Francois Galgani | Chemical Pollution | Best Paper Award

Dr. Francois Galgani | Chemical Pollution | Best Paper Award

Senior scientist, IFREMER, France

Dr. François Galgani is a renowned French oceanographer and senior scientist at IFREMER, with a distinguished career dedicated to marine pollution, particularly marine litter. Based in Bonifacio, France, he chairs the non-profit Echos D’Oceans and plays pivotal roles in international advisory groups like GESAMP and IOC. His expertise spans oceanology, ecotoxicology, and environmental policy. Dr. Galgani served as chair and co-chair of major international and EU groups, contributing significantly to marine litter strategies across the Mediterranean, EU, and global initiatives. He has authored 200+ peer-reviewed articles and serves as Editor-in-Chief of Marine Pollution Bulletin. A passionate advocate for sustainable oceans, he is involved in the UN Decade for Ocean Science and supports global environmental frameworks. His work bridges science and policy, influencing directives like the EU MSFD and frameworks like SDG 14.1.1 🌍🔬📘.

Profile

Orcid

Education 

🎓 Dr. François Galgani’s academic foundation combines rigorous scientific training and strategic management. He earned a Ph.D. in Oceanology in 1983 from Aix-Marseille II (MIO), followed by a Master’s in Oceanography in 1981. In 1987, he gained a certificate in financial management from the prestigious ESCP Business School, Paris, equipping him with administrative acumen. That same year, he also achieved a research management habilitation from Aix-Marseille II. Broadening his expertise in biological sciences, he completed a degree in Molecular Biology from the University of Nantes in 1991. This rich multidisciplinary background—spanning ocean sciences, molecular biology, and management—enabled Dr. Galgani to lead complex scientific projects and international environmental initiatives effectively. His strong educational base continues to underpin his research in marine pollution and policy advising on ocean sustainability. 🌊🔬📚

Experience 

🧪 Dr. François Galgani’s career spans over four decades of impactful scientific research, leadership, and global environmental governance. Since 2022, he has served as a senior scientist at IFREMER. From 2008 to 2022, he was the head of IFREMER Corsica, directing labs and regional projects. Previously, he held project manager roles in IFREMER Sete and Toulon. Earlier in his career, he led the ecotoxicology lab in Nantes and served as a program manager. His international experience includes a postdoctoral fellowship at Tokyo University of Fisheries and a visiting scientist position at Stanford University in 1993. Dr. Galgani has also worked in IFREMER Tahiti and has led major EU, Mediterranean, and UN projects. Beyond research, he contributes policy insights to global marine litter reduction and monitoring strategies. His career reflects a strong fusion of field expertise, laboratory leadership, and international collaboration. 🌍🔎🧫

Research Focus 

🔬 Dr. François Galgani’s research focuses on marine pollution, especially the sources, distribution, impacts, and mitigation of marine litter. His work spans ecotoxicology, oceanography, molecular biology, modeling, and environmental management. As a leading figure in marine litter science, he contributed to developing and implementing international monitoring systems under EU directives (e.g., MSFD Descriptor 10) and UN regional action plans. He supports policies on global, regional, and national levels for marine environmental protection, offering expertise to organizations like UNEP, GESAMP, and the European Commission. He has a keen interest in developing harmonized monitoring protocols, data management strategies, and risk assessment models. Dr. Galgani also advises scientific institutions and governments worldwide, including those in Saudi Arabia, Tunisia, French Polynesia, and Australia. His research not only addresses marine debris but also informs long-term sustainability goals and conservation policies. 🌐♻️🧪

Publication Top Note

EMODnet Visualization products for beach litter data
National Institute of Oceanography and Applied Geophysics, 2025 | Report
DOI: 10.13120/14cc-r118
Contributors: François Gaudin, Maria Eugenia Molina Jack, Matteo Vinci, Alexia Cociancich, Alessandra GIORGETTI, Morgan Le Moigne, Erwann Quimbert, Alexander Barth, Neil Holdsworth, François Galgani et al.

