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).

Rafael Sánchez-Sánchez | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Rafael Sánchez-Sánchez | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Honorary Professor at Universidad de Huelva, Spain

Rafael Sánchez Sánchez is a distinguished engineer and academic with over four decades of experience in mechanical engineering, industrial technology, and acoustics. Born in Villanueva de los Infantes, Spain, he has contributed significantly to both academia and industry, bridging the gap between theoretical research and practical applications. His career spans multiple prestigious roles, including Professor Honorary at the University of Huelva and a contracted professor at the International University of Andalusia. Even after retirement, he continues to actively contribute as an External Collaborator at the Doctoral School of the University of Huelva. His expertise in machine design and industrial acoustics has led to advancements in these fields, benefiting both academic research and industrial applications. His career reflects a strong commitment to education, engineering innovation, and knowledge transfer, making him a valuable figure in Spanish academia and industry.

Professional Profile

Education

Rafael Sánchez Sánchez pursued his academic training in engineering and industrial technology, laying the foundation for a prolific career in research and teaching. He obtained his engineering degree with a specialization in machine design and industrial acoustics, which later guided his professional and research endeavors. His educational background provided him with the necessary expertise to take on significant roles in both the academic and corporate sectors. Throughout his career, he has continually updated his knowledge, integrating new technological trends in mechanical engineering, acoustics, and telecommunications. His dedication to education is evident in his extensive teaching career, where he has mentored numerous students and researchers. By combining his deep technical expertise with a passion for teaching, he has significantly contributed to the development of engineering curricula and the training of future professionals in the field.

Professional Experience

With over 40 years of professional experience, Rafael Sánchez Sánchez has held key engineering and academic positions in both the private and public sectors. He spent nearly 25 years at Telefónica de España, where he led engineering teams responsible for designing telecommunications networks and infrastructure projects. His expertise extends to industrial engineering, where he worked with leading firms such as Sereland, S.A., and Gibbs & Hill Española, S.A., contributing to major projects, including the Trillo-I Nuclear Power Plant. Transitioning to academia, he served as a professor at the University of Huelva, where he dedicated over 15 years to teaching and research. Even after retirement, he continues as a Professor Honorary and External Collaborator, actively engaging in educational and research activities. His career is marked by a balance of practical engineering experience and academic contributions, making him a respected figure in both domains.

Research Interests

Rafael Sánchez Sánchez’s research focuses on machine design, industrial acoustics, and telecommunications technology. His work in electroacoustics has contributed to advancements in noise control and environmental acoustics, particularly within industrial applications. He has also conducted research on mechanical system optimization, with a strong emphasis on design efficiency and material durability. Additionally, his experience in telecommunications network engineering has allowed him to explore fiber optic technologies and network infrastructure development. His multidisciplinary expertise has enabled him to collaborate with industry professionals and academic researchers, leading to innovative solutions in industrial and environmental engineering. His research continues to influence modern engineering practices, with applications ranging from smart manufacturing systems to energy-efficient mechanical designs.

Awards and Honors

Throughout his career, Rafael Sánchez Sánchez has received several recognitions for his contributions to engineering, academia, and research. His long-standing work in mechanical engineering and telecommunications has been acknowledged by both academic institutions and industry organizations. As a Professor Honorary at the University of Huelva, he was recognized for his dedication to teaching and mentoring students in engineering disciplines. His leadership in industrial and telecommunications projects has also earned him recognition from engineering firms and governmental organizations. In addition, his contributions to acoustic research and machine design have been praised in various academic and professional circles. His commitment to innovation, research, and education continues to inspire the next generation of engineers and researchers, solidifying his legacy in the field of industrial technology and mechanical design.

Conclusion

Rafael Sánchez Sánchez is a researcher with a strong academic and industrial career, with significant contributions to machine design, acoustics, and industrial technology. His profile is particularly strong in practical experience, knowledge transfer to industry, and teaching. However, he could benefit from a higher number of indexed scientific publications, leadership in research projects, and international collaborations.

