Mpho Tawana | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Mpho Tawana | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Dr Mpho Tawana, University of the Free State, South Africa

Dr. Mpho Tawana 🌿πŸ§ͺ is a Postdoctoral Fellow at the University of the Free State (2024), holding a PhD in Environmental Science (2023) and an MSc in Agriculture (Animal Health) from North-West University (2018). With a strong background in microbiology and animal health, Dr. Tawana has experience in research, library services, and agricultural development. Their work includes studying tick-borne pathogens, Giardia species, and Cryptosporidium spp., with numerous conference presentations and awards, including a Certificate of Excellence at PARSA 2021. Passionate about advancing veterinary and environmental health, they combine academic rigor with practical expertise. πŸΎπŸ“šπŸ”¬

Publication Profile

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Qualification

Dr. Mpho Tawana is a dedicated environmental scientist and academic achiever πŸŽ“πŸŒ. Currently a postdoctoral researcher at the University of the Free State (2024), she earned her Ph.D. in Environmental Science from North-West University in 2023 πŸ§ͺπŸ“–. Her academic journey includes an MSc in Agriculture with a focus on Animal Health (2018) πŸ„πŸŒΎ, and a BSc Honours in Microbiology from the same institution (2015) πŸ”¬πŸ“š. With a strong passion for advancing knowledge in environmental and agricultural sciences, Dr. Tawana continues to make impactful contributions to her field, blending expertise in microbiology, animal health, and environmental studies 🌿🌟.

Experience

Dr. Mpho Tawana has made significant contributions across various sectors, blending practical fieldwork with research assistance. Their work has included supporting rural development projects, where they applied research to address real-world challenges. Dr. Tawana also served as a postgraduate assistant, demonstrating a strong commitment to advancing academic research. This combination of hands-on experience and academic support highlights their problem-solving skills and practical approach to addressing complex issues. Dr. Tawana’s diverse roles underscore their dedication to fostering growth and development through research and community engagement. πŸŒπŸ“šπŸ’‘πŸ”¬

Conference Papers

Dr. Mpho Tawana has presented several important studies on tick-borne pathogens and parasitic infections across Southern Africa. At the 20th Annual SAVEPM Congress in 2023, he explored tick morphology and molecular detection of pathogens in small ruminants. In 2022, he conducted a systematic review on Giardia species prevalence in humans, animals, and waterbodies in Africa, presented at the 4th International Congress on Parasites of Wildlife. Tawana also contributed to research on Cryptosporidium and Giardia infections in sheep and goats. His systematic review on tick-borne diseases in the SADC region earned him a Certificate of Excellence at the 49th PARSA Virtual Conference in 2021. πŸ¦ πŸ‘πŸ¦ πŸŽ“πŸŒ

Research Focus

Dr. Mpho Tawana’s research primarily focuses on zoonotic infections, particularly those affecting both animals and humans. His studies include the genetic characterization, virulence, and antimicrobial resistance of pathogens like Campylobacter jejuni and Salmonella serovars, often within the context of the One Health framework. Dr. Tawana has contributed to systematic reviews and meta-analyses related to infections such as Cryptosporidium and Salmonella in various animal hosts and humans in South Africa. His work explores public health implications, environmental factors, and the complex interactions between human, animal, and environmental health. πŸ¦ πŸΎπŸ”¬πŸ“ŠπŸŒ

Publication Top Notes

Cryptosporidium Species Infections Detected from Fecal Samples of Animal and Human Hosts in South Africa: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Campylobacter jejuni from Slaughter Age Broiler Chickens: Genetic Characterization, Virulence, and Antimicrobial Resistance Genes

One Health Perspective of Salmonella Serovars in South Africa Using Pooled Prevalence: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Conclusion

Dr. Mpho Tawana is an exceptional interdisciplinary researcher whose work has significantly contributed to the understanding and management of zoonotic diseases and antimicrobial resistance. Their research not only advances scientific knowledge but also provides practical solutions to address these pressing global health challenges. Dr. Tawana’s expertise has been showcased through notable conference presentations, further solidifying their reputation in the scientific community. With a strong track record of practical contributions and impactful research, Dr. Tawana is a standout candidate for the Best Researcher Award. πŸŒπŸ”¬πŸ’‘πŸ¦ πŸ†

