Konan Edmond KOUASSI | Biomass and energy | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Konan Edmond KOUASSI | Biomass and energy | Best Researcher Award

Teacher-researcher at UNA, Ivory Coast

Dr. Kouassi Konan Edmond is a Maître-Assistant in Chemistry (Process Engineering) at the Université Nangui Abrogoua (UNA), Côte d’Ivoire. With extensive expertise in renewable energy, waste valorization, and water treatment processes, he has contributed significantly to the field of sustainable chemical engineering. His research focuses on optimizing biofuel production, energy recovery from biomass, and environmental sustainability. He has participated in multiple international scientific conferences and has authored numerous peer-reviewed publications.

Profile

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EDUCATION

Dr. Kouassi obtained his Doctorate in Fundamental and Applied Sciences (Chemistry – Process Engineering) from Université Nangui Abrogoua in 2016. His dissertation focused on optimizing vegetable oil transesterification for fuel production using experimental designs and artificial intelligence. He previously earned a Diplôme d’Etudes Approfondies (DEA) in Material Sciences and a Master’s in Physical Chemistry, specializing in thermodynamics and process engineering. His early education includes a Bachelor’s degree in Fundamental Sciences and Applied Chemistry.

EXPERIENCE

Since 2018, Dr. Kouassi has been teaching General Chemistry and Energy Process Engineering at UNA, covering subjects such as thermodynamics, kinetics, and water chemistry. His professional background includes doctoral research at the Laboratory of Industrial Processes and Renewable Energy (LAPISEN) and collaborations with leading researchers in bioenergy and waste valorization. He has also been involved in capacity-building workshops and training programs to advance scientific research methodologies.

RESEARCH INTEREST

Dr. Kouassi’s research focuses on renewable energy production, process optimization, and environmental sustainability. His expertise includes biofuel synthesis, wastewater treatment, solid waste management, and the application of artificial intelligence in chemical engineering. He has extensively studied biodiesel production through transesterification and the valorization of agricultural waste for energy applications. His work contributes to advancing sustainable energy solutions in Côte d’Ivoire and beyond.

AWARDS

Dr. Kouassi has been recognized for his contributions to green chemistry and bioenergy. He has received awards for outstanding research in chemical engineering, including excellence awards for his work on biofuel optimization. His active participation in scientific societies such as the West African Society of Chemistry (SOACHIM) has further established his reputation as a leading researcher in sustainable energy solutions.

PUBLICATIONS

Kouassi Konan Edmond et al. (2018). “Optimization of Rubber Seed Oil Transesterification to Biodiesel Using Experimental Designs and Artificial Neural Networks.” Green and Sustainable Chemistry, cited by multiple energy research articles.

Abollé Abollé & Kouassi Konan Edmond et al. (2017). “Empirical Correlations Between Viscosity, Density, and Cloud Point of Diesel Oil Mixtures with Straight Vegetable Oils.” International Journal of Engineering and Technical Research.

Alain Stéphane Assémian & Kouassi Konan Edmond et al. (2018). “In-Situ Generation of Effective Coagulant to Treat Textile Bio-Refractory Wastewater.” Journal of Environmental Chemical Engineering.

Yao Joseph Adjoumani & Kouassi Konan Edmond et al. (2019). “Modeling and Optimization of Two Clays Acidic Activation for Phosphate Ions Removal.” Journal of Water Resource and Protection.

Horo Koné & Kouassi Konan Edmond et al. (2020). “Thermal Regeneration of Activated Carbon Saturated with Nitrate Ions.” International Journal of Advanced Engineering, Management, and Science.

ZRAN Vanh Eric-Simon & Kouassi Konan Edmond et al. (2022). “Valorization of Plantain Peels Waste in Biosorbents for Methylene Blue Removal.” International Journal of Scientific Research and Reviews.

Moya Joëlle Carole Akossi & Kouassi Konan Edmond et al. (2023). “Transesterification of Vegetable Oils into Biodiesel by an Immobilized Lipase: A Review.” Biofuels.

CONCLUSION

Dr. Kouassi Konan Edmond’s extensive research output, scientific leadership, and contributions to process engineering and environmental sustainability make him an outstanding candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His work advances renewable energy solutions and promotes sustainable industrial practices, highlighting his impact on academia and society.

