Ms. Meghmala Waghmode | Environmental Science | Best Scholar Award
PDEA’s Annasaheb Magar Mahavidyalaya | India
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– Environmental Monitoring and Assessment (Springer), 2024
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Dr. Aparna B. Gunjal is an accomplished researcher and educator specializing in Industrial Microbiology, Microbiology, and Environmental Sciences. She earned her Ph.D. in Environmental Sciences from Savitribai Phule Pune University, focusing on microbial enrichment of agro-industrial by-products for soil conditioners, and completed postdoctoral research at Hong Kong Baptist University. Her academic contributions include extensive teaching at the postgraduate level, covering practical and theoretical courses in Environmental Science and Microbiology, with emphasis on industrial wastewater treatment and molecular biology. She has also undergone industry-oriented training at prominent dairy and distillery establishments, reflecting a strong integration of research, teaching, and applied microbiology.
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Mahbubeh Tangestani is a dedicated Iranian researcher in Environmental Health Engineering with a strong academic and professional track record. She holds a Master’s degree from Iran University of Medical Sciences (ranked top in Iran by Times Higher Education), graduating with distinction. Her multidisciplinary expertise lies in indoor/outdoor air pollution, bioaerosols, risk assessment, and environmental epidemiology, with over 20 peer-reviewed publications, many as first author. Mahbubeh’s research has directly contributed to understanding the health risks posed by microplastics, airborne pollutants, and environmental toxicants in healthcare settings. Professionally, she has held roles as a Process Engineer and Environmental Auditor and currently serves as a researcher at Bushehr University of Medical Sciences. Her strong technical and leadership skills, including laboratory analysis, risk modeling (e.g., Monte Carlo), and fieldwork, have established her as a promising voice in environmental health research. She is a recipient of multiple academic honors and a published top-cited author.
Mahbubeh Tangestani earned her M.Sc. in Environmental Health Engineering from Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran. Her master’s thesis focused on indoor air quality in hospitals, combining particulate and bioaerosol monitoring with FMEA-based risk assessments.
She also completed a B.Sc. in Environmental Health Engineering at Bushehr University of Medical Sciences. Her undergraduate project addressed the environmental impact of PPE waste during the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly along the Persian Gulf coast.
Both degrees provided a strong foundation in environmental monitoring, risk assessment, and public health interventions. Her academic background is backed by exceptional lab skills and interdisciplinary research. She ranked among the top students in both programs and was twice recognized as a Selected Researcher.
Mahbubeh has diverse experience as a researcher and environmental health engineer. she served as a Process Engineer for a centralized wastewater treatment plant project in the Mokran Petrochemical Complex. She worked as a Health Auditor and Technical Assistant in Tehran’s Office of Health Services. She has been a Researcher and Environmental Health Assessor at the Addiction and Lifestyle Research Center, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences.
Her duties span exposure monitoring, health risk analysis, air quality modeling, and interdisciplinary collaboration. She also manages a team of 10 people, highlighting her leadership and communication skills.
Throughout her roles, she has contributed to practical engineering projects and high-impact research, merging field and lab work to address environmental health risks, especially in vulnerable populations and healthcare settings.
Mahbubeh has received numerous honors recognizing her academic excellence and research contributions. She was named a Selected Researcher by Bushehr University of Medical Sciences for two consecutive years and was the Top Cited Author in Environmental Progress & Sustainable Energy. She ranked 1st among all M.Sc. students and 2nd in her B.Sc. cohort, reflecting consistent academic distinction.
As a co-founder and active board member of the Environmental Health Association at Iran University of Medical Sciences, she promoted environmental awareness and student engagement in sustainability.
Her publications have gained national and international recognition, contributing to journals with impact factors . With a strong record of presenting at leading conferences, Mahbubeh continues to stand out as a passionate and impactful researcher in the field of environmental health.
Mahbubeh Tangestani’s research focuses on environmental exposure science, particularly airborne pollutants (PM, bioaerosols, microplastics) and health risk assessment. Her work often integrates quantitative microbial risk assessment (QMRA) and Monte Carlo simulations to assess real-world exposure in sensitive environments like hospitals.
She investigates the health impacts of indoor air contaminants, PPE pollution post-COVID-19, and chemical pollutants such as fluoride and phthalates in consumer products. Her interdisciplinary approach combines environmental chemistry, toxicology, microbiology, and epidemiology.
She has authored/co-authored more than 20 papers in reputable journals and is deeply involved in environmental modeling (e.g., AERMOD), GIS, and statistical software (SPSS/Minitab).