 

Saeed Rasekhi | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Saeed Rasekhi | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Mr Saeed Rasekhi, Universidad de Valladolid, Spain

Based on Mr. Saeed Rasekhi’s extensive and diverse achievements, he appears to be a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

Publication profile

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Research Expertise and Publications

Mr. Rasekhi has demonstrated considerable expertise in multiple areas of research. His Ph.D. research at Universidad de Valladolid focuses on Atmospheric Physics, showcasing his depth in analyzing urban heat islands and pollution. His publications in reputable journals like Sustainable Cities and Society and Urban Climate Journal highlight his contributions to environmental science and urban climate studies. The topics he addresses, such as urban heat islands and air pollution trends, reflect his ability to conduct impactful research with real-world applications.

Skills and Technological Proficiency

He possesses a robust set of skills in programming and data analysis with proficiency in tools like Python, Matlab, and various machine learning frameworks (PyTorch, Keras). His expertise extends to mathematical modeling, which is crucial for understanding complex systems in physics and engineering. His experience in utilizing advanced simulation and analysis tools like Aspen and PROOSIS further underscores his technical capabilities.

Educational Background

His educational background is solid, with a Ph.D. in Applied Physics and previous degrees in Physics and Civil Engineering. This diverse academic foundation equips him with a broad perspective and the ability to integrate knowledge across disciplines.

Teaching and Research Experience

Mr. Rasekhi’s teaching experience includes courses in Project Management and Computational Physics, demonstrating his ability to convey complex concepts. His involvement in research projects, particularly those funded by the European Union, and his role as a research assistant at the University of Valladolid, highlight his active engagement in advancing scientific knowledge.

Certificates and Professional Development

He has earned several certificates in relevant areas such as Deep Learning, Machine Learning, and Google Analytics, showcasing his commitment to continuous learning and staying current with technological advancements.

Conference Participation

His participation in international conferences and workshops, such as ECAS 2023 and the 7th Meeting on Planetary Sciences, indicates his active involvement in the global research community and his dedication to disseminating his work and learning from peers.

Conclusion

Overall, Mr. Saeed Rasekhi’s comprehensive research experience, technical skills, educational background, and active participation in the scientific community position him as a highly deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His ability to contribute to and advance knowledge in environmental science, data analysis, and machine learning aligns well with the criteria for this accolade.

Publication top notes

The London pollution island under Lamb weather types

Trend and the Cycle of Fluctuations and Statistical Distribution of Temperature of Berlin, Germany, in the Period 1995–2012

Assessing the Trends of Three Main Air Pollutants in Tehran City Using Data from Sentinel-5

 

 

Weichao Wang | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Weichao Wang | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Mr Weichao Wang, Southwest Forestry University, China

Weichao Wang is a dedicated researcher at Southwest Forestry University, with a focus on ecological studies and environmental science. 🌿 He is a key participant in multiple significant projects, including the National Natural Science Foundation of China-funded research on microalgae diversity and wetland meadow plant stability. πŸ§ͺ He has contributed to notable publications, such as studies on alpine vegetation responses and Orchidaceae diversity in Yunnan. 🌸 Weichao has been honored with the Second Place Graduate Student Academic Scholarship for two consecutive years (2022-2023, 2023-2024). πŸ† His work significantly advances our understanding of ecological stoichiometry and environmental heterogeneity. πŸŒπŸ“š

Publication profile

Orcid

Education

I earned the Second Place Graduate Student Academic Scholarship at Southwest Forestry University for both the 2022-2023 and 2023-2024 academic years πŸ“šπŸ₯ˆ. My research includes projects on chemosensory effects of alpine meadow plants, environmental heterogeneity’s impact on microalgae, trampling disturbances on wetland meadow plants, and ecological stoichiometry of coffee leaves and soils in Yunnan Province. Notable publications feature studies on alpine vegetation responses, orchid diversity, and water quality in Dianchi Wetland Park πŸŒΏπŸŒΈπŸ’§.

