Raouf Hassan | Environmental Engineering | Best Academic Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Raouf Hassan | Environmental Engineering | Best Academic Researcher Award 

Associate professor at Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University ,Saudi Arabia

Dr. Raouf Ahmed Mohamed Hassan is an Associate Professor of Civil and at Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. With a Ph.D. from Nantes University, France, he specializes in environmental engineering, particularly wastewater treatment, greywater recycling, and sustainable waste management. He began his academic journey in Egypt, earning his B.Sc. from South Valley University, and later pursued advanced studies in France. Dr. Hassan has contributed significantly to academia through his teaching, supervision of numerous undergraduate projects, and active participation in international conferences. His research integrates environmental sustainability with modern engineering solutions, using both experimental and AI-based methodologies. A recognized figure in his field, he has received several university awards for scientific publications and served as a reviewer for top-tier international journals. Multilingual and globally engaged, Dr. Hassan continues to promote eco-friendly solutions for water and waste challenges in arid and urban environments.

👨‍🔬 Professional Profile

✅ Strengths for the Award

  1. Robust Academic Foundation

    • Trained in both Egypt and France, Dr. Hassan brings an international academic background rooted in civil and environmental engineering.

    • His Ph.D. from Nantes University under a renowned lab (GEPEA) gives added credibility to his scientific formation.

  2. High-Impact Research Contributions

    • Over 40 peer-reviewed publications, many in reputable journals like Scientific Reports and Desalination and Water Treatment.

    • Research integrates AI, machine learning, and experimental design, showcasing innovation in predictive environmental modeling.

  3. Award-Winning Excellence

    • Multiple University Awards for Scientific Publications (both in Egypt and Saudi Arabia).

    • Recipient of Best Article Award (2024)—a recognition of the novelty and utility of his work.

  4. Applied Focus on Sustainable Solutions

    • Projects on greywater reuse, biochar-based CO₂ adsorption, and zero-liquid discharge show real-world applicability.

    • Research supports environmental sustainability in urban and arid zones, an urgent global priority.

  5. Academic Leadership and Teaching

    • 20+ years of academic service across leading institutions.

    • Extensive teaching in environmental impact assessment, wastewater engineering, and sustainability.

    • Mentored numerous student projects, showcasing commitment to future generations of engineers.

  6. Global Perspective

    • Multilingual (Arabic, English, French), internationally educated and active in collaborative research.

    • Participates in European research networks and funded projects, widening his scholarly impact.

🎓 Education

Dr. Raouf Hassan earned his B.Sc. in Civil Engineering from South Valley University, Egypt, where he developed a strong foundation in infrastructure and environmental systems. He pursued his M.Sc. and Ph.D. at Nantes University, France, specializing under the GEPEA Laboratory. His academic training in France equipped him with advanced knowledge in wastewater treatment technologies, anaerobic digestion, and gas-liquid mass transfer. During his postgraduate studies, Dr. Hassan was involved in European collaborative projects focused on sludge valorization and sustainable energy. His education provided interdisciplinary exposure to both engineering principles and practical environmental applications. Additionally, he has completed several professional development courses covering scientific research methodologies, teaching strategies, academic ethics, and educational technologies. Fluent in Arabic, English, and French, Dr. Hassan’s educational journey reflects a blend of local insight and international expertise, empowering him to address environmental challenges in both developing and developed contexts through innovative civil engineering solutions.

🧑‍🏫 Experience

Dr. Raouf Hassan has over two decades of academic and research experience in civil and environmental engineering. He currently serves as Associate Professor at Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University, Saudi Arabia, a position he has held since 2025 after serving as Assistant Professor there since 2017. Earlier, he worked as a faculty member and department head at Aswan University and the Arab Academy for Science, Technology & Maritime Transport in Egypt. His teaching portfolio includes undergraduate and postgraduate courses such as water and wastewater treatment, environmental impact assessment, and hydraulic systems. Dr. Hassan has supervised numerous student projects addressing urban water infrastructure, air pollution, and waste management in Saudi Arabia and Egypt. Beyond teaching, he has led and participated in several research projects funded by the Saudi Ministry of Education. His experience also spans administrative leadership, curriculum development, and student advising, making him a vital contributor to engineering education and environmental innovation.

🏅 Awards and Honors

Dr. Raouf Hassan has received multiple accolades in recognition of his research excellence and academic contributions. He has been awarded the University Award for Scientific Publication by Aswan University for four consecutive years (2019–2022) and received the same recognition from Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University in 2021 and 2022. In 2024, he was honored with the Best Article Award by the Desalination and Water Treatment journal, highlighting his impactful contributions to sustainable water management. He also held a postdoctoral fellowship in 2013 at Nantes University, supported by the Egyptian Ministry of Higher Education. In addition to these achievements, Dr. Hassan is a senior member of APCBEES and an active reviewer for prominent international journals and conferences in environmental engineering. His consistent recognition reflects both the quality and relevance of his research, which spans water treatment, greywater reuse, and waste-to-energy systems across regional and international contexts.

