Juergen Junk | Climate Change | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Juergen Junk | Climate Change | Best Researcher Award

Head of research group at University of Trier, Luxembourg

Dr. Juergen Junk is an accomplished environmental meteorologist and geographer with a distinguished career in climate research and agro-environmental systems. As the Head of Group at the Luxembourg Institute of Science and Technology, he leads critical projects aimed at understanding and mitigating the impacts of climate change. With extensive experience in research and academia, Dr. Junk has supervised numerous PhD and MSc theses, contributed to national climate strategies, and secured several significant research grants. His work bridges the gap between climate science and practical solutions for sustainable agriculture and environmental protection. 🌍🌱🔬

Profile:

Educational Background:

Juergen Junk holds a Diploma in Physical Geography from the University of Trier, completed in 1999 under the supervision of Prof. Dr. A. Helbig. He further specialized in Environmental Meteorology, graduating in 2013 from the University of Trier.

Professional Experience:

Since 2021, Juergen Junk has been the Head of Group at the Luxembourg Institute of Science and Technology (LIST), ERIN Department, Agro-environmental Systems in Belvaux, Luxembourg. Before this, he served as a Senior Researcher at the same institute from 2016 to 2021. His career includes significant roles such as Senior Researcher at the Centre de Recherche Gabriel Lippmann in Belvaux, Luxembourg (2007-2014), and Research Associate in Environmental Meteorology at the University of Trier (1999-2007). Since 2015, he has continued his role as a Senior Researcher at LIST.

Research Interests:

Juergen Junk’s research focuses on climate change impacts, environmental meteorology, and agro-environmental systems. He has a keen interest in studying the interaction between climate change and agricultural ecosystems, including the effects on pests and their natural enemies, air pollution, and thermal stress on human health. He is also involved in high-resolution climate change projections and the analysis of nanoparticles in the near-surface atmosphere.

Publication Top Notes:

  • Buchholz, S., A. Krein, J. Junk, A. C. Gutleb, L. Pfister and L. Hoffmann (2011). “Modeling, measuring, and characterizing airborne particles: Case studies from southwestern Luxembourg.” Critical Reviews in Environmental Science and Technology, 41(23): 2077-2096.
  • Buchholz, S., A. Krein, J. Junk, G. Heinemann and L. Hoffmann (2013). “Simulation of Urban-Scale Air Pollution Patterns in Luxembourg: Contributing Sources and Emission Scenarios.” Environmental Modeling & Assessment, 18: 271-283.
  • den Outer, P. N., H. Slaper, J. Kaurola, A. Lindfors, A. Kazantzidis, A. F. Bais, U. Feister, J. Junk, M. Janouch and W. Josefsson (2010). “Reconstructing of erythemal ultraviolet radiation levels in Europe for the past 4 decades.” Journal of Geophysical Research, 115(D10).
  • Eickermann, M., M. Beyer, K. Goergen, L. Hoffmann and J. Junk (2014). “Shifted migration of the rape stem weevil (Ceutorhynchus napi) linked to climate change.” European Journal of Entomology, 111(2): 243-250.
  • Eickermann, M., J. Junk, L. Hoffmann and M. Beyer (2015). “Forecasting the breaching of the control threshold for Ceutorhynchus pallidactylus in oilseed rape.” Agricultural and Forest Entomology, 17(1): 71-76.
  • Eickermann, M., J. Junk and C. Rapisarda (2023). “Climate Change and Insects.” Insects.
  • El Jarroudi, M., L. Kouadio, J. Junk and C. H. Bock (2020). “Improved Prediction of Leaf Emergence for Efficacious Crop Protection: Assessing Field Variability in Phyllotherms for Upper Leaves in Winter Wheat and Winter Barley.” Agronomy, 10(11): 1825.
  • El Jarroudi, M., L. Kouadio, J. Junk, H. Maraite, B. Tychon and P. Delfosse (2022). “Assessing the Interplay between Weather and Septoria Leaf Blotch Severity on Lower Leaves on the Disease Risk on Upper Leaves in Winter Wheat.” Journal of Fungi, 8(11).
  • Emmerling, C., A. Krein and J. Junk (2020). “Meta-Analysis of Strategies to Reduce NH3 Emissions from Slurries in European Agriculture and Consequences for Greenhouse Gas Emissions.” Agronomy, 10: 10.
  • Goergen, K., J. Beersma, L. Hoffmann and J. Junk (2013). “ENSEMBLES-based assessment of regional climate effects in Luxembourg and their impact on vegetation.” Climatic Change, 119(3): 761-773.