Experience

I earned the Second Place Graduate Student Academic Scholarship at Southwest Forestry University for both the 2022-2023 and 2023-2024 academic years πŸ“šπŸ₯ˆ. My research includes projects on chemosensory effects of alpine meadow plants, environmental heterogeneity’s impact on microalgae, trampling disturbances on wetland meadow plants, and ecological stoichiometry of coffee leaves and soils in Yunnan Province. Notable publications feature studies on alpine vegetation responses, orchid diversity, and water quality in Dianchi Wetland Park πŸŒΏπŸŒΈπŸ’§.

Awards

πŸŽ“ In November 2022, the user earned the Second Place Graduate Student Academic Scholarship at Southwest Forestry University for the 2022-2023 academic year, recognizing their academic excellence and dedication. πŸ“šβœ¨ Their commitment to scholarly pursuits was further acknowledged in November 2023, when they received the same prestigious scholarship for the 2023-2024 academic year. πŸŽ‰πŸ† These accolades highlight their consistent performance and determination in their academic journey, showcasing their capability and promise as a graduate student at Southwest Forestry University. πŸŒŸπŸ”

Research focus

Weichao Wang’s research focuses on the ecological dynamics of alpine vegetation, specifically investigating how different species impact ecosystem responses. Their work, highlighted in the study “Short-Term Responses of Alpine Vegetation to the Removal of Dominant Versus Sparse Species,” explores the effects of removing dominant and sparse species on plant communities. This research is crucial for understanding biodiversity conservation, ecosystem stability, and the impacts of climate change on fragile alpine environments. πŸŒΏπŸ—»πŸ”¬πŸ“Š

Publication top notes

Short-Term Responses of Alpine Vegetation to the Removal of Dominant Versus Sparse Species

Abbas Ranjbar Saadatabadi | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Abbas Ranjbar Saadatabadi | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Dr Abbas Ranjbar Saadatabadi, Atmospheric Science & Meteorological Research, ASMERC, Iran

Dr. Abbas Ranjbar Saadatabadi is an accomplished meteorologist with a B.Sc. in Applied Physics from the University of Shahid Bahonar, an M.Sc. in Meteorology from Geophysics Institute in Tehran, and a Ph.D. in Meteorology from Islamic Azad University. He serves as Director of ASMERC, Tehran, and has held several key roles in atmospheric science research. His expertise spans atmospheric circulations, forecasting, and applied physics. Dr. Ranjbar is an active member of numerous professional associations and has significantly contributed to flood forecasting, extreme weather event analysis, and dust storm research in Iran. πŸŒ¦οΈπŸ“šπŸŒ

Publication profile

Scopus

Education

πŸŽ“ With a solid foundation in Applied Physics from the University of Shahid Bahonar, Kerman, Iran (1988-1993), πŸŽ“ followed by a Master’s in Meteorology from the Geophysics Institute, Tehran, Iran (1994-1997), 🌦️ the scholar pursued a Ph.D. in Meteorology at the Islamic Azad University, Science and Research Branch, Tehran, Iran (1999-2003). πŸŒͺ️ This extensive educational background has equipped them with in-depth knowledge and expertise in the field of meteorology, contributing significantly to their professional and academic pursuits. πŸ“šβœ¨

Experience

🌦️ Since 2015, the Director of the Atmospheric Science and Meteorological Research Center (ASMERC) in Tehran, Iran, has led advancements in meteorological research. Previously, from 2013 to 2015, they served as the Deputy Director of ASMERC, and from 2012 to 2013, as a faculty member. They directed the National Drought Warning and Monitoring Center (NDWMC) from 2011 to 2012 and served as Deputy Director from 2010 to 2011. Between 2005 and 2010, they were the Deputy Director of the National Weather Forecasting Center. Additionally, they headed the Department of Satellite Meteorology and New Technologies at IRIMO from 2004 to 2005 and worked as a forecaster from 1999 to 2004. β˜οΈπŸ›°οΈ

