Syed Nasir Abbas – Sustainable Development – Best Researcher Award

Syed Nasir Abbas - Sustainable Development - Best Researcher Award

University of Sargodha - Pakistan

AUTHOR PROFILE

SCOPUS

🎓 EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND AND RESEARCH EXPERIENCE

Syed Nasir Abbas is an accomplished civil engineer with a deep focus on material science, particularly in the areas of concrete and composite materials. He has completed his BSc and MSc research, investigating crucial topics such as the "Relationship between Plasticity Index and Expansion Index" and the "Flexural Capacity of Brick – FRP Composite." His academic work laid the foundation for further explorations into the mechanical behavior of construction materials.

🔬 RESEARCH SUPERVISION AND TEACHING

With years of experience in the field, Syed Abbas has guided multiple research projects for both Civil Engineering and Civil Engineering Technology students. His supervision has led to the successful completion of various final-year projects, emphasizing the impact of alternative materials on concrete properties, such as the use of Waste Foundry Sand (WFS) to enhance compressive strength and workability.

🏗️ INNOVATIVE RESEARCH IN CONCRETE AND COMPOSITE MATERIALS

Syed Abbas has made significant contributions to understanding the mechanical properties of concrete by integrating recycled materials. His groundbreaking work includes investigating the use of high-density polyethylene (HDPE), electronic waste (e-waste), and fly ash-based geo polymer concrete. These studies aim to improve the sustainability and performance of modern construction materials, which are vital for the future of civil engineering.

📚 PUBLISHED WORKS AND SCIENTIFIC CONTRIBUTIONS

Syed Abbas has published several papers in reputed journals, such as MDPI Sustainability and Science International Lahore. His research covers a wide range of topics, from flexural behavior of brick-FRP composites to the mechanical properties of concrete with alternative aggregates like HDPE and fly ash. His work highlights the potential for more sustainable and efficient construction materials.

🌍 SUSTAINABLE BUILDING MATERIALS

A core aspect of Syed Abbas’s research is sustainability in construction. His investigations into the use of recycled and alternative materials, including the combined effect of silica fume and various fibers, showcase his dedication to reducing the environmental impact of concrete production. This focus aligns with global efforts to promote eco-friendly and sustainable building practices.

🧱 EXPERIMENTAL STUDIES ON CONCRETE PERFORMANCE

Syed Abbas has conducted numerous experimental studies aimed at improving concrete’s compressive strength and overall performance. By exploring the effects of different compaction methods, admixtures, and the partial replacement of cement with silica fume, he continues to push the boundaries of material science in civil engineering.

🏆 AWARDS AND RECOGNITION IN THE FIELD

Through his dedication and innovative approach, Syed Abbas has earned recognition in the civil engineering community. His research not only contributes to the academic understanding of material properties but also offers practical solutions for improving construction techniques and building sustainability in the modern world.

NOTABLE PUBLICATION

Title: Combined effect of silica fume and various fibers on fresh and hardened properties of concrete incorporating HDPE aggregates
Authors: S.N. Abbas, M.I. Qureshi, M.K. Alkharisi, M. Alturki, Z. Ahmad
Journal: Construction and Building Materials
Year: 2024

Title: An Investigation of Mechanical Properties of Fly Ash Based Geopolymer and Glass Fibers Concrete
Authors: S.N. Abbas, M.I. Qureshi, M.M. Abid, A. Zia, M.A.U.R. Tariq
Journal: Sustainability (Switzerland)
Year: 2022

Title: An Investigation of Mechanical Properties of Concrete by Applying Sand Coating on Recycled High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) and Electronic-Wastes (E-Wastes) Used as a Partial Replacement of Natural Coarse Aggregates
Authors: S.N. Abbas, M.I. Qureshi, M. Abid, M.A.U.R. Tariq, A.W.M. Ng
Journal: Sustainability (Switzerland)
Year: 2022

Inês Flores-Colen – Environmental – Women Researcher Award

Inês Flores-Colen - Environmental - Women Researcher Award

Instituto Superior Técnico - Portugal

AUTHOR PROFILE

SCOPUS

👷‍♀️ CIVIL ENGINEERING EXPERTISE

Inês Flores-Colen is a Full Professor at the Instituto Superior Técnico, University of Lisbon, specializing in the Construction Scientific Area of the Department of Civil Engineering, Architecture, and Environment. With a career starting in 1996, she has earned her MSc in 2002 and PhD in Civil Engineering in 2009. Her professional journey has been marked by significant contributions to the fields of construction and civil engineering, making her a leading expert in her domain.

