Sufia Sultana | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Sufia Sultana | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Research Associate at Cranfield University, United Kingdom

Dr. Sufia Sultana is a dedicated environmental researcher with a strong academic and practical background in Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH), Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and Environmental Studies. With a passion for sustainable development and a keen focus on data-driven solutions, she has worked extensively to address sanitation challenges in low-resource settings. Her PhD research at Cranfield University, under the EPSRC Water-WISER program, involved spatially representing faecal pollution in unsewered urban catchments using open-source data, providing innovative methodologies for sanitation planning. Her academic journey has taken her from Bangladesh to the UK, consistently focused on the intersections of environment, health, and data science. Over the years, she has built a robust portfolio of publications and research contributions, particularly in environmental monitoring, spatial modeling, and water quality analysis. Beyond academia, she has demonstrated a strong commitment to community outreach and education, having volunteered in various support roles in both the UK and Bangladesh. Dr. Sultana’s unique blend of technical expertise, real-world field experience, and dedication to impactful research places her at the forefront of interdisciplinary environmental science, with a continued goal of contributing to resilient, sustainable, and equitable urban systems.

Professional Profile

Education

Dr. Sufia Sultana holds an exceptional academic record across multiple disciplines relevant to environmental and water sciences. She earned her PhD in Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) from Cranfield University (2019–2024), supported by the EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training in Water-WISER. Her doctoral research focused on spatial analysis of sanitation infrastructure using open-source data, contributing novel approaches to environmental health monitoring. Prior to her PhD, she completed an MSc in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) at the University of Portsmouth (2017–2018), graduating with Merit, where she focused on river water degradation using remote sensing. She also holds a Postgraduate Diploma in Water Resources Development from the Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology, where she explored wetland change using GIS. Her academic journey began with a BSc and MSc in Geography and Environmental Studies from the University of Rajshahi, Bangladesh. Throughout her education, she developed technical skills in spatial analysis, statistical modeling, and remote sensing tools such as ArcGIS, ERDAS Imagine, Python, and SQL. Her diverse academic background reflects a comprehensive understanding of environmental systems, data-driven analysis, and applied geospatial technologies—providing a solid foundation for addressing complex challenges in global sanitation and water sustainability.

Professional Experience

Dr. Sultana brings a rich and varied portfolio of professional experience across academic, technical, and community-based roles. Her research career includes working as a Research Assistant at the University of Portsmouth in 2019, where she contributed to a study on rural water supply in Myanmar, involving digital terrain analysis, satellite data, and hydrological modeling. Earlier in her career, she worked as a Remote Sensing and GIS Assistant at Bangladesh’s national space agency, SPARRSO, contributing to thematic mapping and aerial photo interpretation. She has also held several GIS roles with development consulting firms and government-supported urban planning projects in Bangladesh, enhancing her expertise in field data collection, map digitization, and client training. Beyond research, she has supported education and community service in the UK, working as a teaching assistant, outreach volunteer, and hospice volunteer. These roles reflect her ability to communicate complex topics, collaborate across diverse teams, and contribute to broader social initiatives. Dr. Sultana’s professional background is characterized by an effective blend of technical skill, practical fieldwork, and community engagement, reinforcing her value as a multidisciplinary researcher who can bridge science, policy, and public needs.

Research Interests

Dr. Sultana’s research interests are centered on environmental sustainability, sanitation management, spatial data science, and water quality monitoring. Her work often combines field-based data collection with advanced geospatial analysis to address pressing challenges in low-resource urban settings. A key focus of her research has been understanding and visualizing the distribution of faecal pollution and sanitation access in unsewered urban catchments. She is particularly interested in leveraging open-source geospatial data and developing new methods for spatial representation that can inform equitable infrastructure planning. Her past projects have included water quality degradation analysis in Dhaka megacity using satellite imagery, as well as wetland mapping and land use change detection over time. Dr. Sultana also has a growing interest in resilience planning, particularly within food and water systems, and how climate and urbanization impact environmental health. Through her academic work and collaborations, she continues to explore the intersections of geoinformatics, environmental justice, and sustainable development. Her multidisciplinary approach allows her to contribute meaningfully to research projects across sectors, from sanitation planning to environmental policy, and she remains committed to producing actionable research that supports both scientific advancement and community well-being.