🔬 Research Focus on Environmental Engineering

Dr. Raouf Hassan’s research is centered on sustainable environmental engineering, particularly focusing on wastewater treatment, anaerobic digestion, sludge valorization, and solid waste management. He integrates conventional and advanced techniques such as biogas production, membrane filtration, and eco-friendly materials to address water and waste challenges in urban and arid environments. His recent projects have explored sustainable greywater management in mosques, techno-economic assessments of water purification systems, and AI-based models for predicting environmental parameters. Dr. Hassan is also deeply involved in developing zero-liquid discharge systems and reusing agricultural residues for water filtration. With over 40 peer-reviewed publications and participation in global research initiatives, his work blends experimental rigor with practical application, often involving interdisciplinary collaboration. His research is funded by major bodies like the Deanship for Research & Innovation and the Ministry of Education in Saudi Arabia. Dr. Hassan’s scientific endeavors aim to create resource-efficient, climate-resilient, and cost-effective environmental solutions for future-ready cities.

📚 Publication Top Notes

Predicting CO₂ adsorption in KOH-activated biochar using advanced machine learning techniques

Journal: Scientific Reports, 2025
Authors: [Author names not provided]
Summary:
This study develops advanced machine learning models to predict the CO₂ adsorption capacity of KOH-activated biochar. The researchers utilized various algorithms to analyze experimental data, enabling precise modeling of adsorption behavior. The results reveal key parameters influencing performance and demonstrate that machine learning can significantly enhance the accuracy and speed of material screening for carbon capture technologies.

Machine learning frameworks to accurately estimate the adsorption of organic materials onto resin and biochar

Journal: Scientific Reports, 2025
Authors: [Author names not provided]
Summary:
This research investigates the use of machine learning techniques to estimate the adsorption of organic compounds onto resin and biochar materials. The study employs several regression models trained on experimental data to predict adsorption efficiency. Findings show that machine learning offers a reliable and efficient alternative to traditional methods in evaluating adsorbent materials for applications in environmental remediation and water purification.

🧾 Conclusion

In conclusion, Dr. Raouf Ahmed Mohamed Hassan stands out as a distinguished scholar and practitioner in the realm of civil and environmental engineering. His academic qualifications, international training, and extensive teaching experience position him as a leader in both educational and research domains. His multidisciplinary approach bridges environmental sustainability with engineering innovation, addressing pressing issues such as wastewater treatment, solid waste management, and air quality assessment. Recognized with multiple university-level awards and international journal accolades, Dr. Hassan continues to contribute meaningfully to science and society. His dedication to student mentorship, administrative service, and global collaboration reflects his commitment to holistic academic excellence. Through his research, he not only addresses critical environmental challenges but also provides scalable, real-world solutions tailored to urban and arid environments. As the world grapples with climate change and resource scarcity, Dr. Hassan’s vision, expertise, and innovative thinking offer valuable pathways toward sustainable development and environmental resilience.

Young Min JO | Environmental engineering | Environmental Engineering Award

Prof . Young Min JO | Environmental engineering | Environmental Engineering Award

Professor, Kyung Hee University, South Korea

Dr. Young Min Jo is a Professor at the Department of Environmental Engineering at Kyung Hee University in South Korea. With a career spanning over two decades, he has made significant contributions to environmental science, particularly in air pollution control and indoor air quality. His expertise includes dust filtration, CO2 capture, odor and VOC control, and energy material synthesis. Dr. Jo holds a Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering from the University of New South Wales, Australia, and has worked as a researcher and professor at various renowned institutions globally. He is also an active participant in environmental policy discussions, serving in various leadership roles in professional societies such as the Korean Society of Odor Environment. Dr. Jo’s commitment to research and teaching has earned him numerous accolades and recognition in the field of environmental engineering.

Profile:

Orcid

Scopus

Education:

Dr. Young Min Jo completed his academic journey with a focus on Chemical Engineering. He earned his Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering from the University of New South Wales (UNSW), Australia, in 1997. Prior to this, he obtained both his M.S. (1986) and B.S. (1984) degrees from Korea University, where he specialized in Chemical Engineering. His strong academic background laid the foundation for his future career in environmental science and engineering, where he has contributed to research, education, and policy. Throughout his education, Dr. Jo was exposed to a diverse range of topics that span chemical engineering and environmental sustainability, with a particular emphasis on air pollution control and energy systems. His education at leading institutions has provided him with the theoretical and practical knowledge necessary to address pressing environmental challenges.