📚 PROLIFIC PUBLISHER AND EDITOR

Inês has an extensive publication record that includes 3 books, 8 book chapters, and over 100 papers in international journals. She has also contributed 60 technical-scientific reports and 35 international congress papers. Her editorial experience includes serving as Editor of International Techitt (2014-2017), and she is currently the Editorial Board Member of three international journals and the Director of the magazine Pedra e Cal, which focuses on conservation and rehabilitation.

🧪 RESEARCH PROGRAM PARTICIPATION

Inês has actively participated in 15 competitively financed research programs, with 4 ongoing international projects. Notably, she is involved in DG4HEALTH (a digital twin platform for hospital facility management) and SHELLTER, which focuses on the reuse of aquaculture waste for construction materials. As a Principal Investigator, her projects include WGB_Shield and Nanorender, and she has led the Instituto Superior Técnico team in two subcontracted projects related to smart roofing systems and advanced waterproofing technologies.

🎓 SUPERVISION OF RESEARCHERS

Inês has a wealth of experience in guiding future engineers and researchers, having supervised 4 Post-doc researchers, 12 PhD students, and 102 Masters students. Her leadership in mentoring emerging scholars has played a vital role in advancing research in civil engineering and construction.

🏗️ RESEARCH INTERESTS IN CONSTRUCTION AND REHABILITATION

Her research interests are diverse and cutting-edge, focusing on innovative and sustainable construction, pathology, inspection, in-situ testing, and rehabilitation of buildings. Inês is a pioneer in the development of aerogel-based renders for thermal rehabilitation, contributing to advancements in mortars and ETICS (External Thermal Insulation Composite Systems). Her work is vital in improving building performance and sustainability.

🏅 INTERNATIONAL RECOGNITION AND STANDARDIZATION CONTRIBUTIONS

Inês is an active member of European and international standardization committees, including CEN/TC348, ISO TC 267, and CEN/TC318. She is also part of national committees CT 94 and CT 192, showcasing her influence in shaping industry standards. Her national patent on aerogel-based thermal render, published in 2019, further underscores her innovative contributions to civil engineering.

🔬 LEADER OF THE PERCOAT RESEARCH GROUP

Inês founded the PERCOAT - Performance of Coatings and Buildings Solutions research group in 2020. Through this initiative, she continues to drive forward research in the field of building maintenance and innovative construction solutions. Her leadership has positioned PERCOAT as a key player in developing sustainable building technologies.

NOTABLE PUBLICATION

Blue Circular Economy—Reuse and Valorization of Bivalve Shells: The Case of Algarve, Portugal
Authors: Magalhães, F.C., Bellei, P., Flores-Colen, I., da Costa, E.M.
Journal: Recycling
Year: 2024

Effects of hygrothermal and natural aging on the durability of multilayer insulation systems incorporating thermal mortars with EPS and aerogel
Authors: Parracha, J.L., Veiga, R., Nunes, L., Flores-Colen, I.
Journal: Cement and Concrete Composites
Year: 2024

Characterization and performance of building composites made from gypsum and woody-biomass ash waste: A product development and application study
Authors: Pedreño-Rojas, M.A., Porras-Amores, C., Villoria-Sáez, P., Morales-Conde, M.J., Flores-Colen, I.
Journal: Construction and Building Materials
Year: 2024

An Evaluation of the Luminous Performance of a School Environment Integrating Artificial Lighting and Daylight
Authors: Miranda, D.T., Barreto, D., Flores-Colen, I.
Journal: Sustainability (Switzerland)
Year: 2024

Guidelines to reduce the effects of urban heat in a changing climate: Green infrastructures and design measures
Authors: Pereira, C., Flores-Colen, I., Mendes, M.P.
Journal: Sustainable Development
Year: 2024

Rohimatu Toyibah Binti Masyhur – Green Construction – Best Researcher Award

Rohimatu Toyibah Binti Masyhur - Green Construction - Best Researcher Award

Universiti Putra Malaysia - Malaysia

AUTHOR PROFILE

SCOPUS

📚 PASSIONATE PH.D. CANDIDATE IN CIVIL ENGINEERING

Rohimatu Toyibah Binti Masyhur is an enthusiastic second-year Ph.D. student at Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), specializing in Project Management within the Civil Engineering field. Her academic journey reflects a deep commitment to understanding and advancing the principles of project management and construction, providing her with a solid foundation for her career. As a registered Graduate Engineer with BEM, she is dedicated to expanding her expertise in civil, structural, and building construction.