Publications Top Noted

Author(s): J.C. Fortes Garrido, R. Sánchez-Sánchez, J.P. Bolívar
Year: 2022
Title: Influence of State of Alarm Caused by COVID-19 on Noise in the City Centre of Huelva (Spain)
Journal: Archives of Acoustics
Citations: 0

GEHAN ELSAYED | SMART CITIES | Best Research Article Award

Prof. GEHAN ELSAYED | SMART CITIES | Best Research Article Award

ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR, JOUF UNIVERSITY, Egypt

📚 Gehan Ahmed Ibrahim Elsayed is a distinguished Professor of Heritage Conservation and Vice Dean for Community and Environmental Affairs at Damanhur University, Egypt. With a passion for teaching and architecture, he specializes in urban design, landscape design, and heritage conservation using advanced technologies such as laser cutting and 3D printing. In addition to his academic career, he actively participates in quality assurance for higher education institutions. Elsayed is fluent in both Arabic and English and has authored various publications, including a book on safety and security for blind children’s schools. 🌍

Profile

Orcid

Education

🎓 Gehan Elsayed holds an extensive academic background. He is pursuing his Professor rank in Architecture at Ain Shams University (2022), with a PhD in Architecture from Cairo University (2007). His doctoral research focused on safety and security in schools for blind children. Elsayed also completed his MSc. in Architecture (2004) at Ain Shams University, focusing on the design criteria for schools for blind children, and his Bachelor’s degree in Architecture at Shoubra, Zagazig University in 1992. 🎓

Experience

💼 Professor Gehan Elsayed has extensive teaching and leadership experience. He currently serves as Vice Dean at Damanhur University. Previously, he was the Head of the Architecture Department at Modern University for Information & Technology (MTI) and has taught courses in architecture design, urban design, and history at multiple Egyptian universities. Elsayed is an accredited external reviewer for national accreditation, supervising universities across Egypt. He also directs the Quality Assurance Unit at the Faculty of Engineering, Damanhur University.

Research Focus

🔬 Gehan Elsayed’s research focus is on heritage conservation, urban design, and the integration of new technologies in architecture. He explores innovative techniques like laser cutting and 3D printing for model-making and sustainable architectural practices. His work also includes research on safety and security in specialized environments, such as schools for blind children, and privacy preservation in intelligent transportation systems. Elsayed aims to bridge the gap between technology and tradition to create solutions for contemporary architectural challenges. 🏛️

Publications

  1. Resilient Privacy Preservation Through a Presumed Secrecy Mechanism for Mobility and Localization in Intelligent Transportation Systems (2024) 🚗
  2. Determining Safety and Security Factor Inside School of Blindness  (Noor Publishing, 978-3-330-84370-7) 📘📘

Mozhgan Abbasi | Environmental Science | Women Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mozhgan Abbasi | Environmental Science | Women Researcher Award

researcher, university, Iran

Mozhgan Abbasi is an accomplished Associate Professor in Remote Sensing and GIS Science at Shahrekord University, Iran. With a passion for exploring the complexities of forestry through advanced technology, she specializes in hyperspectral imaging and UAV applications. Her extensive academic background and dedication to research have made her a key figure in her field. 🌲📊

Publication Profile

Google Scholar

Education

Mozhgan completed her Bachelor of Science in Natural Resources, focusing on Forestry, at the University of Guilan, Iran. She earned her Master of Science in Forestry with an emphasis on Remote Sensing and GIS from the University of Tehran. Further enhancing her expertise, she obtained a Ph.D. in Natural Sciences with a specialization in Remote Sensing from the same university. 📚🎓

Experience

With over two decades of experience in academia, Mozhgan has held various positions, including Research Assistant and Teaching Assistant at the University of Tehran. Since 2009, she has served as an Associate Professor at Shahrekord University, where she has also held the role of Head of the Forest Science Department. Her research contributions include numerous projects that leverage remote sensing technologies for forestry applications. 👩‍🏫🌍

