Faran Vahedian | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

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Mrs. Faran Vahedian | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Research Engineer, EA Engineering, Science, Technology, United States

Dr. Faran Vahedian is an environmental engineer and hydrogeologist with over 10 years of experience in environmental engineering, specializing in groundwater and vadose zone systems. She completed her Ph.D. at the Colorado School of Mines, focusing on the fate and transport of PFAS in AFFF-impacted media. Her research has been funded by the Department of Defense’s Strategic Environmental Research and Development Program (SERDP), addressing pressing environmental concerns. Dr. Vahedian is skilled in laboratory analysis, data processing, and numerical modeling, using tools like MODFLOW, FEFLOW, and HYDRUS. She has developed innovative techniques for detecting PFAS tracers using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS-MS-QTRAP). With experience in both academic and field-based research, Dr. Vahedian has contributed to multiple publications and presentations in environmental remediation, groundwater contamination, and sustainable water management strategies. Her work is known for its technical depth, collaboration, and practical applications in environmental engineering.

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Education 

Dr. Faran Vahedian earned her Ph.D. in Civil and Environmental Engineering from the Colorado School of Mines in 2024, where she conducted advanced research on PFAS contamination in vadose zones, funded by the Department of Defense’s Strategic Environmental Research and Development Program (SERDP). She holds a Master’s in Water Engineering from the University of Guelph, Canada (2021), focusing on water quality and sustainable water management. Her undergraduate degree is a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, Iran (2014), where she first gained foundational knowledge in environmental and civil engineering. Dr. Vahedian’s academic journey has equipped her with specialized skills in laboratory analysis, groundwater modeling, and environmental systems, allowing her to contribute significantly to research on PFAS contamination and remediation strategies.

Experience 

Dr. Vahedian has a diverse and extensive background in environmental engineering and hydrogeology. From 2021 to 2024, she worked as a Graduate Research Assistant at the Colorado School of Mines, leading a SERDP-funded project on the fate and transport of PFAS in vadose zones. She conducted lab experiments, numerical modeling, and collaborated with HYDRUS developers to refine models for groundwater systems. Prior to that, from 2016 to 2021, she worked as a Hydrogeologist, conducting field characterization, groundwater quality assessments, and developing Python-based tools for groundwater data analysis. Her experience extends to Wastewater Treatment Plant Design Engineer (2014-2016), where she optimized water treatment systems, conducted water sampling, and ensured compliance with environmental regulations. Dr. Vahedian’s practical skills in hydrological modeling, GIS analysis, and environmental risk assessments complement her research expertise, particularly in sustainable water management and environmental remediation projects.

Research Focus 

Dr. Vahedian’s research focuses on the environmental fate and transport of PFAS (Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances), particularly in the context of aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) contamination. Her work seeks to understand the mechanisms behind PFAS contamination in vadose zones and groundwater, exploring air-water interfacial partitioning and solid-phase sorption processes. She has applied numerical modeling and laboratory experiments to simulate PFAS movement and develop remediation strategies. Additionally, Dr. Vahedian has worked on groundwater flow modeling and sustainable water management, with particular emphasis on modeling hydraulic cross-connections in bedrock aquifer systems and evaluating the impact of fertilizers on groundwater quality. Her research aims to improve understanding of subsurface contamination, develop tools for environmental monitoring, and enhance strategies for the remediation of contaminated water systems. She collaborates closely with model developers and researchers to refine tools and models for groundwater contamination analysis.

Publications

  • Vahedian, F., Silva, J. A., Šimůnek, J., & McCray, J. E. Influence of kinetic air-water interfacial partitioning on unsaturated transport of PFAS in sandy soils. The Science of the Total Environment 🧪💧
  • Vahedian, F., Silva, J. A., Šimůnek, J., & McCray, J. E. (2024). Influence of Tension-Driven Flow on the Transport of AFFF in Unsaturated Media. ACS ES&T Water 🌊🔬
  • Vahedian F; Silva, J.A.K.; Ross, Ian; McCray, J.E. Assessing the Influence of AFFF-impacted media on Sorption Behavior of PFASs. Water Research 🔍💦
  • Vahedian F; Quinn, P., Merritt, Levison, J., Parker, B. Simulating Open Borehole Hydraulic Cross-Connection in A Multi-Layered Bedrock Aquifer System. JOH 🏞️🧭

Laura Bulgariu | Environemntal remediation | Best Researcher Award

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Prof Dr. Laura Bulgariu | Environemntal remediation | Best Researcher Award

Professor, Gheorghe Asachi Technical University of Iasi, Romania

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Short Bio 🧑‍🎓

Laura Bulgariu is a distinguished professor in Environmental Engineering and Management at Gheorghe Asachi Technical University of Iași, Romania. With a strong foundation in chemical engineering and a commitment to environmental sustainability, she has made significant contributions to the field of biosorption and wastewater treatment. Laura’s research focuses on utilizing biomass and other sustainable materials to address environmental challenges, particularly in the remediation of toxic metal ions from wastewater.

