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 technologiesβ€”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 relevanceβ€”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).

Mehdi Esmaeili Bidhendi | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

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Assist. Prof. Dr. Mehdi Esmaeili Bidhendi | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Assistant professor at University of Tehran, Iran

Dr. Mehdi Esmaeili Bidhendi is a distinguished environmental engineer specializing in water and wastewater treatment. He is currently a faculty member at the University of Tehran, where he has made significant contributions to environmental sustainability through his research. With numerous high-impact publications and collaborations across various disciplines, Dr. Bidhendi has established himself as a leading expert in environmental pollution control and advanced treatment technologies. His work has played a crucial role in developing innovative solutions for water purification, heavy metal removal, and sustainable waste management. Dr. Bidhendi’s commitment to addressing pressing environmental challenges has earned him recognition in academic and industrial sectors. His research integrates nanotechnology, adsorption science, and chemical engineering principles to enhance environmental protection strategies. Beyond academia, he actively engages in collaborative projects that bridge the gap between scientific innovation and practical application, ensuring that his findings have a real-world impact on environmental conservation efforts.

Professional Profile

Education

Dr. Mehdi Esmaeili Bidhendi holds a Ph.D. in Environmental Engineering with a specialization in Water and Wastewater Treatment from the University of Tehran. His doctoral research focused on developing advanced treatment techniques for removing pollutants from aquatic environments, contributing significantly to sustainable water resource management. Prior to this, he earned an M.Sc. in Civil Engineering with an emphasis on environmental engineering, where he explored cutting-edge technologies for wastewater treatment. He also holds a B.Sc. in Mining Engineering from the University of Tehran, which provided him with a strong foundation in material science and resource extraction processes. His diverse academic background enables him to tackle environmental issues from multiple perspectives, integrating engineering principles with environmental sustainability. His interdisciplinary education has allowed him to develop innovative solutions that address complex environmental challenges, particularly in the areas of water purification and industrial waste management.

Professional Experience

Dr. Bidhendi has had an extensive academic and research career, primarily serving as a faculty member at the University of Tehran. His expertise spans environmental engineering, pollution control, and sustainable development, with a focus on advanced wastewater treatment technologies. Over the years, he has collaborated with numerous international research teams, contributing to multi-disciplinary projects that address global environmental concerns. In addition to his teaching responsibilities, he has served as a consultant for various governmental and industrial organizations, advising on environmental policies, wastewater treatment plant designs, and pollution mitigation strategies. His professional experience also includes leading several research initiatives funded by national and international agencies, demonstrating his ability to drive impactful scientific projects. Through his leadership and mentorship, Dr. Bidhendi has guided numerous postgraduate students, shaping the next generation of environmental engineers and researchers dedicated to sustainability and ecological conservation.

Research Interests

Dr. Bidhendi’s research interests are centered around water and wastewater treatment, heavy metal removal, adsorption technologies, and environmental nanotechnology. His studies focus on developing eco-friendly and cost-effective treatment methods for removing contaminants such as heavy metals, nitrates, phosphates, and organic pollutants from wastewater. His work with nanomaterials and bio-based adsorbents has paved the way for novel solutions in industrial and municipal wastewater treatment. Additionally, he explores the application of thermodynamic and life-cycle assessment techniques to optimize treatment processes and reduce environmental footprints. His interdisciplinary approach combines chemical engineering, material science, and environmental management, leading to the development of sustainable purification systems. Through his extensive research, he aims to provide scalable and practical solutions that support cleaner water resources, pollution reduction, and industrial sustainability. His contributions are widely recognized in the field, with many of his findings published in leading environmental science journals.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Mehdi Esmaeili Bidhendi has received several awards and recognitions for his outstanding contributions to environmental engineering and water treatment research. His work has been acknowledged through numerous research grants, best paper awards, and academic honors from prestigious institutions. He has been recognized for his high-impact publications, with over 800 citations and an h-index of 15, reflecting the significant influence of his research in the scientific community. He has also been invited as a keynote speaker at international conferences, where he has shared insights into sustainable water treatment solutions. Additionally, his contributions to academia and environmental sustainability have earned him membership in leading professional organizations in environmental science and engineering. His dedication to advancing environmental research has positioned him as a key figure in the field, continuously working towards innovative and sustainable approaches to pollution control and resource management.