Mahbubeh’s research aims to inform policy and preventive interventions through evidence-based risk assessments, especially concerning vulnerable groups like hospital patients and coastal populations. Her focus on the cellular microenvironment, especially airborne microbial threats, makes her highly relevant for this award.
🏥 Seasonal evaluation of culturable bioaerosols and airborne PM in Iranian hospital wards – Scientific Reports
⚠️ Development of FMEA risk assessment model for indoor air pollutants in hospitals – MethodsX
🧫 Monte Carlo and QMRA approach for airborne pollutants in hospital waste areas – Results in Chemistry
😷 Systematic review on microplastic inhalation from masks during COVID-19 – J. of Hazardous Materials Advances
♻️ Systematic review on polyurethane foam recycling methods – Heliyon
🚬 Eco-toxicological risk of PAAs in hookah wastewater – Env. Progress & Sustainable Energy
🍉 Fluoride intake and risk via watermelon – Toxin Reviews
🚬 PAAs in third-hand smoke from cafés: exposure study – Arabian Journal of Chemistry
🧂 Non-carcinogenic risk of fluoride in salt in Germany – Fluoride
🍵 Fluoride in green tea and health risk – Fluoride
In conclusion, Mahbubeh Tangestani is a highly promising young scientist whose dedication to environmental health, particularly in indoor pollution, bioaerosols, and risk assessment, provides a strong foundation for advancing research in the cell microenvironment domain. Her multidisciplinary approach, reflected through technical proficiency, impactful publications, and a strong academic record, makes her a suitable and deserving nominee for the Research for Cell Microenvironment Award. With strategic growth into more molecular and cellular exposure research, she is well-positioned to make substantial contributions to the field.
Dr. Ping Lu is an Associate Professor at China University of Mining and Technology, specializing in Environmental Science and Engineering. With a Ph.D. from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, she has dedicated her career to researching environmental contaminants and their impact on public health. Dr. Lu has authored numerous publications and contributed significantly to the field through innovative research projects focused on pollution prevention, management, and remediation. Her work has led to the development of advanced techniques to combat antibiotic resistance and improve environmental health. An active educator, she teaches core courses to undergraduate and graduate students, emphasizing sustainable development and environmental control.
Dr. Ping Lu’s extensive research contributions in environmental science, particularly in the areas of contaminant investigation and remediation, showcase her commitment to safeguarding public health. With a high citation index of 553 and 37 published journals, her work demonstrates significant impact and innovation. Her development of advanced remediation techniques, such as ‘polarity exchange’ electrokinetic remediation, highlights her ability to provide practical solutions to pressing environmental challenges. Additionally, her involvement in high-profile research projects, coupled with her role in educating future scientists, underscores her dedication to both research and teaching.
While Dr. Lu’s research is robust, further engagement with international collaborations could enhance the global impact of her work. Expanding her outreach to diverse research communities may lead to new perspectives and innovative approaches. Additionally, increasing public engagement initiatives could raise awareness of her findings and promote wider adoption of her remediation strategies.
Dr. Ping Lu holds a Ph.D. in Infrastructure and Environmental Systems from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, where she developed a strong foundation in environmental research. Prior to that, she earned her Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science from China University of Mining and Technology (CUMT). Her academic training provided her with the expertise needed to investigate complex environmental issues and design effective remediation strategies. Throughout her career, Dr. Lu has remained committed to advancing her knowledge and skills in environmental science, continually integrating new findings into her teaching and research practices. Her educational journey reflects a profound dedication to addressing environmental challenges and promoting public health through innovative research.
Dr. Ping Lu has extensive experience in academia and research, currently serving as an Associate Professor in Environmental Science and Engineering at CUMT. Her research portfolio includes numerous projects funded by national and provincial grants, focusing on groundwater pollution, ecological restoration, and contaminant behavior in various environments. Dr. Lu has collaborated with key institutions, including the CDC, to enhance her research’s practical implications. Additionally, she has served on editorial boards, contributing to the dissemination of vital research findings. With a citation index of 553 and over 37 published journals, her work has significantly influenced the field. Dr. Lu also engages in consultancy projects, providing her expertise to industries seeking sustainable practices. Through teaching and mentorship, she has inspired the next generation of environmental scientists, fostering a culture of innovation and dedication within her department.
Dr. Ping Lu’s research primarily delves into environmental contaminants, their behavior, and innovative remediation techniques. Her work is centered on understanding the processes governing the migration and proliferation of antibiotic-resistant microorganisms and pathogenic contaminants. She has developed cost-effective treatment methods, including ‘polarity exchange’ electrokinetic remediation and advanced mesoporous materials synthesis, to combat environmental pollution effectively. Dr. Lu’s investigations address critical issues in groundwater pollution, contaminant removal, and public health safeguarding. Her ongoing projects include studying Cryptosporidium transmission in sewage treatment plants and exploring the acid-generating mechanisms in coal mining areas. By combining theoretical insights with practical applications, Dr. Lu aims to provide sustainable solutions for environmental health challenges, contributing to the broader understanding of contamination processes and their regulatory implications.