Tarek Ahasan | Photocatalytic Water Splitting for Hydrogen Production | Best Researcher Award

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Mr Tarek Ahasan | Photocatalytic Water Splitting for Hydrogen Production | Best Researcher Award

Graduate Research Assistant, New Mexico State University, United States

Tarek Ahasan is an accomplished Ph.D. candidate in Environmental Engineering at New Mexico State University, specializing in sustainable energy and water treatment technologies. With a strong academic foundation, including dual master’s degrees in Environmental Engineering and Environmental Science, Tarek focuses on innovative solutions for green hydrogen production and advanced water desalination. His research integrates photocatalysis and electromagnetic field applications to address global energy and water security challenges. Recognized for his contributions, Tarek has received prestigious awards, published in high-impact journals, and filed a patent for his groundbreaking work in photocatalytic systems. He is an active member of professional organizations and a leader in academic communities, dedicated to advancing sustainable technologies for a decarbonized future.

Professional Profile

Orcid

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Education 🎓

Tarek Ahasan is pursuing a Ph.D. in Environmental Engineering at New Mexico State University (NMSU), expected to graduate in Fall 2025, with a concurrent Master of Science in Environmental Engineering (CGPA: 4.00/4.00). He holds a Master of Science in Environmental Science (CGPA: 3.92/4.00) and a Bachelor of Science in Soil, Water, and Environment (CGPA: 3.57/4.00) from the University of Dhaka, Bangladesh. His academic journey reflects a strong focus on sustainable energy, water treatment, and environmental systems, equipping him with the expertise to drive innovative research in green technologies.

Experience 🔬

As a Graduate Research Assistant at NMSU, Tarek has led groundbreaking projects on photocatalytic hydrogen production and electromagnetic field-enhanced desalination. He developed a novel Ag-G-TiO2 nanocomposite photocatalyst, achieving 97% dye degradation efficiency and 191 μmoles g⁻¹ h⁻¹ hydrogen production. Additionally, he optimized electromagnetic field pretreatment for membrane scaling control, achieving 51.3% water recovery. Previously, at the University of Dhaka, he advanced sustainable coagulation techniques for dye effluent treatment and conducted nationwide soil health assessments to address climate change impacts on agriculture. His work bridges research and practical applications, contributing to global sustainability goals.

Awards and Honors 🏆

Tarek has been recognized with multiple awards, including the 2023-2024 New Mexico Water Resources Research Institute (NM WRRI) student grant and the National Science and Technology Fellowship (2019-20) from the Government of Bangladesh. He earned Second Place for Outstanding Poster Presentation at the 20th Annual RMSAWWA/RMWEA Student Conference (2024) and the Texas Desal Annual Conference (2023). His research has been featured in the NMWRRI Online Newsletter, highlighting his contributions to sustainable energy and water technologies.

Research Focus 🔍

Tarek’s research centers on developing sustainable alternatives to fossil fuels, focusing on green hydrogen production through advanced photocatalysis and innovative water treatment technologies. His work includes synthesizing nanocomposite photocatalysts for visible light-driven hydrogen production and optimizing electromagnetic field applications for membrane scaling control in desalination. By integrating renewable energy systems with water security solutions, Tarek aims to address global decarbonization and resource sustainability challenges, contributing to a cleaner, more resilient future.

Publication Top Notes 📚

  1. Ahasan, T., Xu, P., & Wang, H. (2024). Dual-Function Photocatalysis in the Visible Spectrum: Ag-G-TiO2 for Simultaneous Dye Wastewater Degradation and Hydrogen Production. Catalysts, 14(8), 530.
  2. Ahasan, T., Edirisooriya, E. M. N. T., Senanayake, P. S., Xu, P., & Wang, H. (2025). Advanced TiO2-Based Photocatalytic Systems for Water Splitting: Comprehensive Review from Fundamentals to Manufacturing. Molecules, 30(5), 1127.
  3. Du, X., Perera, H., Ahasan, T., Wang, Y., Shu, F., Wang, H., Yuan, K., Anovitz, L. M., Ben Ishai, P., & Xu, P. (2025). Mechanisms of Electromagnetic Field Control on Mineral Scaling in Brackish Water Reverse Osmosis: Combined Homogenous and Heterogeneous Nucleation. Separation and Purification Technology, 355(B), 129630.

Conclusion 🌍

Tarek Ahasan is a visionary researcher dedicated to advancing sustainable energy and water treatment technologies. Through his innovative work in photocatalysis and desalination, he is paving the way for a greener, more sustainable future. His achievements in research, publications, and professional recognition underscore his commitment to addressing global energy and water challenges. Tarek’s contributions exemplify the transformative potential of environmental engineering in achieving decarbonization and resource security.

