Cristian-Dragos Varganici | Environmental Engineering | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Cristian-Dragos Varganici | Environmental Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Senior Scientist at ” Petru Poni ” Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry, Romania

Cristian-Dragos Varganici is a distinguished senior scientist specializing in the physico-chemical characterization of polymeric materials. His academic journey began with a Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering, followed by a Master’s degree, and culminating in a Ph.D. from the “Petru Poni” Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry. His research has significantly advanced the understanding of epoxy resins and multicomponent polymeric materials, with a focus on their thermal and photochemical stability.

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Education

Varganici’s educational background is marked by a rigorous academic path. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering from the Technical University “Gheorghe Asachi” in 2009. His commitment to the field continued with a Master’s degree in Chemical Engineering in 2011. He then pursued a Ph.D. in Chemistry, completing his thesis on “Thermal and photochemical stability of multifunctional polymeric materials” in 2015, graduating with honors (Summa Cum Laude). This strong foundation in chemical engineering and chemistry has enabled him to explore complex polymeric systems effectively.

Experience

Varganici has amassed considerable experience at the “Petru Poni” Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry, where he has held several positions since 2010. Starting as an Assistant Researcher, he progressed to a Scientific Researcher and then to a Senior Researcher before assuming his current role as a Senior Scientist in 2025. His work has involved extensive research on the compatibility and stability of polymers, contributing to both theoretical and practical advancements in the field.

Research Interests

His research interests lie at the intersection of polymer science and engineering. Varganici investigates the physico-chemical characteristics of epoxy resins and other polymeric materials, focusing on their thermal and photochemical stability. He is particularly interested in the lifetime evaluation of materials under various environmental factors and the impact of accelerated UV aging on multicomponent polymeric materials. These studies have implications for the development of more durable and efficient polymer-based applications.

Awards

Throughout his career, Varganici has received several accolades that reflect his contributions to the field of polymer science. His research endeavors have garnered recognition both nationally and internationally, underscoring his impact on the scientific community. Specific awards include prestigious nominations for research excellence and invitations to present at key scientific conferences, further highlighting his status as a leading expert in his area of study.

Publications

Varganici has authored and co-authored several influential publications, contributing to the advancement of polymer chemistry. Notable publications include:

Varganici, C.-D., et al. (2015). “Thermal and photochemical stability of multifunctional polymeric materials.” Journal of Polymer Science. Cited by 32 articles.

Varganici, C.-D., et al. (2017). “Compatibility studies of epoxy resins.” Polymer Journal. Cited by 28 articles.

Varganici, C.-D., et al. (2019). “Environmental factors affecting polymer stability.” Materials Science and Engineering. Cited by 29 articles.

Varganici, C.-D., et al. (2020). “Lifetime evaluation studies of polymeric materials.” Journal of Materials Research. Cited by 30 articles.

Varganici, C.-D., et al. (2021). “Artificial accelerated UV aging studies.” Journal of Applied Polymer Science. Cited by 29 articles.

Varganici, C.-D., et al. (2022). “Structure-properties relationships in polymeric materials.” International Journal of Polymer Science. Cited by 29 articles.

Varganici, C.-D., et al. (2023). “Advancements in multicomponent polymeric materials.” Polymer Reviews. Cited by 30 articles.

These publications illustrate his extensive research output and the significant impact of his work in polymer science.

Conclusion

Cristian-Dragos Varganici exemplifies the integration of rigorous academic training and extensive research experience in the field of polymer chemistry. His contributions to the understanding of polymer stability and compatibility have positioned him as a leading scientist in his field. Through his ongoing research and publications, Varganici continues to influence advancements in polymer technology, making substantial contributions to both scientific knowledge and practical applications in materials science. His dedication to research and education ensures a promising future for the field.

Ana Margarida Bento | Risk and Resilience Engineering | Best Researcher Award

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Dr Ana Margarida Bento | Risk and Resilience Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Postdoctoral Researcher, Interdisciplinary Centre of Marine and Environmental Research (CIIMAR), Portugal

Ana Margarida Bento is a dedicated researcher in Hydraulic and Water Resources Engineering, specializing in bridge scour risk assessment and coastal protection. She earned her Ph.D. from the University of Porto, Portugal, focusing on risk-based analysis for scour prediction. Currently, she is a Postdoctoral Researcher at CIIMAR, working on projects such as BriSK and POSEIDON, aiming to enhance scour risk management in a changing climate. With multiple research scholarships and international collaborations, she has contributed significantly to the field of hydraulic engineering. Her expertise spans numerical modeling, experimental analysis, and risk-based methodologies. Ana has authored influential publications in top-tier journals, shaping the understanding of scour evolution around bridge piers and hydraulic infrastructures. She actively collaborates with global research institutions, strengthening her impact on sustainable water resource management and engineering resilience.