Research Focus

Mozhgan’s research interests lie at the intersection of remote sensing and forestry, with a specific focus on in situ spectroradiometry, imaging spectroscopy, and the application of UAV imagery in vegetation mapping. Her work aims to enhance the understanding of forest dynamics and improve resource management practices. 🌱🔍

Awards and Honours

Mozhgan has received recognition for her contributions to forestry science and remote sensing, reflecting her commitment to advancing the field and fostering sustainable practices in forestry. 🏆✨

Publication Highlights

Mozhgan has authored several notable publications, including:

Investigation on the possibility of beech type mapping using Landsat ETM+ data (2009), Iranian Journal of Forest.

Investigation of leaf spectral reflectance of most important species of Caspian forests using field spectroradiometry (2010), Iranian Journal of Forest and Poplar Research.

Comparison of abaxial and adaxial spectral reflectance of Fagus orientalis Lipsky and Carpinus betulus using field spectroradiometry and spectral indices (2010), Iranian Journal of Forest.

Evaluation of spectral reflectance of seven North Iranian rice varieties canopies (2011), Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology.

 

 

 

 

Laura Bulgariu | Environemntal remediation | Best Researcher Award

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

Professor, Gheorghe Asachi Technical University of Iasi, Romania

Profile

Orcid 

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

Salvador García-Ayllón Veintimilla | Urban Planning and Studies | Best Researcher Award

Prof Dr. Salvador García-Ayllón Veintimilla | Urban Planning and Studies | Best Researcher Award

Prof.Doctor, Technical University of Cartagena, Spain

Prof. Dr. Salvador García-Ayllón Veintimilla is an Associate Professor at the Technical University of Cartagena (UPCT) in Spain, where he serves as the Principal Investigator of the research group “Territorial Policy, Environmental Planning, and Infrastructure Planning” and the director of the Biyectiva-UPCT professorship of GIS spatial analysis and artificial intelligence. His research focuses on urban and environmental planning, utilizing spatial statistical analysis and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) tools. Prof. García-Ayllón is recognized globally for his contributions, including being listed in the top 2% of the most-cited scientists worldwide by Stanford University. 🌍

Profile

Google scholar

Based on the information provided, Prof. Dr. Salvador García-Ayllón Veintimilla is a strong candidate for the “Best Researcher Award.” Here’s an analysis of his strengths, areas for improvement, and a conclusion:

Strengths for the Award

Diverse Academic Background: Prof. García-Ayllón has a comprehensive educational background with degrees in Civil Engineering, Architecture, an MBA, and a PhD in Urban Planning. This multidisciplinary education is valuable in his research, which spans urban studies, environmental planning, and civil engineering.

Extensive Research Experience: With over 60 articles published in journals with Journal Citation Reports (JCR) or SCImago Journal Rank (SJR) impact factors, his research output is significant. The presence of his work in high-impact journals (33% in T1, 25% in Q1, and 10% in D1) underlines the quality and relevance of his contributions.

High Citation Impact: An H-index of 19 and nearly 925 citations reflect the impact of his research within the scientific community. Being listed in the top 2% of the most-cited scientists worldwide by Stanford further corroborates his influence and recognition.

Leadership and Mentorship: As the principal investigator of a research group and director of a professorship at the Technical University of Cartagena, he has demonstrated leadership and mentorship skills. His guidance has led to the completion of 10 doctoral theses in the past five years, indicating his commitment to fostering new talent in his field.

International Recognition and Collaboration: His positions as a Fulbright visiting scholar at MIT and visiting professorships at UC Berkeley and Cyprus University of Technology highlight his international standing and collaborative efforts. This exposure to diverse academic environments enhances his research perspective and expertise.

Applied Research and Practical Impact: Prof. García-Ayllón has engaged in projects with significant practical implications, such as coordinating reconstruction efforts after the Lorca earthquake and managing EU investments for the Mar Menor lagoon. This involvement demonstrates his ability to apply research to real-world challenges, bridging the gap between academia and practice.

