Nahla Hemdan – Waste management – Best Researcher Award

Published on by Civil Engineering

Nahla Hemdan - Waste management - Best Researcher Award

Associate professor at National Research Centre, Egypt

Nahla Hemdan is a highly accomplished researcher at the National Research Centre, Egypt, specializing in soil and water management. With a strong academic foundation, she focuses on developing sustainable agricultural practices through innovative irrigation systems, soil amendments, and climate adaptation techniques. Nahla has contributed extensively to improving water-use efficiency and addressing challenges in saline and degraded soils. Her expertise extends to conducting impactful research, collaborating in international projects, and presenting findings at global conferences, making significant contributions to environmental sustainability and agricultural productivity.

Professional Profile

Scopus | ORCID | Google Scholar

Education

Nahla Hemdan earned her Ph.D. in Irrigation Systems and Drip Irrigation Management from Humboldt University of Berlin, Germany, focusing on advanced techniques for sustainable water use in agriculture. She also completed her M.Sc. in Soil Sciences from Assiut University, Egypt, where she studied crop performance under drip irrigation in arid environments. Her academic background has laid a solid foundation for her research on improving soil fertility, optimizing irrigation methods, and enhancing crop productivity through innovative techniques and technologies for sustainable agricultural development.

Professional Experience

Nahla Hemdan serves as a researcher at the National Research Centre, Egypt, within the Soils and Water Use Department. Her professional journey involves leading and participating in several national and international projects aimed at enhancing agricultural productivity and environmental sustainability. She has collaborated with multidisciplinary teams on topics such as saline soil management, biochar applications, compost utilization, and water efficiency strategies. Nahla has organized scientific workshops, delivered oral presentations, and actively contributed to developing new techniques that address agricultural and climate-related challenges globally.

Research Interest

Nahla Hemdan focuses her research on sustainable soil and water management, climate change adaptation, and advanced irrigation techniques. Her interests include developing innovative solutions for saline soil reclamation, organic amendments, and improving water productivity. She also studies the integration of biochar, compost, and eco-friendly fertilizers to enhance soil fertility and agricultural sustainability. By exploring modern technologies and climate-resilient practices, Nahla contributes to mitigating environmental challenges while promoting efficient resource utilization and supporting food security in arid and semi-arid regions.

Award And Honor

Nahla Hemdan has been recognized for her outstanding contributions to soil and water management through multiple awards and honors. Her participation in prestigious international internships, such as climate change and desertification control programs in China and India, reflects her global recognition in environmental research. Additionally, she has played vital roles in organizing international conferences and workshops that focus on sustainable agricultural practices. Her innovative patents on bio-composts and soil amendments further demonstrate her commitment to scientific advancements, earning her widespread acknowledgment in the research community.

Research Skill

Nahla Hemdan possesses extensive expertise in experimental research design, data analysis, and modeling techniques for soil and water management. She is skilled in biochar utilization, saline soil reclamation, and developing sustainable irrigation systems. Her experience includes conducting field trials, analyzing soil-water interactions, and applying molecular modeling for innovative agricultural solutions. Additionally, she is proficient in reviewing scientific articles, organizing conferences, and managing collaborative projects. Nahla's research skills contribute significantly to advancing agricultural sustainability and environmental management while ensuring practical implementation of scientific findings.

Publications

Nahla Hemdan has an impressive record of scientific publications in international journals and conferences. Her research covers diverse topics, including saline soil reclamation, organic and biochar amendments, sustainable irrigation, and crop productivity enhancement. Notable works include studies on moringa seed compost applications, biochar effects on soil properties, and advancements in drip irrigation technologies. She has collaborated with leading researchers globally, resulting in impactful contributions widely cited within the scientific community. Her publications highlight innovative approaches to sustainable agriculture and climate adaptation strategies, reinforcing her expertise in environmental management.

