PhD Candidate/ Assistant, Polytechnic University of Madrid, Spain
Sara Esperanza Matendo, a dedicated researcher and academic professional, serves as an Assistant Professor and PhD Candidate at the Technical University of Madrid, specializing in hydrology and water resource management. Her extensive background in environmental engineering and sustainable development encompasses both academic and field expertise, focusing on integrating hydrological modeling and remote sensing to enhance food security and mitigate soil salinity. She has contributed to global initiatives in Uganda, Kenya, and São Tomé and Príncipe, emphasizing water access and environmental innovation. Sara actively participates in international associations, including the International Water Association, showcasing her commitment to advancing water-related research and policy development.
PROFISSIONAL PROFILE
Orcid
STRENGTHS FOR THE AWARD
- Extensive Academic Background: Sara has a strong academic foundation, with a Bachelor’s degree in Agro-Environmental Engineering and a Master’s in Hydrology and Water Resource Management, currently pursuing a PhD focusing on hydrological modeling and soil salinity mitigation.
- Diverse Work Experience: Her professional journey spans roles such as assistant professor, hydrological planning technician, and consultant, showcasing expertise in applied research, environmental management, and technical problem-solving.
- Research Excellence: Sara has contributed to significant publications, including journal articles and preprints, focusing on soil hydraulic properties, infiltration models, and hydrological modeling. These works address critical environmental challenges, demonstrating her innovation and impact in the field.
- International Collaboration: Her involvement with international organizations such as the International Water Association highlights her global perspective and active engagement in sustainability and water resource management.
- Technical Proficiency: Proficient in hydrological modeling tools such as HYDRUS 1D, IBER, and remote sensing technologies, Sara bridges theoretical research with practical applications.
- Commitment to Sustainability: Her coordination of seed projects in Uganda and Kenya for water access and wastewater treatment underscores her dedication to sustainable development and social impact.
AREAS FOR IMPROVEMENTS
- Broader Research Dissemination: Increasing her participation in high-impact conferences and expanding the publication of her work in more diverse international journals could enhance visibility and influence.
- Leadership Development: Taking on leading roles in international projects or research groups could further establish her authority in the field.
- Funding Acquisition: Securing independent research funding or grants could bolster her portfolio and demonstrate her capacity to drive projects independently.
EDUCATION
🎓 PhD (In Progress): Technical University of Madrid – Hydrological modeling and remote sensing for soil salinity mitigation and food security.
🎓 Master’s Degree (2020–2021): Hydrology and Water Resource Management, Alcalá University and Rey Juan Carlos University, Spain.
🎓 Bachelor’s Degree (2013–2018): Agro-Environmental Engineering, Technical University of Madrid, Spain.
💡 Additional credentials include affiliations with esteemed institutions such as the European Commission’s Joint Research Centre and her active involvement in postgraduate research focusing on soil salinity and irrigation.
EXPERIENCE
💼 Assistant Professor (2021–Present): Technical University of Madrid.
💼 Hydrological Planning Technician (2021): TRAGSATEC, Spain – Oversaw INTEGRA program and compatibility reports.
💼 Consultant (2020–2021): Incive, Spain – Conducted diagnostics on water management in Latin America.
💼 Trainee in Flood Modeling (2019): Grupo Tecopy, Spain – Developed flood models and analyzed hydraulic data.
💼 Research Trainee (2019): Joint Research Centre, European Commission, Italy – Emission data analysis.
💼 Technologist (2018–2019): Food Experts, Spain – Managed phytosanitary product validation.
AWARDS AND HONORS
🏆 Young Water Professional Award: International Water Association, 2020.
🏅 Research Excellence Award: Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, 2022.
🎖️ International Collaboration Recognition: IDB and AECID Projects, 2021.
🌟 Hydrological Innovation Honor: European Commission’s JRC, 2019.
RESEARCH FOCUS
🔍 Key Areas: Hydrological modeling, remote sensing, soil salinity, and irrigation strategies.
🌍 Regional Impact: Research enhancing food security in semi-arid regions.
📊 Technological Tools: INTEGRA program, MÍRAME DUERO, and Hydrus 1D software.
🌱 Global Collaborations: Water resource projects in Uganda and Kenya and renewable energy policies in São Tomé and Príncipe.
PUBLICATION TOP NOTES
📖 “Estimating soil hydraulic properties of salt-affected agricultural fields in arid and semi-arid environments under different initial wetting conditions” 🌾
📖 “Determination of soil hydraulic properties using infiltration models and Hydrus 1D: Application to soils in semi-arid regions” 💧
📖 “Analysing random spatio-temporal variability of storm events for hydrological modeling” 🌦️
CONCLUSION
Sara Esperanza Matendo stands out as a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award due to her solid academic achievements, impactful research contributions, and commitment to sustainable solutions in hydrology and water resource management. Addressing areas of improvement could elevate her profile further, but her current credentials make her a deserving nominee for recognition in her field.