Membership of Professional Associations

πŸ“πŸŒ National Commission of UNESCO- National Committee of Man and the Biosphere, Associate Member (2012-current). πŸ›οΈπŸ”¬ Research Committee of Yazd, Kerman, and Sistan-o-Balochestan provinces (2013-2015). πŸŒπŸ”¬ Committee of Science and Technology Exchange in the Union of Countries bordering the Indian Ocean (2013-current). πŸ—žοΈπŸŒ¦οΈ Editorial Board Member, Journal of Climate Research (2015-current) and Journal of Nivar (IRIMO) (2010-current). πŸŒͺ️🌧️ Associate Member, Secondary Professional Work Group of Atmospheric Disasters and Storm (2015). 🌩️🌑️ Associate Member, Research Council of the Atmospheric Science and Meteorological Research Centre (2014-current). 🌊🌎 Scientific Secretary, 3rd International Conference of the Persian Gulf Oceanography (2015). πŸŒŠπŸ”¬ Vice Chairman, Iranian Marine Science and Technology Association (2019).

Project Involvement

πŸŒŠβ›‘οΈ Designed and operated a flood forecasting and warning system in Tehran (2018-2020). πŸŒ§οΈπŸ“ˆ Studied heavy rainfall forecasting in Ilam province (2019). πŸŒ¦οΈπŸ’» Developed a Meteorological and Hydrology Forecast Software System in Qom (2016-2017). πŸŒ©οΈπŸ“Š Evaluated extreme weather events using regional climate models in Iran (2016-2017). πŸŒ§οΈπŸ™οΈ Investigated precipitation causes of Qazvin urban floods (2016). 🌧️🌊 Analyzed atmospheric patterns for heavy rainfalls over Bushehr (2015). πŸŒ¬οΈπŸ“‰ Developed a wind atlas over Iran using numerical atmospheric models (2015). πŸŒͺοΈπŸ“‰ Evaluated the EURAD dust storm forecast model (2016). πŸŒͺοΈπŸŒ€ Studied atmospheric patterns for dust storms over Isfahan (2013). πŸŒͺοΈπŸ’¨ Designed an integrated system for air pollution and dust forecasting (2013). πŸŒͺ️🌊 Assessed SWAN and MIKE21 model outputs with buoy data in Bushehr (2015). πŸŒͺοΈπŸŒ€ Modeled dust storm trajectories over Kerman with WRF-Chem (2015). πŸŒͺ️❄️ Studied dust storm mechanisms and trajectories over Lorestan (2015).

Research focus

Dr. Ranjbar Saadatabadi’s research primarily focuses on atmospheric and environmental sciences, particularly in the context of Iran. His work includes studying climatic variations, synoptic and dynamic analysis of extreme weather events, dust transport modeling, and the impacts of ENSO on the Middle East’s climate. He utilizes advanced techniques like remote sensing, machine learning, and numerical models to analyze phenomena such as heavy rainfall, flash floods, and dust storms. His research aims to understand and mitigate the impacts of environmental changes and extreme weather on the region. πŸŒ¦οΈπŸ“ŠπŸŒπŸ“‰πŸ’¨

Publication top notes

A comprehensive investigation of the causes of drying and increasing saline dust in the Urmia Lake, northwest Iran, via ground and satellite observations, synoptic analysis and machine learning models

Estimating Particulate Matter Using Remote Sensing Data and Meteorological Variables Over Ahvaz, Iran

Synoptic and dynamic analysis of a flash flood-inducing heavy rainfall event in arid and semi-arid central-northern Iran and its simulation using the WRF model

The Impact of ENSO Phase Transition on the Atmospheric Circulation, Precipitation and Temperature in the Middle East Autumn

Intercomparisons of some dust models over West Asia

A finite-volume numerical model for the simulation of dust transport in the atmosphere

Assessment of climate variations in temperature and precipitation extreme events over Iran

Synoptic and thermodynamic characteristics of 30 March–2 April 2009 heavy rainfall event in Iran

The omega blocking condition and extreme rainfall in Northwestern Iran during 25 – 28 October 2008

Relationships between Arab sea and Indian Ocean surface temperature anomalies with precipitation over southern of Iran

Forbi Preasious Funwi | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Forbi Preasious Funwi | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Mr Forbi Preasious Funwi, Millennium Ecologicam Museum, Cameroon

Forbi Preasious Funwi is a dedicated Cameroonian environmentalist 🌿 with expertise in botany, ecology, and project management. He holds an MSc. in Plant Ecology and a BSc. in Plant Biology from the University of Yaoundé I. With a passion for conservation and sustainability, Forbi has contributed significantly to projects focusing on biodiversity assessment, climate adaptation, and community development. He is adept at project writing and monitoring, evidenced by his involvement in various initiatives, including those funded by the Green Climate Fund and the Global Environment Facility. Forbi is known for his excellent teamwork 🌍 spirit and innovative approach to environmental challenges.