Title: Effect of organic fertilization with Moringa oleifera seeds cake and compost on storability of Valencia orange fruits
Authors: G.A.E.M. El-Hadidy, T.S.M. Mahmoud, F.K.M. Shaaban, N.A. Hemdan
Journal: Egyptian Journal of Chemistry, 2022

Title: Using moringa oleifera seed cake and compost as organic soil amendments for sustainable agriculture in Valencia orange orchard
Authors: N.A. Hemdan, T.S.M. Mahmoud, A.M. Abdalla, H.A. Man-Sour
Journal: Food Agric. Soc, 2021

Title: Effect of Soil Amendments and Water Requirements on Flax Yield, Fertilizer Use Efficiency and Water Productivity under Sandy Soil Condition
Authors: A.B. Bakry, A.I. Waly, N.A. Hemdan, M.F. El-Karamany
Journal: American-Eurasian Journal of Agronomy, 2019

Title: Water regime of some crops grown under drip irrigation at El-Kharga Oasis
Authors: A.H. Nahla
Journal: M. Sc. Assiut Univ. Egypt, 2003

Title: Conventional and Nano Fertilizers and Its Effect on Growth and Nutrient Status of Lupine Plants
Authors: N.A. Hemdan, M.M. Hussein, S. El-Ashry
Journal: Current Science International, 2020

Conclusion

Nahla Hemdan is a distinguished researcher committed to advancing sustainable agriculture through innovative solutions in soil and water management. Her expertise, publications, patents, and international collaborations demonstrate her significant contributions to addressing global environmental and agricultural challenges. By integrating advanced technologies with climate-resilient practices, she promotes sustainable development and resource optimization. Nahla continues to inspire researchers and professionals by combining scientific excellence with practical applications, making her work invaluable to improving food security and environmental sustainability worldwide.

Marie Giroudon | Environmental Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Civil Engineering

Dr.Marie Giroudon | Environmental Engineering | Best Researcher Award

INSA Toulouse – France

AUTHOR PROFILE

Summary

Dr. Marie Giroudon is an emerging leader in sustainable cementitious materials. In just four years post‑PhD she has published rigorously, secured competitive funding, and established a vibrant teaching and mentoring profile. Her work on biodeterioration in anaerobic and chemically aggressive environments fills a critical knowledge gap for low‑carbon infrastructure, aligning neatly with the thrust of many “Best Researcher” criteria: originality, societal impact, and future promise.

🎓 Education

Marie Giroudon has built a solid academic foundation in civil and geotechnical engineering, culminating in a PhD in Civil Engineering defended in January 2021 at INSA Toulouse. She also holds a Master’s degree and an Engineering Diploma in Civil and Geotechnical Engineering from UPSSITECH, University Toulouse III Paul Sabatier, awarded with honours in 2017. Her academic journey began with a Bachelor’s degree in Physics, completed with distinction in 2014, following which she undertook a semester abroad at Polytechnique Montréal in Canada, receiving a “very good” assessment. Her secondary education concluded with a Scientific Baccalaureate in 2011 with honours.

🏗️ Professional Experience

Marie Giroudon is currently serving as a Maître de Conférences (Assistant Professor) at the National Institute of Applied Sciences (INSA Toulouse), specializing in construction materials durability. Prior to this, she worked as a Postdoctoral Researcher on the ANR WWT Concrete project, focusing on sustainable concrete in wastewater treatment. From 2020 to 2022, she held a full-time A.T.E.R. teaching position at INSA Toulouse, delivering courses in BIM, geotechnics, heat transfer, and prestressed concrete. Her professional career is deeply rooted in applied research, particularly through her PhD and master’s thesis on biodeterioration and sustainable materials in anaerobic environments.

🔬 Research Focus

Dr. Giroudon’s research is centered on the biodeterioration of cementitious materials in chemically aggressive environments, particularly anaerobic digestion systems, and the development of sustainable and low-carbon construction materials. She has contributed significantly to understanding the interactions between organic compounds and various binder types, with emphasis on geopolymers, blast-furnace slag cement, and calcium aluminate cement. Her work also extends to micromechanical characterization, multiphysical behavior analysis, and phase stability of materials exposed to biological and chemical attacks.

🏆 Awards and Honors

Marie Giroudon received the 3rd prize for young researchers at the XVème Forum Jeunes Chercheurs – Biodétérioration des matériaux in 2019. She is an active member of the RILEM committee (TC 253-MCI) and the AFGC Technical Group on Bio-Cement Interactions, contributing to state-of-the-art documentation on biodeterioration in civil infrastructure. Her engagement in these international communities underlines her growing influence and recognition in the field of construction durability.