Awards and Honors

Throughout her academic and research career, Dr. Sufia Sultana has earned recognition for her scholarly contributions and technical skills. Her most prominent academic distinction is being selected for the prestigious EPSRC-funded Water-WISER Doctoral Training Programme, which is a collaborative initiative between Cranfield University, the University of Leeds, and Loughborough University. This program supports top-tier researchers in the field of water and sanitation and is highly competitive. Dr. Sultana has also published several peer-reviewed journal articles in respected international journals such as Environmental Science and Pollution Research, Journal of Water, Sanitation and Hygiene for Development, and Journal of Environmental Advances, further affirming her credibility and contribution to the research community. Her early research on wetland area changes in Dhaka also received commendation for its relevance to urban environmental policy. While formal awards beyond her doctoral funding are limited in the current record, her continuous academic achievements, including a Merit in her MSc and leadership in field and research projects, reflect her dedication and excellence. As she continues to expand her research collaborations and engage in policy-relevant science, Dr. Sultana is well-positioned for future honors and leadership roles in the global environmental research arena.

Conclusion

Sufia Sultana is a highly suitable and deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Her work combines technical excellence, interdisciplinary approaches, and social relevance—particularly in environmental sustainability, public health, and sanitation. Her published research, particularly using open-source data to address WASH issues in vulnerable regions, reflects innovation and a deep commitment to impactful science. With continued focus on expanding global collaborations and translating research into practice, she is poised to make even greater contributions to her field.

Publications Top Notes

Author(s): Sultana, M.S., Waine, T.W., Bari, M.N., Tyrrel, S.F.

Year: 2025

Title: An analysis of factors that influence the spatial pattern of faecal matter flow in unsewered cities

Journal: Science of the Total Environment

Citations: As of now, the article has 0 citations (based on the information you provided).

Balasubramanian D | Environmental Science | Excellence in Research Award

Prof. Dr. Balasubramanian D | Environmental Science | Excellence in Research Award

Professor at Arunachal University of Studies, India

Dr. D. Balasubramanian is an esteemed academic and researcher specializing in ecosystem ecology, biogeochemistry, and environmental science. He is currently a Professor and Head of the Department of Botany at Arunachal University of Studies, Namsai, Arunachal Pradesh, India. With a career spanning over two decades, Dr. Balasubramanian has significantly contributed to understanding the dynamics of soil organic matter, greenhouse gas emissions, biodiversity conservation, and climate change. He has worked in various prestigious roles, including as a Research Associate at the State Climate Change Cell in Arunachal Pradesh and a Postdoctoral Fellow at the Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden in China. Dr. Balasubramanian’s work involves interdisciplinary approaches that integrate environmental management, ecological studies, and climate change mitigation. He is a recognized expert in his field, known for his in-depth research and dedication to advancing knowledge in ecosystem sustainability and biogeochemical processes. His educational journey and professional experiences reflect a commitment to scientific excellence and collaboration, both locally and internationally.

Professional Profile

Education

Dr. Balasubramanian’s academic journey is marked by his exceptional performance and academic distinctions. He holds a Ph.D. in Botany from Rajiv Gandhi University, Arunachal Pradesh, India, where his thesis focused on ecological studies of Eichhornia crassipes and its application in soil nutrient management. He completed his M.Phil. at Ayya Nadar Janaki Ammal College, Tamil Nadu, where he studied the numerical phenetic taxonomy of certain members of the Leguminosae family. He earned his M.Sc. in Botany from the same institution, with a project on the anatomical and physiological adaptations of Cassytha filiformis. His rigorous academic background is complemented by various postdoctoral fellowships and professional training, including his work at the Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden under the Chinese Academy of Sciences. His research during these stages focused on soil biogeochemistry and ecosystem functions, further cementing his expertise in these areas. This combination of formal education and specialized training has provided him with a solid foundation to excel in his academic and research endeavors.