Experience:

Dr. Young Min Jo has extensive experience in both academia and research. He has been a Professor at Kyung Hee University, South Korea, since 1998, shaping the next generation of environmental engineers. His academic journey also includes prestigious international roles, such as a Visiting Fellow at the Toyama National Institute of Technology (2014-2015) and a Visiting Researcher at the University of Missouri at Rolla (2005-2006). Dr. Jo’s early career includes research positions at the Environmental Research Center of National University of Singapore (1997-1998) and the Center for Particle & Catalysis at UNSW (1996). He also worked as a researcher at Daewoo Electronics Ltd., Korea (1986-1991), contributing to industrial applications. Throughout his career, Dr. Jo has collaborated on various international projects and research initiatives, earning recognition for his expertise in environmental pollution control, air quality, and sustainable energy solutions.

Awards and Honors:

Dr. Young Min Jo has earned several accolades for his contributions to environmental engineering. As Vice President of the Korean Society of Odor Environment (2022-present), he has led initiatives to address odor-related environmental concerns. He served as the Chairman of i-CIPEC (2019-2020), further solidifying his leadership in the environmental field. Dr. Jo has also been a Director of the Center for Environmental Studies (2018-2021) and the Environmental Education Center of Gyeonggi-do (2018-2019), demonstrating his commitment to environmental education and public awareness. In addition, he holds a Senior Consultant position at the National Institute of Environment Research (2017-present) and serves as an Advisory Member of the Korea Air Cleaning Association. These roles reflect his ongoing influence in shaping environmental policy and research in South Korea, earning him recognition for his expertise in air quality and pollution control.

Research Focus:

Dr. Young Min Jo focuses on environmental challenges, with a particular emphasis on air pollution control, indoor air quality monitoring, and energy material synthesis. His research encompasses a variety of topics, including dust filtration, CO2 capture, and odor & VOC control, which are crucial for mitigating pollution in urban environments. He also investigates the health implications of particulate matter and its effects on indoor environments, including classroom air quality. Another key area of his research is the synthesis of sustainable energy materials that can contribute to cleaner, more efficient energy solutions. Dr. Jo’s work on activated carbon materials, particularly bamboo-based activated carbon for CO2 adsorption, highlights his efforts to develop sustainable solutions for indoor air quality. His interdisciplinary approach integrates environmental engineering, materials science, and health sciences, offering valuable insights into improving air quality and sustainability in both indoor and outdoor environments.

Publication Titles :

  1. Correlation between carbonaceous materials and fine particulate matters in urban school classrooms 📚💨
  2. Effects of surrounding environment and student activity on the concentration of particulate matter in elementary school classrooms in South Korea 🏫🌫️
  3. Synthesis of Hydroxylammonium Nitrate and Its Decomposition over Metal Oxide/Honeycomb Catalysts ⚗️💥
  4. Fabrication of Bamboo-Based Activated Carbon for Low-Level CO2 Adsorption toward Sustainable Indoor Air 🌱🌀
  5. Preparation and Characterization of Bamboo-based Activated Carbon for Low-level CO2 Adsorption 🍃🧪
  6. Subchronic pulmonary toxicity of ambient particles containing cement production–related elements 💨⚠️
  7. Removal of Ammonia, Hydrogen Sulfide, and Methyl Mercaptan as Livestock Odor Using a Low-energy (0.2 MeV) Electron Beam Accelerator 🐄💨
  8. Air Quality Index through Inverse Evaluation of Hazard Quotient for Public Indoor Facilities-schools, child daycare centers and elderly nursing homes 🏢🏫
  9. Subway station dust-induced pulmonary inflammation may be due to the dysfunction of alveolar macrophages: Possible contribution of bound elements 🚇💨
  10. Ventilation strategy for simultaneous management of indoor particulate matter and airborne transmission risks – A case study for urban schools in South Korea 🏫🌀

Edson Rodrigues-Filho | Environmental sciences | Excellence in Research

Prof. Edson Rodrigues-Filho | Environmental sciences | Excellence in Research

Prof, Federal University of São Carlos, Brazil

Edson Rodrigues-Filho is a distinguished Professor of Organic Chemistry at the Federal University of São Carlos (UFSCAR) in Brazil, where he has been a faculty member since 1992. Holding a degree in Chemistry from the University of Uberlândia (1986), followed by a Master’s (1989) and Doctorate (1992) in Chemistry from UFSCAR, Rodrigues-Filho also completed a postdoctoral fellowship in Plant Pathology at the University of Minnesota. He is a Productivity Scholar at CNPq and has made significant contributions in the field of natural product chemistry, focusing on microbial biosynthesis, biotransformation, and the synthesis of bioactive molecules. His extensive expertise is recognized through his work with fungal microorganisms, especially in antibiotic and insecticide production.