Education 🎓

Laura completed her Ph.D. in Environmental Engineering and Management at Gheorghe Asachi Technical University of Iași in 2006. She further enhanced her academic credentials by achieving habilitation in the same field in 2013. Earlier, she earned a Master’s degree in Chemistry and a Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry from Alexandru Ioan Cuza University in Iași.

Experience 💼

Since February 2000, Laura has been a professor at Gheorghe Asachi Technical University, where she has dedicated her career to teaching and research in environmental engineering. She has supervised numerous students and has been actively involved in various research projects focused on environmental protection and management.

Research Interests 🔬

Laura’s research interests encompass environmental engineering, biosorption, and waste management. She is particularly focused on the development of low-cost biosorbents from agricultural and industrial waste materials for the removal of heavy metals and other pollutants from wastewater. Her work contributes to the advancement of sustainable practices in environmental engineering.

Awards 🏆

Laura has been recognized for her contributions to research and academia, receiving several prestigious awards throughout her career. Notable accolades include the “Best Researcher Award” for her innovative work in environmental engineering and multiple recognitions for her impactful publications in high-impact journals.

Publications Top Notes 📚

Laura has authored over 50 publications in esteemed journals, including:

Circular Approach of Using Soybean Biomass for the Removal of Toxic Metal Ions from Wastewater (2024) – Preprint

Biosorption of Technologically Valuable Metal Ions on Algae Wastes: Laboratory Studies and Applicability (2024) – Water

Evaluation of Thermodynamic Parameters for Cu(II) Ions Biosorption on Algae Biomass and Derived Biochars (2023) – Symmetry

Isotherm and Kinetic Study of Metal Ions Sorption on Mustard Waste Biomass Functionalized with Polymeric Thiocarbamate (2023) – Polymers

Kai Wang | Catalysis | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Kai Wang | Catalysis | Best Researcher Award

Research Fellow, The University of Queensland, Australia

Kai Wang, a passionate researcher specializing in mechanochemistry, piezocatalysis, and plastic recycling, currently serves as a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at the University of Queensland, Australia. His academic journey spans prestigious institutions in China and Australia, marked by numerous accolades for his innovative contributions to materials science and engineering.

Education 📚

Kai Wang pursued his PhD in Chemical Engineering at Curtin University, Australia, from 2018 to 2022, supported by the CIPRS and Research Stipend Scholarship. Prior to this, he completed his postgraduate studies in Mechanical Engineering at East China University of Science and Technology and earned his Bachelor’s degree in Process Equipment and Controlling Engineering from China University of Petroleum.

Experience 🧪

Since 2023, Kai has been investigating piezoelectric catalysis for plastic recycling/upcycling as a Postdoctoral Research Fellow under the supervision of Prof. Lianzhou Wang. His PhD research focused on piezoelectric perovskite oxides for piezo-electrocatalytic hydrogen peroxide generation under the guidance of Prof. Shaomin Liu, earning him the Chancellor Commendation for outstanding thesis in 2022.

Research Interests 🔬

Kai Wang’s research interests revolve around mechanochemistry, piezocatalysis, and sustainable materials. His work explores the applications of piezoelectric materials in catalytic processes for environmental remediation and energy conversion.

Awards 🏆

Kai Wang has garnered numerous awards, including the Chinese Government Award for Outstanding Self-financed Students Abroad, Chancellor Commendation Award for Excellence in PhD Thesis, and Curtin International Postgraduate Research Scholarship. His outstanding academic achievements were recognized with the First-prize Academic Scholarship and the title of Outstanding Graduate in Shandong Province.

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Publications Top Notes 📖

[1] Wang, K., et al., The mechanism of piezocatalysis: Energy band theory or screening charge effect? Angewandte Chemie 2022.

[2] Wang, K., et al., Ternary BaCaZrTi perovskite oxide piezocatalysts dancing for efficient hydrogen peroxide generation. Nano Energy 2022.

[3] Wang, K., et al., Perovskite oxide catalysts for advanced oxidation reactions. Advanced Functional Materials 2021.

[4] Wang, K., et al., Unveiling the determining factors of perovskite oxides in catalytic peroxymonosulfate activation for wastewater remediation. Applied Catalysis B: Environmental 2023.

[5] Zhang L., Wang, K.*, et al., Self-assembled LaFeO3-δ/ZnFe2O4/La2O3 ultracompact hybrids with enhanced piezo-phototronic effect for oxygen activation at ambient conditions. Advanced Functional Materials 2022.

