Mpho Tawana | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

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Mpho Tawana | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

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

Dr. Mpho Tawana 🌿🧪 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. 🐾📚🔬

Publication Profile

Orcid

Qualification

Dr. Mpho Tawana is a dedicated environmental scientist and academic achiever 🎓🌍. 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 🧪📖. Her academic journey includes an MSc in Agriculture with a focus on Animal Health (2018) 🐄🌾, and a BSc Honours in Microbiology from the same institution (2015) 🔬📚. 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. 🌍📚💡🔬

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. 🦠🐑🦠🎓🌍

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. 🦠🐾🔬📊🌍

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. 🌍🔬💡🦠🏆

 

Faran Vahedian | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

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Faran Vahedian | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Mrs Faran Vahedian, Colorado School of Mines, United States

Dr. Faran Vahedian, Ph.D. 🏞️, is an environmental engineer and hydrogeologist with 10 years of experience in groundwater contamination and environmental remediation. She completed her PhD at Colorado School of Mines, focusing on PFAS transport in AFFF-impacted media 🌊. Dr. Vahedian specializes in numerical modeling, data analysis, and laboratory work using tools like MODFLOW, FEFLOW, and Python 🖥️. She has worked on various projects, including remediation of PFAS contamination, and collaborated with experts to develop analytical methods using LC-MS. Currently, she is a Senior Research Engineer at EA Engineering, Science, and Technology, contributing to EPA’s PFAS research and remediation projects 🔬.

Publication Profile

Orcid

Education

Dr. Faran Vahedian is a passionate researcher in Civil and Environmental Engineering, with a Ph.D. from Colorado School of Mines (2024). She holds a Master’s in Water Engineering from the University of Guelph (2021) and a Bachelor’s in Civil Engineering from Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran (2014). Dr. Vahedian has a strong background in environmental solutions and engineering design. She is also certified in OSHA HAZWOPER, highlighting her expertise in hazardous waste operations. Her education and certifications reflect her commitment to advancing sustainability and safety in the engineering field. 🌍🔧🎓💧💼

Experience

Dr. Faran Vahedian is a skilled researcher and hydrogeologist with extensive experience in environmental remediation and groundwater contamination. From 2021 to 2024, she successfully completed a SERDP ESTCP project on PFAS transport, conducting lab experiments and numerical modeling with HYDRUS. Previously, she worked as a hydrogeologist, conducting groundwater quality assessments, leachate simulations, and flood risk evaluations. As a wastewater treatment plant design engineer, she ensured water quality control and optimized treatment systems. With expertise in GIS, Python, and modeling tools like SWAT, FEFLOW, and HEC-RAS, Dr. Vahedian contributes to sustainable water management and environmental protection. 🌍💧🔬🌿

EA Project Experience

Mrs. Faran Vahedian is a Senior Research Engineer at EA Engineering, Science, and Technology, Inc. (2024–Present), focusing on PFAS research and development. She supports projects like the Remedial Investigation Report for the BJAT LLC Superfund Site and evaluates PFAS sources, mass balance, and groundwater impacts at multiple Air National Guard installations. She also provides analytical and technical support to the EPA’s Office of Research and Development, researching PFAS and contaminants of emerging concern. Additionally, she leads a Water Research Foundation project, developing regulatory frameworks and decision-making tools for PFAS residual management. 💧🔬🌍🧪

Professional Recognition

Dr. Faran Vahedian is a skilled professional with extensive experience in leading engineering firms and environmental organizations. She has contributed significantly to large-scale projects, including the remediation of PFAS at multiple Air National Guard installations. Her expertise in advancing research methodologies for environmental contaminants has played a crucial role in improving environmental protection practices. Dr. Vahedian’s work continues to make a lasting impact on both industry standards and environmental health, showcasing her dedication to sustainable solutions. 🌍🔬💧🌱

Career Development 

Dr. Vahedian’s progression from hydrogeologist to senior research engineer, with roles in prestigious organizations like EA Engineering, reflects her significant career growth and her ongoing contributions to high-impact research projects, particularly related to PFAS and contaminants of emerging concern. 

