Julieta Garcia Chirino | Wastewater treatment | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Julieta Garcia Chirino | Wastewater treatment | Best Researcher Award

PhD researcher at KU Leuven, Belgium

Julieta Garcia Chirino is a driven and results-oriented chemical engineer with a Ph.D. in Engineering Science from KU Leuven, Belgium, and a Master’s degree in Environmental Engineering from the National Autonomous University of Mexico. She has established herself in the field of environmental engineering through her expertise in sustainable technologies, membrane synthesis, water treatment, and waste valorization. Her career demonstrates a commitment to addressing environmental challenges through innovative research and real-world applications, including collaborations with industry. Julieta brings forward-thinking ideas to circular economy initiatives, heavy metal remediation, and the development of environmentally friendly engineering solutions.

Profile 

ORCID

EDUCATION

Julieta’s academic journey reflects a deep engagement with environmental sustainability. She earned her Ph.D. in Engineering Science, specializing in Chemical Engineering, from the Faculty of Engineering Science at KU Leuven (2020–2025). Her doctoral research focused on hybrid wastewater treatment technologies through waste valorization for heavy metal removal. Prior to her Ph.D., she obtained her Master’s degree in Environmental Engineering from the Engineering Institute at the National Autonomous University of Mexico (2016–2019), where she built a solid foundation in membrane-based separation processes and industrial waste applications. Her academic background is reinforced by complementary technical training and interdisciplinary coursework in chemistry and environmental risk management.

EXPERIENCE

With a strong professional background in both academic and industrial environments, Julieta has cultivated valuable experience in project management, research coordination, and environmental planning. At KU Leuven, she led laboratory efforts, designed experiments, and supervised five master’s students in research and thesis work. Previously, she worked as a project manager assistant at the Engineering Institute of UNAM, where she coordinated proposals and procurement for a biogas pilot plant, and oversaw strategic project planning. Earlier in her career, she served as an administrative assistant managing evaluations for academic promotions and projects. Throughout, she has demonstrated proficiency in organizing complex projects, conducting environmental assessments, and implementing life cycle analysis (LCA) to evaluate the sustainability of engineering processes.

RESEARCH INTEREST

Julieta’s research interests center around environmental engineering, particularly the development of sustainable separation technologies. She is deeply invested in membrane synthesis and characterization, waste valorization using industrial byproducts, and heavy metals remediation from contaminated water sources. Her work bridges laboratory innovation and practical application, integrating life cycle assessments and hazard evaluations into material development. Additional areas of focus include inorganic chemistry, analytical methods, and the exploration of circular economy models in environmental remediation. Her research continuously seeks to contribute to the advancement of green engineering and the reduction of industrial pollution.

AWARD

Julieta Garcia Chirino’s commitment to sustainable environmental engineering has led to her nomination for the Best Researcher Award. Her interdisciplinary work in wastewater treatment and waste-to-resource technologies exemplifies innovation and societal impact. She has served on the editorial board of the Process Newsletter and has been recognized for her role in mentoring emerging researchers. Her selection as a candidate for this award reflects her leadership in both research and collaboration, notably through her active involvement in scientific manuscript reviews and her strong publication record.

PUBLICATION

Julieta has published three peer-reviewed articles in recognized international journals, contributing to the fields of membrane technology and environmental remediation. Her 2021 article, “Hybrid Membrane Systems for Wastewater Valorization,” published in Journal of Membrane Science, has been cited by 18 scholarly articles. In 2022, she authored “Utilization of Steel Slag in Heavy Metal Removal” in the Chemical Engineering Journal, cited by 12 works. Most recently, in 2023, she published “Circular Economy Approaches in Wastewater Treatment” in Environmental Technology & Innovation, with 9 citations. These publications have significantly enhanced academic and industrial understanding of sustainable separation technologies.

CONCLUSION

Julieta Garcia Chirino exemplifies the qualities of a top-tier researcher—innovative, interdisciplinary, and impactful. Her academic excellence, hands-on research, mentorship, publication record, and sustainable focus collectively establish her as a highly suitable candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Her work is not only scientifically rigorous but also socially relevant, aligning perfectly with the criteria of excellence in research.

Komal Jabeen | Urban Hydrology | Best Researcher Award

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Ms Komal Jabeen | Urban Hydrology | Best Researcher Award

PhD Researcher, University of Genoa, Italy

Komal Jabeen is a dedicated environmental engineer and researcher specializing in fluid dynamics, urban hydrology, and nature-based solutions for climate resilience. With a PhD in Environmental Engineering from the University of Genoa, Italy, and a Gold Medalist MS in Environmental Sciences from the University of the Punjab, Pakistan, she has a strong academic foundation. Her research focuses on urban flood resilience, evapotranspiration, and groundwater sustainability. Komal is also an experienced educator, having worked as a Science Teacher and SST Subject Specialist in Pakistan. She is proficient in GIS, Python, and numerical modeling, and has presented her work at international conferences like EGU and ICUD.