EMODnet Visualization products for seafloor litter data
National Institute of Oceanography and Applied Geophysics, 2025 | Report
DOI: 10.13120/c622d045-94ed-4b6a-9c78-404e86b8b9a3.v1
Contributors: François Gaudin, Gwenaël Caer, Maria Eugenia Molina Jack, Matteo Vinci, Alexia Cociancich, Alessandra GIORGETTI, Morgan Le Moigne, Erwann Quimbert, Alexander Barth, Neil Holdsworth et al.

Plastic and oceans
2025 | Book chapter
DOI: 10.1016/B978-0-443-15779-0.00004-3
Contributors: François Galgani, Maes Thomas, Li Daoji

Working Group on Marine Litter (WGML; outputs from 2024 meeting)
ICES Scientific Reports/Rapports scientifiques du CIEM, 2025 | Journal article
DOI: 10.17895/ices.pub.28685027

Marine litter in the deepest site of the Mediterranean Sea
Marine Pollution Bulletin, April 2025 | Journal article
DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2025.117610
Contributors: Hanke Georg, Canals Miquel, Vescovo Victor, MacDonald Tim, Martini Eirini, Ruiz-Orejón Luis F., François Galgani, Palma Marco, Papatheodorou George, Ioakeimidis Christos et al.

Mission Tara Microplastics: a holistic set of protocols and data resources for the field investigation of plastic pollution along the land-sea continuum in Europe
Environmental Science and Pollution Research, April 2025 | Journal article
DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-26883-9
Contributors: Ghiglione Jean-François, Barbe Valérie, Bruzaud Stéphane, Burgaud Gaëtan, Cachot Jerome, Eyheraguibel Boris, Lartaud Franck, Ludwig Wolfgang, Meistertzheim Anne-Leila, Paul PONT Ika et al.

Déchets flottants. Région marine Méditerranée
Ifremer, 2024 | Book
DOI: 10.13155/98198
Contributors: Olivia Gerigny, Elise Georges, Mélanie Brun, Maxime Olsommer, Sophie Beauvais, François Galgani

Conclusion

François Galgani stands as a pioneering force in marine environmental science, with a distinguished career spanning over four decades. As a senior scientist at IFREMER and Chair of Echos D’Océans, his global contributions have significantly advanced our understanding of marine litter, ocean pollution, and environmental monitoring. His leadership in international expert groups, EU missions, and UN initiatives reflects a profound commitment to sustainable ocean management. With over 200 peer-reviewed publications and key editorial roles in top journals, Galgani’s influence bridges science and policy. His work continues to inspire collaborative action for cleaner, healthier oceans worldwide. 🌍🌊📘

Mostafa Vahdatbin | Polymer Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Mr Mostafa Vahdatbin | Polymer Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Rubber recycling, Iran University of Science and Technology, Iran

Mostafa Vahdatbin is a dedicated researcher in polymer engineering with a strong background in chemical engineering. He obtained his Master of Science in Chemical Engineering from Iran University of Science and Technology (IUST), specializing in Polymer Engineering. His research focuses on sustainable rubber composites, self-healing polymers, and devulcanization of waste tires. With an impressive academic record, he has contributed significantly to the field through high-impact publications. Currently, he works as a Business Analyst at Weibold Company, advising global industry players on tire recycling and sustainability. Mostafa has an extensive skill set in polymer processing, laboratory techniques, and software tools such as MATLAB and Aspen Hysys. His passion for innovation in sustainable materials and polymer applications drives his research and professional endeavors. He also enjoys sports, sociology books, and historical studies.

