Meng Duan | Engineering and Technology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Meng Duan | Engineering and Technology | Best Researcher Award

Engineer, Water Resources Research Institute of Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, China

Meng Duan is a dedicated engineer and researcher in the field of agricultural water resource management, currently working at the Water Resources Research Institute of Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region. He earned his Ph.D. in Water Conservancy Engineering from China Agricultural University and has since made significant contributions to the study of evapotranspiration, water-carbon flux, and crop growth modeling. His research efforts have directly influenced water-saving irrigation strategies and sustainable agriculture in arid regions of China. With funding from the National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC) and collaborations with top institutions, Duan’s work bridges scientific innovation and field application. He has published widely in SCI-indexed journals, authored a highly regarded monograph, and holds a national patent related to crop canopy structure modeling. Recognized as an NSFC Excellent Young Scholar, Meng Duan continues to advance integrated water and agricultural solutions for regional and national impact.

Profile

Orcid

Education

Meng Duan received his doctoral degree (Ph.D.) in Water Conservancy Engineering from China Agricultural University, one of China’s premier agricultural and environmental research institutions. His doctoral studies focused on integrated water resource management and crop modeling, particularly in arid and semi-arid regions. During his academic journey, he conducted extensive research in the Heihe River Basin—a critical area for understanding water transformation and oasis agriculture. His thesis emphasized multi-process coupling mechanisms within soil-plant-atmosphere systems. He complemented his formal education with practical research experiences in national labs and collaborated with experts from the National Key Laboratory of Watershed Water Cycle Simulation. His strong academic foundation laid the groundwork for his future roles in applied water resource engineering, interdisciplinary modeling, and sustainable irrigation systems. With robust training in both theoretical frameworks and computational modeling techniques, Duan emerged from his education well-prepared to tackle complex hydrological and agricultural challenges.

Professional Experience 

Meng Duan currently serves as an Engineer at the Water Resources Research Institute of Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region. In this capacity, he has designed and implemented advanced models for evapotranspiration estimation, crop growth behavior, and water-carbon flux quantification. His professional track record includes leadership in several prestigious national-level research projects funded by the NSFC and the National Key Laboratory. Between 2015 and 2025, Duan contributed to over six major multi-year research programs, including work on scalable evapotranspiration models and the development of efficient irrigation systems tailored to China’s arid agricultural zones. Beyond research, he has played a crucial role in policy consultation for water use regulation and agronomic strategy optimization in Inner Mongolia. His technical contributions span data simulation, system integration, and predictive analytics for agricultural productivity. Through collaboration with cross-disciplinary teams and institutions, Duan has gained a reputation as a practical and visionary water resource engineer.

Research Focus 

Meng Duan’s research is centered on sustainable agricultural water management in arid and semi-arid regions. He specializes in evapotranspiration modeling, water-carbon flux analysis, and crop growth simulation. His work bridges the theoretical and practical realms by developing tools and methods that improve irrigation efficiency and crop productivity. A major focus of his research is understanding the dynamic interactions between soil, mulch, plant, and atmospheric systems, especially under water-stressed conditions. He has developed innovative models to link canopy structure with radiation efficiency, significantly boosting maize yields and optimizing water use. With NSFC-funded support, Duan’s research has resulted in tangible irrigation strategies that reduce water usage by up to 25% in Inner Mongolia. He continues to explore how remote sensing, environmental physics, and data-driven modeling can synergize to support food security and ecological resilience in vulnerable agricultural zones.

Publication Top Notes

  1. Meng Duan, Baozhong Zhang. (2025).
    Title: Modeling the Impact of Canopy Structure on Crop Water Use Efficiency in Arid Zones
    Journal: Agronomy
    Indexing: SCI, IF = 3.7, CAS II
    Summary: This study explores how variations in canopy structure affect evapotranspiration and crop yield, providing a model for improving irrigation practices in drylands.

Conclusion:

 Meng Duan stands out as a highly competent and impactful early-career researcher, especially in the specialized field of agricultural water resources engineering. His research contributes significantly to sustainable water   management, food security, and agro-ecological modeling in arid regions of China.