Professional Experience

Dr. Balasubramanian’s professional experience spans multiple roles in academia and research. He is presently serving as a Professor and Head of the Department of Botany at Arunachal University of Studies, where he has been a key figure in teaching, mentoring, and driving research excellence. His previous role as an Associate Professor at the same institution allowed him to contribute significantly to the development of the Department’s academic framework and research initiatives. Dr. Balasubramanian’s career includes valuable research experiences as a Postdoctoral Fellow in China, working under the Chinese Academy of Sciences, where he studied soil organic matter decomposition and its responses to climate change. His time as a Research Associate at the State Climate Change Cell in Arunachal Pradesh involved developing strategies to sustain the fragile Himalayan ecosystem in the face of climate variability. He has also held positions in various other research and academic institutions, such as NERIST and ICAR, where he conducted groundbreaking work on climate-resilient agriculture and high-altitude ecosystems. These diverse roles have allowed Dr. Balasubramanian to cultivate a multifaceted approach to research and environmental management.

Research Interests

Dr. Balasubramanian’s research interests are centered around ecosystem ecology, biogeochemistry, and biodiversity conservation. He has a particular focus on the study of soil organic matter dynamics, including its decomposition and the role of microbial communities in terrestrial ecosystems. His work on greenhouse gas emissions, particularly in wetland and forest ecosystems, contributes to a better understanding of climate change and its impact on natural environments. Additionally, Dr. Balasubramanian investigates the effects of land use changes, such as the conversion of rainforests into monoculture plantations, on soil carbon dynamics and ecosystem functions. His research extends to the interactions between plants, soil, and microbes, particularly in agroecosystems, and the role of invasive species in altering ecosystem processes. Dr. Balasubramanian’s interdisciplinary approach brings together ecology, environmental science, and climate change research, with the ultimate goal of developing sustainable management strategies for natural resources and biodiversity. His expertise in ecosystem services and environmental biotechnology further complements his commitment to addressing the pressing environmental challenges of the 21st century.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Balasubramanian has received numerous awards and honors throughout his career in recognition of his contributions to science and research. He was conferred the prestigious Eminent Scientist Award in 2020 by the Society for Science of Climate Change and Sustainable Environment (SSCE), acknowledging his exemplary work in the field of ecosystem services and environmental biotechnology. His contributions to the global scientific community were further recognized when he was awarded the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) President’s International Fellowship for Postdoctoral Research, allowing him to conduct high-impact research at the Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden. Dr. Balasubramanian is also a Fellow of the Society for Science of Climate Change and Sustainable Environment (SSCE), a testament to his standing as a leader in the field. In addition to these honors, he has earned several gold medals for academic excellence during his M.Sc. and B.Sc. degrees, demonstrating his outstanding performance in his academic pursuits. These awards and recognitions reflect Dr. Balasubramanian’s dedication to advancing environmental science and his impact on both national and international scientific communities.

Conclusion

Dr. D. Balasubramanian is highly deserving of the Excellence in Research Award. His strong academic foundation, high-impact research contributions, international collaborations, and recognition within the scientific community establish him as a leading expert in his field. While there are opportunities for improvement in community engagement and outreach, his continued dedication to advancing ecological and environmental sciences makes him a standout candidate for this prestigious award.

Publications Top Noted

Author(s):
F. Bibi, D. Balasubramanian, M.F. Ilyas, M. Shah, S.A. Rather

Title:
Seasonal Variations of Fine Root Dynamics in Rubber-Flemingia macrophylla Intercropping System in Southwestern China

Journal:
Plants, 2022

Citations:
0 (as per the available data)

Cornelia Kasper | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Cornelia Kasper | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Head of Institute at BOKU, Department für Biotechnologie, Institut für Zell- und Gewebekulturtechnologien, Austria

Cornelia Kasper is a renowned professor and researcher in the field of biotechnology, specializing in Tissue Engineering, Stem Cell Technology, and Bioprocess Engineering. She earned her Diploma in Chemistry from the University of Hannover in 1994, followed by a Dr. rer. nat. in 1998 for her dissertation on technical chemistry. Kasper later completed her Habilitation on “New approaches in cell culture techniques” at the University of Hannover in 2007, where she was awarded the Venia Legendi in Technical Chemistry. She has since held numerous leadership roles in both academia and research, including Head of the Cell Culture and Tissue Engineering Group at Leibniz University Hannover (2000-2011) and Full Professor at the University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences (BOKU) in Vienna since 2011. Her academic journey exemplifies a career built on academic rigor, innovative research, and significant contributions to her field.

