Alessia Amato | Metal Recovery From Waste | Women Researcher Award

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Assist Prof Dr Alessia Amato | Metal Recovery From Waste | Women Researcher Award

Fixed-term researcher type B, Polytechnic University of Marche, Italy

Alessia Amato is a dedicated researcher at the Polytechnic University of Marche, Italy, specializing in the Theory for the Development of Chemical Processes (TDCP). With a strong focus on environmental sustainability, she actively contributes to innovative research in recycling, circular economy, and urban mining. Over her 10-year academic career, Alessia has established valuable collaborations with universities and industries both nationally and internationally, promoting sustainable practices. Her work not only addresses critical environmental challenges but also aims to empower women in science, encouraging diversity in research fields.

Profile

Scopus

Strengths for the Award

  1. Impressive Academic Background: Alessia holds multiple degrees in relevant fields, including a PhD focused on sustainable urban mining strategies. Her academic qualifications establish her as a leader in environmental sciences.
  2. Robust Research Portfolio: With ongoing projects related to sustainable management of waste and innovative recycling technologies, she demonstrates a commitment to addressing pressing environmental challenges. Her experience spans both national and international research collaborations.
  3. Publication Record: With 51 published papers, an H-index of 19, and two published books, Alessia’s contributions to scientific literature are significant. Her research has been widely cited, underscoring her impact on the field.
  4. Innovation and Patents: Alessia has developed and submitted patents for waste management processes, showcasing her ability to translate research into practical applications that can benefit industry and society.
  5. Professional Engagement: Her editorial role and collaborations with various universities and industries reflect her dedication to advancing knowledge and practice in environmental sustainability.
  6. Focus on Circular Economy: Alessia’s emphasis on urban mining and critical raw materials is crucial for promoting a sustainable economy in Europe, aligning with current global sustainability goals.

Areas for Improvement

  1. Visibility and Outreach: While her research is impactful, increasing her visibility through more public engagement and outreach initiatives could amplify her influence in the broader community.
  2. Networking: Expanding her network within international organizations focused on sustainability could lead to more collaborative opportunities and greater dissemination of her work.
  3. Mentorship and Support for Women: Although Alessia is a role model for women in science, actively mentoring emerging female researchers could further strengthen her contribution to gender equality in academia.

Education

Alessia Amato graduated from Bologna University with a degree in Chemistry and Technologies for the Environment, laying a solid foundation for her future research. She furthered her studies by obtaining a Master’s in Environmental Sustainability and Civil Protection from the Polytechnic University of Marche in 2013. Alessia pursued her PhD in TDCP, where her thesis focused on “Innovative and Sustainable Strategies of Urban Mining.” This comprehensive academic background equipped her with the necessary skills to tackle complex environmental issues through innovative research and sustainable practices. Her education reflects her commitment to advancing knowledge in the field and highlights her dedication to creating a more sustainable future.

Experience 

Alessia Amato has a robust professional background, currently serving as a researcher in the Department of Life and Environmental Sciences at the Polytechnic University of Marche. She is an integral part of the Environmental Technologies research group, working on various national and international projects. Alessia has contributed to six completed projects and is currently involved in three ongoing research initiatives, focusing on sustainable waste management and innovative recycling technologies. Additionally, she consults for several companies, estimating their sustainability levels in sectors like oil refining, cosmetics, and waste treatment. Her experience in academia and industry bridges the gap between theoretical research and practical application, allowing her to drive impactful changes in sustainability practices. Through her teaching of environmental regulations and waste management, Alessia plays a vital role in educating future generations about sustainable practices.

Research Focus 

Alessia Amato’s research primarily revolves around urban mining, critical raw materials, and sustainability. Her work emphasizes the development of innovative strategies for waste recycling and management, contributing to the transition towards a circular economy. She explores hydrometallurgy and bio-hydrometallurgy techniques to enhance resource recovery from electronic waste, addressing significant environmental concerns. By analyzing life cycle assessments, Alessia aims to create more sustainable processes in various industries, ensuring minimal environmental impact. Her involvement in European projects underscores her commitment to advancing sustainable practices within the industry. Alessia’s research not only aims to improve waste management strategies but also to empower communities through education and collaboration, fostering a deeper understanding of sustainability. By focusing on integrating sustainability into industrial practices, her work plays a crucial role in shaping a greener future.

Publication Top Notes

  1. The application of the life cycle assessment and life cycle costing for the treatment of microelectronic industry effluents

  2. Marine materials as innovative metal sorbents suitable for applications in wastewater treatments

  3. Non-toxic, high selectivity process for the extraction of precious metals from waste printed circuit boards

  4. Life Cycle Assessment of Rare Earth Elements-Free Permanent Magnet Alternatives: Sintered Ferrite and Mn-Al-C

Conclusion

Alessia Amato is an exceptional candidate for the Research for Women Researcher Award. Her extensive research contributions, innovative approaches to sustainability, and commitment to advancing the circular economy position her as a leader in her field. Recognizing her efforts would not only honor her achievements but also inspire future generations of women researchers. Awarding her this recognition would reinforce the importance of diversity in scientific research and encourage more women to pursue careers in STEM.