🏗️ EXPERIENCED PROJECT ENGINEER

Currently serving as a Project Engineer for the Marriott Executive Apartment project with Infra Segi Sdn. Bhd. (ISSB), Rohimatu has gained significant experience in managing complex projects. Her responsibilities include preparing Main Work Programs, supervising site work, and ensuring the quality and progress of construction. Her role involves meticulous documentation, including Requests for Information and Site Progress Reports, and collaborating closely with clients and consultants to address drawing discrepancies and project challenges.

📊 PLANNING ENGINEER TRAINEE

During her tenure as a Planning Engineer Trainee at Trans Resources Corporation Sdn. Bhd. (TRC), Rohimatu contributed to the 8MD3 Mixed Development project in Putrajaya. She assisted in monitoring daily work progress, performing quantity measurements, and preparing Weekly Progress Reports. This experience allowed her to develop strong skills in project coordination and progress reporting, essential for successful project management.

🔧 HANDS-ON EXPERIENCE IN CONSTRUCTION

Rohimatu's hands-on experience began as a Trainee at Infra Segi Sdn. Bhd., where she was involved in various construction projects, including the Nucleus Tower. She assisted in daily work inspections, joint inspections with engineers and consultants, and monitored concrete testing procedures. This early exposure to practical aspects of construction laid the groundwork for her future roles in project management.

🏅 RECOGNIZED FOR ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE

Throughout her academic career, Rohimatu has earned several accolades, including a Silver Medal Award for her Final Year Project at Universiti Putra Malaysia in 2021. Her achievements also include a Gold Award for her Final Year Project at Politeknik Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah and recognition for her innovative contributions to various competitions. Her dedication to excellence is evident in her impressive list of awards and honors.

🎭 LEADERSHIP AND ORGANIZATIONAL SKILLS

Rohimatu has demonstrated strong leadership and organizational skills through her roles in various committees and events. She was a committee member for the Kumpulan Perangsang Selangor (KPS) Sustainability Challenge 2020 and the Civil Engineering Student Club (CESC) at UPM. Her roles as Director for the Intercollege English Drama Festival in both 2019 and 2020 highlight her ability to manage and lead successful projects outside the academic sphere.

🌟 INNOVATIVE AND CREATIVE CONTRIBUTIONS

Rohimatu's creativity was showcased through her involvement in the IJM Green Building Innovation Competition, where she earned the Second Runner-up position, and her Best Leading Actress Award at the Intercollege Theatre Festival UPM. Her innovative approach and artistic talents complement her technical skills, making her a well-rounded professional in the field of civil engineering.

NOTABLE PUBLICATION

A Systematic Review on Green Practices in the Malaysian Construction Industry: Status, Challenges, Key Motivations, Rating Systems and Technology Evolution
Authors: Masyhur, R.T., Alias, A.H., Haron, N.A., Zulkafli, Z.
Year: 2024
Journal: Energy and Buildings

Khalil Rami – Sustainable Development – Best Researcher Award

Khalil Rami - Sustainable Development - Best Researcher Award

Breda University of Applied Sciences - Netherlands

AUTHOR PROFILE

SCOPUS

EDUCATION & PROFESSIONAL QUALIFICATIONS 🎓

Dr. Khalil Rami is a distinguished Associate Professor in Tourism with a PhD in Tourism. Since 2012, he has been a prominent academic at Bethlehem University, Palestine, where he has contributed significantly to the field of tourism through both teaching and research. His key qualifications include senior lecturing roles in various aspects of tourism such as Planning & Development, European Tourism Policies, Politics and (In)stable Regions, and Socio-cultural and Environmental Impact Studies.

