Dr. Yohannes Yon – Environmental science – Best Researcher Award

Dr. Yohannes Yon - Environmental science - Best Researcher Award

Hawassa University - Ethiopia

AUTHOR PROFILE

GOOGLE SCHOLAR

🌱 SUMMARY OF ACADEMIC IDENTITY

Dr. Yohannes Yona Legide is a highly esteemed academic with a strong foundation in geography, environmental studies, and development policy. His academic journey began with a B.A. in Geography and Environmental Studies, followed by a Master’s in Regional and Local Development Studies, culminating in a Ph.D. in Policy and Development Studies from Hawassa University. His doctoral dissertation tackled the impact of climate change on agriculture-based livelihoods, a subject deeply relevant to Ethiopia’s rural transformation goals. Dr. Yohannes possesses extensive knowledge in sustainable development and climate-smart agriculture, backed by several national and international trainings. His diverse research experience spans climate adaptation, gender-based evaluation, and land management. He is known for blending research with practical community service and policy development, reflecting a dynamic scholar committed to social impact. With a passion for applied knowledge, he aims to empower rural communities through research-informed interventions, policy influence, and sustainability-focused education.

🎓 EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS

Dr. Yohannes Yona’s academic journey commenced with a deep curiosity about people, place, and the environment. After earning his B.A. in Geography and Environmental Studies from Dilla College, he developed a keen interest in regional development and environmental sustainability. This led him to pursue a Master’s degree at Addis Ababa University, where he specialized in Regional and Local Development Studies. His academic choices were not only rooted in intellectual curiosity but also guided by a genuine desire to serve marginalized and climate-affected communities. During his postgraduate years, he honed analytical and research skills and engaged in topics concerning environmental justice and rural transformation. His foundational years laid the groundwork for a lifetime commitment to research excellence, public service, and educational mentorship. These early pursuits shaped his approach to interdisciplinary knowledge, merging geography, development studies, and policy frameworks into a cohesive academic identity focused on resilience and impact.

🧭 PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS AND EXPERIENCE

Professionally, Dr. Yohannes has served across multiple academic and administrative roles, displaying exceptional versatility and leadership. Beginning as a high school teacher, he gradually ascended the academic ladder to become an Assistant Professor at Hawassa University. He led the Community Services Directorate, where he championed livelihood-enhancing initiatives, especially targeting women and youth. His university roles encompassed teaching, supervising graduate theses, developing curricula, and conducting multidisciplinary research. Additionally, he delivered leadership and entrepreneurship training, organized agricultural technology programs, and supported green economy initiatives. Outside academia, he worked as a Land and Environmental Information Officer and a Community Organization Officer, contributing to sustainable project planning and environmental awareness. Through these roles, he demonstrated profound skill in translating academic insight into practical programs. Whether addressing urban social issues or promoting poultry farming, his efforts reflect a commitment to inclusive development, policy relevance, and evidence-based community transformation.

🔬 CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS

Dr. Yohannes’s research contributions are extensive and interdisciplinary, with a primary focus on climate change adaptation, sustainable livelihoods, gender dynamics, and natural resource management. His doctoral research explored the impact of climate change on agriculture and climate-smart adaptations among Sidama smallholder farmers, a timely and critical subject for Ethiopia’s agrarian economy. He has published impactful papers in renowned journals such as Heliyon, Climate Services, and Journal of Environmental Studies and Sciences, addressing rainfall variability, indigenous climate practices, and access to climate information. His earlier work also spans educational effectiveness, non-farm diversification, and urban social challenges. Notably, he incorporates both quantitative and qualitative methods and frequently works on community-based research that informs local policy and institutional practices. His research is characterized by its applied orientation—he doesn’t merely generate knowledge but strives to ensure that research outcomes inform policy, build capacity, and directly support sustainable rural development.