 

 

Silvia Vilčeková | Sustainable construction | Best Researcher Award

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Prof Silvia Vilčeková | Sustainable construction | Best Researcher Award

Prof Silvia Vilčeková, Technical University of Košice, Faculty of Civil Engineering, Slovakia

Silvia Vilčeková is a distinguished professor at the Technical University of Košice (TUKE), Slovakia, with a career dedicated to sustainable construction and environmental engineering. Currently serving as the Director of the Institute of Sustainable and Circular Construction at TUKE, she has significantly contributed to the fields of indoor environmental quality, sustainability assessment, and life cycle assessment of building materials. With over two decades of experience, Silvia has held key positions including Head of the Department of Environmental Engineering and has been involved in various high-impact research projects. Beyond academia, she is also an accomplished sustainability consultant, founding SILCERT, s.r.o., where she leads projects related to LEED, BREEAM, and Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs). Her expertise is recognized through multiple awards, making her a leading figure in sustainable building practices.

Publication Profile

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Strengths

  1. Academic and Professional Leadership: Silvia Vilčeková has held prominent positions at the Technical University of Košice (TUKE), including her current role as the Director of the Institute of Sustainable and Circular Construction. Her leadership in the field of Environmental Engineering, as well as her involvement in sustainability projects, reflects her strong academic and research capabilities.
  2. Research Contributions: With a robust portfolio of published works, including journal articles, book chapters, and conference papers, Vilčeková has made significant contributions to the fields of indoor environmental quality, sustainable construction, and life cycle assessment of building materials. Her research addresses crucial aspects of sustainability in the built environment.
  3. Industry Expertise: Beyond academia, Vilčeková has established her expertise as a senior sustainability consultant through her involvement with companies like SALVIS and SILCERT. Her work on projects certified by LEED and BREEAM demonstrates her practical impact on sustainable construction practices.
  4. Recognition and Awards: Vilčeková’s recognition through various awards, such as the Prize for Scientific and Professional Literature, highlights her contributions to the scientific community.

Areas for Improvement

  1. International Collaboration: While Vilčeková has an impressive portfolio, expanding her international collaboration networks could further enhance her global research impact.
  2. Public Engagement: Increasing her public engagement and outreach efforts, particularly through conferences, workshops, and public lectures, could help in disseminating her research findings to a broader audience.

Education

Silvia Vilčeková’s academic journey is rooted in the Technical University of Košice (TUKE), Slovakia. She earned her PhD in Environmental Engineering in 2003, with her doctoral thesis focused on the impact of nitrogen oxides in indoor environments. Furthering her specialization, she achieved the title of Associate Professor in Building Construction in 2009, with her habilitation thesis examining the intricate relationship between buildings and the environment. Her dedication to advancing sustainable construction was solidified in 2021 when she was appointed as a full Professor at TUKE. Complementing her academic credentials, Silvia holds several prestigious certifications, including the WELL Accredited Professional (WELL AP) from the International WELL Building Institute, LEED Green Associate from the US Green Building Council, and Individual Verifier certifications from international organizations like the International EPD® System in Sweden and EPD-Norge in Norway, highlighting her commitment to global sustainability standards.

Experience

Silvia Vilčeková’s professional experience spans over two decades, marked by key leadership roles at the Technical University of Košice (TUKE), Slovakia. She currently serves as the Director of the Institute of Sustainable and Circular Construction, where she oversees research and educational activities focused on sustainable building practices. Previously, she was the Head of the Department of Environmental Engineering at TUKE, guiding research initiatives and curricula in environmental engineering. Silvia has also contributed significantly to the Institute of Environmental Engineering and the Institute of Building and Environment at TUKE. Beyond academia, she is the founder and Senior Sustainability Consultant at SILCERT, s.r.o., where she leads projects on sustainability certifications such as LEED and BREEAM, and the development of Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs). Her consulting firm, SALVIS, s.r.o., further reflects her expertise in sustainable construction, making her a recognized leader in the field.

Awards and Honors 

Silvia Vilčeková has been recognized with numerous awards and honors throughout her career, underscoring her contributions to environmental engineering and sustainable construction. Among her most notable accolades is the Prize for Scientific and Professional Literature in the category of Natural and Technical Sciences, which she received in 2017 for her scientific monograph on the occurrence of organic compounds in the indoor environment. This prestigious award highlights her pioneering research in indoor environmental quality. In addition, Silvia has been an influential member of key technical committees, including serving as Chairman of the Technical Committee TK112 for Sustainable Construction and a member of the Technical Committee TK109 for Facility Management. Her leadership in these committees reflects her commitment to advancing sustainability practices at both national and international levels. Silvia’s dedication to her field is further demonstrated by her role as a verifier for various Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) systems across Europe.