Professional Profile

Orcid

Education 🎓

Komal holds a PhD in Environmental Engineering from the University of Genoa, Italy (2022–present), focusing on urban hydrology and climatology. She earned her MS in Environmental Sciences (Gold Medalist) from the University of the Punjab, Pakistan (2016–2018), with a thesis on groundwater sustainability using GIS. Her BS in Environmental Sciences (2012–2016) from the same university involved primary data analysis of water and soil quality. She also holds a Masters in Education from Government College University, Faisalabad (2017–2019), with a focus on instructional leadership.

Experience 💼

Komal is currently a PhD Researcher at the University of Genoa, Italy (2022–present), working on urban flood resilience and nature-based solutions. Previously, she served as an SST Subject Specialist with the Federal Government Educational Institutes Directorate, Pakistan (2021–2022), and as a Science Teacher in Punjab, Pakistan (2017–2021). Her teaching experience spans secondary education, where she contributed to shaping school culture and professional learning communities.

Awards and Honors 🏆

Komal was awarded the Gold Medal for her MS in Environmental Sciences (2016–2018) at the University of the Punjab, Pakistan. She has also presented her research at prestigious conferences like EGU 2024 and ICUD-2024, showcasing her work on evapotranspiration and groundwater sustainability.

Research Focus 🔍

Komal’s research focuses on urban hydrology, climate resilience, and nature-based solutions. She investigates the role of vegetation in urban flood resilience, evapotranspiration in hydrologic restoration, and groundwater sustainability using numerical modeling. Her work also explores green roof hydrologic performance under future climate scenarios, contributing to sustainable urban planning.

Publication Top Notes 📚

  1. Continuous Simulations for Predicting Green Roof Hydrologic Performance for Future Climate Scenarios
  2. Using Numerical Modeling to Analyze the Groundwater Sustainability of Indus River Sub Basin Aquifer

Conclusion 🌱

Komal Jabeen is a passionate researcher and educator, blending her expertise in environmental engineering with a commitment to sustainable solutions. Her work in urban hydrology, climate resilience, and groundwater sustainability highlights her dedication to addressing pressing environmental challenges. With a strong academic background, teaching experience, and international research contributions, Komal is a valuable contributor to the field of environmental sciences. 🌍✨

Sijung Choi | Water Resources Planning and Assessment | Best Researcher Award

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Dr Sijung Choi | Water Resources Planning and Assessment | Best Researcher Award

Researcher, Korea Institute of Civil Engineering and Building Technology, South Korea

Dr. Sijung Choi is a prominent researcher at the Korea Institute of Civil Engineering and Building Technology (KICT) in Goyang, South Korea. With a focus on hydrology and water resource management, he has made significant contributions to understanding and addressing water-related challenges in urban and agricultural contexts. His work is characterized by a multidisciplinary approach that integrates engineering, environmental science, and data analysis. Dr. Choi’s innovative methodologies and collaborative projects have garnered recognition in both academic and practical domains, establishing him as a key figure in civil engineering and water management research.

Profile

SCOPUS

Strengths for the Award

Dr. Sijung Choi demonstrates exceptional expertise in hydrology and water resource management, evidenced by his impactful publications and a robust citation count of 95 across 14 documents. His interdisciplinary approach, incorporating AI and remote sensing techniques, showcases innovation in tackling contemporary water challenges. Notably, his work on drought risk assessment and water supply reliability is critical in addressing climate change impacts. His collaboration with various institutions enhances the relevance of his research, making significant contributions to sustainable water management practices.

Areas for Improvement

While Dr. Choi’s research is commendable, expanding his outreach through public engagement and community-based projects could further amplify the impact of his work. Additionally, exploring collaborative opportunities with international researchers could enhance the diversity of perspectives in his studies, potentially leading to more comprehensive solutions in water resource management.

Education

Dr. Choi earned his Ph.D. in Civil Engineering from a prestigious university, specializing in hydrology and water resources. He completed his Master’s degree in Environmental Engineering, focusing on sustainable water management practices. Throughout his academic journey, he engaged in various research projects and internships, allowing him to develop a strong foundation in both theoretical and applied aspects of civil engineering. His educational background has equipped him with the skills necessary to tackle complex water management issues, paving the way for his influential career.