MEMBERSHIP OF PROFESSIONAL BODIES 🌐

Dr. Rami is an esteemed member of numerous professional organizations. He is associated with the ATLAS Association for Tourism and Leisure Education and the ISA International Sociologist Association, where he has served as President of Research Committee 50 and Vice President for the 2018-2025 term. His editorial contributions include roles with the Journal of Tourism Planning & Development, Current Issues in Tourism, Tourism Analysis, the Journal of Politics and Law, and the International Journal of Tourism Cities, among others.

FIELD RESEARCH SUPERVISION 🌍

Throughout his career, Dr. Rami has supervised extensive field research projects across diverse global destinations. His supervision includes student fieldwork in locations such as Ko Samui, Phuket, Bali, Singapore, Siem Reap, and various sites in Vietnam, analyzing tourism development, supply and demand, cross-cultural studies, and market dynamics.

CONSULTING EXPERIENCE 🌟

Dr. Rami has provided expert consulting services in tourism development, notably contributing to the Master Plan for Bethlehem Governorate, Palestine. His consultancy work involves extensive structural planning, including infrastructure and tourism project development, in collaboration with Khatib & Alami Consulting Company and ARUP Consulting Company.

RESEARCH & POLICY CONTRIBUTIONS 📚

In 2018, Dr. Rami participated in significant research for the TRAN Committee on Overtourism, contributing to policy discussions and responses to the impacts of overtourism. His research, published in collaboration with renowned experts, addresses the challenges and potential policy solutions for managing overtourism.

CONFERENCE ACTIVITIES & PRESENTATIONS 🗣️

Dr. Rami has presented papers at numerous international conferences, including on topics such as community-based tourism planning in Palestine and cultural tourism. His contributions to the academic discourse extend to lectures and workshops on the socio-cultural and environmental impacts of tourism.

ADVISORY & BOARD MEMBERSHIP 📋

In addition to his academic roles, Dr. Rami serves on several advisory boards, including the Cambridge Scholars Publishing Advisory Board and the Advisory Board for the London Journal of Tourism, Sport, and Creative Industries. His role in these boards underscores his influence in shaping tourism research and policy.

NOTABLE PUBLICATION

    • Stakeholders' Perspective on Smart Tourism Development: A Case Study of the West Bank, Palestine
      Authors: Isaac, R.K., Dodeen, S.
      Year: 2024
      Journal: Management and Sustainabil
    • To Tip or Not to Tip? Explaining Tipping Behavior in Restaurants with Service-Inclusive Pricing
      Authors: Fernandez, S., Gössling, S., Martin-Rios, C., Isaac, R., Lunde, M.
      Year: 2024
      Journal: International Journal of Hospitality Management
    • Customers’ Perceptions and Responses to Hotels’ Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Orientation: The Case of Bethlehem Hotels, Palestine
      Authors: Isaac, R.K., Mzembe, A.N., Andon, R.
      Year: 2024
      Journal: Current Issues in Tourism
    • Pilgrimage Tourism in Palestine: The Backbone of the Palestinian Economy
      Authors: Isaac, R.K.
      Year: 2023
      Book: Perspectives on Asian Tourism
    • Changing Practices of Tourism Stakeholders in Covid-19 Affected Destinations
      Authors: Çakmak, E., Isaac, R.K., Butler, R.
      Year: 2023
      Book: Changing Practices of Tourism Stakeholders in Covid-19 Affected Destinations

Mohammad Zand – Green Infrastructure – Best Researcher Award

Mohammad Zand - Green Infrastructure - Best Researcher Award

Norvej - Denmark

AUTHOR PROFILE

GOOGLE SCHOLAR

EXPERT IN ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING

Mohammad Zand holds a Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering from Islamic Azad University, where he focused on energy management strategies for electric vehicles and smart grids. His academic journey, including both his Master’s and Bachelor’s degrees from the same institution, has shaped his deep expertise in the field.

RESEARCH IN SMART CITIES AND ENERGY MANAGEMENT

Zand’s research interests span across critical areas such as smart cities, energy management, and smart grids. His work aims to enhance the integration of renewable energy sources and optimize power systems, contributing significantly to advancements in smart and sustainable urban environments.

PIONEERING ARTICLES IN RENEWABLE ENERGY AND POWER SYSTEMS

He has authored several influential papers, including studies on energy management strategies for solar charging stations and optimal planning of electrical appliances in smart home networks. His publications in journals like IET Renewable Power Generation and Computers and Electrical Engineering highlight his contributions to energy management and renewable energy systems.

