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 🌿🧪 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

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

Keynesménio Neto | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Keynesménio Neto | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Assist Prof Dr Keynesménio Neto, University of São Tomé and Príncipe, Sao Tome and Principe

Publication profile

google scholar

Educational Background

Assist Prof Dr. Keynesménio Neto is currently pursuing a Doctorate in Geological Resources and Environment at the University of Coimbra, focusing on the “Geological Heritage of São Tomé and Príncipe.” He holds a Master’s degree in Geosciences with a specialization in Petroleum Geology, where he explored the “Nanofósseis calcários” of Portugal.

Professional Experience

Dr. Neto has been a researcher at the University of Coimbra since 2010 and has served as an Invited Assistant at various institutions, including the Public University of São Tomé and Príncipe. He has extensive teaching experience and has played a significant role in educational and research projects.

Research Contributions

His work includes notable publications such as “Geoheritage at the Equator: Selected Geosites of São Tomé Island,” and “Geoconservation in Africa: State of the Art and Future Challenges,” highlighting his expertise in geoheritage and sustainable practices. He actively contributes to scientific committees and international conferences, further demonstrating his commitment to advancing environmental education.

Distinctions and Grants

Dr. Neto received grants to support oral presentations for young researchers and has been recognized for his contributions to the field, exemplifying his influence on future generations.

Publication top notes

Geoheritage at the equator: selected geosites of São Tomé island (Cameron line, Central Africa)

Geoconservation in Africa: State of the art and future challenges

Nanofosseis calcarios da passagem Aaleniano-Bajociano do perfil do Cabo Mondego-Portugal (GSSP do Bajociano)

Geoheritage at the Equator: Revisiting Selected Geosites of São Tomé Island (Cameron Line, Central Africa)

Day 1; Stop 1A–Cabo Mondego North

geoheritage at the equator: selected geosites of São Tomé Island (Cameron Line, Central Africa). Sustainability 7: 648–667

Geoheritage of the Príncipe UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve (West Africa): Selected Geosites

A Geo-Itinerary to Foster Sustainable Tourism in West African Islands: Storytelling the Evolution of the Ancient Cameroon Volcanic Line Coral Reefs

Os geo-itinerários como meio de divulgação do património geológico de São Tomé e Príncipe

Conclusion

Given his academic qualifications, extensive research contributions, teaching experience, and active participation in scientific discourse, Assist Prof Dr. Keynesménio Neto is highly suitable for the Best Researcher Award. His dedication to geological heritage and education positions him as a leading figure in his field. 🌍📚🏆