Research Focus

Silvia Vilčeková’s research focuses on advancing sustainable and circular construction practices, with a particular emphasis on indoor environmental quality and life cycle assessment of building materials. At the Technical University of Košice (TUKE), Slovakia, where she serves as the Director of the Institute of Sustainable and Circular Construction, Silvia leads cutting-edge research projects that explore the environmental impact of building materials throughout their life cycle. Her work involves detailed assessments of indoor environmental quality, including the monitoring of pollutants such as nitrogen oxides, volatile organic compounds, and particulate matter. Silvia’s research also extends to the development and implementation of sustainability assessment methods and certification systems, such as LEED and BREEAM, for buildings. She has contributed to numerous publications and book chapters, sharing her findings on the importance of sustainable construction practices in reducing the carbon footprint and enhancing the overall sustainability of the built environment.

Publication Top Notes

  1. 📘 “Building Materials Circularity of Green Roofs” (2024) – Book chapter, DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-44955-0_47
  2. 🏙️ “The impact of green roofs’ composition on its overall life cycle” (2024) – Journal article, DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2024.122363
  3. 🏢 “Prioritization of Sustainability Dimensions and Indicators for Office Buildings” (2023) – Book chapter, DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-38766-1_5
  4. 🔄 “End-of-Life Stage Analysis of Building Materials in Relation to Circular Construction” (2023) – Conference paper, DOI: 10.3390/engproc2023057043
  5. 🌍 “Potential for Reducing the Carbon Footprint of Buildings” (2023) – Conference paper, DOI: 10.3390/engproc2023057006
  6. 💡 “Analysis of Equivalent CO2 Emissions of the Irrigation System—A Case Study” (2023) – Journal article, DOI: 10.3390/su152316240
  7. 🔌 “Life cycle assessment of LED luminaire and impact on lighting installation – A case study” (2023) – Journal article, DOI: 10.1016/j.aej.2023.08.068
  8. 🏠 “Influence of the Heating System on the Indoor Environmental Quality—Case Study” (2022) – Journal article, DOI: 10.3390/buildings12081088
  9. 🌿 “An Extensive Study for a Wide Utilization of Green Architecture Parameters in Built Environment Based on Genetic Schemes” (2021) – Journal article, DOI: 10.3390/buildings11110507
  10. 🏡 “Towards an Adaptation of Efficient Passive Design for Thermal Comfort Buildings” (2021) – Journal article, DOI: 10.3390/su13179570

Conclusion

Silvia Vilčeková’s extensive experience in sustainable construction, leadership roles, and significant research contributions make her a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Her work not only advances academic knowledge but also impacts the construction industry, making her deserving of this recognition. Expanding her international collaborations and public engagement could further amplify her influence in the field.

Grzegorz Swit | Civil Engineering Award | Best Researcher Award

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Prof Grzegorz Swit | Civil Engineering Award | Best Researcher Award

Prof Grzegorz Swit, Kielce University of Technology,Poland

🌍 Prof. Grzegorz  Świt, born on January 29, 1971, in Kielce, is a Polish civil engineer and full professor at Kielce University of Technology. With a Ph.D. and habilitation in technical sciences, he specializes in building structures. He serves as Dean of the Faculty of Construction and Architecture and heads the Department of Strength of Building Materials and Structures. His expertise spans project management (PRINCE2®), foreign languages (English B2, Russian B1), and accreditation auditing. Świt collaborates extensively with industry leaders like Polska Spółka Gazownictwa and “CIECH” S.A., focusing on R&D and production continuity projects. 🏗️

Publication Profile

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Education

prof Grzegorz  Świt, a civil engineer graduated from Kielce University of Technology in 1994, expanded his expertise with an MSc in construction, specializing in Building Structures in 1996. Continuing his academic journey, he earned a doctorate in technical sciences in 2001 and further achieved habilitation in 2012, all from Kielce University of Technology. Recognized as a full professor by the President of Poland in 2021, Świt’s career embodies dedication to academia and research in building materials and structures. 🏗️

Experience

Prof Grzegorz Świt has been an integral part of Kielce University of Technology since February 1993, starting as a full-time engineer and technical staff until 1995 with grants from Professors L. Gołaski and Z. Kowal. He progressed through roles as an assistant and assistant professor in the Department of Strength of Materials until 2013, when he became a full professor. Since 2020, he has led the Department of Strength of Building Materials and Structures and served as Dean of the Faculty of Construction and Architecture (2020-2024). Appointed as a Full Professor by the President of Poland in 2021, Świt also contributes as an independent technical auditor at the Polish Accreditation Center. 🏢