INNOVATOR IN ENERGY STORAGE AND TRANSITION TO RENEWABLES

Zand has been involved in key projects focusing on the application of energy storage systems to boost renewable generation and mitigate challenges in power grids. His work includes developing tools for energy transition and optimizing power grid operations to support increased renewable penetration.

ACADEMIC LEADER AND TEACHER

As an Assistant Professor at Islamic Azad University, Zand has been instrumental in teaching and mentoring students in various subjects related to electrical engineering. His expertise covers a broad range of topics, including electric machines, power electronics, and industrial control systems.

PROJECT LEADER IN ENERGY SYSTEMS OPTIMIZATION

He has led several projects aimed at optimizing energy systems, including enhancing the operation of energy storage for load management and developing simulation platforms for flexible power grids. These projects reflect his commitment to advancing practical solutions in energy systems engineering.

DEDICATED RESEARCHER IN ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING

Zand's dedication to research is evident in his diverse range of publications and projects. His work continues to drive forward knowledge in electrical engineering, focusing on improving efficiency and sustainability in energy systems and smart grid technologies.

NOTABLE PUBLICATION

An Efficient Modified HPSO-TVAC-Based Dynamic Economic Dispatch of Generating Units.
Authors: M. Ghasemi, E. Akbari, M. Zand, M. Hadipour, S. Ghavidel, L. Li
Year: 2019
Journal: Electric Power Components and Systems, 47 (19-20), pp. 1826-1840

Energy Management Strategy for Solid-State Transformer-Based Solar Charging Station for Electric Vehicles in Smart Grids.
Authors: M. Zand, M.A. Nasab, P. Sanjeevikumar, P.K. Maroti, J.B. Holm-Nielsen
Year: 2020
Journal: IET Renewable Power Generation, 14 (18), pp. 3843-3852

An Efficient, Robust Optimization Model for the Unit Commitment Considering Renewable Uncertainty and Pumped-Storage Hydropower.
Authors: M.A. Nasab, M. Zand, S. Padmanaban, M.S. Bhaskar, J.M. Guerrero
Year: 2022
Journal: Computers and Electrical Engineering, 100, 107846

Optimal Planning of Electrical Appliance of Residential Units in a Smart Home Network Using Cloud Services.
Authors: M. Azimi Nasab, M. Zand, M. Eskandari, P. Sanjeevikumar, P. Siano
Year: 2021
Journal: Smart Cities, 4 (3), pp. 1173-1195

Using Adaptive Fuzzy Logic for Intelligent Energy Management in Hybrid Vehicles.
Authors: M. Zand, M.A. Nasab, A. Hatami, M. Kargar, H.R. Chamorro
Year: 2020
Conference: 28th Iranian Conference on Electrical Engineering (ICEE), pp. 1-7

Bin Zheng – Environmentally friendly building materials – Best Researcher Award

Bin Zheng - Environmentally friendly building materials - Best Researcher Award

Fujian Hongsheng Construction Group - China

AUTHOR PROFILE

SCOPUS

EDUCATION IN ARCHITECTURE AND CIVIL ENGINEERING

Bin Zheng graduated with a Master’s degree in Architecture and Civil Engineering from Chongqing University in June 2008. His academic background laid a strong foundation for his extensive career in construction and engineering.

CURRENT POSITION AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Currently serving as Deputy General Manager and Chief Engineer at Fujian Hongsheng Construction Group Co., Ltd., Bin Zheng oversees the company's technology and engineering centers. His role encompasses managing production technology, quality control, and facilitating technical exchanges and cooperation both internally and externally.

CONTRIBUTIONS TO NATIONAL STANDARDS

Bin Zheng played a pivotal role as the main drafter of the national standard "Determination of Organic Content of Adiabatic Materials for Construction" (GB/T41768-2022/ISO29771:2008). This standard is crucial for ensuring the quality and sustainability of construction materials.

DEVELOPMENT OF LOCAL STANDARDS

He is also the main drafter of several local standards, including "Technical Standard for Application of Planting Concrete" (DBJ/T13-393-2021) and "Code for Design and Testing of Fujian Province" (DBJ/T13-101-2017), contributing significantly to regional construction practices and regulations.