📚  Publications :

1. Title: Comparison of barley and lavender straws as bioaggregates in earth bricks
Author(s): M. Giroudon, A. Laborel-Préneron, J.E. Aubert, C. Magniont
Year: 2019

2. Title: Blast-furnace slag cement and metakaolin based geopolymer as construction materials for liquid anaerobic digestion structures: Interactions and biodeterioration mechanisms
Author(s): M. Giroudon, M.P. Lavigne, C. Patapy, A. Bertron
Year: 2021

3. Title: Cementitious materials in biogas systems: Biodeterioration mechanisms and kinetics in CEM I and CAC based materials
Author(s): C. Voegel, M. Giroudon, A. Bertron, C. Patapy, M.P. Lavigne, T. Verdier, et al.
Year: 2019

4. Title: Experimental assessment of bio-based earth bricks durability
Author(s): A. Laborel-Préneron, M. Giroudon, J.E. Aubert, C. Magniont, P. Faria
Year: 2019

5. Title: Potential of low carbon materials facing biodeterioration in concrete biogas structures
Author(s): M. Giroudon, C. Patapy, M. Peyre Lavigne, M. Andriamiandroso, R. Cartier, et al.
Year: 2023

6. Title: Insights into the local interaction mechanisms between fermenting broken maize and various binder materials for anaerobic digester structures
Author(s): M. Giroudon, C. Perez, M.P. Lavigne, B. Erable, C. Lors, C. Patapy, A. Bertron
Year: 2021

7. Title: Biodeterioration mechanisms and kinetics of SCM and aluminate based cements and AAM in the liquid phase of an anaerobic digestion
Author(s): M. Giroudon, M.P. Lavigne, C. Patapy, A. Bertron
Year: 2018

8. Title: New insights into aluminosilicate gel from acetic acid attack of hydrated Portland cement: Experimental and thermodynamic characterization
Author(s): C. Roosz, M. Giroudon, L. Lacarrière, M.P. Lavigne, C. Patapy, A. Bertron
Year: 2024

9. Title: Laboratory assessment of the contribution of aggressive to concrete chemical compounds to the degradation of Portland cement-based materials during anaerobic digestion
Author(s): M. Giroudon, M. Peyre Lavigne, C. Patapy, A. Bertron
Year: 2021

10. Title: Evaluation des interactions entre biodéchets en digestion anaérobie et matériaux cimentaires à base de différents liants en vue d’une meilleure durabilité des structures de …
Author(s): M. Giroudon
Year: 2021

✅ Conclusion

Given her exceptional early‑career trajectory, cross‑disciplinary impact, and clear leadership potential, Dr. Marie Giroudon is highly suitable for a Best Researcher Award in the Early‑Career or Rising‑Star category. Addressing the outlined improvement areas—particularly expanding international funding and industry partnerships—will compound her influence, but her current accomplishments already merit strong consideration for top honors.

Shengquan Zhou | Solid Waste Management | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Civil Engineering

Dr. Shengquan Zhou | Solid Waste Management | Best Researcher Award

Research Assistant at Tianjin University, China

Dr. Shengquan Zhou is a distinguished postdoctoral researcher and assistant researcher at Tianjin University, specializing in mild combustion technology and pollutant control in combustion processes. His research primarily focuses on the mechanisms of burning low-calorific value gases, such as biomass gasified gas and NH3-H2 mixtures, utilizing advanced optical diagnostic techniques. Dr. Zhou has successfully led multiple national and provincial research projects, demonstrating his commitment to advancing the field of combustion science.

Profile

Scopus

Education

Dr. Zhou began his academic journey at Chongqing University, where he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering from the Honsheng College and School of Civil Engineering in June 2016. He then pursued a Master’s degree in Environmental Engineering at Tianjin University, completing it in January 2019. His dedication to research culminated in a Ph.D. in Thermal Engineering from Tianjin University in June 2022, where he laid the groundwork for his innovative studies in combustion technology.

Experience

Since June 2022, Dr. Zhou has been affiliated with the Department of Building Environment and Energy Application Engineering at Tianjin University. His role as a postdoctoral researcher involves exploring advanced combustion techniques and contributing to significant academic advancements. Dr. Zhou has been actively involved in various national and provincial-level scientific projects, underscoring his expertise in low-carbon fuels and combustion diagnostics.

Research Interests

Dr. Zhou’s primary research interests include mild combustion techniques, the combustion mechanisms of low-carbon fuels, and optical diagnostics of combustion processes. He aims to develop cleaner and more efficient combustion methods, focusing on the environmental impacts of biomass and other renewable energy sources. His innovative approach to combustion technology is aimed at reducing emissions and enhancing energy efficiency, which is crucial for sustainable energy practices.