🏅 ACCOLADES AND RECOGNITION

Throughout his career, Dr. Yohannes has been recognized for his impactful scholarship, community engagement, and training expertise. His selection for various national and international training programs—from the Raoul Wallenberg Institute in Sweden to SEARCA in the Philippines—demonstrates global acknowledgment of his potential and scholarly excellence. His research has earned publication in respected peer-reviewed journals, underlining his credibility and influence in climate and development discourse. As Director of Community Services at Hawassa University, he played a pivotal role in designing programs that supported women’s economic empowerment and green economy adoption. Furthermore, he has been entrusted with critical assignments such as gender audits and land management evaluations by academic and governmental institutions. These accolades reflect not only technical skill but also leadership, innovation, and unwavering commitment to social impact. His broad portfolio positions him as a role model and thought leader in Ethiopia’s academic and development landscape.

🌍 IMPACT AND INFLUENCE

Dr. Yohannes Yona’s work has significantly influenced both academic circles and grassroots communities. His efforts in climate-smart agriculture have guided policymakers and empowered farmers with adaptive strategies in the face of climate variability. Through university-based outreach, he has enhanced livelihoods by designing community programs in horticulture, poultry, and small-scale farming, particularly for marginalized women. His leadership in environmental awareness initiatives and gender-sensitive planning has reshaped how development projects are conceptualized in Sidama and beyond. His teaching and mentorship have shaped a generation of researchers and policy analysts who continue his legacy in academic and development spaces. Importantly, his multilingual proficiency, including English, Amharic, and Sidaamu Afoo, enables inclusive communication and broader impact. By bridging research, education, and community service, he has fostered a research culture that values relevance, equity, and sustainability—making him an academic deeply attuned to the needs and aspirations of the people he serves.

🔮 LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS

Dr. Yohannes Yona stands at the intersection of academic excellence and grassroots transformation, poised to leave a lasting legacy in climate resilience, sustainable livelihoods, and policy innovation. His body of work sets a high standard for community-integrated research in Ethiopia and the broader Global South. Looking forward, he is likely to play a significant role in shaping climate policy frameworks, especially concerning agriculture-based livelihoods and gender-inclusive development. His plans to expand partnerships and participate in international consortia highlight his forward-thinking vision. He aspires to further mentor emerging scholars, promote evidence-based policymaking, and establish research centers focused on rural sustainability. With evolving climate challenges, Dr. Yohannes is expected to contribute cutting-edge insights that align local wisdom with global scientific frameworks. His future work will likely extend into regional policymaking, influencing how governments and institutions respond to socio-environmental changes with empathy, innovation, and inclusivity.

NOTABLE PUBLICATIONS

 

Title: Assessing challenges of non-farm livelihood diversification in Boricha Woreda, Sidama zone
Authors: Y. Yona, T. Mathewos
Journal: Journal of Development and Agricultural Economics, Vol. 9(4), pp. 87–96, 2017

Title: Analysis of rainfall and temperature variabilities in Sidama regional state, Ethiopia
Authors: Y. Yona, T. Matewos, G. Sime
Journal: Heliyon, Vol. 10(7), 2024

Title: Revitalizing indigenous practices employed by farmers to reduce agriculture’s vulnerability to climate change: a systematic review
Authors: Y.Y. Legide, G.S. Feyissa, T.M. Karo
Journal: Journal of Environmental Studies and Sciences, Vol. 14(2), pp. 400–414, 2024

Title: Schools in Sidama Zone, Ethiopia
Authors: E. Mandefro, M. Mulatu, T. Abebe, Y. Yona
Journal: Perception, Vol. 8(4), pp. 1–9, 2016

Title: School Leadership and English Language Teachers’ Approaches in Teaching English Language: The Case of Selected Schools in Sidama Zone, Southern Ethiopia
Authors: E. Mandefro, M. Mulatu, T. Abebe, Y. Yona
Journal: International Journal of Learning, Teaching and Educational Research, Vol. 15(10), 2016

Le-Xi Zhang – Gas Sensing Materials – Best Researcher Award

Le-Xi Zhang - Gas Sensing Materials - Best Researcher Award

Tianjin University of Technology - China

AUTHOR PROFILE

SCOPUS

ORCID

SUMMARY

Dr. Le-Xi Zhang is an Associate Professor at Tianjin University of Technology, China. With research centered on gas and humidity sensing materials, heterogeneous catalysis, and nanostructured materials, Dr. Zhang has significantly advanced perovskite-based and MOF-derived sensor technologies. His academic contributions span over a decade, supported by numerous national and provincial research grants. He has a robust publication record, with impactful articles in high-ranking SCI journals and a range of patented innovations. His work bridges fundamental material design and practical sensor applications for environmental and physiological monitoring.