 

Mishari Mohammed Khajah | Wastewater Treatment | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Mishari Mohammed Khajah | Wastewater Treatment | Best Researcher Award

Associate Research Scientist, Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research (KISR), Kuwait

Dr. Mishari Mohammed Khajah, an esteemed Associate Research Scientist at the Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research (KISR), Kuwait, has been honored with the prestigious Best Researcher Award in Wastewater Treatment. 🏆 With unwavering dedication and expertise in the field, Dr. Khajah has made remarkable contributions to advancing wastewater treatment technologies. His innovative research methodologies and commitment to sustainability have garnered widespread recognition. As an influential figure in the scientific community, Dr. Khajah continues to inspire others through his groundbreaking work, shaping a cleaner and more sustainable future for generations to come. 🌱

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Scopus

Current Affiliation

Dr. Mishari Mohammed Khajah holds the esteemed position of Associate Research Scientist at the Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research (KISR). 🌟 In this role, Dr. Khajah contributes significantly to the institute’s mission of advancing scientific knowledge and innovation. With a focus on research and development, he plays a pivotal role in projects related to environmental sustainability, particularly in wastewater treatment. His expertise and dedication enable him to tackle complex scientific challenges, driving forward solutions that benefit both Kuwait and the global community. Dr. Khajah’s work exemplifies excellence in scientific research and underscores KISR’s commitment to pioneering advancements in various fields. 🧪

Education

Dr. Mishari Mohammed Khajah’s academic journey is marked by excellence and dedication. 🎓 He obtained his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Civil Engineering from Kuwait University, completing his degrees in 2007 and 2010, respectively. Building upon this foundation, he pursued a Ph.D. in Civil and Environmental Engineering at Cardiff University, successfully defending his thesis in 2017. Titled “Engineering aspects, pathways, and mechanisms of nitrogen removal in engineered wetland systems,” his doctoral research delved into crucial environmental issues, showcasing his commitment to sustainability and innovation. Dr. Khajah’s academic achievements highlight his passion for advancing knowledge and addressing pressing global challenges. 🌍

Research Experience, Interests, and Impact

With over 16 years of dedicated research in wastewater treatment, I have established myself as a leader in the field, specializing in wetland treatment systems. 🌿 My experience spans across various projects, encompassing municipal, industrial, and gray water treatment. As a project leader, task leader, and team member, I’ve contributed significantly to advancing wastewater treatment technologies. My focus lies in technology development and enhancing the performance of treatment plants. Recently, I proposed a groundbreaking project on microplastics in wastewater treatment, aligning with the evolving priorities of the Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research (KISR), Water Research Center (WRC). This initiative reflects my commitment to addressing contemporary environmental challenges and contributing to global research efforts. 🌍

Awards

Dr. Mishari Mohammed Khajah’s groundbreaking paper, “Evaluation of a Wetland System in Treating Wastewater at Sulaibiya Research Plant in Kuwait,” earned him the prestigious Research World Excellent Paper Award at the International Conference on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Management (ICSTEM) in Seoul, South Korea, in September 2023. 🏅 His outstanding academic achievements extend to his time as an Honor Roll Student and recipient of the Honorary Dean’s List at Kuwait University’s Civil Engineering Department. Dr. Khajah’s active membership in the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) since 2005 showcases his commitment to professional excellence and continuous learning in the field. 🌐

Publications Top Notes

Performance evaluation of a pilot wetland system for wastewater treatment

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jer.2023.11.027 🌿

Organics removal from office wastewater in attached growth biological process of a packaged onsite wastewater treatment system

DOI: https://doi.org/10.5004/dwt.2023.29945 🏢

Performance of tubular microbial fuel cells using different industrial wastewater

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jwpe.2023.104166 ⚡

Greywater treatment using vertical subsurface flow constructed wetland system

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jer.2023.100052 💧

Nitrogen removal performance and bacterial community analysis of a multistage step-feeding tidal flow constructed wetland

DOI: https://doi.org/10.3389/frwa.2023.1128901 🦠

Microbial community structure of anode electrodes in microbial fuel cells and microbial electrolysis cells

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jwpe.2020.101140 🔋

Investigation of nitrogen removal via CANON process in a single-stage constructed wetland system

DOI: 10.11912/jws.2016.6.2.43-52 🌱

Nitrogen removal in a redox-stratified constructed wetland system

DOI: 10.11912/jws.2016.6.1.29-42 🌿

Absorption and Adsorption of Trace Elements of Septic Tank Effluent into Commercial Fertilizer of Peat.

Available online at http://ijestr.org/ 🚽