INNOVATIVE PATENT CONTRIBUTIONS

Bin Zheng holds an invention patent for "A High Strength Concrete for Construction" (Patent No.: ZL2020 2 1757546.9), demonstrating his commitment to advancing construction technology through innovative solutions.

LEADERSHIP IN KEY PROJECTS

He is responsible for the excellence work of key projects within the company, ensuring that these projects meet high standards of quality and performance, reflecting his leadership and expertise in the field.

TECHNICAL GUIDANCE AND COOPERATION

Bin Zheng’s role involves providing technical guidance and fostering cooperation in the construction industry, enhancing the overall technical capabilities and collaborative efforts within the sector.

NOTABLE PUBLICATION

Investigation of the static constitutive relationship of rubberized self-compacting concrete after high-temperature exposure.
Authors: J. Zhuang, H. Ye, J. Zhao, X. Cai, B. Zheng
Year: 2024
Journal: Construction and Building Materials, 440, 137332

Hannah Maria – Sustainable Development – Best Researcher Award

Hannah Maria - Sustainable Development - Best Researcher Award

Universidade Federal de Pernambuco - Brazil

AUTHOR PROFILE

ORCID

ACADEMIC BACKGROUND:

Hannah Maria Soares de Freitas holds a master's degree in innovation and consumption management from the Federal University of Pernambuco (UFPE), which she completed in 2024. She also has an MBA specialization in strategic planning and management from Centro Universitário Uninter (2016) and a bachelor's degree in business administration with an emphasis on fashion marketing from the University of Pernambuco (2014).

RESEARCH AND PROJECTS:

she is actively involved in the research project titled "carbon market assessment and consumer behavior," which focuses on studying the carbon market and consumer behavior, particularly in the context of carbon credits. her research aims to promote sustainable consumption through innovative approaches and strategic planning.

RESEARCH INTERESTS:

her main areas of interest include consumer well-being, decision-making for sustainable consumption, strategic planning, innovation, and conscious consumption. she is dedicated to exploring how consumers can make more informed and sustainable choices.

PROFESSIONAL AFFILIATIONS:

hannah is a member of the consumer behavior research group (gpcc), which is registered in the cnpq directory. her membership in this group allows her to collaborate with other researchers and contribute to advancements in consumer behavior studies.

ACADEMIC CONTRIBUTIONS:

she serves as a reviewer for the revista interdisciplinar de marketing (rimar-uem), where she contributes her expertise to ensure the quality and relevance of published research.

ADDITIONAL TRAINING:

she has completed various additional training programs, including university extensions in governmental planning aligned to the agenda 2030, strategic government evaluation, and writing scientific articles for high-impact journals.

CURRENT WORK:

currently, hannah is focused on her research and teaching activities at ufpe, where she continues to explore innovative strategies for promoting sustainable consumption and strategic planning.

NOTABLE PUBLICATION

Ahmad Shaabani – Sustainable Development – Best Researcher Award

Ahmad Shaabani - Sustainable Development - Best Researcher Award

Shahid Beheshti University - Iran

AUTHOR PROFILE

SCOPUS

ACADEMIC CAREER

Ahmad Shaabani is a renowned Professor of Organic Chemistry at Shahid Beheshti University in Tehran, Iran. He began his academic journey as an Assistant Professor from 1994 to 1998, progressed to an Associate Professor from 1998 to 2002, and has been a full Professor since 2003. His academic career is marked by his dedication to teaching and research in organic chemistry.

RESEARCH INTERESTS

Ahmad's research focuses on the discovery and design of novel isocyanide-based multi-component reactions (I-MCRs) for synthesizing biologically important heterocyclic compounds. He also works on creating neoteric functional materials with functionalized/modified nanomaterials and natural polymers via I-MCRs, which are applied in drug delivery and biomedical platforms. His interests extend to the synthesis of methalophtalocyanines and developing new synthetic methods through heterogeneous catalysts in chemical transformations.

HONORS AND AWARDS

Ahmad has received numerous accolades throughout his career, including being named Distinguished Professor of Shahid Beheshti University multiple times (2002, 2006, 2007) and being selected as the Distinguished Professor of Iranian Universities by the Ministry of Science, Research, and Technology of Iran in 2003. He was awarded the prestigious prize of the International Kharazmi Festival in Basic Science in 2009 and was recognized as the Iranian Chemical Society’s Distinguished Chemist in 2010.