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 🔬

 

Ahmed Ali Ayoub Abdelmoneim | Smart Irrigation Management | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Ahmed Ali Ayoub Abdelmoneim | Smart Irrigation Management | Best Researcher Award

Researcher/Private Consultant, Mediterranean Agronomic institute of Bari, Italy

Ahmed Ali Ayoub Abdelmoneim is an Egyptian researcher, consultant, and educator focusing on agricultural water management and climate change. With a Ph.D. in Irrigation Modernization from the Mediterranean Agronomic Institute of Bari, Ahmed has a strong background in innovative irrigation systems, automation, and IoT applications. His work has spanned various global projects, including technical assistance, youth networking, and training courses. As a member of the MedYWat network, Ahmed has advocated for youth involvement in water issues. His research on improving furrow irrigation, developing smart gated pipe systems, and enhancing irrigation efficiency aligns with global needs for sustainable water use. Through his work, Ahmed strives to bridge the gap between technology and traditional irrigation practices for the betterment of agriculture and water conservation.

Profile

Education

Ahmed Ali Ayoub Abdelmoneim holds a Ph.D. in Irrigation Modernization from the Mediterranean Agronomic Institute of Bari, where he focused on improving furrow irrigation systems. He also earned a Master’s degree in Land and Water Resources Management from the Mediterranean Agronomic Institute of Bari (CIHEAM), specializing in irrigated agriculture, water management, and environmental sustainability. Additionally, Ahmed pursued research studies at the University of California Davis, focusing on agricultural water distribution systems and hydraulic analysis using innovative technology like drones and IoT devices. He holds a diploma in Laser Applications in Meteorology and Agriculture from Cairo University and a Bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Engineering from Cairo University. Ahmed’s academic foundation emphasizes advanced water management, irrigation systems, and sustainable agricultural practices.

Experience

Ahmed Ali Ayoub Abdelmoneim has gained significant professional experience as a researcher and consultant in agricultural water management. Currently working at the Mediterranean Agronomic Institute of Bari, Ahmed provides technical assistance, project coordination, and consultancy in regional water management projects. He is also involved in teaching courses on solar energy for irrigation and on-farm irrigation systems. Previously, Ahmed worked as a Ph.D. researcher focusing on furrow irrigation and smart irrigation systems. In 2017, he served as a Technical Officer in the Low-Emission Capacity Building Project for UNDP, working on climate change mitigation strategies and managing training activities. Earlier in his career, Ahmed worked in metal analysis, quality assurance, and project management in irrigation design for Green Hills International and EMAAR’s Uptown Cairo project. His extensive experience spans project coordination, education, IoT in agriculture, and climate change adaptation.

Awards and Honors

Ahmed Ali Ayoub Abdelmoneim has received numerous honors recognizing his outstanding academic and professional achievements. He was ranked first in the CIHEAM M.Sc. program (2014-2015) for his excellent academic performance. Ahmed was also ranked second in the Agriculture Engineering department at Cairo University in 2010. These accolades highlight his commitment to excellence in both his studies and research. His professional journey has been equally distinguished, as he has contributed significantly to advancing agricultural water management practices, with a focus on addressing climate change and water scarcity. In addition, Ahmed has been recognized as a valuable member of the MedYWat network, where he plays a key role in advocating for youth involvement in water issues and facilitating international collaborations. His participation in international workshops and conferences, such as those organized by the Centre for Mediterranean Integration, further demonstrates his leadership in the field of sustainable water management.

Research Focus

Ahmed Ali Ayoub Abdelmoneim’s research focuses on sustainable water management, irrigation modernization, and the application of IoT and automation in agriculture. His doctoral work at the Mediterranean Agronomic Institute of Bari centered on enhancing furrow irrigation systems through automation and smart technologies, including self-compensating gated pipes. By integrating innovative technologies like drones, sensors, and IoT devices, Ahmed aims to improve irrigation efficiency, water distribution uniformity, and reduce environmental impacts. His research extends to the comparative assessment of irrigation management practices and the development of low-cost precision irrigation solutions for arid regions. Ahmed’s work on climate change adaptation, water scarcity, and food security underpins his broader commitment to addressing global water challenges. His studies on the water footprint of crops and performance evaluation of smart irrigation systems contribute to ongoing efforts to create more sustainable agricultural systems worldwide.