Awards

Dr. Zhou has received several prestigious awards for his contributions to science and technology. In 2022, he was honored with the First Prize in the Tianjin Science and Technology Progress Award for his work on key technologies for the efficient and clean utilization of biogas. Additionally, he was selected for the first batch of innovative postdoctoral positions in Tianjin in 2024. He also received the Second Prize in the China Environmental Protection Federation Science and Technology Progress Award for critical technologies in ecological protection and power transmission safety.

Publications

Dr. Zhou has published extensively, contributing to the advancement of combustion science through his research. He has authored and co-authored several impactful articles, including:

Zhou, S., Yan, B.*, Mansour, M., et al. (2024). “MILD combustion of low calorific value gases.” Progress in Energy and Combustion Science, 104, 101163. (Cited by 32)

Yan, B., Wu, Z., Zhou, S.*, et al. (2024). “A critical review on NH3/H2 combustion mechanisms.” Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, 196, 114363. (Cited by 16)

Zhu, X., Li, S., Zhang, Y., et al. (2022). “Flue gas torrefaction of municipal solid waste.” Bioresource Technology, 351, 126967. (Cited by 10)

Zhou, S., Zhu, X., Yan, B., et al. (2022). “Role of a hot coflow on MILD combustion.” Fuel, 314, 123142. (Cited by 8)

Zhou, S., Su, H., Wu, Z., et al. (2022). “Numerical study on self-ignition temperature of biomass gasified gas.” Fuel Processing Technology, 236, 107417. (Cited by 6)

Zhou, S., Zhu, X., Wu, Z., et al. (2024). “Effect of composition of biomass steam-gasified gas.” Biomass and Bioenergy, 181, 107048. (Cited by 5)

Conclusion

Dr. Shengquan Zhou is a prominent figure in the field of combustion science, recognized for his innovative research and commitment to sustainable energy practices. His academic journey and significant contributions to various national projects highlight his expertise and dedication. With a strong focus on mild combustion techniques and pollutant control, Dr. Zhou is poised to make impactful advancements in the energy sector, contributing to cleaner and more efficient energy solutions for the future.

Huijuan Zhang | Environmental Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Civil Engineering

Dr. Huijuan Zhang | Environmental Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Lecturer at Huainan Normal University, China

Huijuan Zhang is a dedicated lecturer at the School of Bioengineering at Huainan Normal University, where she specializes in ecotoxicology and environmental health. With a robust educational foundation, Huijuan holds a PhD in ecotoxicology from Anhui Normal University, anticipated in 2024, and a Master’s degree in ecology from the same institution, completed in 2020. Her academic journey reflects a commitment to addressing critical environmental challenges through scientific inquiry and innovative research.

Profile

Scopus

Education

Huijuan Zhang’s educational background is rooted in rigorous academic training in the fields of ecology and ecotoxicology. She earned her Master’s degree in ecology from Anhui Normal University, where she developed a strong understanding of ecological principles and their application to environmental issues. Continuing her academic pursuit, she is currently completing her PhD in ecotoxicology, focusing on the impact of environmental pollutants on health and ecosystems. This combination of degrees has equipped her with a comprehensive skill set and a nuanced understanding of ecological interactions, which she leverages in her teaching and research.

Experience

With a growing portfolio of academic and research experience, Huijuan Zhang has cultivated a strong presence in the field of environmental science. Her role as a lecturer involves not only delivering lectures but also mentoring students in their research endeavors. Huijuan’s engagement in teaching has enhanced her communication skills and fostered a collaborative learning environment. She has also participated in various research projects related to environmental pollution, significantly contributing to the body of knowledge in her field. Through her work, Huijuan aims to inspire the next generation of environmental scientists and promote sustainable practices.

Research Interests

Huijuan Zhang’s research interests center around two main areas: environmental pollution control and the interplay between environmental pollution and health. She is particularly focused on understanding how pollutants affect biological systems and public health. Her current research project investigates the effects of specific environmental contaminants on aquatic ecosystems, aiming to elucidate the pathways through which these pollutants influence both ecological integrity and human health. By employing a multidisciplinary approach, Huijuan seeks to develop effective strategies for pollution mitigation and to inform policy decisions that protect environmental and public health.

Awards

Throughout her academic career, Huijuan Zhang has been recognized for her contributions to the field of ecotoxicology and environmental health. Her commitment to research excellence has earned her nominations for several prestigious awards, reflecting her growing influence in academia. These accolades not only acknowledge her individual achievements but also highlight her potential for future contributions to the scientific community. Huijuan’s dedication to advancing knowledge in environmental science continues to drive her professional endeavors.

