Julieta Garcia Chirino | Wastewater treatment | Best Researcher Award

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.

Frank Ikechukwu Aneke | Geoenvironmental Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Dr Frank Ikechukwu Aneke | Geoenvironmental Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Senior Lecturer at University of KwaZulu Natal, South Africa

Dr. Frank Aneke is a distinguished geotechnical and geoenvironmental engineer with extensive expertise in soil mechanics, ground improvement, and sustainable construction materials. He holds a Doctor of Engineering (DEng) in Geotechnical & Geoenvironmental Engineering and has contributed significantly to academia and industry. Currently, he serves as a Senior Lecturer at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, where he mentors students and leads groundbreaking research. Dr. Aneke is a member of prestigious organizations like the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) and the International Society for Soil Mechanics and Geotechnical Engineering. His work focuses on solving geotechnical challenges using innovative methods, including artificial intelligence and sustainable materials.

Professional Profile

Google Scholar

Orcid

Education 🎓

Dr. Frank Aneke earned his Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from Enugu State University of Science and Technology, Nigeria, in 2004. He pursued a Master of Science in Geotechnical Engineering at the University of Johannesburg, South Africa, graduating in 2016. In 2019, he completed his Doctor of Engineering (DEng) in Geotechnical & Geoenvironmental Engineering at the Central University of Technology, Bloemfontein, South Africa. His academic journey reflects a strong foundation in geotechnical engineering, with a focus on soil mechanics, pavement design, and sustainable construction materials.

Experience 💼

Dr. Aneke has over 15 years of experience in geotechnical and structural engineering. He has worked as a Structural and Geotechnical Design Engineer at Badip Engineering Consultants and Project Design Consultant, where he led projects like the design of UBA Banking complexes and water-retaining structures. Currently, he is a Senior Lecturer at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, mentoring postgraduate students and conducting research. His prior roles include Postdoctoral Research Fellow at the University of Johannesburg and Site Engineer at MotherCat Construction, where he managed large-scale infrastructure projects, including road construction and airport development.

Awards and Honors 🏆

Dr. Aneke has received numerous accolades, including the JW Nelson Productivity Funding (2020-2022) and the National Research Foundation (NRF) Thuthuka Grant (2023). He was awarded the NRF Knowledge, Interchange, and Collaboration Programme (KIC) Grant in 2021 and 2022. His research output has been recognized with Research Output Generated Funds (RIG) in 2021 and 2022. Dr. Aneke is also a leading founding member of the Geomechanics, Geotechnics, and Geomaterials Research Group, showcasing his commitment to advancing geotechnical engineering.

Research Focus 🔍

Dr. Aneke’s research focuses on soil-structure interaction, soil reinforcement, and the application of artificial intelligence in geotechnical engineering. He explores sustainable construction materials, including the use of industrial waste in building materials. His work also addresses geohazards, pavement geotechnics, and the stabilization of expansive soils. Dr. Aneke is particularly interested in the development of green materials and the optimization of soil properties for infrastructure projects, contributing to environmental sustainability and innovative engineering solutions.

Publication Top Notes 📚

  1. “Green-efficient masonry bricks produced from scrap plastic waste and foundry sand”
  2. “Strength and Durability Performance of Masonry Bricks Produced with Crushed Glass and Melted PET Plastics”
  3. “Adsorption of Heavy Metals from Contaminated Water using Leachate Modular Tower”
  4. “Resilient modulus and microstructure of unsaturated expansive subgrade stabilized with activated fly ash”
  5. “Swelling stress effects on shear strength resistance of subgrades”
  6. “Pre-compression and capillarity effect of treated expansive subgrade subjected to compressive and tensile loadings”
  7. “Durability Assessment and Microstructure of High-Strength Performance Bricks Produced from PET Waste and Foundry Sand”
  8. “Predicting Nanobinder-Improved Unsaturated Soil Consistency Limits Using Genetic Programming and Artificial Neural Networks”
  9. “AI (ANN, GP, and EPR)-based predictive models of bulk density, linear-volumetric shrinkage & desiccation cracking of HSDA-treated black cotton soil for sustainable subgrade”
  10. “Assessing the extent of pavement deterioration caused by subgrade volumetric movement through moisture infiltration”

Conclusion 🌟

Dr. Frank Aneke is a leading figure in geotechnical and geoenvironmental engineering, with a career marked by academic excellence, innovative research, and impactful industry contributions. His work in sustainable construction materials, soil stabilization, and AI applications in geotechnics has set new benchmarks in the field. Through his teaching, mentorship, and research, Dr. Aneke continues to inspire the next generation of engineers while addressing critical global challenges in infrastructure and environmental sustainability.