Profile

Education

Edson Rodrigues-Filho’s academic journey began with a Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry from the University of Uberlândia (1986). He continued at UFSCAR, completing his Master’s (1989) and Doctorate (1992) in Chemistry, specializing in the phytochemical analysis of species from the Simaroubaceae family. His doctoral research was funded by the National Council for Scientific and Technological Development (CNPq), exploring natural compounds with potential anticancer properties. After earning his Ph.D., Rodrigues-Filho enhanced his expertise with a postdoctoral research position at the University of Minnesota, focusing on plant pathology and microbial interactions. Over the years, he has expanded his academic and professional expertise, contributing to the scientific community through both teaching and research in organic chemistry, with a particular emphasis on natural products and microbial chemistry.

Experience

Edson Rodrigues-Filho has dedicated over three decades to academia, primarily at UFSCAR, where he has been a tenured professor since 1992. He has taught a variety of undergraduate and graduate courses in organic chemistry, including subjects such as Organic Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry, and Mass Spectrometry. Throughout his career, he has also held leadership roles within the university, including serving as Vice-Chair of the Chemistry Department and representing his faculty at various academic committees. His extensive research work has focused on the chemical properties of microorganisms, biotransformation processes, and the synthesis of bioactive natural products. Additionally, Rodrigues-Filho has worked on research projects with applications in biotechnology, health, and agriculture, contributing to the development of new antimicrobial agents and biocatalysts. He has also guided numerous graduate students, helping shape the next generation of scientists in his field.

Awards and Honors

Throughout his esteemed career, Edson Rodrigues-Filho has been recognized for his contributions to organic chemistry and natural product research. His work has been supported by prestigious research grants, including funding from the CNPq, Brazil’s National Council for Scientific and Technological Development. He has been a recipient of multiple academic honors, such as research scholarships in various fields related to chemistry and microbial sciences. His postdoctoral research at the University of Minnesota in plant pathology further expanded his international academic stature. Rodrigues-Filho’s impact extends to mentoring students and advancing research in the chemical sciences, which has earned him recognition at both the national and international levels. His involvement in major scientific projects in Brazil has helped advance research on microbial chemistry, biosynthesis, and biotransformation, underscoring his standing as a leading figure in the field of natural products.

Research Focus

Edson Rodrigues-Filho’s research focuses on natural product chemistry, with a particular emphasis on microbial biosynthesis, biotransformation, and the development of bioactive molecules. His work explores how microorganisms, particularly fungi and actinomycetes, produce compounds with potential applications in medicine, agriculture, and biotechnology. Rodrigues-Filho is deeply involved in studying the synthesis of natural products, such as antibiotics and insecticides, from microbial sources. He also investigates the chemical processes involved in the production of biologically active molecules and their subsequent modifications via biotransformation. His research further delves into the application of techniques such as mass spectrometry, chromatography, and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy to analyze and understand these complex compounds. Additionally, his interest in designing new synthetic routes for bioactive molecules has made significant contributions to the development of novel pharmaceutical and agricultural chemicals.

Publication Top Notes

  1. Antimicrobial Potential of Soil/Sediment Mangrove Associated Fungi: A Review 📚
  2. Perylenequinones production induced by co-culturing Setophoma sp. and Penicillium brasilianum 🌱
  3. Computational and pharmacological investigation of novel 1,5-diaryl-1,4-pentadien-3-one derivatives for analgesic, antiinflammatory and anticancer potential 💊
  4. Synthesis, characterization, molecular docking, analgesic, antiplatelet, and anticoagulant effects of dibenzylidene ketone derivatives 🧬
  5. Photolysis of parabens using medium-pressure mercury lamps: Toxicity effects in MCF7, Balb/c 3T3 cells and Ceriodaphnia dubia ⚡
  6. Differential metabolism of diastereoisomeric diterpenes by Preussia minima, found as endophytic fungus in Cupressus lusitanica 🌿
  7. Antiplasmodial properties and cytotoxicity of endophytic fungi from symphonia globulifera (Clusiaceae) 🌍
  8. Heterogeneous microtubules of self-assembled silver and gold nanoparticles using alive biotemplates ⚙️
  9. Nanostructured assemblies of gold and silver nanoparticles for plasmon enhanced spectroscopy using living biotemplates 💎
  10. Biosynthesis and mass spectral fragmentation pathways of 13C and 15N labeled cytochalasin D produced by Xylaria arbuscula 🔬

 

Alessia Amato | Metal Recovery From Waste | Women Researcher Award

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.