Komal Jabeen | Urban Hydrology | Best Researcher Award

Posted on by ScienceFather

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. 🌍✨

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

Posted on by ScienceFather

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

Google Scholar

Scopus

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.

Ngonidzashe Mangoro – Urbanisation and Solid Waste Management – Best Researcher Award

Posted on by ScienceFather

Ngonidzashe Mangoro - Urbanisation and Solid Waste Management - Best Researcher Award

University of the Witwatersrand - South Africa

AUTHOR PROFILE

SCOPUS

AREAS OF RESEARCH FOCUS AND PROFESSIONAL INTEREST

Ngonidzashe Mangoro's research spans diverse and critical areas such as Climate Change, Environmental Sustainability, and Social and Environmental Justice. His professional interests also cover Natural Resources Governance, Waste Governance, and Environmental Policy Analysis. Mangoro's expertise extends to Agri-Food Systems, Heritage Geographies, and the Decolonisation of the Built Environment. Additionally, he has a keen interest in Late Iron Age Archaeology in Africa, reflecting his broad engagement with both contemporary and historical environmental issues.

EDUCATION

Ngonidzashe Mangoro holds a PhD in Geography and Environmental Studies from the University of the Witwatersrand (2024), following an MSc in Geography and Environmental Studies from the same institution (2021). He completed his BA Hons in Archaeology, Cultural Heritage, and Museum Studies at Midlands State University in May 2013, graduating with Upper Second Class Honors. His academic background underpins his extensive research and teaching roles in the field.

PROFESSIONAL TEACHING APPOINTMENTS

From 2021 to 2023, Mangoro served as a Teaching Assistant in the Department of Geography and Environmental Studies at the University of the Witwatersrand. He taught both undergraduate and postgraduate courses, including Environmental Governance, Thinking Geographically, Food: Security, Politics and Culture, Space and Society, Earth and Atmospheric Processes, Theory and Practice in Sustainability Science, and Economic Geography. His contributions in this role were highly regarded, with notable achievements including co-authoring articles for high-impact journals and being involved in significant projects such as the South African Water Research Commission Sanitation Project.

PROFESSIONAL APPOINTMENTS OUTSIDE ACADEMIA

Before his academic roles, Mangoro worked as a Science Communicator and Project Coordinator at Sci Bono Discovery Centre in Johannesburg from 2016 to 2021. In this capacity, he managed various projects, including project recruitment and quality assurance, and taught environmental sustainability concepts. He also held a role as a Freelance Heritage and Environmental Consultant from May 2017, managing projects that required expert studies, particularly in construction and mining in Johannesburg.

ACADEMIC PUBLICATIONS

Ngonidzashe Mangoro has published several impactful papers, including "Community Perceptions on the Impacts of Solid Waste Management on Human Health and the Environment in Sub-Saharan African Cities" in Development Southern Africa and "An Assessment of Literature on Construction and Demolition Waste Management Barriers in Sub-Saharan Africa" in the International Journal of Environment and Waste Management. His work also covers wetland changes in Gauteng, South Africa, demonstrating his contribution to advancing knowledge in environmental and heritage studies.

KEY ACHIEVEMENTS

Mangoro's professional journey is marked by significant achievements, including his impactful contributions to environmental and heritage consulting, as well as his effective project management at Sci Bono Discovery Centre. His ability to shift between roles and his strong work ethic have earned him recognition and opportunities for further development within his professional spheres.

RESEARCH AND CONSULTING EXPERIENCE

With a background in both research and practical consulting, Mangoro has conducted in-depth studies on indigenous communities and their heritage, managed data and compliance procedures in heritage consulting, and contributed to the development of impactful environmental policies. His experience is a testament to his dedication to advancing both academic and applied aspects of environmental and heritage research.

NOTABLE PUBLICATION

Title: Exploring Wetland Change in the Gauteng Province, South Africa

Authors: Mangoro, N., Kubanza, N.S., Simatele, M.D.
Year: 2024

Title: Community Perceptions on the Impacts of Solid Waste Management on Human Health and the Environment in Sub-Saharan African Cities: A Study of Diepsloot, Johannesburg, South Africa

Authors: Mangoro, N., Kubanza, N.S.
Year: 2023
Journal: Development Southern Africa

SOMNATH SENGUPTA – Sustainable Development – Best Researcher Award

Posted on by ScienceFather

SOMNATH SENGUPTA - Sustainable Development - Best Researcher Award

IIT Kharagpur - India

AUTHOR PROFILE

ORCID

EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS:

SOMNATH SENGUPTA's academic journey began with a strong foundation in Electrical Engineering. He achieved a B.Tech from C.E.T. under the State Govt. of Orissa, India. This set the stage for advanced studies, leading to an M.Tech in Energy Systems Engineering from the Indian Institute of Technology Bombay and culminating in a Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering from the prestigious Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur.

PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS:

With over 15 years of industrial research and development (R&D) experience, Somnath Sengupta has made significant contributions to various engineering organizations. His professional journey includes stints at renowned companies such as CMC Ltd., Ericsson (Sweden), EATON Electricals (USA), MKSI (USA), Shweeb Monorail (New Zealand), General Motors (R&D), ARAI (R&D), and KPIT Technologies Ltd. (R&D).

AWARDS:

Somnath Sengupta's expertise and innovation have been recognized with multiple awards, including the WOW Award at KPIT (R&D), two Innovator awards, and a Special Recognition Award from TCS-Ericsson. Additionally, he received the OUAT merit scholarship during his Bachelor's in Engineering.

TEACHING AT IIT KHARAGPUR:

As an Assistant Professor at the Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur, Somnath has been actively involved in teaching several courses and labs. Noteworthy among them are "Embedded Control Systems," "Principles of Automotive Dynamics and Control" (a subject he created/floated), and "Fundamentals of Embedded Control and Software."

RELEVANT PUBLICATIONS/PATENTS:

Somnath's research contributions are evident in a series of impactful publications in renowned journals and conferences. Notable among them are papers exploring topics like energy management in hybrid electric vehicles, model predictive control-based engine idle speed regulation, and estimation of within-cycle dynamics of an SI gasoline engine. His patent portfolio includes innovations in state estimation, control for automobiles, and predictive energy management for parallel hybrid electric vehicles.

CONFERENCE PAPERS:

Somnath Sengupta's presence in international conferences is marked by papers discussing varied topics such as energy-efficient drive cycles for electric vehicles, predictive supervisory control for hybrid electric vehicles, and fault-tolerant control of electric vehicles with transmission faults.

IMPACT AND INFLUENCE:

Somnath's impact is not only evident in his extensive industrial experience but also in the recognition he has received through awards and accolades. His involvement in cutting-edge research, teaching, and mentorship positions him as a key influencer in the field.

LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS:

The legacy of Somnath Sengupta lies in his commitment to advancing knowledge, both in academia and industry. His diverse experiences, numerous publications, and active engagement in student guidance showcase a commitment to shaping the future of electrical engineering. As he continues his journey, his ongoing and future contributions are anticipated to further enrich the field.

NOTABLE PUBLICATION

Advanced Equivalent Consumption Minimization Strategy for Fuel Cell Hybrid Electric Vehicles.