Conclusion

Dr. Mehdi Esmaeili Bidhendi has a strong research portfolio with a substantial number of publications in environmental engineering and sustainability. His contributions to wastewater treatment, nanotechnology, and adsorption materials are impactful and relevant to environmental challenges. While his research impact is evident, increasing leadership roles in international projects and obtaining further global recognition would strengthen his candidacy for the Best Researcher Award.

Publications Top Noted

  • A review on phase change materials in different types of solar stills

    • Author(s): A.B. Kasaeian, N.S. Nazari, A. Masoumi, L. Fereidooni, M. Esmaeili Bidhendi

    • Year: 2024

    • Citations: 6

  • Analysis of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons Using Magnetic Three-Dimensional Graphene Solid-Phase Extraction Coupled with Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry

    • Author(s): H. Sereshti, M. Karimi, S. Karami, H.R. Kamyab, H. Rashidi Nodeh

    • Year: 2023

    • Citations: 3

  • An alginate-based eutectogel impregnated with polyvinylpyrrolidone/benzoic acid deep eutectic solvent and magnetic carboxylated multiwalled carbon nanotubes: Evaluated as sorbent in green microextraction of pesticides

    • Author(s): Z. Asghari, H. Sereshti, S. Soltani, M. Esmaeili Bidhendi, S. Rezania

    • Year: 2023

    • Citations: 13

 

Anastasia Kakouri | Environmental Health | Young Scientist Award

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Ms. Anastasia Kakouri | Environmental Health | Young Scientist Award

PhD Candidate, Department of the Environment/University Of The Aegean, Greece

Anastasia Kakouri is a highly accomplished senior GIS Specialist and PhD researcher specializing in atmospheric pollution and population exposure at the National Observatory of Athens. With a profound background in geography and geoinformatics, she has applied her expertise to spatial analysis, remote sensing, and machine learning for air quality prediction and assessment. Her research integrates high-resolution emission inventories, socio-economic data, and health parameters to address environmental challenges at urban and intra-urban scales. She is actively contributing to the intersection of air quality, sustainability, and environmental justice. As a funded researcher by the Hellenic Foundation for Research and Innovation (HFRI), Kakouri’s work is influencing the management of environmental risks in Greece. Her multi-disciplinary approach is fundamental to developing tools for informed decision-making in public health and urban planning.

Profile

Scopus

Education 

Anastasia Kakouri holds a Master’s degree (M.Sc.) in Geography and Applied Geoinformatics from the University of the Aegean, Greece, where she specialized in Applied Geoinformatics for the Management of the Natural Environment and Risks. This advanced education in geospatial technologies laid the foundation for her expertise in atmospheric pollution and spatial analysis. Prior to her Master’s, she earned a Bachelor’s degree (BSc) in Environmental Science from the same university’s Department of Environment. Her academic journey was marked by a focus on integrating geoinformatics tools for environmental monitoring and risk management. Kakouri’s ongoing PhD research, funded by the Hellenic Foundation for Research and Innovation (HFRI), aims to advance the understanding of air quality and population exposure, contributing to sustainable urban development and public health policies. Her educational background and research skills form a strong base for innovative solutions in environmental science and geoinformatics.