Publications and Knowledge Dissemination: In addition to research articles, he has authored 20 teaching and scientific books, contributing to knowledge dissemination and educational resources in his field.

Areas for Improvement

Focused Research Impact: While his research is published across a range of high-impact journals, focusing on a more specialized niche could enhance his impact further. A more concentrated research theme might lead to even higher recognition and influence in a specific subfield.

Increased Collaboration: Despite his international experience, there could be an opportunity to engage in more collaborative research projects with diverse international partners. This could enhance the interdisciplinary nature of his work and lead to innovative research outcomes.

Funding and Grant Success: Highlighting his success in obtaining competitive research funding or grants would strengthen his profile. Demonstrating the ability to secure funding consistently is a valuable skill for any researcher and indicates recognition and trust by funding bodies.

Education

Prof. García-Ayllón holds a diverse educational background that combines engineering, architecture, and business management. He earned his BSc and MSc in Civil Engineering from the Technical University of Valencia in 2006, followed by a BSc and MSc in Architecture from the University CEU of Valencia in 2008. He further enhanced his expertise with an MBA from ESIC Business School in 2009 and completed his PhD in Urban Planning from the Technical University of Valencia in 2013. Additionally, he possesses an English Level C2 Diploma from Trinity College, demonstrating his proficiency in English. 🎓

Experience

Prof. García-Ayllón has held various significant positions throughout his career. He has been an Associate Professor at UPCT since 2010 and has served as a Fulbright visiting scholar at MIT, a visiting professor at Cyprus University of Technology and UC Berkeley, and a coordinator for the Government of Spain’s Integrated Territorial Investment of the European Union for the Mar Menor lagoon. His experience extends to roles such as Technical Coordinator for the European Infrastructure Bank and Planning Engineer and Architect at Ferrovial Inc. 🏛️

Research Interests

His research interests primarily revolve around urban and environmental planning, with a strong focus on the application of GIS and spatial statistical analysis. Prof. García-Ayllón’s work often explores the impacts of urban transformations, sustainable city development, and the governance of territorial management. He is particularly interested in analyzing the imbalances in urban growth and the sustainability challenges posed by phenomena such as mass tourism and rapid urbanization. 🌆

Awards

Prof. García-Ayllón has received several accolades throughout his career. Notably, he was awarded the WOS Top Peer Reviewer award in 2019 in the Cross-field and Environment & Ecology categories, recognizing his significant contributions to the scientific community. His inclusion in the top 2% of the most-cited scientists worldwide by Stanford University is another testament to his research impact and scholarly excellence. 🏆

Publications

Prof. García-Ayllón has published extensively in high-impact journals. Here are some of his notable works:

“Rapid development as a factor of imbalance in urban growth of cities in Latin America: A perspective based on territorial indicators” (2016) – Habitat International (link), cited by 101 articles.

“Urban transformations as an indicator of unsustainability in the P2P mass tourism phenomenon: The Airbnb case in Spain through three case studies” (2018) – Sustainability (link), cited by 100 articles.

“The Sustainable City IX: Urban Regeneration and Sustainability (2 Volume Set)” (2014) – WIT Press (link), cited by 90 articles.

“New strategies to improve governance in territorial management: evolving from ‘smart cities’ to ‘smart territories'” (2015) – Procedia Engineering (link), cited by 83 articles.

Conclusion

Prof. Dr. Salvador García-Ayllón Veintimilla is a highly accomplished researcher with a strong record of publication, citation impact, leadership, and practical application of his research. His diverse educational background and international experience make him a versatile and impactful researcher. While there are always opportunities to enhance focus and collaboration, his current achievements make him a worthy candidate for the “Best Researcher Award.” His contributions to urban and environmental planning and infrastructure, along with his role as a mentor and leader, make him a standout candidate in his field.