 

 

Nadezda Verkhovtseva | Soil Pollution | Best Researcher Award

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Prof Dr Nadezda Verkhovtseva |  Soil Pollution |  Best Researcher Award

professor at MSU (Moscow State University named after M.V. Lomonosov,  Russia

Dr. N. Verkhovtseva is a distinguished Professor at the Department of Agrochemistry and Plant Biochemistry, Lomonosov Moscow State University (MSU). She pursued her studies in Agrochemistry at MSU, where she also earned her Ph.D. in 1975. Dr. Verkhovtseva has had a notable academic journey, having taught at Yaroslavl State University before joining the esteemed research group led by Kondrat’eva at MSU. In 1994, she obtained her Doctor of Science degree in Microbiology and subsequently secured the position of Professor at MSU’s Faculty of Soil Science. Her prolific career includes the publication of over 180 articles in both Russian and international journals. Dr. Verkhovtseva’s research contributions have earned her a significant citation index, with 46 citations in Web of Science, 57 in Scopus, and 984 in Science Index. She has authored eight books, holds one patent, and serves as the executive editor of the journal Problems of Agrochemistry and Ecology. Her professional memberships include the Soil Science Society. Dr. Verkhovtseva’s expertise and dedication have significantly advanced the fields of agrochemistry and plant biochemistry.

Profile

 

🎓 Academic and Professional Background:

Dr. N. Verkhovtseva studied Agrochemistry at Lomonosov Moscow State University (MSU), Russia. After graduation, she entered the graduate school of the same university and received her PhD in Agrochemistry in 1975. She then taught at Yaroslavl State University, Yaroslavl, Russia, before joining the research academic group of Kondrat’eva at MSU. In 1994, she received her Doctor of Science degree in Microbiology from MSU and became a professor in the Department of Agrochemistry and Plant Biochemistry, Faculty of Soil Science. She has published over 180 articles in both Russian and international journals.

🔬 Research and Innovations:

  • Citation Index: Web of Science: 46, Scopus: 57, Science index: 984
  • Books Published (ISBN): Eight
  • Patents: One published/under process
  • Journals Published (SCI, Scopus, etc.): 180

 

đź“š Areas of Research:

  • Agrochemistry
  • Plant Biochemistry
  • Microbiology

 

🧪 Research Focus: Soil Pollution

Dr. Verkhovtseva’s research primarily focuses on soil pollution, investigating the impacts of contaminants on soil health and plant biochemistry. Her work aims to develop effective strategies for mitigating soil pollution and enhancing soil remediation techniques. Her contributions in this area have been instrumental in understanding the complex interactions between pollutants and soil ecosystems.

Publication Top Notes:

1. Effect of an Equal Dose of Polymetallic Pollution on the Microbiological Characteristics of Two Soils with Different Organic Carbon Contents

2. Metabolomic Analysis of Rhizosphere Soil Fertility in Maize (Zea mays) at Milking Stage

3. Physical-Tomographic Characteristics and Structure of Bacterial Community of the Agrophysical System “Germinating Roots—Pore Space of Soils” (Physical Model Experiment)

4. Structure of the Soil Pore Space in the Seedling Bed Before the Seedling Stage: Studies Using the Microtomography Method

5. X-ray Computed Tomography of the Structure of Roots and Dynamics of Soil Biota in the Early Growth Stages of Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.)