Yuanyuan Wang | Environmental Pollutants | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yuanyuan Wang | Environmental Pollutants | Best Researcher Award

Associate Professor, Jinling Institute of Technology, China

Dr. Yuanyuan Wang is an Associate Professor at Jinling Institute of Technology, with a focused research career in environmental pollution control and photocatalytic materials. With a doctoral degree from the Institute of Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dr. Wang’s work has led to significant contributions in the areas of pollution removal and environmental sustainability. She has published 15 SCI papers, primarily in renowned international journals, and holds two Chinese invention patents, with more in progress. She is actively involved with national projects funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China and collaborates widely within the research community. Dr. Wang is dedicated to developing cutting-edge materials that address some of the most pressing environmental concerns related to hazardous pollutants such as halogenated organic compounds and hexavalent chromium.

Profile

Orcid

Education

Dr. Yuanyuan Wang earned her Ph.D. in Chemistry from the Institute of Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, in 2019. Throughout her academic journey, Dr. Wang demonstrated a keen interest in materials science and environmental chemistry, laying the foundation for her pioneering research in photocatalytic materials. She completed her undergraduate and master’s degrees in Chemistry, further sharpening her scientific inquiry skills and desire to create sustainable solutions for environmental challenges. Following her doctoral studies, Dr. Wang joined Jinling Institute of Technology as a faculty member, where she has focused on environmental pollution control, particularly using photocatalytic techniques for waste removal and water purification. Her strong educational background has greatly contributed to her success in academia and innovation, placing her at the forefront of pollution control research.

Experience

Dr. Yuanyuan Wang began her professional journey as a faculty member at Jinling Institute of Technology after completing her Ph.D. at the Institute of Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences. Her extensive research experience includes the successful completion of three major research projects, with one currently ongoing. Dr. Wang has also led industry-related consultancy projects and collaborated with the National Natural Science Foundation of China on several initiatives. Her work has resulted in over 15 published research papers, many as the first or corresponding author, in prestigious scientific journals, garnering over 200 citations. Her role as a reviewer for journals like Journal of Environmental Science and Journal of Materials Science: Materials in Electronics further highlights her expertise. Dr. Wang has made significant strides in the development of materials that effectively address the removal of environmental pollutants, enhancing both her research and practical application knowledge.

Research Focus

Dr. Yuanyuan Wang’s primary research focus lies in the design of innovative photocatalytic materials aimed at environmental pollution control. Specifically, her work tackles pollutants such as halogenated organic compounds and hexavalent chromium, common contaminants in industrial effluents and wastewater. Her research involves developing advanced photocatalysts that use sunlight to break down harmful substances, with applications in water purification, waste management, and environmental remediation. Dr. Wang has designed a variety of photocatalytic materials to efficiently remove these pollutants, elucidating the underlying reaction mechanisms involved. Her work has led to several published papers and granted patents, furthering our understanding of photocatalysis and its environmental applications. Additionally, her contributions are not limited to fundamental research but also extend to practical industrial applications, where she has completed multiple industry projects. Dr. Wang aims to offer scalable solutions to pollution control, aligning with her broader goal of advancing sustainable materials for cleaner environments.

Publication Top Notes

  • Hierarchical CaIn2S4/NiTiO3 heterojunction enhanced removal of hexavalent chromium powered by visible irradiation 🌍🔬
  • Unlocking OER catalytic potential and chiral Fe3O4 film as a game-changer for electrochemical water oxidation pathway and by-product control ⚡🌱
  • Simplistic preparation of Sn-doped MgIn2S4 for photocatalytic organic dye degradation under visible light irradiation 🌞🔬
  • A readily synthesized ZnIn2S4/attapulgite as a high-performance photocatalyst for Cr(VI) reduction 💧🔬
  • Improved Conductivity and in Situ Formed Heterojunction via Zinc Doping in CuBi2O4 for Photoelectrochemical Water Splitting 💧⚡
  • The impact of iron–boron electrocatalysts on the charge transport and oxygen evolution reaction of bismuth vanadate photoanodes 🌱🔋
  • Cu-doped In2S3 hierarchical structures for photocatalytic organic dye degradation under visible light irradiation 🌞♻️
  • Gold nanoparticle, surface plasmon resonance enhanced visible-light-driven debromination of tetrabromodiphenyl ethers by ZnIn2S4 💡🧪

