Mr Tewekel Melese gemechu | Physical Geography (Hydrology) | Young Scientist Award 

PhD Student, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, China

Tewekel Melese is an Assistant Lecturer at Ambo University College of Agriculture and Veterinary Science in Oromia, Ethiopia, where he has been employed since January 2017. He holds a Bachelor’s degree with high distinction from Wollega University and is currently pursuing a PhD in Physical Geography at the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences. Tewekel’s work focuses on environmental science, particularly the interplay of land use, climate change, and water resources. He actively contributes to various academic journals, collaborating with international researchers to address pressing environmental issues. His commitment to education and research has established him as a notable figure in his field.

Profile

ORCID

Strengths for the Award

1. Academic Excellence: Tewekel Melese graduated with very high distinction from Wollega University and is currently pursuing a PhD in Physical Geography, reflecting his strong academic foundation and commitment to advancing his knowledge.
2. Diverse Research Contributions: He has authored and co-authored multiple publications in reputable journals, focusing on critical environmental issues such as climate change, atmospheric pollution, and water resource management. His recent work enhances understanding of the impacts of land use and climate dynamics, contributing valuable insights to the field.
3. Collaborative Approach: Tewekel collaborates effectively with international researchers, broadening the scope and impact of his work. This multidisciplinary approach fosters innovation and facilitates the sharing of knowledge across different regions.
4. Teaching Commitment: As an Assistant Lecturer, he demonstrates a dedication to education, actively engaging students in complex topics such as water resources and irrigation management.

Areas for Improvement

1. Broader Impact Metrics: While Tewekel’s publications are commendable, increasing focus on the societal impact of his research could enhance visibility and recognition. Engaging with policymakers and communities could bridge the gap between research and practice.
2. Networking Opportunities: Expanding his professional network by attending international conferences and workshops could provide him with additional platforms to share his findings and gain feedback from peers.
3. Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Pursuing collaborations with researchers from different fields, such as public health or economics, could enrich his research and open new avenues for impactful studies, particularly in relation to environmental issues.

Education 

Tewekel Melese completed his Bachelor’s degree in 2016 from Wollega University, where he graduated with very high distinction. He is currently pursuing a PhD in Physical Geography at the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences in Beijing, China, expected to be completed by July 2025. Earlier in his academic journey, he studied at Jilin University in Changchun, China. His educational background has provided him with a strong foundation in environmental sciences, equipping him with the skills necessary to investigate and address complex ecological challenges. Tewekel’s academic achievements highlight his dedication to advancing his knowledge and expertise in geography and environmental management.

Experience

Since January 2017, Tewekel Melese has been serving as an Assistant Lecturer at Ambo University College of Agriculture and Veterinary Science in Oromia, Ethiopia. His teaching focus includes water resources and irrigation management, where he employs innovative methods to enhance student engagement and learning outcomes. Prior to this role, Tewekel excelled academically, earning a Bachelor’s degree with very high distinction from Wollega University. He has also been involved in various research projects, collaborating with both local and international experts to tackle significant environmental issues. His professional activities reflect a commitment to both teaching and research, contributing to the academic community’s understanding of critical topics in environmental science.

Awards and Honors

Tewekel Melese graduated with a Bachelor’s degree with very high distinction from Wollega University, a recognition that underscores his academic excellence. His commitment to research has led to significant contributions in environmental science, and his publications have been well-received in reputable journals. Although specific awards beyond his academic distinctions are not detailed, his ongoing pursuit of a PhD indicates a commitment to further scholarly achievement. Tewekel’s collaborative efforts with international researchers highlight his recognition within the global academic community, positioning him as an emerging expert in his field. His work addresses pressing issues related to climate change, water management, and public health, reflecting a dedication to impactful research that benefits society.

Research Focus

Tewekel Melese’s research primarily focuses on environmental science, emphasizing the interactions between land use, climate dynamics, and water resources. His work investigates the impacts of climate change on water balance and hydrological components, utilizing models such as SWAT to analyze and predict environmental changes. He also examines atmospheric pollution, particularly in relation to land cover changes, contributing to a broader understanding of ecological sustainability. Tewekel is involved in assessing flood hazards and their socio-economic impacts, demonstrating a comprehensive approach to environmental challenges. His research is characterized by a collaborative spirit, often involving multiple contributors from diverse backgrounds, aiming to generate actionable insights for policymakers and practitioners in the field of water resource management.

Publication Top Notes

1. Evaluating the potential footprints of land use and land cover and climate dynamics on atmospheric pollution in Pakistan 🌍
2. Evaluating the potential footprints of land use and land cover and climate dynamics on atmospheric pollution in Pakistan (vol 11, 1272155, 2024) 🌍
3. Enhancing Transpiration Estimates: A Novel Approach Using SIF Partitioning and the TL-LUE Model 🌱
4. Global Evaluation and Intercomparison of XCO2 Retrievals from GOSAT, OCO-2, and TANSAT with TCCON 🌌
5. Impacts and Causes of Flood Hazards on Public Health and Socio-Economic: The Case of Hirna Town, West Hararghe Zone, Oromia National Regional State, Ethiopia 🚨
6. Impacts of climate change on water balance components of Guder Catchment, Upper Abbay Basin, Ethiopia: SWAT model 💧
7. Prioritizing management options using a risk assessment for soil erosion based on GIS, remote sensing, and RUSLE. A case study of Midhagdu Watershed, Eastern Ethiopia 🌾
8. Estimation of Hydrological Components under Current and Future Climate Scenarios in Guder Catchment, Upper Abbay Basin, Ethiopia, Using the SWAT 🌦️

Conclusion

Tewekel Melese is a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award due to his academic achievements, impactful research contributions, and commitment to teaching. By addressing areas for improvement, such as enhancing the societal impact of his research and expanding his professional network, he can further elevate his profile in the academic community. His ongoing dedication to environmental science positions him as a promising researcher with the potential to make significant contributions to addressing global challenges.