 

AJENDRA SINGH | Carbon Capture and Sequestration | Best Researcher Award

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Dr AJENDRA SINGH | Carbon Capture and Sequestration | Best Researcher Award

PROJECT SCIENTIST, IIT BOMBAY, India

Ajendra Singh is a dedicated researcher and professional in Petroleum Engineering, currently serving as a Project Scientist at IIT Bombay. With a Ph.D. in Petroleum Engineering from Pandit Deendayal Energy University (PDEU), Gandhinagar, and an M.Tech from Rajiv Gandhi Institute of Petroleum Technology (RGIPT), Raebareli, he has over a decade of experience in reservoir characterization, geomechanics, and carbon capture and storage (CCS). His expertise spans experimental core flooding, geochemical interactions, and numerical simulations using advanced software like CMG and Petrel. Ajendra has contributed significantly to academia and industry, mentoring students and leading research projects. His work focuses on enhancing reservoir quality assessment and hydrocarbon exploration, particularly in Indian basins like Kachchh and Cauvery.

Professional Profile

Orcid

Scopus

Education 🎓

  • Ph.D. in Petroleum Engineering, Pandit Deendayal Energy University, Gandhinagar (2023) – 9/10 CGPA
  • M.Tech in Petroleum Engineering, Rajiv Gandhi Institute of Petroleum Technology, Raebareli (2013) – 8.04/10 CGPA
  • B.Sc. in Mechanical Engineering, Dayalbagh Educational Institute, Agra (2011) – 60.2%

Ajendra’s academic journey reflects a strong foundation in engineering, with specialized expertise in petroleum systems, reservoir modeling, and geomechanics.

Professional Experience 💼

  • Project Scientist, IIT Bombay (Oct 2023 – Present): Focused on CO2 core flooding experiments, geochemical interactions, and geomechanical studies for CCS applications.
  • Domain Expert, PDEU, Gandhinagar (Jan 2023 – Oct 2023): Conducted petroleum system modeling and seismic interpretation for Kutch and Saurashtra Basins.
  • Consultant Research Scientist, EMC India Pvt. Ltd (Sept 2022 – Jan 2023): Designed core flooding experiments for drilling mud analysis.
  • Teaching Assistant, PDEU (July 2017 – Sept 2022): Trained students in reservoir modeling, core analysis, and simulation software.
  • Project Associate, RGIPT (July 2013 – Nov 2015): Conducted reservoir simulation and well test analysis training.

Awards and Honors 🏆

  • Published multiple high-impact research papers in reputed journals like Journal of Petroleum Science and Engineering and Geoenergy Science and Engineering.
  • Presented research at international conferences, including the 84th EAGE Annual Conference & Exhibition.
  • Recognized for innovative work on bioturbation effects on reservoir quality in the Kachchh Basin.
  • Active member of the Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE) since 2011.

Research Focus 🔍

Ajendra’s research focuses on:

  • Reservoir characterization and geomechanical studies for hydrocarbon exploration.
  • Carbon capture and storage (CCS) through CO2 injection in saline aquifers.
  • Bioturbation effects on reservoir quality and pore-throat characterization.
  • Integrated reservoir modeling and simulation for field-scale applications.
  • Geochemical interactions in carbonate and sandstone reservoirs.

Publication Top Notes 📚

  1. Unlocking the hidden potential: Petrophysical analysis of adjoining basement reservoirs in the Cauvery Basin’s Madanam Palaeo-High.
  2. Exploring the Geoheritage and Geosites of Jaramara Area, Kachchh, India: a Window into the Mesozoic Rift Basin.
  3. Assessing the impact of bioturbation on reservoir quality: Integrated spontaneous imbibition, pressure decay profile permeability, and pore-throat characterization study of the Cretaceous Bhuj Formation, Kachchh Basin, India.
  4. Pore throat characterization of bioturbated heterogeneous sandstone, Bhuj Formation, Kachchh India: An integrated analysis using NMR and HPMI studies.
  5. Evaluating cementation factor for bioturbated sandstones, Bhuj Formation, Kachchh Basin, India: A novel approach using triple-porosity model.
  6. An Integrated Reservoir Modelling and Simulation Workflow: A Case Study of Volve Field.
  7. Hydrocarbon source rock characterization and Basin modeling, A case study from Poseidon field, Browse Basin, Australia.
  8. Sequence stratigraphy of a Post Rift sedimentary succession: An Example from Kachchh Basin, India.
  9. Estimation of Porosity and Pore size distribution from Scanning Electron Microscope image data of Shale samples: A case study on Jhuran formation of Kachchh Basin, India.

Conclusion 🌟

Ajendra Singh is a highly accomplished petroleum engineer and researcher with a strong academic background and extensive professional experience. His contributions to reservoir characterization, geomechanics, and carbon capture technologies have advanced the field of petroleum engineering. Through his innovative research, mentorship, and publications, he continues to make significant strides in addressing complex challenges in hydrocarbon exploration and sustainable energy solutions.