EDUCATION

Dr. Zhang earned a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from Qufu Normal University (2001–2005). He completed his Ph.D. in Materials Science at the Institute of Coal Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences (2005–2012). His academic foundation integrates deep chemical understanding with cutting-edge nanotechnology, equipping him to investigate complex materials systems for practical applications in sensing and catalysis. The rigorous training and interdisciplinary research during his doctoral work laid the groundwork for his current focus on smart functional materials.

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

Starting as a Lecturer in 2012, Dr. Zhang advanced to Associate Professor at Tianjin University of Technology in 2018. He has led research groups in materials chemistry and sensor development, often collaborating with industry and academic peers. His responsibilities include mentoring graduate students, publishing scientific research, and managing research projects. He is actively involved in academic societies and editorial boards. Through leadership roles and interdisciplinary collaboration, he has fostered innovation in sensor technology and contributed meaningfully to China’s material science research community.

RESEARCH INTEREST

Research areas include gas and humidity sensors, oxide nanostructures, heterogeneous catalysts, and metal–organic frameworks (MOFs). His investigations are focused on synthesizing defect-rich and multifunctional materials to enhance sensitivity, selectivity, and environmental stability. Emphasis is placed on halide perovskites, high-entropy oxides, and carbon-doped nanomaterials. These efforts aim at addressing environmental sensing challenges, particularly in wearable technology and public health diagnostics. His work integrates design, synthesis, and device fabrication, contributing significantly to sensor miniaturization and real-time monitoring applications.

AWARD AND HONOR

Dr. Zhang has been recognized as a Tianjin 131 Innovative Talent (Third Level) and was selected under the "Longcheng Talent Plan" in Jiangsu Province. He has secured multiple competitive national and regional research grants as a principal investigator. His editorial contributions to Rare Metals and Tungsten (both SCI Q1) reflect academic leadership. A prolific reviewer for over 50 SCI journals, Dr. Zhang’s academic reputation is further bolstered by peer endorsements and invitations to prestigious editorial boards in materials science.

RESEARCH SKILL

Dr. Zhang demonstrates advanced skills in materials synthesis (e.g., solvothermal, hydrothermal, molten-salt), structural characterization (e.g., XRD, SEM, TEM), and sensor fabrication. He specializes in designing multifunctional oxide-based and coordination polymer materials for gas sensing. His capabilities extend to defect engineering, photocatalysis studies, and electrochemical performance analysis. He possesses considerable experience in applying nanotechnology to real-world sensing problems and is adept in scaling up material synthesis for prototype development. His integrated approach links material properties with device performance effectively.

PUBLICATIONS TOP NOTED

Dr. Zhang has authored over 50 first or corresponding-author papers in top-tier journals like Sensors and Actuators B, Journal of Materials Chemistry C, and ACS Applied Materials. His publications address humidity sensing, gas detection, and catalytic performance, often involving novel perovskite and MOF materials. Noteworthy papers include studies on lead-free perovskites for physiological humidity monitoring and high-entropy oxides for non-contact sensing. Many works feature interdisciplinary collaboration and real-time application focus, highlighting both theoretical insights and applied breakthroughs.