Publications

Huijuan Zhang has published a total of 19 papers, three of which are featured in high-impact journals indexed by SCI and EI. Her research has garnered a total of 77 citations, with an h-index of 7, indicating a significant impact within her field. Some notable publications include:

Zhang, H. (2021). “Impact of Heavy Metal Contaminants on Aquatic Life.” Journal of Environmental Management.

Zhang, H. (2022). “Ecotoxicological Effects of Pesticides on Freshwater Organisms.” Ecotoxicology Journal.

Zhang, H. (2023). “Assessing the Health Risks Associated with Urban Pollutants.” Environmental Science & Technology.

These publications exemplify her focus on critical environmental issues and demonstrate her ability to contribute valuable insights to the field.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Huijuan Zhang’s academic journey reflects a profound commitment to the fields of ecotoxicology and environmental health. Her educational background, research interests, and publication record underscore her dedication to addressing pressing environmental challenges. As a lecturer and researcher, she continues to inspire students and colleagues alike, contributing to a deeper understanding of the complex relationships between environmental pollutants and health. With ongoing research and a growing body of work, Huijuan is poised to make significant contributions to the scientific community and advocate for sustainable environmental practices.

DRAGANA TOMAŠEVIĆ PILIPOVIĆ – Dredged Sediment Management – Research Excellence in Civil and Environmental Engineering Award

Published on by Civil Engineering

DRAGANA TOMAŠEVIĆ PILIPOVIĆ - Dredged Sediment manegement - Research Excellence in Civil and Environmental Engineering Award

Faculty of Science, University of Novi Sad - Serbia

AUTHOR PROFILE

Scopus

EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS:

DRAGANA TOMAŠEVIĆ PILIPOVIĆ embarked on her academic journey with a strong focus on environmental sciences. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Chemistry – Quality Control and Environmental Management from the Faculty of Sciences, University of Novi Sad, Serbia (2004-2009). Her commitment to academic excellence is evident in her thesis on comparing solidification/stabilization and thermal remediation of sediment polluted with metals Dredged Sediment Management.

PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS:

Over the years, Dragana has seamlessly transitioned through academic ranks, demonstrating her expertise and commitment. She started as a Research Assistant at the Faculty of Sciences, University of Novi Sad, Serbia, in November 2010. Subsequently, she advanced to the roles of Assistant Professor (2014-2020) and currently holds the position of Associated Professor (from February 2020).

CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS Dredged Sediment Management:

Dragana's research spans diverse environmental areas, including water, soil, and sediment analysis, wastewater treatment, environmental risk assessment, and green chemistry. Her doctoral thesis, supervised by Professor Božo Dalmacija, focused on the application of stabilized nano zero-valent iron for the remediation of sediment contaminated with toxic metals.

IMPACT AND INFLUENCE:

As an active researcher, Dragana has significantly contributed to her field. Her work has addressed crucial environmental challenges, such as the long-term assessment of fly ash and lime-based mixtures for the beneficial reuse of contaminated sediment. Noteworthy contributions include publications on recycling polluted dredged sediment for building new materials for plant growth and a novel co-contaminated sediment treatment approach using Quercus petraea leaf-extracted nZVI.

ACADEMIC CITES:

Dragana's scholarly work has garnered substantial recognition, with 581 citations (excluding self-citations) from SCOPUS. Her Hirsch index, an indicator of research impact, stands at 11.

LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS:

Participating in a range of national and international research projects, Dragana has consistently aimed to improve remediation technologies and assess the risk of polluted sites. Her engagement in projects such as BEuSED and SmartWaterTwin showcases her dedication to advancing environmentally friendly technologies and wastewater management Dredged Sediment Management.

AWARDS AND PRIZES:

Dragana received a special award from the Dr. Milena Dalmacija Foundation for her Ph.D. dissertation, recognizing her significant scientific contribution to environmental protection at Serbian universities.

REVIEWING AND COLLABORATION:

Dragana actively contributes to the scientific community by reviewing articles for esteemed journals such as the Journal of Cleaner Production, Chemosphere, and Waste Management . Her international collaborations include participation in the COST action CA18224 on Green Chemical Engineering Network.

NOTABLE PUBLICATION

A cost effective method for immobilization of Cu and Ni polluted river sediment with nZVI synthesized from leaf extract.  2021 (26)