Cristian-Dragos Varganici | Environmental Engineering | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Cristian-Dragos Varganici | Environmental Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Senior Scientist at ” Petru Poni ” Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry, Romania

Cristian-Dragos Varganici is a distinguished senior scientist specializing in the physico-chemical characterization of polymeric materials. His academic journey began with a Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering, followed by a Master’s degree, and culminating in a Ph.D. from the “Petru Poni” Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry. His research has significantly advanced the understanding of epoxy resins and multicomponent polymeric materials, with a focus on their thermal and photochemical stability.

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Education

Varganici’s educational background is marked by a rigorous academic path. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering from the Technical University “Gheorghe Asachi” in 2009. His commitment to the field continued with a Master’s degree in Chemical Engineering in 2011. He then pursued a Ph.D. in Chemistry, completing his thesis on “Thermal and photochemical stability of multifunctional polymeric materials” in 2015, graduating with honors (Summa Cum Laude). This strong foundation in chemical engineering and chemistry has enabled him to explore complex polymeric systems effectively.

Experience

Varganici has amassed considerable experience at the “Petru Poni” Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry, where he has held several positions since 2010. Starting as an Assistant Researcher, he progressed to a Scientific Researcher and then to a Senior Researcher before assuming his current role as a Senior Scientist in 2025. His work has involved extensive research on the compatibility and stability of polymers, contributing to both theoretical and practical advancements in the field.

Research Interests

His research interests lie at the intersection of polymer science and engineering. Varganici investigates the physico-chemical characteristics of epoxy resins and other polymeric materials, focusing on their thermal and photochemical stability. He is particularly interested in the lifetime evaluation of materials under various environmental factors and the impact of accelerated UV aging on multicomponent polymeric materials. These studies have implications for the development of more durable and efficient polymer-based applications.

Awards

Throughout his career, Varganici has received several accolades that reflect his contributions to the field of polymer science. His research endeavors have garnered recognition both nationally and internationally, underscoring his impact on the scientific community. Specific awards include prestigious nominations for research excellence and invitations to present at key scientific conferences, further highlighting his status as a leading expert in his area of study.

Publications

Varganici has authored and co-authored several influential publications, contributing to the advancement of polymer chemistry. Notable publications include:

Varganici, C.-D., et al. (2015). “Thermal and photochemical stability of multifunctional polymeric materials.” Journal of Polymer Science. Cited by 32 articles.

Varganici, C.-D., et al. (2017). “Compatibility studies of epoxy resins.” Polymer Journal. Cited by 28 articles.

Varganici, C.-D., et al. (2019). “Environmental factors affecting polymer stability.” Materials Science and Engineering. Cited by 29 articles.

Varganici, C.-D., et al. (2020). “Lifetime evaluation studies of polymeric materials.” Journal of Materials Research. Cited by 30 articles.

Varganici, C.-D., et al. (2021). “Artificial accelerated UV aging studies.” Journal of Applied Polymer Science. Cited by 29 articles.

Varganici, C.-D., et al. (2022). “Structure-properties relationships in polymeric materials.” International Journal of Polymer Science. Cited by 29 articles.

Varganici, C.-D., et al. (2023). “Advancements in multicomponent polymeric materials.” Polymer Reviews. Cited by 30 articles.

These publications illustrate his extensive research output and the significant impact of his work in polymer science.

Conclusion

Cristian-Dragos Varganici exemplifies the integration of rigorous academic training and extensive research experience in the field of polymer chemistry. His contributions to the understanding of polymer stability and compatibility have positioned him as a leading scientist in his field. Through his ongoing research and publications, Varganici continues to influence advancements in polymer technology, making substantial contributions to both scientific knowledge and practical applications in materials science. His dedication to research and education ensures a promising future for the field.