Profile

Orcid

Education 

Mostafa Vahdatbin holds a Master of Science in Chemical Engineering (Polymer Engineering) from Iran University of Science and Technology (IUST), a globally ranked institution (QS rank 600). His academic coursework included Rubber Products Design, Polymerization Process Engineering, and Advanced Physical Chemistry of Polymers. His thesis focused on the microwave-assisted devulcanization of tire rubber, earning an outstanding grade of 19.51/20. Before his master’s, he obtained a Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering from Hamedan University of Technology, where he explored waste heat utilization in process industries. With a strong GPA and a deep interest in polymer technology, his academic journey has been marked by excellence, including a top 2% ranking in Iran’s National Entrance Examination. His expertise in sustainable rubber composites and polymer recycling has led to several impactful research contributions in the field of polymer science.

Work Experience

Since October 2021, Mostafa Vahdatbin has been working as a Business Analyst at Weibold Company, a leading consultancy in tire recycling and devulcanization. In this role, he updates industry databases with cutting-edge research findings and advises global clients on tire recycling technologies. His expertise in polymer engineering and devulcanization processes allows him to assess industry trends and provide actionable insights. In addition to his analytical role, he has conducted extensive research on microwave and chemical devulcanization, resulting in peer-reviewed publications. His laboratory experience includes rubber formulation, vulcanization, and polymer characterization. With strong technical and strategic skills, Mostafa bridges the gap between academic research and industrial applications. His work contributes to the development of sustainable polymer solutions, aligning with the global push toward green technologies in the tire and rubber industry.

Awards & Honors

Mostafa Vahdatbin has earned multiple prestigious academic honors. He ranked among the top 2% of 218,000 participants in Iran’s National University Entrance Examination, showcasing his academic excellence. During his master’s at IUST, he was recognized as the 4th top student in the Chemical-Polymer Engineering program. His exceptional thesis on tire rubber devulcanization received a remarkable score of 19.51/20. These achievements reflect his dedication to polymer research and sustainable material innovations. He has also contributed to high-impact publications, further strengthening his reputation in the field. His research has been cited extensively, highlighting his influence on sustainable polymer engineering. With a strong academic and professional track record, Mostafa continues to push the boundaries of polymer science.

Research Focus 

Mostafa Vahdatbin’s research is centered on sustainable polymers and advanced rubber composites. His primary focus areas include chemical and biological devulcanization, self-healing rubber materials, and innovative recycling techniques for scrap rubber. His work in microwave-assisted devulcanization has introduced energy-efficient methods for rubber recycling. He also explores sustainable chemistry solutions for developing eco-friendly polymer materials. His research aligns with global sustainability goals, addressing critical challenges in rubber waste management and material reuse. By integrating novel materials and green chemistry, he aims to enhance the durability and recyclability of polymer composites. Mostafa’s contributions to polymer engineering have been recognized through high-impact publications and industry collaborations. His expertise bridges the gap between academia and industry, driving innovation in polymer sustainability and circular economy initiatives.

Publication Top Notes 📚

1️⃣ Using Chemical Agent in Microwave-Assisted Devulcanization of NR/SBR Blends: An Effective Recycling Method – 🔄♻️ [Resources, Conservation & Recycling (IF: 13.71)]
📌 [DOI: 10.1016/j.resconrec.2021.106045]

2️⃣ Devulcanization of Waste Tire Rubber via Microwave and Biological Methods: A Review – 🌍🛞 [Fuel & Energy: American Chemical Society, 2022] (Submitted)

caiyan tian | Chemical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Mrs. caiyan tian | Chemical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Research Associate, Leibniz-Institut für Analytische Wissenschaften – ISAS – e.V. Germany

Caiyan Tian is a dedicated Research Associate at the Leibniz-Institut für Analytische Wissenschaften-ISAS-e.V. in Dortmund, Germany. With a solid background in biochemistry and molecular biology, Caiyan is currently pursuing a PhD in Biochemical and Chemical Engineering at Technische Universität Dortmund. Her research focuses on innovative ionization mechanisms in plasma technologies, contributing significantly to advancements in mass spectrometry.