6. Aggregate Formation in a Kaolinite Suspension during Microbiological Modification of Clay Surface

7. Physical and Microbiological Aspects of the Soil Seed Bed in the Early Formation of the Barley Root System (Hordeum vulgare L.): Tomographic Studies

8. The Effect of Ericoid Mycorrhizal and Ectomycorrhizal Plants on Soil Properties of Grass Meadow in Tundra of the Khibiny Mountains

9. Formation of Microaggregates in Kaolinite Suspension Inoculated by Bacillus velezensis (SEM-investigations)

10. Chemodiagnostic by Lipid Analysis of the Microbial Community Structure in Trace Metal Polluted Urban Soil

 

Thongsouk Sompouviset | Climate Change | Young Scientist Award

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Dr. Thongsouk Sompouviset | Climate Change | Young Scientist Award

Teacher, NWAFU, China

Dr. Thongsouk Sompouviset is a dedicated researcher and environmental scientist from Laos, specializing in plant nutrition and climate change. With a solid academic background and hands-on experience in greenhouse gas analysis, he has contributed significantly to understanding the impacts of agricultural practices on the environment. His work, spanning from field surveys to advanced research, reflects a commitment to sustainable agricultural practices and environmental management.

Profile

Orcid

Education 🎓 

Dr. Thongsouk Sompouviset earned his PhD in Plant Nutrition with a focus on Climate Change from Northwest A&F University, China, from 2019 to 2023, achieving a GPA of 3.80. His doctoral research examined the influence of combined organic and inorganic fertilizer applications on greenhouse gas emissions in apple orchards on Weibei dryland, earning him the Outstanding Activities Student Award in 2022. Prior to his PhD, Dr. Sompouviset completed a Master’s in Plant Nutrition (Climate Change) at the same institution from 2015 to 2019, graduating with a GPA of 3.55. His Master’s thesis explored the effects of cover crops combined with manure and chemical fertilizers on greenhouse gas emissions in apple orchards, and he received the Best Student Award in 2019. Dr. Sompouviset also holds a Bachelor of Arts in Environmental Science from the National University of Laos (2007-2012), where he achieved a GPA of 3.48. His undergraduate thesis focused on the study process and water management of the Kaolieo water supply company, and he was recognized with awards in debate competitions, essay contests, and as an outstanding student. Additionally, he completed a Vocational Diploma in General English from Sahakitsamphan College (2008-2011) and is currently pursuing ongoing English studies (IELTS) at Vientiane College from January to August 2024.

Experience đź’Ľ

Professionally, Dr. Sompouviset has been serving as a Coordinator and Translator at Sino-Agri Potash Co., Ltd in Vientiane Capital, Laos, since January 2024. Prior to this, he managed the Environment and Social Department at Sino-Agri Potash Co., Ltd in Khammuane, Laos, from September 2012 to July 2015

Research Interests 🔬

Impact of Organic and Inorganic Fertilizers on Greenhouse Gas Emissions: This research investigates how the use of both organic and inorganic fertilizers affects the emission of greenhouse gases in agricultural settings. The combination of these fertilizers can influence soil processes and plant growth, potentially altering the levels of methane (CHâ‚„), nitrous oxide (Nâ‚‚O), and carbon dioxide (COâ‚‚) released into the atmosphere. Studies typically focus on optimizing fertilizer practices to reduce greenhouse gas emissions while maintaining crop yields.

Effects of Plastic Mulching and Cover Crops on Environmental Sustainability: Plastic mulching and the use of cover crops are techniques aimed at improving soil health and enhancing environmental sustainability. Plastic mulching helps in moisture retention, temperature regulation, and weed suppression, which can indirectly impact greenhouse gas emissions. Cover crops, on the other hand, contribute to soil organic matter, reduce erosion, and enhance nutrient cycling. Research in this area evaluates how these practices affect soil health, greenhouse gas emissions, and overall environmental sustainability.

Climate Change Adaptation and Greenhouse Gas Mitigation Strategies in Agriculture: This area of study focuses on developing strategies for agriculture to adapt to the impacts of climate change while simultaneously mitigating greenhouse gas emissions. Adaptation strategies may include altering crop varieties, adjusting planting dates, and improving irrigation practices. Mitigation strategies might involve adopting more sustainable farming practices, enhancing soil carbon sequestration, and optimizing fertilizer use. The goal is to create resilient agricultural systems that can cope with climate change and reduce their carbon footprint.