SABBATICAL LEAVES

Ahmad has taken sabbatical leaves to advance his research at prominent institutions, including the University of Regina in Canada (2000-2001) under the mentorship of Prof. Donald G. Lee, and the University of California, USA, in 2018, working with Prof. Shaowei Chen. These experiences have significantly contributed to his professional development and research output.

TRAINING PROGRAMS

Ahmad has participated in various training programs to enhance his expertise, including the UNIDO Group Training Program on the Utilization of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants in Pharmaceutical and Related Industries in 1996 in Eskisehir, Turkey, and the HIJ-COMSATS Workshop on the Use of Spectroscopic Techniques in Structural Organic Chemistry in 2000 in Karachi, Pakistan.

MEMBERSHIPS

Ahmad is a fellow of The World Academy of Sciences (TWAS) for the advancement of science in developing countries, and a member of the Academy of Sciences in Iran. He is also an active member of the Iranian Chemical Society and the Scientific Committee of the Chemistry Olympiad. Furthermore, he serves on the editorial advisory board of ACS Combinatorial Science and the editorial boards of the Journal of the Iranian Chemical Society and the Journal of Current Green Chemistry.

EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTIONS

Ahmad contributes his expertise to the scientific community through his editorial roles. He is on the editorial advisory board of ACS Combinatorial Science (ACS) and serves on the editorial boards of the Journal of the Iranian Chemical Society (Springer) and the Journal of Current Green Chemistry (Bentham Science), where he helps guide the direction of research in these fields.

NOTABLE PUBLICATION

Ngonidzashe Mangoro – Urbanisation and Solid Waste Management – Best Researcher Award

Ngonidzashe Mangoro - Urbanisation and Solid Waste Management - Best Researcher Award

University of the Witwatersrand - South Africa

AUTHOR PROFILE

SCOPUS

AREAS OF RESEARCH FOCUS AND PROFESSIONAL INTEREST

Ngonidzashe Mangoro's research spans diverse and critical areas such as Climate Change, Environmental Sustainability, and Social and Environmental Justice. His professional interests also cover Natural Resources Governance, Waste Governance, and Environmental Policy Analysis. Mangoro's expertise extends to Agri-Food Systems, Heritage Geographies, and the Decolonisation of the Built Environment. Additionally, he has a keen interest in Late Iron Age Archaeology in Africa, reflecting his broad engagement with both contemporary and historical environmental issues.

EDUCATION

Ngonidzashe Mangoro holds a PhD in Geography and Environmental Studies from the University of the Witwatersrand (2024), following an MSc in Geography and Environmental Studies from the same institution (2021). He completed his BA Hons in Archaeology, Cultural Heritage, and Museum Studies at Midlands State University in May 2013, graduating with Upper Second Class Honors. His academic background underpins his extensive research and teaching roles in the field.

PROFESSIONAL TEACHING APPOINTMENTS

From 2021 to 2023, Mangoro served as a Teaching Assistant in the Department of Geography and Environmental Studies at the University of the Witwatersrand. He taught both undergraduate and postgraduate courses, including Environmental Governance, Thinking Geographically, Food: Security, Politics and Culture, Space and Society, Earth and Atmospheric Processes, Theory and Practice in Sustainability Science, and Economic Geography. His contributions in this role were highly regarded, with notable achievements including co-authoring articles for high-impact journals and being involved in significant projects such as the South African Water Research Commission Sanitation Project.

PROFESSIONAL APPOINTMENTS OUTSIDE ACADEMIA

Before his academic roles, Mangoro worked as a Science Communicator and Project Coordinator at Sci Bono Discovery Centre in Johannesburg from 2016 to 2021. In this capacity, he managed various projects, including project recruitment and quality assurance, and taught environmental sustainability concepts. He also held a role as a Freelance Heritage and Environmental Consultant from May 2017, managing projects that required expert studies, particularly in construction and mining in Johannesburg.

ACADEMIC PUBLICATIONS

Ngonidzashe Mangoro has published several impactful papers, including "Community Perceptions on the Impacts of Solid Waste Management on Human Health and the Environment in Sub-Saharan African Cities" in Development Southern Africa and "An Assessment of Literature on Construction and Demolition Waste Management Barriers in Sub-Saharan Africa" in the International Journal of Environment and Waste Management. His work also covers wetland changes in Gauteng, South Africa, demonstrating his contribution to advancing knowledge in environmental and heritage studies.