Experience

With over a decade of experience in the field, Dr. Choi has worked on numerous projects related to water resource assessment, drought risk analysis, and climate change impacts on hydrology. He has collaborated with governmental agencies, NGOs, and academic institutions, contributing to the development of policies and practices aimed at improving water management. His roles have ranged from project leader to research collaborator, demonstrating his versatility and leadership skills. Dr. Choi’s extensive experience ensures that his research is not only academically rigorous but also practically relevant to real-world challenges.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Choi has received several awards for his outstanding contributions to civil engineering and hydrology. He was honored with the Best Paper Award at an international conference on water resources and has been recognized by various organizations for his innovative research methodologies. His work has significantly impacted policy discussions and water management practices in South Korea, earning him respect and recognition in both academic and professional circles.

Research Focus

Dr. Choi’s research primarily focuses on hydrological modeling, water demand prediction, and drought risk assessment in changing climates. He employs advanced statistical techniques and artificial intelligence to analyze water systems and develop sustainable management practices. His interdisciplinary approach combines engineering principles with environmental considerations, addressing critical challenges in water resource management. By focusing on socio-economic factors and climate impacts, Dr. Choi aims to enhance the resilience of water systems against future uncertainties.

Publication Top Notes

  1. Hydrological Drought Evaluation in Upstream Inje Region 🌧️
  2. A Study on Developing an AI-Based Water Demand Prediction and Classification Model for Gurye Intake Station 🤖
  3. Estimation of Crop Water Productivity Using GIS and Remote Sensing Techniques 🌾
  4. Evaluation and Decomposition of Factors Responsible for Alteration in Streamflow in Lower Watersheds of the Han River Basin Using Different Budyko-Based Functions 📊
  5. Assessment of water supply reliability in the Geum River Basin using univariate climate response functions: a case study for changing instreamflow managements 💧
  6. Drought risk assessment considering regional socio-economic factors and water supply system 📉
  7. Projected drought risk assessment from water balance perspectives in a changing climate 🌍
  8. Drought risk assessment for future climate projections in the Nakdong River Basin, Korea ⛈️
  9. Development and application of hydro-economic optimal water allocation and management model 💼
  10. Incorporating the logistic regression into a decision-centric assessment of climate change impacts on a complex river system 🔍

Conclusion

Dr. Sijung Choi is a highly qualified candidate for the Research for Best Researcher Award. His commitment to advancing the field of hydrology, combined with his innovative methodologies and collaborative spirit, positions him as a leader in water resource management. Recognizing his contributions will not only honor his achievements but also inspire future researchers in the field.

Hamid Balali – Water Management – Best Sustainable Development Project Award

Published on by Civil Engineering

Hamid Balali - Water Management - Best Sustainable Development Project Award

New Mexico State University - United States

AUTHOR PROFILE

SCOPUS

🎓 ACADEMIC BACKGROUND

Hamid Balali holds a Ph.D. in Agricultural Economics with a focus on Policies and Development from Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran. His doctoral research involved modeling the impacts of pricing and agricultural policies on groundwater resource conservation and balance, utilizing GAMS. He also completed a Sabbatical at Bologna University, where he explored linear and nonlinear dynamic programming of groundwater. Balali earned his MSc in Natural Resources and Environmental Economics from Tarbiat Modares University, with research on labor economics and agricultural investment impacts.

📝 RESEARCH CONTRIBUTIONS

Balali’s research spans a range of topics in water economics, including the spatial analysis of water stress, groundwater market development, and resilience of water-community systems against climate change. His work integrates system dynamics and socio-ecological frameworks to address complex environmental and economic challenges. Notable publications include studies on groundwater sustainability, resilience assessment, and the impacts of economic sanctions on energy consumption and CO2 emissions.

🌍 SIGNIFICANT RESEARCH PAPERS

His published work includes influential papers such as “Economic Sanctions, Energy Consumption, and CO2 Emissions: A System Dynamics Model,” and “Fallowing Strategy and Its Impact on Surface Water and Groundwater Withdrawal.” These studies are crucial in understanding the intersection of environmental policy, economic sanctions, and resource management.

📚 CONFERENCE CONTRIBUTIONS

Balali has actively participated in conferences, presenting papers on topics such as groundwater sustainability and socio-ecological systems. His contributions to conferences underscore his commitment to advancing knowledge in water resource management and environmental economics.

🔬 ONGOING RESEARCH PROJECTS

Balali’s ongoing research projects include exploring resilience concepts for social-ecological systems and developing frameworks for groundwater governance. These projects reflect his dedication to addressing the evolving challenges in water resource management and environmental sustainability.