Professional Profile

Education

Cornelia Kasper’s educational journey began at the University of Hannover, where she earned a Diploma in Chemistry in 1994. Her academic career then progressed through a Ph.D. in 1998, where she focused on Technical Chemistry at the Institute for Technical Chemistry. During her doctoral studies, she developed expertise in areas like bioprocessing and bioreactor design, which laid the foundation for her later work in Tissue Engineering. Kasper further pursued academic excellence by completing her Habilitation at the University of Hannover in 2007, where she specialized in cell culture technologies and received the Venia Legendi in “Technische Chemie.” This qualification allowed her to teach and supervise PhD students, and it was during this period that she began to deepen her expertise in stem cell research. Her educational background is marked by both theoretical knowledge and practical, cutting-edge research.

Professional Experience

Cornelia Kasper’s professional career spans multiple institutions and leadership roles, demonstrating her influence in the fields of biotechnology and regenerative medicine. After completing her dissertation, she was employed as an EU Liaison Officer at the University of Hannover until 2000. From 2000 to 2011, she led the Cell Culture and Tissue Engineering Group at the Institute for Technical Chemistry, Leibniz University Hannover. Her leadership extended to the “Rebirth” Cluster of Excellence, where she headed the Young Researcher Group on “Large Scale Cultivation.” Since 2011, Kasper has been a Full Professor at the University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences (BOKU), where she is also the Head of the Institute for Cell and Tissue Culture Technologies. Additionally, she has served in several important administrative positions, including Chair of the Equal Opportunity Working Party and Co-Chair of the Doc School “Biomaterials and Interfaces,” shaping both academic policy and research agendas.

Research Interests

Cornelia Kasper’s research is primarily focused on Tissue Engineering, Stem Cell Technologies, and Bioprocess Engineering. Her work explores the design and development of bioreactors for large-scale stem cell cultivation, as well as the optimization of cell culture conditions to enhance cell differentiation, expansion, and product development. A key aspect of her research includes the functionalization of biomaterials for use in regenerative therapies, as well as developing new methods for stem cell isolation and characterization. Kasper has made significant contributions to the development of efficient protocols for cell-based assays and therapies, with the ultimate goal of applying these findings in regenerative medicine. Her work aims to bridge the gap between laboratory research and clinical applications, with a focus on scalable, reproducible processes for stem cell manufacturing. Her research also explores the integration of novel technologies to improve cell-based therapy products.

Awards and Honors

Cornelia Kasper has received multiple prestigious awards and honors throughout her career, recognizing her contributions to scientific research and innovation. Her academic achievements began with her doctoral and Habilitation qualifications, which solidified her as a leader in her field. Kasper has been an active member of several influential societies in the field of biotechnology and regenerative medicine, including the Austrian Association of Molecular Life Sciences and Biotechnology (ÖGMBT). Her research has earned her high recognition, including over 180 publications in leading scientific journals and a high h-index of 43 as of 2024. She is also an editor for several respected volumes in the “Advances in Biochemical Engineering and Biotechnology” series (Springer). In addition, Kasper has been honored with roles such as Chair of the Equal Opportunity Working Party at BOKU and Co-Chair of the Doc School “Biomaterials and Interfaces,” further affirming her leadership in both research and academia.

Conclusion

Cornelia Kasper is highly deserving of the Best Researcher Award due to her substantial contributions to Tissue Engineering, Stem Cell Technology, and Bioprocessing. Her leadership, impactful research, and dedication to mentoring the next generation of scientists place her among the leaders in her field. While there are areas for further development, particularly in the realm of translational research and cross-disciplinary collaboration, her impressive body of work and ongoing efforts to improve regenerative medicine make her an outstanding candidate for this award.