Research Focus

Faran Vahedian’s research focuses on the transport and behavior of chemical substances in environmental systems, particularly in unsaturated media. Her work, including studies on tension-driven flow, explores the movement of aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) in porous environments, which is crucial for understanding its impact on water and soil contamination. By integrating hydrological modeling and field experiments, she examines how fluids interact with unsaturated soils and groundwater, aiming to improve environmental protection and remediation strategies. Her interdisciplinary research contributes to water quality management, environmental engineering, and sustainable practices. 🌍💧🌱🔬

Publication Top Notes

Influence of Tension-Driven Flow on the Transport of AFFF in Unsaturated Media

 

FATİH PALA | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

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FATİH PALA | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr FATİH PALA, Oltu Science and Art Center, Turkey

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Fatih Pala is an academic specializing in social studies education, with a focus on digital tools and technology integration in teaching. He holds a doctoral degree (2020) and a Master’s (2016) in education. His research includes studies on digital storytelling, environmental perceptions, and the use of digital games in history teaching. Dr. Pala has published numerous articles in international journals and presented at national conferences. He is also the editor of the book Hikâyelerle Değerlerimiz. With experience as a school principal and educator, he aims to innovate in teaching through digital methods. 📚💻🎓

Publication Profile

google scholar

Education

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Fatih Pala completed his Bachelor’s degree on June 14, 2011, and went on to earn a Master’s degree in March 2016. His Master’s thesis, titled “Sosyal bilgiler derslerinde yer alan tarihleri öğrencilerin hatırlama düzeyi ve tarihlerin öğretiminin öğretmen ve öğrenci görüşlerine göre incelenmesi” (2015), was supervised by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ahmet Şimşek. He pursued his Doctoral studies and received his degree in November 2020. Dr. Pala’s academic focus has been on social studies education and history teaching methodologies. 🎓📚📅

Leadership & Contributions

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Fatih Pala is the editor of the 2023 book “Hikayelerle Değerlerimiz,” which focuses on values education. He has contributed to the field by presenting research on teachers’ perceptions of gifted education at the 34th National Special Education Congress in 2024. His academic work highlights his commitment to advancing education and fostering an understanding of diverse teaching needs. Dr. Pala’s efforts in both scholarly writing and research presentations reflect his passion for improving educational practices. 📚👨‍🏫🎓

Experience

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Fatih Pala is the Founder and Director of Oltu Bilim ve Sanat Merkezi (2022), dedicated to promoting science and art education. His leadership and commitment to education are reflected in his prior role as the Deputy Principal at Küçük Orcuk Secondary School (2022), where he supported academic growth and development. Dr. Pala’s work emphasizes fostering creativity and critical thinking in students, merging the worlds of science and art. His innovative approach continues to inspire future generations in Turkey. 📚🎨👨‍🏫✨

Research focus

Fatih Pala’s research primarily focuses on education, particularly in social studies and history teaching. His work explores innovative methods like digital storytelling, the integration of digital technology, and the role of philosophy education in fostering critical thinking and conceptual achievement in students. He investigates how educational practices, such as group work and digital competencies, impact students’ academic performance, attitudes, and knowledge retention. Additionally, Pala has studied the challenges faced by students from migrant backgrounds and how teacher behaviors influence students’ learning, especially in social studies. His contributions aim to enhance teaching methods and student engagement. 📚💻📊👩‍🏫

Publication Top Notes

The effect of philosophy education for children (P4C) on students’ conceptual achievement and critical thinking skills: A mixed method research

Sosyal bilgiler derslerinde tarihlerin (dates) öğretimi

Sosyal bilgiler dersi tarihe yolculuk ünitesi bağlamında dijital hikâye kullanımının öğrenci akademik başarı ve kalıcılığa etkisi

Göç ile Gelen Öğrencilerin Eğitim Sorunlarına İlişkin Öğretmen Görüşleri

Sosyal Bilgiler Dersinde Dijital Öyküleme Destekli Grup Çalışmasının Akademik Başarı, Tutum ve Kalıcılığa Etkisi

KİTAP OKUMA ALIŞKANLIĞININ SOSYAL BİLGİLER ÖĞRETMEN DAVRANIŞLARI ÜZERİNDEKİ ETKİSİ

8. SINIF ÖĞRENCİLERİNİN ÇANAKKALE CEPHESİNE İLİŞKİN BİLGİ DÜZEYLERİ

7. Sınıf sosyal bilgiler dersi yaşayan demokrasi ünitesinde geçen kavramların anlaşılma düzeyi

Conclusion

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Fatih Pala’s continuous contributions to educational innovation, coupled with his research on digital tools in social studies teaching, his leadership roles in academic settings, and his publications, all highlight his suitability for the “Best Researcher Award.” His commitment to improving educational practices through digitalization and social studies teaching positions him as a transformative figure in the academic community. 📚✨