In conclusion, Dr. Ping Lu is an exemplary candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Her innovative contributions to environmental science and public health, combined with her teaching dedication, position her as a leader in her field. With opportunities for further collaboration and outreach, her future research could yield even greater impacts on global environmental health challenges.
Prof. Dr. of Agricultural Engineering at Cairo University, Egypt
Prof. Dr. Abdelraouf Ramadan is a distinguished Professor of Agricultural Engineering and Water Management at the National Research Centre, Dokki, Giza, Egypt. With extensive expertise in agricultural mechanization, environmental engineering, and water management, he has made significant contributions to the field through both research and practical applications.
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. 🌍🌱🔬
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.
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.
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.
Student at University of Science and Technology Beijing China
Dr. Mingyue Xu is currently a student at the University of Science and Technology Beijing, where he is deeply engaged in the field of organic solid waste resources. He holds a master’s degree from the University of Science and Technology Beijing and a doctorate from Tsinghua University. Dr. Xu has made significant contributions to his field, having published 16 papers in reputable journals such as Bioresource Technology and Industrial Crops and Products. His research focuses on composting, biodrying, and organic fertilizer.
Mingyue Xu holds a master’s degree from the University of Science and Technology Beijing and is currently pursuing a doctorate at Tsinghua University.
Mingyue specializes in the field of organic solid waste resources, with a keen interest in composting, biodrying, and organic fertilizers.
Dr. Mingyue Xu appears to be a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award due to his robust academic background, significant research contributions, involvement in national projects, and the practical impact of his work on organic solid waste resources. His research outputs and innovations in composting and biodrying technologies align well with the award criteria, making him a suitable contender for the Best Researcher Award.
Sustainability Ambassador at Prince Sultan University, Saudi Arabia
Dr. Sanjida Haque, PhD, MSc, PGT, BDS, is a distinguished researcher and academic currently serving at Prince Sultan University. Since 2022, she has been actively involved as a Sustainability Ambassador at the Center for Sustainability and Climate, and as a researcher at the Center of Excellence in Cybersecurity. In addition to her research roles, Dr. Haque contributes significantly to the university’s institutional development as a member of the PSU Institutional Review Board (IRB), the SDG publication committee, the Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Ranking Committee, and the QS Star Rating Committee.
Dr. Haque has a robust academic background with a PhD from Universiti Sains Malaysia, a Master’s degree, and a Bachelor of Dental Surgery from the University of Dhaka. Her diverse education is complemented by additional certifications in Sustainable Dentistry and Carbon Literacy, demonstrating her commitment to integrating sustainability into her work.
Dr. Haque has extensive research experience in the field of orthodontics, having worked as a Graduate Student Researcher at Universiti Sains Malaysia. Her roles have involved leading research initiatives at Queens Hospital in Bangladesh and currently at Prince Sultan University in Saudi Arabia. This diverse experience has equipped her with a deep understanding of both academic and practical aspects of dental research and healthcare sustainability.
As a Sustainability Ambassador at the Center for Sustainability and Climate, Dr. Haque’s work is aligned with global priorities. Her involvement in committees such as the PSU Institutional Review Board (IRB), SDG publication committee, Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Ranking Committee, and QS Star Rating Committee highlights her active participation in initiatives that drive sustainability and institutional excellence.
Dr. Haque’s research has covered a wide range of topics, including:
Her contributions are not only innovative but also practical, aiming to improve patient outcomes and integrate sustainable practices in dentistry.
Dr. Haque’s involvement in multiple high-impact committees and her role in driving research and innovation at Prince Sultan University reflect her leadership and influence in the academic community. Her work on sustainability and healthcare has the potential to make significant contributions to both fields.
Dr. Sanjida Haque’s comprehensive research background, her focus on sustainability, and her active role in advancing academic and practical knowledge make her a suitable and strong candidate for the Research for Best Researcher Award. Her contributions have the potential to impact not only the academic community but also the broader field of healthcare, promoting sustainable practices and improved patient care.
professor at MSU (Moscow State University named after M.V. Lomonosov, Russia
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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 (CH₄), nitrous oxide (N₂O), and carbon dioxide (CO₂) 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.
Outstanding Activities Student Award (2022)
Northwest A&F University, China
Best Student Award (2019)
Northwest A&F University, China
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