KEY ACHIEVEMENTS

Mangoro's professional journey is marked by significant achievements, including his impactful contributions to environmental and heritage consulting, as well as his effective project management at Sci Bono Discovery Centre. His ability to shift between roles and his strong work ethic have earned him recognition and opportunities for further development within his professional spheres.

RESEARCH AND CONSULTING EXPERIENCE

With a background in both research and practical consulting, Mangoro has conducted in-depth studies on indigenous communities and their heritage, managed data and compliance procedures in heritage consulting, and contributed to the development of impactful environmental policies. His experience is a testament to his dedication to advancing both academic and applied aspects of environmental and heritage research.

NOTABLE PUBLICATION

Title: Exploring Wetland Change in the Gauteng Province, South Africa

Authors: Mangoro, N., Kubanza, N.S., Simatele, M.D.
Year: 2024


Title: Community Perceptions on the Impacts of Solid Waste Management on Human Health and the Environment in Sub-Saharan African Cities: A Study of Diepsloot, Johannesburg, South Africa

Authors: Mangoro, N., Kubanza, N.S.
Year: 2023
Journal: Development Southern Africa

Thatikonda Naresh – sustainable materials – Best Researcher Award

Thatikonda Naresh - sustainable materials - Best Researcher Award

National institute of technology Arunachal Pradesh - India

AUTHOR PROFILE

SCOPUS

PROFESSIONAL SKILLS AND EXPERTISE

Thatikonda Naresh is well-versed in structural engineering with a solid foundation in maintaining materials testing and civil lab equipment. His expertise includes knowledge in strength of materials, concrete and highway materials testing, and proficiency in CAD and STARD PRO LAB. Naresh has hands-on experience with various civil engineering tools such as Universal Testing Machines (UTM), Total Stations, Rebound Hammers, UV Spectrometers, and California Bearing Ratio (C.B.R) testers.

RESEARCH PUBLICATIONS

Naresh has contributed significantly to the field of geopolymer concrete through various publications. Notable works include "Evaluation of Self-Compacting Geopolymer Concrete Properties Containing Different Water Glass Solutions" and "Activation of Self-Compacted Geopolymer Concrete Using Neutral-Grade Single Activator Solution," both published in high-impact journals. His research also covers the physical and mechanical properties of geopolymer mortar and the influence of activator solutions on self-compacting geopolymer concrete.

HONORS AND AWARDS

Naresh has been recognized for his contributions to academia and research. In 2019, he received a 'Certificate of Appreciation' from CJITS & LABTECH INNOVATIONS for his role as Conference Coordinator at the 3rd International Conference on Research and Modern Innovations in Engineering and Technology (ICRMIET-19). Additionally, he earned a 'Certificate of Appreciation' and a 'Certificate of Excellence' for his roles as Faculty Coordinator in organizing workshops and national series at Christu Jyoti Institute of Technology & Science.

RESEARCH FOCUS ON GEOPOLYMER CONCRETE

Naresh’s research primarily revolves around geopolymer concrete, with a focus on enhancing its properties using various activators and alternative cementitious materials. His studies, including those on micro-silica as a replacement for fly ash-GGBFS and the influence of binder composition, aim to advance the understanding and application of self-compacting geopolymer concrete in construction.

CONFERENCE PARTICIPATION AND COORDINATION

Beyond research, Naresh has demonstrated strong organizational skills by coordinating conferences and workshops. His involvement in events such as the 3rd ICRMIET and various advanced surveying and national workshop series underscores his commitment to promoting knowledge and innovation in the field of engineering.

LABORATORY EXPERIENCE

Naresh's practical experience includes preparing and maintaining lab manuals and stock registers, which reflects his attention to detail and organizational capabilities. His hands-on work with lab equipment and materials testing reinforces his technical skills and dedication to maintaining high standards in civil engineering research and practice.

ACADEMIC CONTRIBUTIONS

His academic achievements and contributions to research and education highlight Naresh's role in advancing structural engineering and materials science. His ongoing work in the field continues to contribute valuable insights and innovations, shaping the future of civil engineering practices and technologies.