🌐 INTERNATIONAL IMPACT

His research has had a significant international impact, with studies submitted and published in renowned journals such as "Groundwater for Sustainable Development" and "Water." Balali’s work is instrumental in shaping global discussions on water resource management and agricultural economics.

🏆 PROFESSIONAL RECOGNITION

Balali’s expertise and contributions have been recognized in the field of agricultural economics and water resources. His research has received acclaim for its innovative approach and practical implications in managing groundwater resources and addressing environmental challenges.

NOTABLE PUBLICATION

Importance of good groundwater governance in economic development: The case of western Iran
Authors: T.S. Foroushani, H. Balali, R. Movahedi, I.J. Stamenkovska, H. Azadi
Year: 2023
Journal: Groundwater for Sustainable Development

The impact of water-pricing policies on water productivity: Evidence of agriculture sector in Iran
Authors: O. Zamani, H. Azadi, S.A. Mortazavi, S.M. Moghaddam, L. Jurik
Year: 2021
Journal: Agricultural Water Management

Applying a system dynamics approach for modeling groundwater dynamics to depletion under different economical and climate change scenarios
Authors: H. Balali, D. Viaggi
Year: 2015
Journal: Water (Switzerland)

Groundwater balance and conservation under different water pricing and agricultural policy scenarios: A case study of the Hamadan-Bahar plain
Authors: H. Balali, S. Khalilian, D. Viaggi, F. Bartolini, M. Ahmadian
Year: 2011
Journal: Ecological Economics

Christopher Mulanda Aura – Water resources sustainability – Excellence in Research

Published on by Civil Engineering

Christopher Mulanda Aura - Water resources sustainability - Excellence in Research

KENYA MARINE AND FISHERIES RESEARCH INSTITUTE - Kenya

AUTHOR PROFILE

SCOPUS

🎓 ACADEMIC BACKGROUND

Christopher Mulanda Aura holds a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Bio-resource and Environmental Science from Hokkaido University, Japan. His doctoral research focused on the integrated habitat suitability model for managing Japanese scallop aquaculture, incorporating ecological and socio-economic modeling, GIS, remote sensing, climate change projections, and marine sciences. He completed his undergraduate studies with a 1st Class Honours Degree in Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences from Moi University, Kenya.

🌐 PROFESSIONAL TRAINING AND CERTIFICATIONS

Aura has pursued various professional development courses, enhancing his skills in computer programming, project management, productivity improvement, and data security. These certifications, obtained from institutions such as Asset Africa Institute and Kenya School of Government, reflect his commitment to continuous learning and professional growth.

🏆 MAJOR AWARDS AND RECOGNITIONS

Aura has received numerous prestigious awards, including being recognized as the Top Cited Author in Fisheries Management and Ecology for 2022-2023. His keynote address at the FAR4ViBE Conference and his accolades for top-cited and downloaded papers underscore his significant contributions to the field.

📚 SIGNIFICANT RESEARCH CONTRIBUTIONS

His research includes influential studies such as the application of phytoplankton community structure for assessing pollution in lake basins. His work on small water bodies as management tools for fisheries has been widely cited and has contributed significantly to the understanding of aquatic resource management.

🌍 INTERNATIONAL RECOGNITION

Aura's contributions have earned him international recognition, including a Champion Certificate from the World Summit on the Information Society for the Electronic Fish Market Information System. His global impact is further highlighted by his top-cited status and various awards from international conferences and organizations.

🏅 DISTINGUISHED PERFORMANCE

Christopher Mulanda Aura has been honored with the Overall Best and Top Scientist/Performer titles at KMFRI for multiple consecutive years. These awards reflect his outstanding performance and leadership in the field of bio-resource and environmental science.

🌱 COMMITMENT TO SUSTAINABILITY

Throughout his career, Aura has demonstrated a strong commitment to sustainability and environmental conservation. His research and professional activities are driven by a deep dedication to improving aquatic ecosystems and promoting sustainable practices in fisheries and aquaculture.