Title: In-situ pyrolysis of lead-free halide perovskite Cs₂SnCl₆ micro-octahedra to CsCl@Cs₂SnCl₆ composites for robust physiological humidity monitoring
Authors: [Not specified]
Journal: Microchemical Journal (2025)

Title: MOF-derived high-entropy oxides (YTbDyErYb)₂O₃ for boosted non-contact physiological humidity monitoring induced by oxygen vacancy modulation
Authors: [Not specified]
Journal: Journal of Alloys and Compounds (2024)

Title: Cation-oxygen dual-defective ACu₃Ti₄O₁₂ (A = Sr, Ba) perovskites enable high-performance humidity sensors for human-body related moisture monitoring
Authors: [Not specified]
Journal: Ceramics International (2024)

Title: PVDF-PTFE composite-based electrochemical sensor for monitoring humidity during human physiological movements
Authors: [Not specified]
Journal: Sensors and Actuators B: Chemical (2024)

Title: High-Performance Flexible Humidity Sensors Based on MCl (M = Li, Na, K) Doped PVP/PVDF Self-Supporting Films for Boosted Real-Time Noncontact Moisture Monitoring
Authors: [Not specified]
Journal: ACS Applied Polymer Materials (2024)

Title: Halide-dependent humidity sensing of Cs₂SnX₆ (X = Cl, Br, I) perovskites for real-time human physiological moisture detection
Authors: [Not specified]
Journal: Journal of Materials Chemistry C (2024)

CONCLUSION

Dr. Le-Xi Zhang exemplifies interdisciplinary expertise in functional materials for chemical sensing. His innovative research on humidity and gas sensors has positioned him at the forefront of environmental and physiological monitoring technology. By integrating nanostructure engineering and device fabrication, he contributes solutions to critical challenges in smart sensing. His academic leadership, combined with patent-rich output and editorial roles, makes him a key figure in China's material chemistry landscape. Dr. Zhang’s future work is poised to drive sustainable sensor technologies and translational material science.

Yuhang Huang – Environmental Engineering – Best Researcher Award

Yuhang Huang - Environmental Engineering - Best Researcher Award

Hunan University - China

AUTHOR PROFILE

GOOGLE SCHOLAR

🎓SUMMARY

Yuhang Huang is a promising young researcher from China and a current master’s degree candidate at Hunan University, majoring in Mechanical Engineering. His academic journey is driven by a deep interest in wave energy harvesting—a field combining principles of mechanical design, fluid dynamics, and energy sustainability. Known for his diligence, leadership, and academic excellence, he has already co-authored impactful publications in top-tier journals. Huang has consistently displayed initiative by serving as class president and taking active roles in academic coordination. His future ambitions lie in advancing ocean-based renewable energy systems that address environmental and engineering challenges in marine applications. With a growing research profile and a strong educational foundation, he aims to contribute meaningfully to the global energy transition.

🎓 EDUCATION AND FOUNDATION

Yuhang Huang's educational foundation was built at Hunan University, where he majored in Mechanical Engineering. His coursework has covered diverse technical areas, including fluid mechanics, mechanical manufacturing technology, microcomputer principles, and mechatronic systems. Through hands-on projects and collaborative research, he developed an understanding of system modeling and energy conversion. He demonstrated strong academic performance throughout his undergraduate and postgraduate studies and participated actively in organizing student-centered events. This technical and interpersonal training has positioned him as a capable researcher with the ability to integrate theory into real-world applications. His education has nurtured a balanced skill set, preparing him for advanced research and collaborative innovation in mechanical energy systems.

🧑‍💼 WORK AND LEADERSHIP EXPERIENCE

Throughout his academic career, Huang has been actively involved in student leadership. From his undergraduate years, where he organized campus and academic events, to his graduate studies, where he serves as class president, he has shown a consistent dedication to team building and academic coordination. He has assisted peers in academic planning and acted as a bridge between students and faculty. Beyond administrative contributions, his leadership has strengthened research groups and promoted collaborative efficiency in experimental settings. These experiences have refined his organizational and interpersonal skills, further enhancing his readiness for multidisciplinary research environments. His ability to combine technical research with leadership roles marks him as a well-rounded future scientist and team contributor.