Research Focus

Anastasia Kakouri’s research focuses on the synergy of Earth observations and geoinformatic tools to address urban atmospheric pollution and population exposure. Her primary interest lies in the application of machine learning techniques to predict air quality and assess the health impacts of pollution on populations, with a specific emphasis on urban and intra-urban environments. Kakouri is actively involved in the development of high-resolution emission inventories and the integration of remote sensing data with geostatistical models to improve spatial analysis of air pollution. Her work explores the connections between air quality, public health, and socio-economic parameters, aiming to create tools for informed decision-making at local and regional levels. Kakouri also investigates sustainability and environmental justice, ensuring that her research not only improves urban planning and environmental monitoring but also addresses health inequalities in pollution-affected areas. Her studies contribute to the broader understanding of air pollution dynamics in relation to human well-being.

Publications 

  • β€œSpatiotemporal modeling of long-term PM concentrations and population exposure in Greece, using machine learning and statistical methods” πŸŒπŸ“Š
  • β€œAnalysis of secondary inorganic aerosols over the greater Athens area using the EPISODE-CityChem source dispersion and photochemistry model” πŸŒ«οΈπŸ’¨
  • β€œNOx emissions by real-world fresh and old asphalt mixtures: Impact of temperature, relative humidity, and UV-irradiation” πŸš—πŸŒž
  • β€œEnhancing air quality data from multiple platforms towards geospatial health-related information in the intra-urban environment” πŸ™οΈπŸ“‘
  • β€œFive years of spatially resolved ground-based max-doas measurements of nitrogen dioxide in the urban area of Athens: Synergies with in situ measurements and model simulations” πŸ™οΈπŸ“
  • β€œThe urbem hybrid method to derive high-resolution emissions for city-scale air quality modeling” πŸ”¬πŸŒ†
  • β€œIntegrating in situ Measurements and City Scale Modelling to Assess the COVID– Lockdown Effects on Emissions and Air Quality in Athens, Greece” πŸ¦ πŸ’¨

Mengie Belayneh | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

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Assoc Prof Dr. Mengie Belayneh | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Associate professor, Mattu University, Ethiopia

Mengie Belayneh is an accomplished environmental and natural resources management scholar with extensive academic and research experience. He is currently serving as an associate professor at Mattu University, Ethiopia, specializing in soil and water conservation, land use management, and environmental sustainability. Mengie has significantly contributed to various international research projects and has participated in numerous conferences globally. His research addresses crucial environmental challenges, aiming to improve resource management in Ethiopia and beyond. πŸŒπŸ“š

Publication Profile

Google Scholar

Strengths for the Award:

  1. Diverse Research Contributions: Dr. Mengie Belayneh has contributed extensively to research in environmental studies, geography, soil conservation, and natural resource management. His work spans numerous areas crucial to sustainable land and resource management in Ethiopia, making him a strong candidate for recognition in research excellence.
  2. International Recognition: With publications in reputable international journals like Physics and Chemistry of the Earth and Global Ecology and Conservation, Dr. Belayneh has earned global attention for his contributions, strengthening his candidacy for a prestigious research award.
  3. Grant Funding & Project Leadership: Dr. Belayneh has successfully secured international research grants, such as from the International Foundation for Science (IFS). His ability to lead high-impact projects demonstrates his capacity to conduct meaningful research that generates real-world benefits, particularly in soil and water conservation.
  4. Collaboration & Community Impact: His research on watershed management, soil erosion, and land-use changes involves collaborations with local and international scholars. Furthermore, his involvement in organizing community training programs for land rehabilitation shows his commitment to translating research into action.
  5. Peer Recognition: Dr. Belayneh’s role as a reviewer for numerous high-impact journals highlights the trust the academic community places in his expertise and knowledge.

Areas for Improvement:

  1. Broader Impact Beyond Ethiopia: While Dr. Belayneh’s research is vital for Ethiopia and similar contexts, expanding his work to other regions or integrating more global comparisons could further enhance his international standing.
  2. Cross-disciplinary Engagement: Engaging with more interdisciplinary fields, such as climate change mitigation strategies or social sciences, could broaden the scope of his work and its applicability, thus enhancing his overall research impact.
  3. Visibility & Networking: While his publication record is impressive, increasing visibility through more frequent participation in high-profile international conferences and networking could further elevate his profile.

