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

Xinghua Liu | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Assoc Prof Dr.  Xinghua Liu | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Ass Prof, Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences Institute of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, China

🌿 Xinghua Liu is an accomplished Associate Professor at the Institute of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences. With a strong foundation in environmental sciences and soil sciences, Dr. Liu has made significant contributions to understanding the interactions between organic matter and antibiotics in soil and sediment systems. She has published numerous research papers and holds multiple patents related to environmental sustainability and agricultural practices. Recognized for her innovative research, Dr. Liu has received several prestigious awards, highlighting her expertise in the field of environmental sciences.

Publication Profile

Scopus

Strengths for the Award:

  1. Strong Academic Background and Continuous Research Involvement: Xinghua Liu has a robust academic background in Environmental Sciences, with a Ph.D. in the field and continuous involvement in scientific research since 2018 as an Assistant Professor at the Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences.
  2. Extensive Research Publications: Liu has published numerous research articles as the first or corresponding author in high-impact journals such as Science of The Total Environment and Journal of Environmental Management. The topics cover important areas in environmental science, including soil and sediment contamination, antibiotic sorption mechanisms, and organic matter distribution, reflecting both depth and diversity in research focus.
  3. Patents and Practical Contributions: Liu holds multiple patents, including innovative methods for measuring soil particulate organic matter and integrated systems for managing livestock and poultry manure. These patents demonstrate a significant contribution to both theoretical and practical aspects of environmental management and technology.
  4. Recognition and Awards: Liu has received several prestigious awards, including the “Youth Science and Technology Award” from the Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, the “Innovative Talents Outstanding Contribution Award,” and multiple “Major Scientific Research Progress Awards.” These awards highlight Liu’s impact and recognition within the scientific community.
  5. Successful Project Leadership: Liu has led multiple high-impact research projects funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China and other institutions, reflecting strong project management skills and the ability to secure competitive funding.

Areas for Improvement:

  1. Focus on Broader Research Impact: While Liu has contributed extensively to the field of Environmental Sciences, focusing on soil and organic matter studies, there could be more emphasis on the broader application of this research, such as addressing global environmental challenges (e.g., climate change mitigation, pollution control). Diversifying research topics and aligning them with pressing global issues could enhance Liu’s impact.
  2. International Collaboration and Visibility: Increasing international collaborations and publications in globally recognized journals could further elevate Liu’s profile. Attending international conferences, contributing to global policy discussions, or engaging in multinational research projects would strengthen global visibility and impact.
  3. Enhanced Use of Modern Research Tools: Leveraging advanced analytical techniques and computational modeling could add value to Liu’s research, especially in quantifying environmental phenomena or predicting future environmental changes.

 

Education

🎓 Xinghua Liu completed her Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Sciences from China Agricultural University (2006-2010). She pursued a Master’s degree in Soil Sciences at Shandong Agricultural University (2010-2013) and earned her Doctorate in Environmental Sciences from the Yantai Institute of Coastal Zone Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences (2014-2018).

Experience

🔬 Xinghua Liu has been serving as an Associate Professor at the Institute of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences since 2018. Her work focuses on the environmental impact of agricultural practices, particularly the behavior of antibiotics in soil and sediment environments. She has also authored numerous peer-reviewed articles and developed innovative methods for environmental assessment and sustainable agricultural management.

Research Focus

🌱 Xinghua Liu specializes in studying the sorption and desorption mechanisms of antibiotics in soil and sediments, the spatial heterogeneity of particulate organic matter, and the ecological impacts of agricultural waste management. Her research aims to enhance sustainable agricultural practices through innovative environmental assessment techniques and the development of environmentally friendly agricultural technologies.

Awards and Honours

🏆 Dr. Liu has been recognized with numerous awards, including the Youth Science and Technology Award from the Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences (2022), the Qilu Agricultural Science and Technology Award, the Innovative Talents Outstanding Contribution Award (Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences), and the Major Scientific Research Progress Award (2022, 2024). She is also acknowledged as a High-E-level talent in Jinan and a Jinan Licheng District high-end talent.

Publication Top Notes

📚 Xinghua Liu has authored several impactful publications, including:

Liu, X., Luo, Y., Zhang, H., et al. “Spatial heterogeneity of particulate organic matter for the sorption of ciprofloxacin at the microstructure scale.” Science of The Total Environment, 2022.

Liu, X., Zhang, H., Luo, Y., et al. “Sorption of oxytetracycline on particulate organic matter in soils and sediments: Roles of pH, ionic strength and temperature.” Science of the Total Environment, 2020.

XH. Liu, YY. Xie. “Sorption and desorption behavior and mechanism of oxytetracycline on soil aggregates organic matter separated from soils and sediments in the Yellow River Delta.” Journal of Environmental Management, 2024.

Conclusion:

Xinghua Liu is a highly suitable candidate for the Research for Best Research Award due to a strong academic foundation, extensive research output, practical contributions through patents, and recognition through numerous awards. Liu’s dedication to environmental research, evidenced by leading multiple funded projects, further supports this suitability. However, to maximize potential, a stronger emphasis on global collaboration, diversified research focus, and enhanced use of modern tools could improve the candidacy for the award. Overall, Liu’s profile demonstrates significant strengths and promising potential for further impact in the field of environmental sciences.