NOTABLE PUBLICATION

Considerations for environmental biogeochemistry and food security for aquaculture around Lake Victoria, Kenya
Authors: A.L. Marriott, O.F. Osano, T.J. Coffey, M.J. Watts, C.M. Aura
Year: 2023
Journal: Environmental Geochemistry and Health

Response of fish stocks in Lake Victoria to enforcement of the ban on illegal fishing: Are there lessons for management?
Authors: C.S. Nyamweya, V. Natugonza, B.B. Kashindye, R. Proud, A.S. Brierley
Year: 2023
Journal: Journal of Great Lakes Research

Challenges to the lake fisheries, and factors affecting the effectiveness of a co-management regime in African Great Lakes: A case study of Lake Victoria, Kenya
Authors: C.O. Odoli, H. Owiti, J. Mwamburi, C. Nyamweya, C. Aura
Year: 2023
Journal: Aquatic Ecosystem Health and Management

Emerging frontiers for blue growth in African Great Lakes: The potential for recreational fishing industry in Lake Victoria, Kenya
Authors: H. Nyaboke, J. Nyaundi, M. Owili, V. Sudoi, D. Liti
Year: 2023
Journal: Aquatic Ecosystem Health and Management

David Gwapedza – Water Resources Management – Best Researcher Award

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David Gwapedza - Water Resources Management - Best Researcher Award

Institute for Water Research - South Africa

AUTHOR PROFILE

GOOGLE SCHOLAR

DAVID GWAPEDZA, Ph.D.

David Gwapedza is a renowned expert in hydrological modeling, sediment transport modeling, and natural resource management, with extensive experience in African countries. He has demonstrated strong capabilities in providing intellectual leadership in collaborative research processes involving multiple partners in UKRI and WRC projects. David's strategic thinking allows him to conceptualize complex issues, write grant proposals, and lead impactful research projects.

EDUCATION AND ACADEMIC BACKGROUND

David earned his Ph.D. in Hydrology from Rhodes University, South Africa, where he developed and evaluated the sediment yield model (WQSED) for catchment management in African regions. His research concentrated on hydrological modeling, erosion and sediment modeling, and catchment management. He also holds a Master of Science degree in Hydrology from Rhodes University and a BSS (Honours) degree in Geography and Population Studies from Lupane State University in Zimbabwe.

RESEARCH AND PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

Currently, David is a Postdoctoral Researcher at Rhodes University, where he drafts manuscripts, presents findings at international conferences, and conducts independent research. He is also a Project Leader and Principal Researcher at the Water Research Commission, where he conceptualizes projects, facilitates collaboration with research partners, and supervises students. His work involves applying hydrological models, leading stakeholder engagement initiatives, and writing scientific publications.

David has also served as a Research Scientist for the African Research Universities Alliance (ARUA), where he developed online courses, facilitated stakeholder engagement workshops, and provided hydrological modeling support for project partners. His experience includes a PhD exchange program at Technische Universität Braunschweig, where he worked on hydrological modeling using the PANTA RHEI Model.

STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT AND PROJECT LEADERSHIP

David has a proven track record in stakeholder engagement and project leadership. He has supported stakeholder engagement for the UKRI-ARUA water project in Rwanda and Uganda, facilitated workshops with the Western Cape Government-LandCare, and collaborated with the World Wildlife Fund. His role as a Project Leader at the Water Research Commission involves supervising students, preparing budgets, and managing project implementation.

AWARDS AND RECOGNITIONS

David's excellence in research has been recognized through various awards and scholarships. Notably, he received the Rhodes University research scholarship and the Berkeley scholarship for the BGW workshop. He has also been awarded for the best poster at École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Switzerland, and received a scholarship from Santa Barbara University, California.

TEACHING AND MENTORING

David is committed to teaching and mentoring the next generation of hydrologists. He supervises postgraduate students, lectures on hydrology courses, and develops tailored lectures and workshops. His teaching philosophy emphasizes the importance of practical application and stakeholder engagement in water resource management.

CONTRIBUTIONS TO GIS AND REMOTE SENSING

David's expertise extends to GIS and remote sensing. He has worked as a GIS Intern, where he monitored and evaluated water supply systems, mapped aquifers and water points, and provided GIS information to stakeholders. His technical skills in using GIS software to identify water sources and digitize maps have been instrumental in various research and consultancy projects.

Through his extensive research, leadership, and stakeholder engagement, David Gwapedza continues to make significant contributions to hydrological modeling, catchment management, and natural resource management in Africa. His work not only advances scientific knowledge but also addresses critical water resource challenges in the region.

NOTABLE PUBLICATION

Modelling storm event-based sediment yield and assessing its heavy metal loading: case of Lake Victoria's Inner Murchison Bay catchment in Uganda 2024

Assessing soil erosion risk in a peri-urban catchment of the Lake Victoria basin 2023 (1)

Equity-based allocation criteria for water deficit periods: A case study in South Africa 2023 (2)

Regionalising MUSLE factors for application to a data-scarce catchment 2018 (19)

Prediction of sediment yield of the Inxu River catchment (South Africa) using the MUSLE 2021 (39)