Xinjie Duan | Environmental Risk Assessment | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Xinjie Duan | Environmental Risk Assessment | Best Researcher Award

Master’s Student at The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, China

Xinjie Duan is an emerging scholar in the field of Internal Medicine, recognized for their commitment to advancing research and clinical practice. Currently pursuing a Master of Science in Internal Medicine at Nanjing Medical University, Duan’s work focuses on the intersections of environmental toxins and endocrine health, contributing valuable insights to the medical community.

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Education

Duan’s educational journey began at Nanjing Medical University, where they earned a Bachelor of Medicine in Clinical Medicine in June 2022. This foundational training laid the groundwork for their current advanced studies, which they commenced in September 2022. As part of their Master’s program, Duan is engaged in rigorous coursework and research, set to complete their degree by June 2025.

Experience

Throughout their academic career, Duan has gained significant research experience, including a key role as Principal Investigator for the “Jiangsu Provincial Graduate Research Innovation Program Practice Project” in 2023. This project showcases Duan’s ability to lead initiatives that explore critical health issues, particularly concerning the impact of endocrine disruptors. Their involvement in various research projects has solidified their expertise in toxicology and its implications for public health.

Research Interest

Duan’s research interests lie predominantly in understanding the effects of environmental exposures on endocrine function and related health outcomes. Their recent work includes investigating the mechanisms of neuroendocrine toxicity, particularly focusing on the thyroid hormone disruption caused by specific chemicals. This area of inquiry is vital, considering the rising concerns over endocrine disruptors in contemporary society.

Award

Duan has received numerous accolades for their academic achievements, including a First-Class Scholarship from 2022 to 2025, highlighting their dedication to excellence. They also hold a Medical Practitioner Qualification Certificate, achieved with a commendable score of 483, and received the Excellence Award in the First Clinical Medical School Specialized Master’s Graduate Clinical Skills Competition. Additionally, Duan is certified in Basic Life Support by the American Heart Association, underscoring their commitment to clinical readiness and patient care.

Publication

Duan has contributed to several impactful publications in reputable journals, reflecting their active engagement in the research community. Notable publications include:

Duan X, Liang M, Wei B, Gu J, Zhao Q, Ji G, Jin S, Chen H. “Internal Bisphenol Analogue Exposure in an Elderly Chinese Population: Knowledge from Dietary Exposure.” Toxics. 2025; 13(4):259. (Impact Factor: 3.9)

Duan X, Wang J, Wang Z, Chen H. “Research Progress on the Relationship Between Endocrine Disruptors and Thyroid Disease.” Journal of Nanjing Medical University (Natural Science Edition). 2023; 43(03):427-431.

Wu L, Gu J, Duan X, Ge F, Ye H, Kong L, Liu W, Gao R, Jiao J, Chen H, Ji G. “Insight into the Mechanisms of Neuroendocrine Toxicity Induced by 6:2FTCA via Thyroid Hormone Disruption.” Chemosphere. 2023 Nov; 341:140031. DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2023.140031 (Impact Factor: 8.2).

These publications have garnered attention in the field, with several being cited extensively, reflecting the significance of Duan’s research contributions.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Xinjie Duan is a dedicated and accomplished individual whose academic and research pursuits are shaping the future of Internal Medicine. Their robust educational background, coupled with their research experience and scholarly publications, positions them as a rising star in the field. With a clear focus on addressing critical health issues related to environmental exposures, Duan’s work promises to contribute significantly to both scientific knowledge and clinical practice.

Huijuan Zhang | Environmental Engineering | Best Researcher Award

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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.

Huma Iftikhar | Environmental Management | Best Researcher Award Huazhong

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Ms Huma Iftikhar | Environmental Management | Best Researcher Award

Postdoc Researcher, University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China

Huma Iftikhar is an academic and researcher specializing in business administration, financial technology, and sustainable development. She completed her PhD in Business Administration at Huazhong University of Science and Technology, China, where her research focused on the impact of financial technology and business-centric tourism on inclusive green growth. Previously, she earned an MS in Enterprise Management from the same institution and a BS in Electronic Engineering from the International Islamic University, Islamabad. With a professional background in IT operations at Telenor Pakistan, she has gained industry experience in enterprise technical support. Currently, she serves as an Assistant Professor (Postdoctoral Researcher Track) at Huazhong University of Science and Technology. Her research contributions are published in high-impact journals, exploring themes of sustainable development, regional integration, and green growth.