Research Focus

👨‍🏫 Grzegorz Świt is a Dean and Full Professor at Kielce University of Technology, Poland. His research focuses on the application of the acoustic emission method for structural health monitoring, with significant contributions to materials science and engineering. He has authored numerous articles and conference papers, exploring topics such as non-destructive testing methods, fracture mechanics, and smart city infrastructure. Grzegorz is actively involved in advancing innovative engineering solutions, particularly in monitoring the quality and integrity of steel and composite structures using experimental and numerical approaches. 📚🔬

Publication Top Notes

Innovative acoustic emission method for monitoring the quality and integrity of ferritic steel gas pipelines

Application of Composite Bars in Wooden, Full-Scale, Innovative Engineering Products—Experimental and Numerical Study

Experimental-numerical analysis of the fracture process in smooth and notched V specimens

Non-Destructive Testing Methods for In Situ Crack Measurements and Morphology Analysis with a Focus on a Novel Approach to the Use of the Acoustic Emission Method
Analysis of the Significance of Changes in the Number and Energy Parameters of Acoustic Emission Signals on the Assessment of the Strength of Fibre–Cement Boards
Application of acoustic emission to monitoring the course of the alkali-silica reaction
Using AE Signals to Investigate the Fracture Process in an Al–Ti Laminate
Acoustic emission method for facilitating decision making about the safety of structures being elements of smart cities
Application of the Acoustic Emission Method in the Assessment of the Technical Condition of Steel Structures
Assessment of Destruction Processes in Fibre-Cement Composites Using the Acoustic Emission Method and Wavelet Analysis

Markus Miller | Electrical Engineering Award | Best Researcher Award

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Mr Markus Miller | Electrical Engineering Award | Best Researcher Award

Mr Markus Miller, Institute of Automation Technology, University of Bremen ,Germany

👨‍🎓 Markus Miller is an accomplished electrical engineer and Ph.D. researcher at the University of Bremen’s Institute of Automation Technology under Prof. Dr. Johanna Myrzik. His work focuses on integrating renewable energy into power grids, developing methodologies for hybrid AC-DC systems. Markus excels in probability and stochastic processes, aiding power grid planning as a tutor for “Stochastic Systems.” Noteworthy achievements include winning the 2016 Bremen Big Data Challenge. His research emphasizes cost-effective, flexible, and resilient grid expansion using AI and optimization techniques. Currently, he explores Smart Power Cells (SPCs) under the DFG SPP 1984 program, addressing challenges in decentralized power systems and Distributed Energy Resources (DERs).

Publication Profile

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Education

🎓 Markus Miller pursued his academic journey at the University of Bremen, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering and Information Technology from 2015 to 2019. Building upon this foundation, he continued to excel, completing his Master of Science in the same field from 2019 to 2021. His education equipped him with profound knowledge in electrical engineering, preparing him for his current role as a Ph.D. researcher specializing in renewable energy integration at the Institute of Automation Technology. Markus’s academic path underscores his dedication to advancing sustainable energy solutions and enhancing power grid efficiency through innovative methodologies and advanced technologies.

Experience

🔋 Markus Miller is currently immersed in pioneering research at the University of Bremen, focusing on integrating renewable energy into power grids. His work centers on developing comprehensive methodologies for planning interconnected hybrid and multimodal AC-DC power systems. As part of the DFG SPP 1984 program’s second phase, Markus explores the pivotal role of Smart Power Cells (SPCs) in decentralized power networks. Leveraging AI and mathematical programming solvers, he optimizes SPC operations and planning, tackling challenges such as Distributed Energy Resources (DERs), power generation uncertainties, and storage system operations. Additionally, Markus imparts his expertise as a tutor for “Stochastic Systems,” enhancing students’ grasp and application of probability and stochastic processes in power grid planning.

 

Research Focus

Markus Miller’s current research focuses on optimizing the allocation of renewable energy systems within weak distribution networks. This work, highlighted in the journal article “Optimal allocation of renewable energy systems in a weak distribution network” published in Electric Power Systems Research, aims to enhance the integration of renewable energy sources into power grids. Collaborating with José Luis Paternina Durán, Sergio F. Contreras, Camilo A. Cortes, and Johanna M.A. Myrzik, Markus addresses critical challenges such as grid stability and efficiency. By employing advanced methodologies and leveraging interdisciplinary insights, his research contributes to sustainable energy solutions that are crucial for meeting future energy demands while minimizing environmental impact.

Publication Top Note

Optimal allocation of renewable energy systems in a weak distribution network