Publication profile

google scholar

Education

In 2010, earned my Bachelor of Science degree in Plant Biology from the University of YaoundΓ© I πŸŽ“. This foundational education ignited my passion for understanding the intricate world of plant life. Building upon this knowledge, I pursued a Master of Science degree in Plant Ecology at the same institution, completing it in 2015 🌿. This advanced degree equipped me with the expertise to delve deeper into the relationships between plants and their environments. Both academic milestones have shaped my journey, fueling my commitment to contribute meaningfully to the field of ecology and botanical sciences.

Experience

In my journey spanning from 2013 to 2023, I’ve been deeply immersed in various environmental and conservation endeavors across Cameroon. From conducting assessments for hydropower projects to biodiversity surveys in diverse regions, every experience has shaped my understanding and commitment to sustainable practices. Whether it’s collaborating with international organizations like FAO and GIZ or contributing to local initiatives, each project has been a step towards safeguarding Cameroon’s natural heritage 🌿. As I look back on my journey, I’m filled with gratitude for the opportunities to make a difference in environmental conservation πŸ™.

Research focus

The research focus of FP Funwi spans across several critical areas of environmental and agricultural studies in Cameroon. With a diverse portfolio ranging from carbon storage potential in agroforestry systems to the management of medicinal plants amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, Funwi’s work demonstrates a keen interest in biodiversity conservation, sustainable land management, and community resilience in the face of environmental challenges. 🌱 Their studies delve into the intricate relationships between human activities, ecosystems, and climate change impacts, providing valuable insights for conservation efforts and the sustainable use of natural resources in Cameroon and beyond.

Publication top notes

Carbon storage potential of cacao agroforestry systems of different age and management intensity

A review of Cameroonian medicinal plants with potentials for the management of the COVID-19 pandemic

Land use and land cover changes in Doume Communal Forest in eastern Cameroon: implications for conservation and sustainable management

Using transect sampling to determine the distribution of some key non-timber forest products across habitat types near Boumba-Bek National Park, South-east Cameroon

Climate change perception and local adaptation of natural resource management in a farming community of Cameroon: A case study

Biodiversity and carbon stock in the SODECAO agroforestry system of center region of Cameroon: Case of talba locality

Diversity, structure and carbon storage potential of the Dja Wildlife Reserve vegetation cover

Indigenous and local knowledgeas a tool for wildlife conservation in the Dja biosphere reserve, cameroon

Community of vascular epiphytes on some phorophytes in the Babadjou Subdivision (Western Cameroon): Case of Bamelo

Family Farming Systems in Northern Central Cameroon: Challenges and Prospects for Food Security

Exploring farmers’ vulnerability and agrobiodiversity in perspective of adaptation in Southern Cameroon

Assessing plant diversity change in logged and unlogged dense semi-deciduous production forest of eastern Cameroon

Mapping carbon stocks in the Dimako communal forest, East-Cameroon

Enhanced local governance as response to threats on vulnerable non-timber forest product species: Case of Garcinia kola Heckel in East Cameroon

Ethnobotanical study and vulnerability of medicinal plants used against the symptoms of COVID-19 in the LomiΓ© subdivision, East Region of Cameroon

Farm typology and structure of farmer decision making: The case of the production basin of the forest-savannah transition zone, Centre Cameroon Region

Plant diversity of oil palm plantations of different ages and under different farming practices in the Ngoas locality Yaounde-Cameroon

Navigating Climate Challenges: Insights from Smallholder of Mbangassina’s Local Communities in the Centre Cameroon Region

Availability, Natural Regeneration Potential and Ethnoecological Knowledge of Garcinia Kola: Perspectives for Conservation and Sustainable Resource Use in Belabo, Eastern Cameroon

Assessing Plant Diversity Change in Logged and Unlogged Dense Semi-Deciduous Production Forest of Eastern Cameroon