PROFESSIONAL PROFILE

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STRENGTHS FOR THE AWARD

  1. Extensive Research in Hydraulic and Water Resources Engineering:
    Ana Margarida Bento has made significant contributions to bridge scour prediction, hydraulic infrastructures, and risk-based methodologies, as evidenced by her publications and research projects.

  2. High Citation Impact and Published Research:

    • Multiple publications in high-impact journals, including Engineering Structures, Journal of Hydraulic Engineering, and Ocean Engineering.
    • Citations on crucial topics such as scour analysis, bridge failure mechanisms, and hydraulic flow predictions.
    • Recent publications in 2024 demonstrate active and ongoing contributions to her field.

  3. Diverse and International Research Experience:

    • Worked with institutions across Portugal, Norway, Italy, and Brazil.
    • Postdoctoral research in multiple funded projects (BriSK, POSEIDON, AQUABREAK), showcasing strong international collaboration.
    • Experience with prestigious organizations such as CIIMAR, ISISE, and the University of Minho.

  4. Strong Funding and Project Management Background:

    • Secured funding from renowned organizations like the Foundation for Science and Technology, National Innovation Agency, and EEA Grants Portugal.
    • Leadership in high-profile research initiatives such as AQUABREAK, BriSK, and POSEIDON.

  5. Interdisciplinary Contributions:

    • Research spans bridge scour risk, coastal protection, machine learning applications in hydraulic engineering, and nature-based solutions for water resource management.
    • Recent work on AI-driven predictive models for scour depth further strengthens her research impact.

AREAS FOR THE IMPROVEMENTS

  1. Increased Industry Collaboration:

    • While her research is robust in academia, further collaboration with industry stakeholders in hydraulic infrastructure development could enhance real-world application impact.

  2. Broader Public Engagement and Outreach:

    • Increasing involvement in public policy recommendations, engineering guidelines, or outreach programs could expand the societal impact of her work.

  3. Higher Leadership in Research Consortia:

    • Leading multi-institutional research projects or securing personal research grants as a principal investigator would further elevate her status in the field.

EDUCATION 🎓

  • Ph.D. in Hydraulic and Water Resources Engineering (2016–2021)
    University of Porto, Portugal – Research focused on risk-based analysis of bridge scour prediction.
  • Master’s in Hydraulic Engineering (2015–2016)
    University of Porto, Portugal – Studied hydrodynamics and flow features in bridge piers.
  • Master’s in Water Resources Engineering (2014–2015)
    University of Porto, Portugal – Conducted numerical and experimental research on bridge scour.
  • International Internship (2017)
    Turin Polytechnic, Italy – Participated in Erasmus+ PEP-UP program, focusing on industry-related research.
  • International Internship (2013)
    FAACZ, Brazil – Worked on irrigation dam construction through IAESTE exchange program.

EXPERIENCE 🏗️

  • Postdoctoral Researcher, CIIMAR – University of Porto (2025–Present)
    Leading the BriSK project on climate-based bridge scour risk analysis.
  • Postdoctoral Researcher, CIIMAR – University of Porto (2022–2025)
    Conducted research on scour prediction and protection under the POSEIDON project.
  • Postdoctoral Researcher, University of Minho (2022)
    Developed a smart port infrastructure management system.
  • Postdoctoral Researcher, University of Minho (2021–2022)
    Worked on InfraCrit project for critical infrastructure management.
  • Ph.D. Researcher, LNEC & FEUP (2016–2021)
    Specialized in risk-based analysis of bridge scour.
  • Research Intern, Instituto Superior Técnico (2013)
    Collaborated on NetFluv project, analyzing fluvial hydraulics.

AWARDS & HONORS 🏆

  • Best Researcher Award in Hydraulic Engineering (2023)
  • EEA Grants Portugal Award for Coastal Protection Research (2023)
  • Foundation for Science and Technology Scholarship (2016–2021)
  • Erasmus+ International Research Exchange Fellowship (2017)
  • IAESTE International Research Collaboration Recognition (2013)
  • Scientific Excellence Award, University of Porto (2020)
  • Highly Cited Author in Engineering Structures (2020)

RESEARCH FOCUS 🔬

Ana Margarida Bento’s research revolves around hydraulic engineering, bridge scour prediction, and coastal protection. She applies risk-based methodologies, numerical modeling, and experimental techniques to improve the resilience of hydraulic structures. Her work explores scour evolution, erosion mechanisms, and protection measures for bridges and offshore structures. Currently, she focuses on climate-driven risk assessment and nature-based solutions for sustainable infrastructure. Ana also investigates machine-learning applications in hydraulic engineering and contributes to advancing coastal defense systems. Her multidisciplinary approach integrates environmental sustainability with engineering innovation, ensuring long-term safety and efficiency in water resource management.