Awards 🏆

Outstanding Activities Student Award (2022)
Northwest A&F University, China

Best Student Award (2019)
Northwest A&F University, China

Publications đź“ť

Combined application of organic and inorganic fertilizers effects on the global warming potential and greenhouse gas emissions in apple orchard in the Loess Plateau Region of China. link

The effects of plastic mulching combined with different fertilizer applications on greenhouse gas emissions, intensity, and apple yield in Northwestern China. link

Evaluation of Soil and Leaf Potassium, Calcium, Magnesium, and Micronutrient Status and Their Relationship in the Main Apple Production Areas of the Loess Plateau, China. link

Distinguishing the contribution of nitrogen fertilizer and native soil nitrogen to young apple trees . link

 

 

 

 

 

Lyndon Sackey | Environmental Protection | Best Researcher Award

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Dr Lyndon Sackey |  Environmental Protection |  Best Researcher Award

Lecturer at  Kwame Nkrumah University of Science ,  Ghana

 

Lyndon Nii Adjiri Sackey is a dedicated Environmental Scientist with a strong commitment to ethical and professional standards. Combining expertise in laboratory technology and environmental management, he integrates practical experience with rigorous academic research.

Profile:

Education:

  • Ph.D. in Environmental Chemistry and Technology (Ecotoxicology), University of Chemistry and Technology, Prague, Czech Republic (2017-2020)
  • MSc. in Public Administration (Regional Development and Governance), University of Pardubice, Pardubice, Czech Republic (2015-2017)
  • MSc. in Environmental Science, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science & Technology (KNUST), Kumasi, Ghana (2010-2013)
  • BSc. (Hons) in Environmental Science, University of Cape Coast (UCC), Cape Coast, Ghana (2003-2007)

Professional Experience:

  • Lecturer, Department of Environmental Science, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Accra, Ghana (July 2021-Present)
    • Teaching undergraduate and postgraduate students
    • Research on waste management, ecotoxicology, water quality assessment, risk management, and bioremediation
    • Community service
  • PhD Student and Research Assistant, University of Chemistry and Technology, Prague (Feb 2017-Dec 2020)
    • Assisted in teaching and research on ecotoxicology, focusing on wood leachates and constructional waste
    • Managed the ecotoxicity laboratory and prepared project proposals
  • Guest PhD Student, Vrije University, Amsterdam, Netherlands (June-Sep 2018)
    • Studied the toxicity of microplastics on soil invertebrates
  • Assistant Operations Manager, Waste Landfills Company Ltd, Accra, Ghana (Mar 2015-Nov 2015)
    • Managed operations and prepared tender documents
  • Landfill Supervisor, Zoomlion Ghana Ltd, Accra, Ghana (Nov 2008-Feb 2015)
    • Monitored landfill operations and leachate quality
  • Laboratory Analyst, Ghana Water Company Ltd and Kinapharma Ghana Ltd (2004-2003)
    • Conducted water and drug analyses and managed laboratory operations

Research Experience:

  • 2023-Present: Feasibility study and value chain assessment of recyclables in the solid waste stream in Ashanti Region
  • 2022: Quality assessment of sewage sludge and the use of plant powders on maize weevil
  • 2020: Ecotoxicological impact of wood leachates
  • Ph.D. Research: Ecotoxicological impact of wood leachates on aquatic environments

Research Focus:

Lyndon Nii Adjiri Sackey, Ph.D., focuses on several critical areas within environmental protection, including:

  1. Ecotoxicology: Dr. Sackey’s research investigates the toxic effects of environmental pollutants, such as wood leachates and microplastics, on aquatic and soil organisms. His work aims to understand how these contaminants impact ecosystems and to develop strategies for mitigating their effects.
  2. Waste Management: He explores various aspects of waste management, including the assessment of waste quality, recycling processes, and the environmental impact of waste materials. His studies involve evaluating the effectiveness of waste treatment methods and improving waste management practices.
  3. Water Quality Assessment: Dr. Sackey assesses the quality of water in different environments, such as wastewater treatment plants and natural water bodies. His research focuses on identifying contaminants and evaluating their effects on water ecosystems.
  4. Bioremediation: He investigates the use of biological processes to remove or neutralize contaminants from the environment. This includes studying the potential of plant powders and other natural agents to control pests and improve soil health.
  5. Risk Assessment and Management: Dr. Sackey assesses environmental risks associated with various pollutants and waste products. His work aims to develop strategies for managing and mitigating these risks to protect human health and the environment.

Dr. Sackey’s research contributes to advancing knowledge in environmental protection and developing effective solutions for managing environmental challenges.

 

Citations:

  • Total Citations: 247
  • Citations Since 2019: 241
  • h-index: 7
  • h-index Since 2019: 7
  • i10-index: 7
  • i10-index Since 2019: 6

Publication Top Notes:

  • “Exploring the impacts of microplastics and associated chemicals in the terrestrial environment–Exposure of soil invertebrates to tire particles”
    • Authors: S. Selonen, A. Dolar, A.J. Kokalj, L.N.A. Sackey, T. Skalar, V.C. Fernandes, et al.
    • Journal: Environmental Research
    • Year: 2021
    • Citations: 58
    • Summary: This study investigates the effects of microplastics and tire particles on soil invertebrates, highlighting the broader implications of microplastic pollution in terrestrial ecosystems.
  • “Ecotoxicological effects on Lemna minor and Daphnia magna of leachates from differently aged landfills of Ghana”
    • Authors: L.N.A. Sackey, V. KoÄŤĂ­, C.A.M. van Gestel
    • Journal: Science of the Total Environment
    • Year: 2020
    • Citations: 50
    • Summary: This research evaluates the ecotoxicological impacts of leachates from landfills of various ages on aquatic plants and organisms, providing insights into the long-term effects of landfill leachates on the environment.
  • “A review of the principles of composting: understanding the processes, methods, merits, and demerits”
    • Authors: E.E.Y. Amuah, B. Fei-Baffoe, L.N.A. Sackey, N.B. Douti, R.W. Kazapoe
    • Journal: Organic Agriculture
    • Year: 2022
    • Citations: 27
    • Summary: This review article explores composting principles, including processes, methods, advantages, and disadvantages, contributing to a better understanding of composting as a waste management technique.
  • “Environmental impact of concrete and concrete-based construction waste leachates”
    • Authors: K.A. Mocová, L.N.A. Sackey, P. Renkerová
    • Journal: IOP Conference Series: Earth and Environmental Science
    • Year: 2019
    • Citations: 23
    • Summary: This paper assesses the environmental impacts of leachates from concrete and construction waste, focusing on their effects on the environment.
  • “Assessment of the quality of leachate at Sarbah landfill site at Weija in Accra”
    • Authors: L.N.A. Sackey, K. Meizah
    • Journal: Journal of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology
    • Year: 2015
    • Citations: 18
    • Summary: The study examines the quality of leachate from a specific landfill site, providing data on the contamination levels and potential environmental risks.
  • “Multivariate studies and heavy metal pollution in soil from gold mining area”
    • Authors: O. Akoto, S. Yakubu, L.A. Ofori, N. Bortey-Sam, N.O. Boadi, J. Horgah, et al.
    • Journal: Heliyon
    • Year: 2023
    • Citations: 14
    • Summary: This research uses multivariate analysis to study heavy metal pollution in soil from gold mining areas, contributing to the understanding of mining’s environmental impact.
  • “Risk assessment of heavy metals concentration in cereals and legumes sold in the Tamale Aboabo market, Ghana”
    • Authors: A.A. Adam, L.N.A. Sackey, L.A. Ofori
    • Journal: Heliyon
    • Year: 2022
    • Citations: 10
    • Summary: This study assesses the concentration of heavy metals in food sold in a Ghanaian market, evaluating potential health risks associated with heavy metal contamination in agricultural products.