Publication Profile

Scopus

Strengths for the Award

  1. Strong Academic Background: Caiyan is currently pursuing a PhD in Biochemical and Chemical Engineering at the Technische Universität Dortmund, building on a solid foundation with a Master’s degree in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and a Bachelor’s degree in Biological Science.
  2. Relevant Work Experience: As a Research Associate at the Leibniz-Institut für Analytische Wissenschaften, Caiyan is engaged in cutting-edge research, enhancing their practical knowledge in analytical sciences.
  3. Impressive Publication Record: Caiyan has authored multiple publications in reputable journals, focusing on innovative topics such as plasma ionization mechanisms and mass spectrometry. This indicates a strong contribution to the field and showcases their research impact.
  4. Patent Application: The development of a patent demonstrates Caiyan’s capacity for innovation and practical application of research findings, which is crucial for advancing scientific knowledge.
  5. Recognition at Conferences: Participation in international conferences, including receiving a best oral presentation award, underscores Caiyan’s ability to effectively communicate complex ideas and engage with the academic community.

Areas for Improvement

  1. Broaden Collaborative Networks: While Caiyan has demonstrated individual success, enhancing collaboration with other researchers and institutions could lead to more interdisciplinary projects, expanding the scope and impact of their research.
  2. Engagement in More Diverse Research Areas: Diversifying research interests to include more varied applications or techniques could broaden Caiyan’s expertise and make contributions to different fields.
  3. Increase Visibility in Public Engagement: Participating in public outreach or educational activities could help to raise awareness of their research and its implications, contributing to science communication and public understanding.

 

Education

Caiyan began her academic journey at Tianshui Normal University, where she earned her Bachelor’s degree in Biological Science (2010-2014). She then obtained a Master’s degree in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology from Sichuan University (2014-2017). Currently, she is a PhD student at Technische Universität Dortmund, specializing in Biochemical and Chemical Engineering since October 2020. 🎓

Experience

Caiyan has accumulated valuable experience in both research and project management. Since October 2020, she has been a Research Associate at the Leibniz-Institut für Analytische Wissenschaften-ISAS-e.V., where she conducts advanced research in analytical sciences. Prior to that, she worked at Sichuan Kelun Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. from May 2018 to September 2020, where she gained hands-on experience in project management. 🔬

Research Focus

Caiyan’s research primarily investigates soft ionization mechanisms in flexible micro-tube plasma systems. She explores the interactions of different gases in plasma environments, aiming to improve mass spectrometry techniques for identifying and analyzing complex chemical samples. Her work has significant implications for the fields of analytical chemistry and environmental science. 🔍

Awards and Honours

Caiyan has received recognition for her outstanding presentations at international conferences, including the Best Oral Presentation Award at the 5th International Symposium on Frontiers of Plasma and Energy Conversion held in Beijing, China, in October 2023. 🏆

Publication Top Notes

Soft ionization mechanisms in flexible µ-tube plasma—elucidation of He-, Ar-, Kr-, and Xe-FµTP (Year: 2023, Journal: Journal of Plasma Research, Cited by: 10)

Soft ionization mechanisms in flexible µ-tube plasma—from FµTP to closed µ-tube plasma (Year: 2023, Journal: Plasma Chemistry and Plasma Processing, Cited by: 8)

Excitation and ionization of a diagnosis gas in front of the flexible µ tube plasma and in a diagnosis tube (Year: 2023, Journal: Journal of Applied Physics, Cited by: 5)

Elucidation of discharge mechanisms in He- and Ar-flexible µ-tube plasmas by temporally and spatially resolved plasma optical emission spectroscopy (Year: 2022, Journal: Journal of Plasma Science, Cited by: 7)

Ionization of semi-fluorinated n-alkanes in controlled atmosphere using flexible micro-tube plasma (FμTP) ionization source with square- and sine-wave voltage (Year: 2022, Journal: Journal of Mass Spectrometry, Cited by: 9)

Conclusion

Caiyan Tian is a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award, demonstrating significant academic achievement, a robust publication record, and innovative contributions through patent development. Their active participation in conferences highlights their commitment to sharing knowledge and advancing the field of analytical sciences. By addressing areas for improvement, particularly in collaboration and public engagement, Caiyan can further enhance their research impact and recognition in the scientific community. Overall, Caiyan’s strengths outweigh the areas needing improvement, making them a commendable choice for this award.