🌊 RESEARCH INTERESTS AND FOCUS

Yuhang Huang is deeply engaged in research related to ocean wave energy harvesting, particularly in bistable and nonlinear mechanical systems. His focus includes the development of energy harvesting devices for marine buoys and unmanned surface vessels. This work involves using mechanical dynamics to capture kinetic energy from waves and convert it into usable electricity. His designs emphasize compactness, efficiency, and adaptability in harsh marine conditions. His published articles in journals like Journal of Cleaner Production and Renewable Energy showcase innovative methods in sustainable marine power generation. With a keen eye on practical implementation, his work bridges academic theory and environmental engineering for real-world energy solutions.

🏅 HONORS AND ACHIEVEMENTS

Huang’s academic journey has been recognized with numerous honors for his leadership and scholarly contributions. Throughout both undergraduate and postgraduate stages, he maintained an exceptional academic record while actively supporting peer learning. His leadership as a class president and member of the academic committee helped improve class cohesion and academic performance. His involvement in extracurricular and technical communities demonstrates his broad engagement with campus life. Notably, his role in high-impact research publications as a co-author also reflects his growing credibility in academic circles. These achievements indicate a commitment not only to scientific rigor but also to collaborative learning and academic service.

🧠 SKILLS AND TECHNICAL STRENGTH

Yuhang Huang's research skills span across mechanical system modeling, nonlinear vibration analysis, and device optimization. His technical expertise includes hands-on system design, experimental mechanics, and interface control in energy harvesting systems. He is proficient in applying theoretical mechanics and system simulation tools to real-world mechanical problems. His language proficiency in English also supports his academic communication, collaboration, and publication in international journals. His skill set supports a cross-disciplinary research style, allowing him to contribute meaningfully to projects at the intersection of mechanical engineering and renewable energy. These proficiencies position him for success in global research collaborations and further academic pursuit.

📚 PUBLICATIONS AND FUTURE OUTLOOK

Huang has co-authored notable publications including “Bistable built-in ocean wave energy harvester for ocean buoys” and “Nonlinear ocean energy harvesting method for unmanned surface vessels,” published in Journal of Cleaner Production and Renewable Energy. These works demonstrate his technical contributions to marine energy solutions. Looking ahead, he aspires to enhance system intelligence through AI-assisted control and adaptive energy systems. His research vision includes scaling wave energy technologies to support autonomous marine operations and coastal monitoring. By continuing to innovate in mechanical energy harvesting, he aims to contribute to sustainable technologies that support environmental resilience and global energy needs.

NOTABLE PUBLICATION

Title: Diffusionedge: Diffusion probabilistic model for crisp edge detection
Authors: Y. Ye, K. Xu, Y. Huang, R. Yi, Z. Cai
Journal/Conference: Proceedings of the AAAI Conference on Artificial Intelligence, Vol. 38 (7), 2024

Title: Neural architecture search for joint human parsing and pose estimation
Authors: D. Zeng, Y. Huang, Q. Bao, J. Zhang, C. Su, W. Liu
Journal/Conference: Proceedings of the IEEE/CVF International Conference on Computer Vision, 2021

Title: Genre-conditioned long-term 3D dance generation driven by music
Authors: Y. Huang, J. Zhang, S. Liu, Q. Bao, D. Zeng, Z. Chen, W. Liu
Journal/Conference: ICASSP 2022 – IEEE International Conference on Acoustics, Speech and Signal Processing, 2022

Title: Diffmot: A real-time diffusion-based multiple object tracker with non-linear prediction
Authors: W. Lv, Y. Huang, N. Zhang, R.S. Lin, M. Han, D. Zeng
Journal/Conference: Proceedings of the IEEE/CVF Conference on Computer Vision and Pattern Recognition, 2024

Title: Caco: Both positive and negative samples are directly learnable via cooperative-adversarial contrastive learning
Authors: X. Wang, Y. Huang, D. Zeng, G.J. Qi
Journal/Conference: IEEE Transactions on Pattern Analysis and Machine Intelligence, Vol. 45 (9), 2023