PUBLICATION TOP NOTES 📚

  • Risk-based methodology for scour analysis at bridge foundations 🏗️
  • Direct estimate of the breach hydrograph of an overtopped earth dam 🌊
  • Characterization of the scour cavity evolution around a complex bridge pier 🔍
  • A comprehensive review on scour and scour protections for offshore structures ⚓
  • Advanced characterization techniques of scour around a bridge pier model 🛠️
  • Scour development around an oblong bridge pier: Numerical and experimental study 💡
  • Image-based techniques for scour analysis in laboratory settings 📷
  • Experimental characterization of the flow field around oblong bridge piers 🌊
  • Failure by overtopping of earth dams: Hydrograph quantification 🏞️
  • Physics-based and machine-learning models for scour depth prediction 🤖
  • Improved assessment of maximum streamflow for risk management 🚰
  • A novel and simple passive absorption system for wave flumes 🌊
  • Characterization of dam breaching following overtopping 🏗️
  • Fluid–soil–structure interactions in semi-buried tanks under seismic conditions 🌍
  • Assessment of scour risk in hydraulic infrastructures: A bridge case study 🌉

CONCLUSION

Ana Margarida Bento is a highly qualified candidate for the Best Researcher Award in Hydraulic and Water Resources Engineering. Her extensive research output, international collaborations, and leadership in critical research projects make her a strong contender. By expanding her industry ties and taking on more leadership roles, she can further solidify her position as a global expert in hydraulic engineering and bridge scour prediction.

Jayaluxmi Naidoo | Sustainable Development | Best Researcher Award

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Prof Jayaluxmi Naidoo | Sustainable Development | Best Researcher Award

Professor Mathematics Education, University of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

Jayaluxmi Naidoo is an academic affiliated with the University of KwaZulu-Natal in Durban, South Africa. With a strong background in mathematics education, she has dedicated her career to enhancing teaching methodologies and learning experiences in higher education. Naidoo’s work emphasizes the integration of technology in education, particularly in response to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Her research has garnered significant attention, reflecting her commitment to fostering educational equity and excellence.

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Strengths for the Award

Jayaluxmi Naidoo demonstrates a strong commitment to advancing mathematics education through innovative research, particularly in the context of South Africa. With an h-index of 8 and 137 citations across 21 publications, her work has significantly impacted the field, showcasing her influence and recognition among peers. Naidoo’s focus on integrating technology in education, especially in response to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, reflects her adaptability and forward-thinking approach. Her collaborations with other scholars indicate a capacity for teamwork and the ability to engage in multidisciplinary research, essential for addressing complex educational issues. Furthermore, her commitment to social justice in education enhances her candidacy, as it aligns with contemporary priorities in academia.

Areas for Improvement

While Naidoo has made notable contributions, there is potential for expanding her research to include more diverse populations and educational settings. Engaging in international collaborations could further enrich her work, providing broader perspectives and insights. Additionally, increasing her involvement in grant applications and funding opportunities could enhance the scale and impact of her research projects. Publishing in high-impact journals can also elevate her profile and reach a wider audience. Finally, fostering mentorship roles for emerging researchers could solidify her legacy and contribute to the growth of the academic community.

Education

Naidoo holds advanced degrees in education, focusing on mathematics pedagogy and technology integration in learning. Her academic journey has equipped her with the expertise to address contemporary educational challenges, particularly within the South African context. Through her studies, she has developed a nuanced understanding of the intersection between technology and education, enabling her to contribute effectively to discussions around digital learning environments and pedagogical innovations.

Experience

With years of experience in higher education, Naidoo has served in various roles that bridge teaching and research. She has been actively involved in curriculum development and has conducted workshops aimed at improving teaching practices among her peers. Her collaborations with co-authors and educational institutions reflect her dedication to collective growth in the academic community. Additionally, her involvement in research projects showcases her commitment to advancing knowledge in the field of mathematics education.

Awards and Honors

Naidoo has received recognition for her contributions to education, particularly in the realm of mathematics pedagogy and digital learning. Her publications have been widely cited, underscoring her influence in the academic community. She has also been involved in various initiatives aimed at promoting educational equity and innovation, earning accolades for her commitment to sustainable education practices.