Publications Top Noted

  • Development of a novel high-throughput culture system for hypoxic 3D hydrogel cell culture
    • Authors: Egger, D., Baier, L., Moldaschl, J., … Lorber, V., Kasper, C.
    • Year: 2024
    • Journal: Scientific Reports
    • Citations: 1
    • 📄🔬
  • The fluorochrome-to-protein ratio is crucial for the flow cytometric detection of tissue factor on extracellular vesicles
    • Authors: Weiss, R., Mostageer, M., Eichhorn, T., … Kasper, C., Weber, V.
    • Year: 2024
    • Journal: Scientific Reports
    • Citations: 2
    • 📄🧬
  • Characterization of MSC Growth, Differentiation, and EV Production in CNF Hydrogels Under Static and Dynamic Cultures in Hypoxic and Normoxic Conditions
    • Authors: Nikolits, I., Chariyev-Prinz, F., Egger, D., … Mytzka, N., Kasper, C.
    • Year: 2024
    • Journal: Bioengineering
    • Citations: 0
    • 📄🧫
  • Dynamic cultivation of human mesenchymal stem/stromal cells for the production of extracellular vesicles in a 3D bioreactor system
    • Authors: Almeria, C., Weiss, R., Keck, M., … Kasper, C., Egger, D.
    • Year: 2024
    • Journal: Biotechnology Letters
    • Citations: 1
    • 📄⚙️
  • Spheroid trilineage differentiation model of primary mesenchymal stem/stromal cells under hypoxia and serum-free culture conditions
    • Authors: Moldaschl, J., Chariyev-Prinz, F., Toegel, S., … Egger, D., Kasper, C.
    • Year: 2024
    • Journal: Frontiers in Bioengineering and Biotechnology
    • Citations: 2
    • 📄🧬💉
  • Kinetics of NK-92 growth and functionality in pseudo-static cultures
    • Authors: García Aponte, O.F., Kozma, B., Egger, D., Kasper, C., Herwig, C.
    • Year: 2023
    • Journal: Biochemical Engineering Journal
    • Citations: 1
    • 📄🧬⚙️
  • Hydrogels from TEMPO-Oxidized Nanofibrillated Cellulose Support In Vitro Cultivation of Encapsulated Human Mesenchymal Stem Cells
    • Authors: Nikolits, I., Radwan, S., Liebner, F., … Chariyev-Prinz, F., Kasper, C.
    • Year: 2023
    • Journal: ACS Applied Bio Materials
    • Citations: 7
    • 📄🧫🔬
  • Heterogeneity of mesenchymal stem cell-derived extracellular vesicles is highly impacted by the tissue/cell source and culture conditions
    • Authors: Almeria, C., Kreß, S., Weber, V., Egger, D., Kasper, C.
    • Year: 2022
    • Journal: Cell and Bioscience
    • Citations: 41
    • 📄💡🔬
  • Decoding Distinct Ganglioside Patterns of Native and Differentiated Mesenchymal Stem Cells by a Novel Glycolipidomics Profiling Strategy
    • Authors: Hohenwallner, K., Troppmair, N., Panzenboeck, L., … Egger, D., Rampler, E.
    • Year: 2022
    • Journal: JACS Au
    • Citations: 8
    • 📄🧬🔬
  • Editorial: Advanced cell culture technologies to boost cell-based therapies, volume II
    • Authors: Egger, D., Hansmann, J., Kasper, C., Kouroupis, D.
    • Year: 2022
    • Journal: Frontiers in Bioengineering and Biotechnology
    • Citations: 0
    • 📄🧬🩺

 

Sathish CI | Environmental science | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Sathish CI | Environmental science | Best Researcher Award