Timothy Amangdam Anemana | Environmental Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Dr Timothy Amangdam Anemana | Environmental Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Dr Timothy Amangdam Anemana, Council for Scientific and Industrial Research, Soil Research Institute, Ghana

Dr. Timothy Amangdam Anemana is an accomplished Environmental Chemist with a deep passion for soil and water remediation. Holding a Ph.D. in Environmental Science from Eötvös Loránd University, Hungary, he specializes in reducing arsenate and inorganic chromium mobility in soils. With a strong academic foundation and extensive experience in research and environmental consulting, Dr. Anemana has contributed significantly to the fields of biochar production, environmental risk assessment, and soil nutrient mapping. Currently serving as a Research Scientist at the CSIR-Soil Research Institute in Ghana, he leads projects aimed at developing sustainable agricultural practices and environmental conservation methods. Dr. Anemana is known for his dedication to advancing environmental science through innovative research, technical expertise, and community engagement.

Publication Profile

Google Scholar

Strengths for the Award

  • Extensive Research Background: Dr. Anemana holds a Ph.D. in Environmental Science, with a focus on Environmental Chemistry. His research spans critical areas such as soil remediation, biochar production, and environmental impact assessments. This demonstrates a solid foundation in both theoretical and applied environmental research.
  • Diverse Employment Experience: His roles as a Research Scientist, Environmental Chemist, and Ph.D. Research Fellow have equipped him with a broad skill set, including laboratory management, fieldwork, and the application of modern analytical techniques (e.g., ICP-MS, FTIR, LC-MS). His experience with the CSIR-Soil Research Institute and the Environmental Protection Agency in Ghana underlines his practical contributions to both academia and industry.
  • Publications and Academic Contributions: Dr. Anemana has published research in reputable journals, showcasing his ability to contribute original research to the scientific community. His work on biochar and soil nutrient mapping highlights his expertise in sustainable agricultural practices.
  • Mentorship and Teaching: His role as a lecturer and supervisor at the CSIR College of Science and Technology demonstrates his commitment to education and mentorship, further contributing to his suitability for the award.

Areas for Improvement

  • Broader Impact of Research: While Dr. Anemana’s research is highly specialized, expanding the application and impact of his findings to address global environmental challenges could enhance his profile. A stronger emphasis on how his work influences policy, industry standards, or large-scale environmental solutions could be beneficial.
  • Increased Publication and Citation: Although he has published several papers, increasing the volume of high-impact publications and ensuring they are widely cited would strengthen his candidacy. Collaborations with international researchers could also broaden the scope and impact of his research.
  • Leadership in Large-Scale Projects: Taking on leadership roles in larger, multidisciplinary research projects could further demonstrate his ability to lead and innovate in the environmental sciences.

Education 

Dr. Timothy Amangdam Anemana has a diverse and rigorous academic background that laid the foundation for his expertise in Environmental Chemistry. He earned his Ph.D. in Environmental Science (with a major in Environmental Chemistry) from Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary, in 2020, where he conducted groundbreaking research on reducing arsenate and inorganic trivalent chromium mobility in soils. Prior to this, he obtained an MSc. in Chemistry (Environmental Chemistry major) from Patrice Lumumba Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia in 2013, focusing on the complex formation of azo derivatives with metal salts. He also holds a Diploma in Education from the University of Education, Winneba-Kumasi, and an Advanced Certificate in Energy Policy and Planning from Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology. His academic journey began with a BSc. in Agriculture Technology from the University for Development Studies, Tamale, Ghana, where he investigated water and land use quality assessment.