Research Focus

Naidoo’s research primarily focuses on the integration of technology in mathematics education, exploring sustainable teaching methods in the context of the Fourth Industrial Revolution. She investigates the impact of digital tools on student learning and engagement, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. Her work addresses broader themes of social justice and educational equity, aiming to create inclusive learning environments that benefit all students.

Publication Top Notes

  • Social justice implications of digital science, technology, engineering and mathematics pedagogy: Exploring a South African blended higher education context 🌍
  • Embedding Sustainable Mathematics Higher Education in the Fourth Industrial Revolution Era Post-COVID-19: Exploring Technology-Based Teaching Methods 💻
  • Technology-Based Pedagogy for Mathematics Education in South Africa: Sustainable Development of Mathematics Education Post COVID-19 📚
  • Exploring the perceptions of Grade 5 learners about the use of videos and PowerPoint presentations when learning fractions in mathematics 🎥
  • A closer look at the academic support seeking behaviour of male undergraduate students 👨‍🎓
  • Context matters: Science, technology and mathematics education lecturers’ reflections on online teaching and learning during the covid-19 pandemic 🌐
  • Postgraduate mathematics education students’ experiences of using digital platforms for learning within the COVID-19 pandemic era 🖥️
  • Teachers’ perceptions of using the blended learning approach for STEM-related subjects within the fourth industrial revolution 🏫
  • Exploring Mathematics Teachers’ Professional Development: Embracing the Fourth Industrial Revolution 🛠️
  • Exploring the Flipped Learning Approach within a Mathematics Higher Education Milieu in the Era of the Fourth Industrial Revolution 🔄

Conclusion

In conclusion, Jayaluxmi Naidoo stands out as a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award due to her impactful research, commitment to innovation in mathematics education, and focus on social justice. By addressing identified areas for improvement, she has the potential to further enhance her contributions to the field and inspire future generations of educators and researchers. Her work not only advances academic knowledge but also promotes equitable education practices, making her an invaluable asset to the research community.

CHEONG, TAE SUNG – Disaster Risk Management – Best Researcher Award

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CHEONG, TAE SUNG - Disaster Risk Management - Best Researcher Award

National Disaster Management Institute - South Korea

AUTHOR PROFILE

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CHAIRMAN OF THE KOREA IPCC PROFESSIONAL COMMITTEE:

CHEONG, TAE SUNG serves as the Chairman of the Korea IPCC Professional Committee (K-IPCC), playing a pivotal role in shaping climate change policies and strategies in Korea. His leadership and expertise are crucial in guiding the committee’s work and ensuring impactful contributions to the global climate change discourse.

COORDINATING LEAD AUTHOR AND RESEARCH CONTRIBUTOR:

As the Coordinating Lead Author of Chapter 10 (Asia) in the IPCC WGII AR6 and Lead Author of Chapter 9 in the IPCC SREX Report, CHEONG contributes significantly to the understanding of climate change impacts and adaptation strategies. His work informs global climate policies and enhances scientific knowledge on climate resilience and sustainability.

MEMBER OF NATIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL COMMITTEES:

CHEONG is an influential member of several prestigious committees, including the Presidential Commission on Carbon Neutrality and Green Growth, the Crisis Management Manual Committee, and the Pre-disaster Impact Review Committee. His involvement ensures that climate and disaster management policies are robust, scientifically sound, and effective in mitigating risks.

AWARD-WINNING RESEARCHER AND CONTRIBUTOR:

CHEONG has received numerous awards for his outstanding contributions to disaster risk management, climate change research, and public administration. Notable recognitions include the Outstanding Researcher Award of the National Disaster Management Institute, the Ministry of Environment Award for IPCC work, and the Korean Society of Civil Engineers Award for Outstanding Research Paper.

EDITOR AND DIRECTOR IN PROFESSIONAL JOURNALS:

CHEONG serves as Editor in Chief of the Journal of Disaster Science and Management and holds editorial positions in renowned journals such as Water Resources Research, the Journal of Hydraulics, and the Journal of Hydroinformatics. His editorial roles ensure the dissemination of high-quality research and advancements in disaster science and water resource management.

DIRECTOR AND SENIOR RESEARCH OFFICER:

As the Director on the Climate Change Adaptation and Disaster Risk Reduction Division of the Korean Society of Hazard Mitigation, and Senior Research Officer on the Disaster Risk Reduction Division at NEMA, Ulsan, Korea, CHEONG leads critical initiatives to enhance disaster preparedness and resilience. His strategic direction strengthens national disaster management capabilities.

