Keval Jodhani | Water Resources Engineering |

Dr. Keval Jodhani | Water Resources Engineering | Young Researcher Award

Assistant Professor at Nirma University, Ahmedabad, India

Dr. Keval H. Jodhani is an outstanding early-career researcher whose impressive contributions in water resources, flood modeling, and environmental sustainability demonstrate strong potential for the Best Researcher Award. With a recent PhD (2024) and numerous publications in high-impact Q1 journals—including Scientific Reports and Results in Engineering—his research combines advanced tools like Google Earth Engine and machine learning to address pressing environmental challenges. Dr. Jodhani’s editorial roles and two granted patents reflect his active engagement and innovation within the scientific community. His experience includes funded projects and collaboration with ISRO, highlighting practical and impactful research. While his international collaborations and leadership as a principal investigator could be expanded, his current achievements and consistent productivity make him a highly deserving candidate. Overall, Dr. Jodhani exemplifies the qualities of a dedicated, innovative, and promising young researcher poised to make significant future contributions to his field.

Professional Profile 

Education🎓

Dr. Keval H. Jodhani has a strong academic foundation in civil and environmental engineering, marked by a steady progression of qualifications. He earned his Bachelor of Engineering (B.E.) in Civil Engineering from B.V.M. Engineering College, affiliated with Gujarat Technological University (GTU), in 2014. Building on this, he completed his Master of Engineering (M.E.) in Water Resources and Management from L.D. College of Engineering, Ahmedabad, also under GTU, with an excellent CGPA of 8.74 in 2016. Demonstrating a commitment to advanced research, Dr. Jodhani recently completed his PhD from Pandit Deendayal Energy University (P.D.E.U.), Gandhinagar, in July 2024. His doctoral research focused on soil erosion studies in flood-prone areas, showcasing his specialization in water resource management and environmental sustainability. Complementing his formal education, he gained valuable practical experience through a project trainee position at the Space Applications Centre (SAC), ISRO, Ahmedabad, which provided hands-on exposure to satellite data applications. This robust academic background underpins his expertise and ongoing contributions to research in his field.

Professional Experience📝

Dr. Keval H. Jodhani possesses significant professional experience that complements his academic achievements. He has worked as a Project Trainee at the Space Applications Centre (SAC), ISRO, Ahmedabad, gaining valuable expertise in satellite data and geospatial technologies, which are integral to his research in water resources and environmental monitoring. Since April 2019, he has been actively involved as a Schedule I GPCB Auditor in the Chemical Engineering Department at Nirma University, contributing to environmental compliance and consultancy projects with substantial financial turnovers each year. His role reflects strong practical knowledge and industry engagement. Additionally, Dr. Jodhani has served in various editorial capacities, including Associate Editor and Guest Editor for reputed international journals such as Elsevier and Springer, demonstrating his leadership within the research community. He has also managed funded research projects, collaborating as a Co-Principal Investigator, showcasing his ability to handle research administration alongside technical work. This blend of academic, consultancy, and editorial roles highlights his well-rounded professional experience.

Research Interest🔎

Dr. Keval H. Jodhani’s research interests lie at the intersection of water resources management, environmental sustainability, and geospatial technologies. He focuses on flood risk assessment and modeling, soil erosion studies, and sustainable groundwater management using advanced tools like remote sensing, GIS, and machine learning. His work extensively employs Google Earth Engine and Earth Observation data to analyze land use changes, water quality, and hydrogeological patterns, addressing critical challenges in urban flood management and groundwater quality monitoring. Additionally, Dr. Jodhani explores the application of multi-criteria decision-making techniques to develop integrated solutions for water resource sustainability. His innovative approach includes developing predictive models for urban flood scenarios and designing monitoring systems that support real-time environmental decision-making. By combining technical expertise with practical insights, his research contributes to advancing climate resilience, resource conservation, and environmental risk mitigation, making significant impacts on both academic knowledge and real-world applications in water and environmental engineering.

Award and Honor🏆

Dr. Keval H. Jodhani has earned several notable awards and honors that highlight his excellence in research and academic contributions. In 2025, he was honored with the prestigious Editor of Distinction Award, recognizing his outstanding editorial contributions to scientific journals. He serves as an editorial board member, associate editor, and guest editor for multiple reputable international journals published by Springer, Elsevier, and others, which is a significant achievement for a young researcher. Early in his career, Dr. Jodhani won the 1st prize for Best Poster Presentation at KAIZEN, LDCE in 2016, showcasing his research communication skills. Additionally, his innovative spirit is reflected in the granting of two design patents related to urban flood management and groundwater quality monitoring. These accomplishments demonstrate his dedication to advancing research, contributing to scientific literature, and fostering innovation in environmental and water resource engineering. Collectively, these awards and honors affirm Dr. Jodhani’s growing reputation as a promising young researcher.

Research Skill🔬

Dr. Keval H. Jodhani possesses a diverse and advanced set of research skills that enable him to tackle complex environmental and water resource challenges effectively. He is proficient in geospatial analysis tools such as ArcGIS, ERDAS, and Google Earth Engine, which he uses extensively for remote sensing, land use classification, and environmental monitoring. His expertise includes hydrological modeling using Delft3D and Delft Dashboard, enabling accurate flood risk assessment and soil erosion studies. Additionally, Dr. Jodhani integrates machine learning techniques and multi-criteria decision-making approaches to enhance predictive modeling and decision support systems in water management. He is skilled in data analysis and programming environments like Google Colab, facilitating the application of cutting-edge computational methods. Complemented by strong problem-solving and management abilities, his technical and analytical proficiency allows him to conduct high-impact research that bridges theory and practice in sustainable environmental engineering. These skills make him a versatile and innovative researcher in his field.