Research Associate, University of Newcastle, Australia

🏆 Dr. Sathish CI has been honored with the prestigious Best Researcher Award for his outstanding contributions in the field of Environmental Science. As a Research Associate at the University of Newcastle, Australia, Dr. CI has demonstrated unparalleled dedication and expertise in advancing our understanding of environmental issues and sustainable solutions. His innovative research initiatives have not only garnered acclaim within academic circles but also have practical implications for addressing pressing global challenges. Dr. CI’s relentless pursuit of excellence serves as an inspiration to fellow researchers and underscores the crucial role of interdisciplinary collaboration in tackling environmental concerns. 🌱🔬

Profile

Scopus

google scholar

Experience

With a remarkable seventeen years of research experience, Dr. Sathish CI has cultivated expertise across diverse domains including Environmental Science, Energy Storage, CO2 Capture and Conversion, Catalysis, Biological Studies, and Magnetism. 🌍⚡ His extensive background reflects a profound commitment to exploring innovative solutions for pressing global challenges, ranging from mitigating environmental pollution to advancing renewable energy technologies. Dr. CI’s multifaceted approach encompasses both theoretical exploration and practical applications, underscoring his versatility and dedication to interdisciplinary research. His contributions in areas such as CO2 capture and catalysis have significant implications for mitigating climate change, while his work in magnetism and biological studies opens new avenues for understanding complex systems. 🧪🔬

Formal Qualifications  

Dr. Sathish CI’s academic journey is distinguished by his relentless pursuit of excellence in chemical sciences and engineering. In 2013, he earned his Ph.D. from Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan, marking a significant milestone in his career journey. Prior to this, he completed his Master of Science in Chemistry, specializing in Organic, Inorganic, and Physical Chemistry, at Madurai Kamaraj University, Tamil Nadu, India, in 2009. His foundational education includes a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from the same university in 2003, where he majored in Organic, Inorganic, and Physical Chemistry, with a minor in Physics and Biology. 🎓

Research and Innovation

Dr. Sathish CI’s consultancy work and research endeavors reflect a profound dedication to environmental and materials science. He has conducted extensive evaluations on the presence of PFAS in water and assessed microplastic distribution in marine environments. 🌊 His expertise extends to foulant and RO membrane analysis, with consultancy contributions for Permeate partners. Dr. CI’s research also encompasses the development of materials for carbon dioxide capture, sensor technology for detecting volatile compounds, and nanoparticle applications in drug delivery and various catalytic reactions. His innovative work in materials synthesis, characterization, and application underscores a commitment to addressing contemporary environmental and healthcare challenges. 🧪🔬

Publication Top Notes

Bridging Together Theoretical and Experimental Perspectives in Single‐Atom Alloys for Electrochemical Ammonia Production” – Link – Cited by 2308 – Year: 2024

“A Dual Protective Drug Delivery System Based on Lipid Coated Core-Shell Mesoporous Silica for Efficient Delivery of Cabazitaxel to Prostate Cancer Cells” – Link – Cited by 96 – Year: 2023

“NiO thin film with an extremely high index on r-plane sapphire substrate” – Link – Cited by 5 – Year: 2023

“Biomass derived nanoarchitectonics of porous carbon with tunable oxygen functionalities and hierarchical structures and their superior performance in CO2 adsorption and energy storage” – Cited by 4 – Year: 2023

“Realization of High Magnetization in Artificially Designed Ni/NiO Layers through Exchange Coupling” – Link – Cited by 1 – Year: 2023

“Advances in magnetic materials for microplastic separation and degradation” – Cited by 2 – Year: 2023

“Magnetic Nanofibrous Hydrogels for Dynamic Control of Stem Cell Differentiation” – Link – Cited by 1 – Year: 2023

“Emerging trends of carbon nitrides and their hybrids for photo-/electro-chemical energy applications” – Cited by 3 – Year: 2023

“The Isopropylation of Naphthalene over H-MCM22 (MWW): The Formation of Triisopropylnaphthalenes” – Link – Cited by 1 – Year: 2023

“The isopropylation of naphthalene over ordered mesoporous aluminosilicate AlSBA-1: The formation of diisopropylnaphthalene and triisopropylnaphthalene isomers” – Link – Cited by 1 – Year: 2023