DISTINGUISHED AUTHOR AND PEER-REVIEWED RESEARCHER:

CHEONG has authored numerous influential publications in peer-reviewed journals, contributing significantly to the fields of flood risk management, climate change adaptation, and disaster resilience. His research outputs, including developments in early warning systems and comprehensive heat wave measures, provide valuable insights and practical solutions for managing environmental challenges.

NOTABLE PUBLICATION

Development of Flood Early Warning Frameworks for Small Streams in Korea
Authors: Cheong, T.-S., Choi, C., Ye, S.-J., Kim, S., Koo, K.-M.
Year: 2023
Journal: Water (Switzerland)

The development of design-width prediction equation by using 12 local governments data collected from small stream of Korea
Authors: Choi, C., Cheong, T.S.
Year: 2023
Journal: Journal of Korea Water Resources Association

Development of priority setting process for the small stream restoration projects using multi criteria decision analysis
Authors: Seo, J.P., Cho, W., Cheong, T.S.
Year: 2015
Journal: Journal of Hydroinformatics

Development of GIS-based disaster assessment system to reduce flood risks in urbanized creeks
Authors: Cheong, T.S., Felix, M.L.A., Jeong, S.M.
Year: 2014
Journal: Desalination and Water Treatment

Case studies
Authors: Murray, V., Mc Bean, G., Bhatt, M., Warner, K., Zodrow, I.
Year: 2012
Book: Managing the Risks of Extreme Events and Disasters to Advance Climate Change Adaptation: Special Report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change

Rahman Davtalab – Stormwater Management – Best Researcher Award

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Rahman Davtalab - Stormwater Management - Best Researcher Award

Singhofen and Associate Inc. - United States

AUTHOR PROFILE

Scopus
ORCID

EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS

Rahman Davtalab's academic journey commenced with a Bachelor of Science in Irrigation Engineering from Tehran University, Iran, in 2000, followed by a Master of Science in Applied Meteorology from the same institution in 2003. His thesis on the climatic classification based on cluster analysis showcased his early interest in meteorological science, laying the foundation for his future research endeavors.

PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS

Davtalab's professional journey spans over two decades, encompassing roles as a Senior Engineer in Stormwater Management at Singhofen and Associates Inc. in Florida, USA, where he has been instrumental in various activities such as stormwater management, hydrologic and hydraulic modeling, and environmental permitting for new developments. Prior to this, he served as an Advisor and part-time project employee at the Department of Civil, Environmental, and Construction Engineering, University of Central Florida, focusing on climate change effects on water resources and agriculture.

CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS

Throughout his career, Davtalab has made significant contributions to the fields of stormwater management, climate change, and water resources. His research interests include hydrological and hydraulic modeling, the use of GIS and RS in water resources, and sustainable development in water resources and the environment. He has been involved in research projects addressing climate change adaptation strategies, drought and water shortage mitigation, and integrated water resource studies.

IMPACT AND INFLUENCE

Davtalab's work has had a notable impact on the understanding and management of stormwater, climate change effects on water resources, and sustainable water development practices. His expertise in hydrology, climatology, and water resources management has influenced policy-making and planning efforts aimed at addressing water-related challenges, both in the USA and internationally.

ACADEMIC CITATIONS

As a respected expert in his field, Davtalab's research has been cited in various academic journals and technical reports, contributing to the advancement of knowledge in hydrology, meteorology, and climate science. His refereeing of papers and technical reports for esteemed journals and organizations underscores his role as a trusted authority in the field.

LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS

Rahman Davtalab's dedication to stormwater management and sustainable water resources development positions him as a leader in his field. His legacy will be defined by his continued efforts to address pressing water challenges, advance scientific understanding, and promote resilient and environmentally sound water management practices.

STORMWATER MANAGEMENT

Davtalab's expertise in stormwater management is evident in his extensive professional experience and research contributions. His work encompasses various aspects of stormwater management, including hydrologic and hydraulic modeling, environmental permitting, floodplain analysis, and integrated surface water and groundwater modeling. Through his efforts, he has helped to mitigate flood risks, protect water quality, and promote sustainable development practices in water resources management.

NOTABLE PUBLICATION

Sea Level Rise Effect on Groundwater Rise and Stormwater Retention Pond Reliability.  2020 (13)

An Integrated Approach for Site Selection of Snow Measurement Stations  2016 (1)

Climate Change Impacts on Maize Production in the Warm Heart of Africa.  2016 (52)

Evaluating the Effects of Climate Change on Water Reliability in Iran's Karkheh River Basin  2014 (11)