctoral Researcher.

Research Interests

🔬 Dr. Yan’s research interests include ecological urban and sustainable spatial development, urban resilience, and green infrastructure. He focuses on creating tools for low carbon and ecological city developments and formulating resilience-oriented urban planning theory and practice.

Awards

🏆 Dr. Yan has received numerous accolades, such as the First Prize of the Geographic Information Technology Award in 2018 for his work on rainwater models and the Uwater Platform. He has also been recognized with the Second Prize of the Huaxia Construction Science and Technology Award in 2016 and several urban planning and design awards from various esteemed organizations.

Publications

📚 Dr. Yan has published extensively. Here are a few highlighted works:

  1. Li Z, Yan W*, Wang L. (2024). Measuring mobility resilience with network-based simulations of flow dynamics under extreme events. Transportation Research Part D: Transport and Environment. Link.
  2. Huang Y, Yan W*, Wende W, Xiao S. (2024). A multi-scale identification and optimization framework of ecological sources for different conservation objectives. Landscape and Urban Planning. Link.
  3. Song C, Yan W*, Huang Y, Wang L. (2024). An assessment framework of PM2.5 exposure based on residents’ travel process using mobile phone data. Landscape and Urban Planning. Link.
  4. Ren J, Yan W*. (2024). Defining urban network resilience: a review. Frontiers of Urban and Rural Planning. Link.