 

Education:

Mengie holds a Ph.D. in Environment and Natural Resources Management (2021) from Arba Minch University, Ethiopia. He earned an M.Sc. in Urban and Regional Development Planning (2011) from Mekelle University and a B.Sc. in Geography, with a minor in Economics (2009), from Wollo University. πŸŽ“πŸ“–

Experience:

Mengie has over a decade of teaching and research experience at Mattu University, where he progressed from lecturer to associate professor. His academic journey includes serving as the Deliverology and Teachers Development Coordinator and Head of the Department of Geography and Environmental Studies. His expertise spans urban planning, environmental conservation, and resource management. 🏫🌱

Research Focus:

Mengie’s research primarily focuses on environmental sustainability, soil erosion control, watershed management, and land use planning. His projects have explored the dynamics of gully erosion, wetland ecosystem services, and the impact of conservation practices on soil health. His work emphasizes practical solutions to environmental challenges in Ethiopia. πŸŒΏπŸ’§

Awards and Honors:

Mengie has received research funding from prestigious international foundations such as the International Foundation for Science (IFS) for his work on watershed management. His projects have made substantial contributions to understanding soil erosion and conservation measures in Ethiopia. πŸ†πŸŒŽ

Publications (Top Notes):

Mengie has published widely in reputable international journals, including Physics and Chemistry of the Earth, Heliyon, and Resources, Conservation & Recycling Advances. His research on soil erosion, forest management, and climate change has been highly cited and contributes to sustainable land management practices in Ethiopia. πŸ“πŸŒ³

Belayneh, M. (2024). Soil Erosion Responses of Cropland Uses in Contrasting Slope in the Abay Basin, Ethiopia. Physics and Chemistry of the Earth, 136, 103732. [Cited by 4 articles]

Masha, M., Bojago, E., Belayneh, M., Tadila, G., & Abera, A. (2024). Quantifying forest degradation rates and their drivers in Alle district, southwestern Ethiopia: Implications for sustainable forest management practices. Geomatica, 76(2), 100009. [Cited by 2 articles]

Masha, M., Bojago, E., Tadila, G., & Belayneh, M. (2024). Effects of participatory forest management programs on Land use/land cover change and its Determinants in Alle District, southwest Ethiopia. Heliyon, 10(15). [Cited by 1 article]

Belayneh, M., Masha, M., Abera, A., & Terefa, K. (2024). Impacts of Sustainable Land Management Intervention on the Soil Condition and Landscape Greenness: Evidence from Jimma Arjo District, Southwestern Ethiopia. International Journal of Ecology, 2024(1), 4750914. [Cited by 3 articles]

Belayneh, M. (2023). Factors affecting the adoption and effectiveness of soil and water conservation measures among small-holder rural farmers: The case of Gumara watershed. Resources, Conservation & Recycling Advances, 18, 200159. [Cited by 5 articles]

Desta, L. J., & Belayneh, M. (2023). Analysis of Climatic Change and Variability and Its Effect on Coffee Production in Mattu District, Southwest Ethiopia. Sustainability and Climate Change, 16(6), 461-479. [Cited by 2 articles]

Masha, M., Belayneh, M., Bojago, E., Tadiwos, S., & Dessalegn, A. (2023). Impacts of land-use and topography on soil physicochemical properties in the Wamancho watershed, Southern Ethiopia. Journal of Agriculture and Food Research, 14, 100854. [Cited by 3 articles]

Conclusion:

Dr. Mengie Belayneh is a suitable candidate for the Research for Best Research Award. His extensive research in environmental management, successful acquisition of international grants, and active contribution to community-based solutions showcase a career marked by both academic excellence and practical impact. Expanding his global influence and interdisciplinary connections could further strengthen his already impressive profile.