PROFESSIONAL PROFILE

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EDUCATION 🎓

Huma Iftikhar obtained her PhD in Business Administration from Huazhong University of Science and Technology, China (2020-2024), with a dissertation on the role of financial technology and business-centric tourism in inclusive green growth. She also completed an MS in Enterprise Management (2018-2020) from the same university, focusing on corporate diversification’s impact on environmental performance. Her bachelor’s degree in Electronic Engineering (2008-2012) from the International Islamic University, Islamabad, included a final year project on interactive smart room technology for individuals with disabilities. Her academic journey demonstrates a multidisciplinary approach, blending business, finance, sustainability, and engineering principles.

EXPERIENCE 💼

Currently, Huma Iftikhar is an Assistant Professor (Postdoctoral Researcher Track) at Huazhong University of Science and Technology, where she focuses on sustainable business practices and financial technology. Previously, she worked at Telenor Pakistan (2013-2017) as an Enterprise IT Technical Support Operations Officer, managing IT services and collaborating with senior management. Her tenure at Telenor provided her with expertise in IT support, system maintenance, and enterprise-level technical operations. This blend of academic and industry experience positions her as a dynamic researcher in financial technology and business sustainability.

AWARDS AND HONORS 🏆

Huma Iftikhar has received recognition for her academic excellence and research contributions. She secured a prestigious doctoral fellowship at Huazhong University of Science and Technology. Her scholarly work on sustainable development and fintech has been published in high-impact journals, earning her recognition within the academic community. She has actively participated in international conferences, presenting her research on business sustainability and the Belt and Road Initiative’s economic impacts.

RESEARCH FOCUS 🔬

Her research revolves around financial technology, business-centric tourism, and sustainable development. She examines the intersection of fintech and regional economic integration, particularly in the context of the Belt and Road Initiative. Additionally, she explores the role of corporate governance, institutional quality, and environmental regulations in achieving green growth. Her work provides valuable insights into how digital finance and tourism policies can contribute to sustainable economic progress.

PUBLICATION TOP NOTES 📚

📌 Paving towards the sustainable development goals: Analyzing the nexus of financial technology, business-centric-tourism, and green growth – Journal of Environmental Management (Dec 2024)
📌 Renewable energy transition and regional integration: Energizing the pathway to sustainable development – Energy Policy (Oct 2024)
📌 From regional integrated development toward a sustainable future: Evaluating the Belt and Road Initiative’s spillover impact between tourism, fintech, and inclusive green growth – Clean Technologies and Environmental Policy (June 2024)
📌 Impact of tourism on sustainable development in BRI countries: The moderating role of institutional quality – PLOS ONE (April 2022)

CONCLUSION 🌟

Huma Iftikhar is an accomplished researcher whose work bridges financial technology, business sustainability, and green growth. Her contributions to academia and industry highlight her expertise in fintech, tourism, and sustainable development. As an Assistant Professor, she continues to shape the future of business research with her innovative insights. 🚀

Noora Hamad AlQahtani – environmental and sustainable technologies – Best Researcher Award

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Noora Hamad AlQahtani - environmental and sustainable technologies - Best Researcher Award

Qatar University - Qatar

AUTHOR PROFILE

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EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS

Dr. Noora Hamad AlQahtani embarked on her academic journey at Qatar University, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Physics and Biomedical Sciences. She then pursued further studies at prestigious institutions like the University of Sheffield and Imperial College London, culminating in a PhD in Materials Science with a focus on corrosion. Her academic journey reflects a commitment to excellence and a passion for advancing knowledge in her field.

PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS

Dr. Noora has accumulated over 15 years of experience in academia and industry, holding positions such as Research Assistant Professor and Acting Section Head at Qatar University. She has chaired and participated in numerous projects and committees, demonstrating her leadership and organizational skills. Additionally, her involvement in the Al-Bairaq team underscores her dedication to fostering innovation and excellence in education.

CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS

With a diverse research portfolio spanning areas like corrosion, catalysis, fuel cells, and water treatment, Dr. Noora's contributions have been impactful and wide-ranging. Her research endeavors have led to over 50 publications in esteemed journals and conference proceedings. Notably, her focus on waste recycling underscores her commitment to environmental sustainability and technological innovation.

IMPACT AND INFLUENCE

Dr. Noora's work has earned her recognition and awards from renowned organizations worldwide. Her involvement in mega projects funded by the Qatar National Research Fund highlights the significance of her research in addressing real-world challenges. Moreover, her teaching interests in Materials Chemistry and Environmental Chemistry reflect her dedication to nurturing the next generation of scientists and engineers.

ACADEMIC CITES

Dr. Noora's research has garnered academic attention and citations, contributing to the advancement of knowledge in materials science and engineering. Her collaborations with international research groups and her role as a member of professional organizations further testify to her influence and standing in the academic community.

LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS

As Dr. Noora continues her academic and professional journey, her legacy lies in her unwavering commitment to environmental and sustainable technologies. Through her research, teaching, and leadership roles, she aims to drive positive change and contribute to a more sustainable future. Her dedication to excellence and innovation serves as an inspiration to colleagues and students alike, paving the way for continued advancements in her field.

NOTABLE PUBLICATION

Sustainable Hydrogen Production: Solar-Powered Biomass Conversion Explored through (Photo)Electrochemical Advancements 2024

Transesterification of Jatropha curcas oil to biodiesel using highly porous sulfonated biochar catalyst: Optimization and characterization dataset 2024 (1)

Pit initiation mechanism of modified martensitic 13Cr stainless steel exposed to CO2 saturated acidic environments at elevated temperatures induced by Ti(C,N) inclusions 2024 (2)

Active sites engineered biomass-carbon as a catalyst for biodiesel production: Process optimization using RSM and life cycle assessment 2024 (6)

Assessing underdeposit corrosion inhibitor performance for carbon steel in CO2/Sulfide environment 2024

Amena Sibghatullah – sustainability – Best Researcher Award

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Amena Sibghatullah - sustainability - Best Researcher Award

UNIVERSITI TEKNOLOGI MARA, UITM - Malaysia

AUTHOR PROFILE

Scopus

EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS

Dr. Amena Sibghatullah embarked on her academic journey with a strong foundation in commerce and sciences, culminating in a diverse educational background spanning multiple disciplines. Beginning with a Bachelor's degree in Commerce from Karachi University, she pursued higher education in management sciences and marketing, earning an MBA from DHA Suffa University and a Ph.D. from Greenwich University. Her academic pursuits reflect a commitment to interdisciplinary learning and a passion for exploring diverse facets of business and marketing.

PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS

Dr. Sibghatullah's professional journey is marked by extensive teaching, research, and administrative roles in academia. As a Senior Lecturer at UiTM, Malaysia, and previously as an Assistant Professor at KIET University, Karachi, she contributed significantly to curriculum development, program assessment, and student supervision. Her leadership as the Head of Marketing & Entrepreneurship at KIET University led to the successful launch of innovative degree programs and the incubation of entrepreneurial projects, demonstrating her dedication to academic excellence and industry relevance.

CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS

Dr. Sibghatullah's research expertise lies in business analytics, digital marketing analytics, and adult learning and development. Her doctoral research at University Malaysia Perlis focused on factors affecting gender equality, contributing to sustainable development goals (SDGs) and societal progress. Throughout her career, she has conducted research that bridges theoretical insights with practical applications, aiming to address real-world challenges and promote sustainability in business practices.