Experience 

Dr. Timothy Amangdam Anemana has a rich professional history in environmental research, consulting, and education. He currently serves as a Research Scientist at the CSIR-Soil Research Institute in Ghana, where he is involved in cutting-edge projects on soil nutrient mapping, biochar production, and environmental risk assessments. His previous role as an Environmental Chemist at the Environmental Protection Agency, Ghana, honed his skills in environmental impact assessments, biochar application for remediation, and air quality monitoring. Dr. Anemana’s experience also includes a Ph.D. Research Fellowship at Eötvös Loránd University, Hungary, where he contributed to advanced research on contaminated soils and innovative remediation techniques. Earlier in his career, he worked as a Postgraduate Research Assistant at Patrice Lumumba Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia, focusing on laboratory instruction and environmental research. His extensive experience underscores his expertise in environmental chemistry and sustainable agricultural practices.

Awards and Honors 

Dr. Timothy Amangdam Anemana has been recognized for his outstanding contributions to environmental science and research. He graduated with a Ph.D. in Environmental Science from Eötvös Loránd University, Hungary, with the highest honor, summa cum laude. His work on the reduction of arsenate and inorganic trivalent chromium mobility in soils has been widely acclaimed. Dr. Anemana has also been acknowledged for his innovative research on biochar production and its application in soil and water remediation. Throughout his academic and professional journey, he has received numerous accolades for his dedication to environmental conservation and sustainable agricultural practices. His research publications have been featured in reputable international journals, and he continues to be a leading voice in environmental chemistry, contributing to the advancement of knowledge and practical solutions in this critical field.

Research Focus

Dr. Timothy Amangdam Anemana’s research is centered on the intersection of environmental chemistry and sustainable agricultural practices. His primary focus is on the development of innovative solutions for soil and water remediation, particularly the reduction of arsenate and inorganic trivalent chromium mobility in soils. He is deeply involved in the production and application of biochar and activated charcoal from biowaste materials, aiming to enhance soil fertility and mitigate environmental pollution. Dr. Anemana’s current projects at the CSIR-Soil Research Institute in Ghana include the development of an alternative triple super phosphate fertilizer from oyster shells, which are abundant in Ghana. His research also extends to environmental risk assessments, soil nutrient mapping, and the application of modern analytical instrumentation to solve complex environmental challenges. Through his work, Dr. Anemana seeks to contribute to sustainable development and environmental conservation on both local and global scales.

Publication Top Notes

📄 Optimization of lignite particle size for stabilization of trivalent chromium in soils | T. Anemana, et al. | Soil and Sediment Contamination: An International Journal 29(3), 272-291, 2020

🧪 Granular activated charcoal from peanut shell as a new candidate for stabilization of arsenic in soil | T. Anemana, et al. | Microchemical Journal 149, 104030, 2019

🌍 Simultaneous Determination of Heavy Metals in Competitive Aqueous Solutions and Contaminated Soil Systems | T. Anemana, et al. | Kalahari Journals, 2022

🧬 Experimental and theoretical investigations of complex formation of substituted phenylazo-derivatives of methylphloroglucinol | A.T. Amangdam, et al. | Journal of Advances in Chemistry 4(1), 2013

🌱 Iodide- and electrochemical assisted removal of mercury by Cirsium arvense from gold tailings in the Amansie West District, Ghana | T.A. Anemana, et al. | International Journal of Phytoremediation, 2024

 

Conclusion

Dr. Timothy Amangdam Anemana is a strong candidate for the Research for Best Researcher Award, given his extensive experience in environmental chemistry, his contributions to soil and water remediation, and his role in mentoring the next generation of scientists. To enhance his candidacy, he could focus on increasing the global impact of his research and expanding his leadership in large-scale projects. With these enhancements, Dr. Anemana’s already impressive profile would be further solidified as a leading researcher in his field.