YANG WANG | Geothermal Energy | Best Researcher Award

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Dr YANG WANG | Geothermal Energy | Best Researcher Award

Senior Engineer, Shanghai Geological Engineering Exploration (Group) Co., Ltd, China

Yang Wang is a dedicated researcher and engineer specializing in geotechnical and environmental engineering. With extensive experience in energy conversion, groundwater science, and CO₂ geological sequestration, he has contributed significantly to the field. Currently serving as a Senior Engineer at Shanghai Geological and Mineral Engineering Survey (Group) Co., Ltd., he has led high-impact projects, mentored junior engineers, and collaborated on innovative solutions for complex geological challenges. His research focuses on energy piles, aquifer thermal energy storage (ATES), and thermo-hydro-mechanical simulations, with multiple publications in top-tier journals. He holds a Ph.D. in Civil and Hydraulic Engineering from Tongji University, complementing his M.S. from Beijing Normal University and B.S. from China University of Geosciences. His expertise and scholarly contributions have earned him recognition in the engineering community, with a strong citation record reflecting his impact.

PROFESSIONAL PROFILE

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EDUCATION 🎓

📍 Tongji University, Shanghai, China
🛠️ Ph.D. in Civil and Hydraulic Engineering (2020 – 2024)

  • Focused on energy geotechnics, aquifer thermal energy storage, and geotechnical simulations.

📍 Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
🌊 M.S. in Groundwater Science and Engineering (2009 – 2012)

  • Specialized in CO₂ sequestration, groundwater flow modeling, and hydrological analysis.

📍 China University of Geosciences, Wuhan, China
💧 B.S. in Hydrology and Water Resources Engineering (2005 – 2009)

  • Gained expertise in water resources management, hydrological modeling, and environmental sustainability.

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE 🏢

🔹 Shanghai Geological and Mineral Engineering Survey (Group) Co., Ltd., Shanghai, China
📌 Senior Engineer (2014 – Present)

  • Led geotechnical and environmental engineering projects, ensuring high-quality execution.
  • Conducted advanced geotechnical modeling for subsurface conditions and environmental impacts.
  • Developed innovative solutions for geological challenges and mentored junior engineers.
  • Conducted rigorous site investigations for safer construction practices.

🔹 Guangzhou Institute of Energy Conversion, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China
📌 Assistant Researcher (2012 – 2013)

  • Conducted research on energy conversion technologies and sustainable energy solutions.
  • Managed experimental setups, data collection, and analysis for research projects.
  • Contributed to scientific publications and internal reports on energy efficiency.

AWARDS & HONORS 🏅

🏆 Recognized for excellence in geotechnical engineering research.
📜 Multiple publications in high-impact scientific journals.
🔬 Contributor to groundbreaking studies in energy piles and ATES systems.
🎖️ Active member of geotechnical and hydrology research communities.
📊 Strong citation record reflecting research impact.

RESEARCH FOCUS 🔍

🌍 Energy Geotechnics – Investigating energy piles and thermal effects in geotechnical structures.
💧 Aquifer Thermal Energy Storage (ATES) – Modeling thermal and hydromechanical interactions in aquifers.
🏗 Geotechnical Engineering – Advanced simulations for subsurface stability and environmental impact.
☁ CO₂ Sequestration – Numerical analysis of CO₂ storage efficiency in saline aquifers.
⚡ Renewable Energy Solutions – Enhancing efficiency of geothermal and energy storage systems.

PUBLICATION TOP NOTES 📚

1️⃣ Full-scale in-situ experimental study on the bearing capacity of energy piles under varying temperature and multiple mechanical load levels. Acta Geotechnica, 2023.
2️⃣ Thermo-hydro-mechanical coupled simulation of land subsidence due to aquifer thermal energy storage system in soft soils. Journal of Rock Mechanics and Geotechnical Engineering, 2024.
3️⃣ Operation optimization for aquifer thermal energy storage (ATES) systems based on a surrogate model-assisted method. Applied Thermal Engineering, 2025.
4️⃣ Numerical investigation of the storage efficiency factor for CO₂ geological sequestration in saline formations. Energy Procedia, 2013.
5️⃣ Investigation of CO₂ storage capacity in open saline aquifers with numerical models. Procedia Engineering, 2012.
6️⃣ Three-dimensional heat transfer-seepage coupling simulation of large-scale buried pipe cluster ground source heat pump system. Acta Energiae Solaris Sinica, 2024.
7️⃣ Thermomechanical analysis of energy piles using a novel load-transfer approach considering soil coupling effects. Computers and Geotechnics, 2024.