Conclusion💡

Dr. Keval H. Jodhani clearly demonstrates the qualities of a rising star in civil and environmental engineering research. His prolific publishing record in top journals, technical skills, editorial contributions, and focus on sustainability make him highly deserving of this recognition. With continued emphasis on leadership in research grants and international collaborations, he is well-positioned to be a leading researcher in his field.

Publications Top Noted✍

  • A review on analysis of flood modelling using different numerical models

    • Authors: K.H. Jodhani, D. Patel, N. Madhavan

    • Year: 2023

    • Citations: 50

  • Assessment of forest fire severity and land surface temperature using Google Earth Engine: A case study of Gujarat State, India

    • Authors: K.H. Jodhani, H. Patel, U. Soni, R. Patel, B. Valodara, N. Gupta, A. Patel, …

    • Year: 2024

    • Citations: 44

  • Soil erosion assessment by RUSLE, Google Earth Engine, and geospatial techniques over Rel River watershed, Gujarat, India

    • Authors: K.H. Jodhani, D. Patel, N. Madhavan, S.K. Singh

    • Year: 2023

    • Citations: 36

  • Synergizing Google Earth Engine and Earth observations for potential impact of land use/land cover on air quality

    • Authors: K.H. Jodhani, N. Gupta, A.D. Parmar, J.D. Bhavsar, H. Patel, D. Patel, S.K. Singh, …

    • Year: 2024

    • Citations: 30

  • Unveiling seasonal fluctuations in air quality using Google Earth Engine: a case study for Gujarat, India

    • Authors: K.H. Jodhani, N. Gupta, A.D. Parmar, J.D. Bhavsar, D. Patel, S.K. Singh, …

    • Year: 2024

    • Citations: 15

  • Shoreline change and rate analysis of Gulf of Khambhat using satellite images

    • Authors: K. Jodhani, P. Bansal, P. Jain

    • Year: 2021

    • Citations: 15

  • Unravelling flood risk in the Rel River watershed, Gujarat using coupled earth observations, multi criteria decision making and Google Earth Engine

    • Authors: K.H. Jodhani, D. Patel, N. Madhavan, N. Gupta, S.K. Singh, U. Rathnayake

    • Year: 2024

    • Citations: 14

  • Land use land cover classification for REL river using machine learning techniques

    • Authors: K.H. Jodhani, D. Patel, N. Madhavan

    • Year: 2023

    • Citations: 13

  • Channel planform dynamics using earth observations across Rel river, western India: A synergetic approach

    • Authors: K.H. Jodhani, D. Patel, N. Madhavan, U. Soni, H. Patel, S.K. Singh

    • Year: 2024

    • Citations: 10

  • Integrating GEE and IWQI for sustainable irrigation: A geospatial water quality assessment

    • Authors: U. Vyas, D. Patel, V. Vakharia, K.H. Jodhani

    • Year: 2024

    • Citations: 8

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

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

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

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)

Roberto Alonso Gonzalez Lezcano – Building and Construction – Best Researcher Award 

Roberto Alonso Gonzalez Lezcano - Building and Construction - Best Researcher Award 

CEU San Pablo University - Spain

AUTHOR PROFILE

Scopus
ORCID
Researcher ID

EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS

Roberto Alonso Gonzalez Lezcano's academic journey began with a strong foundation in Mechanical and Industrial Engineering at Universidad Tecnológica de Panamá. He furthered his education with postgraduate studies in Mechanical Engineering and Higher Education, laying the groundwork for his future career in academia and research.

PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS

With a solid academic background, Roberto Alonso Gonzalez Lezcano embarked on a career dedicated to academia and research. From teaching roles at Universidad Tecnológica de Panamá to tenured professorships at prestigious institutions like Universidad CEU San Pablo, his professional journey reflects a commitment to excellence in the field of Architecture and Design.

CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS

Roberto Alonso Gonzalez Lezcano's research focus lies in the realm of Building and Construction, as evidenced by his numerous projects and contracts. From studying the mechanical behavior of materials to investigating the energy impact of residential building permeability, his contributions have advanced our understanding of structural engineering and architectural design.

IMPACT AND INFLUENCE

Through his tenure as a professor and involvement in research projects, Roberto Alonso Gonzalez Lezcano has made a significant impact on his field. His work has not only contributed to academic knowledge but has also influenced practical applications in the construction industry, shaping the future of building technology.

ACADEMIC CITES

Roberto Alonso Gonzalez Lezcano's research has garnered recognition, as evidenced by his PhD Extraordinary Award and active participation in funded projects. His contributions have likely been cited in academic literature, further solidifying his reputation as a thought leader in Building and Construction.

LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS

As Roberto Alonso Gonzalez Lezcano continues his academic and research endeavors, his legacy will be marked by his dedication to advancing the field of Building and Construction. His future contributions hold promise for further innovations in architectural design, structural engineering, and sustainable construction practices.

NOTABLE PUBLICATION

Influence of various fibers on the physico-mechanical properties of a sustainable geopolymer mortar-based on metakaolin and slag  2023 (2)