 

 

AYISHA SIDIQUA M – WASTEWATER TREATMENT – BEST RESEARCHER AWARD

AYISHA SIDIQUA M - WASTEWATER TREATMENT - BEST RESEARCHER AWARD

B.S. Abdur Rahman Crescent Institute of Science & Technology - India

EDUCATIONAL QUALIFICATION

Ayisha Sidiqua M. holds a Ph.D. in Environmental Engineering from B.S. Abdur Rahman Crescent Institute of Science and Technology, completed in November 2023. She earned her M.E. in Environmental Engineering from the College of Engineering, Guindy, Anna University, Chennai in April 2014, and her B.E. in Civil Engineering from the University College of Engineering, Panruti Campus, Anna University, Chennai in April 2012. She is also GATE qualified.

WORK EXPERIENCE

Ayisha Sidiqua M. has been an Assistant Professor at B.S. Abdur Rahman Crescent Institute of Science and Technology, Vandalur, Chennai, India, since June 2014. With nearly a decade of teaching experience, she has contributed significantly to the field of Environmental Engineering through her research, teaching, and mentoring of students.

RESEARCH AND PUBLICATIONS

Her research focuses on municipal solid waste management, water quality analysis, and advanced oxidation processes for wastewater treatment. She has presented numerous papers at international and national conferences, including topics such as geographical information systems for waste management and the treatment of dyes in textile effluents. Her notable publications include works on resilient cloud networks and production bounce-back approaches in cloud manufacturing.

BOOK CHAPTERS AND REVIEWS

Ayisha Sidiqua M. has published book chapters on textile dye wastewater treatment and the influence of COVID-19 on the Indian education system. She has also reviewed chapters for books published by BP International in 2024, contributing her expertise to the academic community.

NPTEL COURSES COMPLETED

She has completed several NPTEL courses in environmental engineering, wastewater treatment, geoenvironmental engineering, and integrated waste management. These courses have further enhanced her knowledge and teaching capabilities in these specialized areas.

AWARDS AND RECOGNITION

Ayisha Sidiqua M. has received several awards, including the Crescent Seed Money of Rs.25,000/- for her project proposal on dye removal from textile effluents using novel carbon-based adsorbents in 2021. She was also awarded a Certificate of Excellence in Reviewing from the Current Journal of Applied Science and Technology in January 2022 and the AGAR-Best Young Faculty Award in 2024.

OTHER RESPONSIBILITIES

Throughout her career, Ayisha Sidiqua M. has held various responsibilities, including Class Advisor, Website Coordinator, Faculty Advisor, and Department Level ISO Coordinator. She has also been the Environmental Engineering Lab Incharge and Department Level Library Incharge, showcasing her commitment to academic and administrative excellence.

NOTABLE PUBLICATION

Useful metals recovery from electronic scraps of headphones–A sustainable approach 2024

BIM -Based Problem-Solving Analysis of Construction related issues and clash 2023

Synthesis of magnetic ZnFe2O4- reduced graphene oxide nanocomposite photocatalyst for the visible light degradation of cationic textile dyes 2023 (5)

Removal of yellow dye using composite binded adsorbent developed using natural clay and activated carbon from sapindus seed 2021 (24)

Fragmentary substitution of fine aggregate by tannery sludge in concrete 2018 (2)

Vikesh Gurudas Lade – Advanced Oxidation Processes – Best Researcher Award

Vikesh Gurudas Lade - Advanced Oxidation Processes - Best Researcher Award

Laxminarayan Innovation Technological University - India

AUTHOR PROFILE

Scopus

EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS

Vikesh Gurudas Lade embarked on his academic journey with a Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering from the Institute of Chemical Technology, Mumbai. His doctoral research focused on hydrodynamics and mass transfer studies in pulsed sieve-plate extraction columns and mixer-settler units, addressing challenges in the removal of tri n-butyl phosphate from nitric acid solutions. This collaborative work with institutions like BARC and IGCAR laid the foundation for his expertise in Advanced Oxidation Processes.

PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS

With over five years of industrial experience as an Assistant Manager in Process Engineering and Technology Transfer at Gujarat Flourochemicals Ltd., Vikesh played a pivotal role in various projects, from laboratory trials to technology transfer and commissioning of commercial projects. His responsibilities included process selection, engineering package preparation, and coordination with project teams, showcasing his proficiency in Wastewater Treatment and Process Development.

CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS

Vikesh's research projects, including his current university-sanctioned project on process development for the synthesis of specialty/fine chemicals, underscore his commitment to advancing knowledge in Wastewater Treatment and Agro waste to Wealth conversion. His expertise in reactor design, scale-up, and process intensification has enabled him to contribute significantly to the development of novel technologies for environmental remediation and resource recovery.

IMPACT AND INFLUENCE

Through his industrial and academic roles, Vikesh has made substantial contributions to the field of chemical engineering. His involvement in commercial-scale projects, technology transfer, and teaching engagements has positioned him as a key influencer in areas such as Hydrodynamics and Mass Transfer and Separation and Purification Technology. His work has not only advanced scientific understanding but also facilitated practical solutions to real-world challenges.

ACADEMIC CITES

Vikesh's research publications and projects have garnered recognition within the academic community, reflecting the relevance and impact of his work. His contributions to understanding reactor design, process intensification, and wastewater treatment have been cited extensively, highlighting their significance in addressing contemporary environmental and industrial challenges.

LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS

As Vikesh continues to excel in his academic and professional endeavors, his legacy lies in his dedication to advancing knowledge and finding sustainable solutions to complex problems. His interdisciplinary expertise in Advanced Oxidation Processes, coupled with his commitment to teaching and mentoring, positions him as a catalyst for innovation in the fields of environmental engineering and chemical technology. Moving forward, his research endeavors are expected to yield further insights and technologies that will contribute to a cleaner and more sustainable future.

NOTABLE PUBLICATION

Review on integrated advanced oxidation processes for water and wastewater treatment 2024

Processes for the treatment of biomedical wastes: challenges and issues  2023

Responsive membranes for wastewater treatment  2021 (1)

Introduction of water remediation processes 2021 (3)

Removal of tributyl phosphate from aqueous stream in a pilot scale combined air-lift mixer-settler unit: Process intensification studies 2015 (12)

Aaliya Qureashi – Wastewater treatment – Women Researcher Award

Aaliya Qureashi - Wastewater treatment - Women Researcher Award

Kashmir University - India

AUTHOR PROFILE

Scopus

Google Scholar

EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS

Aaliya Qureashi embarked on her academic journey by obtaining a Bachelor of Science degree from Govt. College for Women, M. A. Road, Srinagar, in 2012. She then pursued her Master of Science degree in Chemistry from the University of Kashmir in 2014. Building upon her foundational education, she began her Ph.D. journey in the Department of Chemistry at the University of Kashmir in January 2019, where she is currently pursuing her doctoral research.

PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS

Aaliya Qureashi's professional endeavors reflect her dedication to advancing knowledge in the field of chemistry, particularly in the domain of wastewater treatment. She serves as a Principal Investigator as a Women Scientist (WOS-A) at the University of Kashmir, Department of Chemistry, starting from 2022. Additionally, she actively engages in peer-review activities for esteemed journals like the Journal of Global Ecology and Environment.

CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS

Aaliya Qureashi's research focuses on wastewater treatment, with a particular emphasis on designing and synthesizing novel magnetic composites for the detection and removal of contaminants from wastewater. Her work involves the modification of magnetic composites using various methods such as ultrasonication, co-precipitation, and hydrothermal techniques. She aims to deepen the understanding of removal processes, adsorption phenomena, and electrochemical behavior at electrode-electrolyte interfaces, employing state-of-the-art techniques both in aqueous and non-aqueous media.

IMPACT AND INFLUENCE

Through her research endeavors, Aaliya Qureashi has made significant contributions to the field of wastewater treatment. Her publications in reputable journals and her involvement in research projects funded by the Department of Science and Technology highlight her impactful research. By addressing critical issues related to water pollution and contamination, her work has the potential to positively impact environmental sustainability and public health.

ACADEMIC CITES

Aaliya Qureashi's research findings have been cited in numerous publications, indicating the relevance and significance of her contributions to the scientific community. Her work serves as a valuable resource for researchers and scholars interested in advancing knowledge in the field of wastewater treatment and environmental chemistry.

LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS

Aaliya Qureashi's dedication to researching wastewater treatment techniques positions her as a leader in the field. Her continued efforts to innovate and develop sustainable solutions for wastewater treatment will contribute to addressing pressing environmental challenges. Through her ongoing research, she aims to leave a lasting legacy of impactful contributions to the field of environmental science and chemistry.

NOTABLE PUBLICATION

Overview of printable nanoparticles through inkjet process: Their application towards medical use 2022 (6)