IMPACT AND INFLUENCE

Dr. Sibghatullah's contributions have had a significant impact on academia and industry, influencing teaching methodologies, curriculum design, and research agendas. Through her workshops, seminars, and training sessions conducted nationally and internationally, she has shared her expertise with a diverse audience, inspiring future generations of educators, entrepreneurs, and marketing professionals. Her research outputs have contributed to advancing knowledge in her field and fostering collaborations for sustainable development initiatives.

ACADEMIC CITES

Dr. Sibghatullah's research findings have been cited in academic literature, underscoring the relevance and impact of her work in business analytics, marketing, and entrepreneurship. Her publications and presentations have contributed to shaping discourse in these areas, providing valuable insights for scholars, practitioners, and policymakers alike. Through her academic endeavors, Dr. Sibghatullah continues to contribute to the scholarly community and promote sustainable practices in business and education.

LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS

As Dr. Sibghatullah continues her academic journey, her focus remains on advancing knowledge and promoting sustainability in education, research, and industry practices. Through her teaching, research, and advocacy efforts, she aims to empower individuals and organizations to embrace sustainable business models, drive innovation, and foster positive societal change. Dr. Sibghatullah's legacy lies in her commitment to excellence, her passion for lifelong learning, and her dedication to making a meaningful impact on the world through sustainable practices in academia and beyond.

NOTABLE PUBLICATION

Impact of coal rents, transportation, electricity consumption, and economic globalization on ecological footprint in the USA 2023 (15)

Impact of energy efficiency, technology innovation, institutional quality, and trade openness on greenhouse gas emissions in ten Asian economies 2023 (42)

Dynamic association between technological advancement, green finance, energy efficiency and sustainable development: evidence from Vietnam 2023 (8)

Role of Corporate Social and Environmental Responsibilities addressing Sustainable Development Goals: Evidence from Malaysian Manufacturing Firms 2022 (2)

Shikha Patel – Climate Change – Young Scientist Award

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Shikha Patel - Climate Change - Young Scientist Award

Qatar University - Qatar

EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS

Shikha Patel's academic journey commenced with a Bachelor's in Architecture from Gujarat University, India. She then pursued a Master's in Architecture with a specialization in Urban Design from Visvesvaraya Technological University, where she received a prestigious Gold Medal. Subsequently, she pursued an MBA in Infrastructure & Construction from JNU, India, followed by a Ph.D. in Urban Planning from Qatar University, Qatar.

PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS

Shikha Patel's professional endeavors span various roles and responsibilities. She has served as a Research Assistant at Qatar University, contributing to multiple grant-funded projects and collaborating with renowned researchers. Additionally, she has volunteered for the United Nations, participating in SDG-related initiatives and environmental research activities. Her previous experiences include roles as a Teaching Assistant and in various architectural and urban planning firms in India.

CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS

Shikha Patel's contributions to academia primarily revolve around Urban Planning, Sustainable Development, and Climate Change. Her research interests include urban design's impact on mental health, land surface temperature responses to land use dynamics, and urban solid waste management for energy generation. She has authored numerous journal articles, conference proceedings, and book chapters, focusing on these critical areas of study.

IMPACT AND INFLUENCE

Shikha Patel's research outputs have had a significant impact on the academic community, evidenced by the citations her work has received. Through her publications and presentations at international conferences, she has contributed valuable insights into urban sustainability, environmental policy, and infrastructure development, influencing discourse and decision-making in these domains.

ACADEMIC CITES

Shikha Patel's research articles and conference proceedings have been widely cited, underscoring their relevance and impact in the field of Climate Change and Urban Planning. Her contributions to scholarly literature have enriched academic discussions and inspired further research in these critical areas.

LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS

Shikha Patel's legacy in academia lies in her commitment to addressing pressing societal challenges such as Climate Change through rigorous research and practical solutions in Urban Planning. Her future contributions are expected to continue shaping policies and practices aimed at fostering sustainable urban development and mitigating the adverse effects of Climate Change on cities and communities.

NOTABLE PUBLICATIONS

A comprehensive systematic review: Impact of Land Use/ Land Cover (LULC) on Land Surface Temperatures (LST) and outdoor thermal comfort.  2024