Publications (with emojis):

  1. Forecasting Blue and Green Water Footprint of Wheat 🌾📊
  2. Advancements in Remote Sensing for Evapotranspiration Estimation 🌍🌱
  3. Towards Affordable Precision Irrigation: Experimental Comparison 💧🌿
  4. OptGate: Tool for Gated Pipe System Performance 🚰🔧
  5. IoT for Soil Moisture Tensiometer Automation 📡🌾
  6. IoT for Double Ring Infiltrometer Automation 🤖💧

 

 

Mehran Ghodrati | Water resources management Award | Best Researcher Award

Mr Mehran Ghodrati | Water resources management Award | Best Researcher Award

Mr Mehran Ghodrati, K.N. Toosi University of Technology, Iran

Mehran Ghodrati is a dedicated PhD candidate in Water Resources Management Engineering at K.N.T. University of Tech. (K.N.T.U.) in Tehran, Iran. Born on June 7, 1978, in Ahar, Iran, Mehran has over two decades of experience in teaching and industry. His research focuses on quantitative-qualitative modeling of catchments and reservoirs to enhance water quality control. With extensive expertise in GIS, hydrological, and hydraulic modeling, he has authored several influential books and papers. In his professional career, he manages significant projects related to water resource management and GIS implementation, making him a key figure in his field.

Publication Profile

Orcid

Strengths for the Award

  1. Extensive Academic Background: Mehran Ghodrati has a strong academic foundation in Water Resources Management Engineering, with a Ph.D. in progress, and substantial previous degrees in the field.
  2. Rich Teaching Experience: His teaching roles and workshops on GIS, hydrological modeling, and related subjects show a commitment to education and knowledge dissemination.
  3. Diverse Computer Skills: Proficiency in a wide range of relevant software and coding languages, including GIS and hydrological modeling tools, highlights his technical expertise.
  4. Professional Experience: A solid track record of managing significant projects related to water resources, GIS implementation, and artificial recharge demonstrates practical experience and leadership.
  5. Publication Record: His contributions include several books and handouts, with a range of published papers in respected journals and ongoing research work.
  6. Project Management: Leading projects in GIS implementation and water management showcases his capability in both research and real-world applications.

Areas for Improvement

  1. Publication Impact: While there are numerous publications, increasing the number of high-impact journal articles could strengthen his research profile.
  2. Language Proficiency: Improving English language skills may enhance his ability to engage with the international research community and publish in higher-impact journals.
  3. Interdisciplinary Research: Incorporating interdisciplinary approaches or collaborating with researchers in related fields could diversify his research impact.
  4. Grant Acquisition: Securing more research grants and funding could provide additional resources for innovative projects and enhance research output.

Education

Mehran Ghodrati is pursuing a PhD in Water Resources Management Engineering at K.N.T. University of Tech. (K.N.T.U.), Tehran, Iran, focusing on modeling catchments and reservoirs for water quality control. He earned an M.Sc. in Water Resources Management Engineering from the same institution, with a thesis on satellite images’ applications in identifying salty regions. His foundational education includes a B.Sc. in Water Engineering from K.N.T.U., where he built his expertise in water resource management and engineering.

Experience

Mehran Ghodrati’s professional journey includes a notable role at Tehran Water Regional Company, where he manages GIS projects, artificial recharge initiatives, and water transfer projects. His previous roles in consulting companies involved GIS spatial analysis, hydrological and hydraulic simulations, and groundwater modeling. His extensive experience spans over two decades, combining academic teaching and practical application in water resources management, contributing significantly to his field.

Research Focus

Mehran Ghodrati’s research focuses on advanced modeling techniques for water resources management. His work involves quantitative-qualitative modeling of catchments and reservoirs to improve water quality control methods. He integrates satellite imagery, GIS, and various hydrological and hydraulic models to address water resource challenges and enhance management practices. His research contributes to better understanding and solutions for water quality and resource management.

Publications

Ghodrati M., “Applications of ArcGIS in water engineering- Hydrology and Hydrogeology” 📚

Ghodrati M. and Soabani A., “Groundwater Mathematical Models- Applications of GMS Model” 📚

Ghodrati M., “Applied Learning of ArcGIS 10.2 with emphasis on water engineering and environmental issues” 📚

Ghodrati M., “Learning The Application of HEC-GeoHMS Model in ArcGIS 10” 📚

Ghodrati M. and Barzegari F., “Mathematical Models of Groundwater- Applied Learning of GMS 7.1” 📚

Ghodrati, Mehran & Dariane, Alireza (2024). Evaluation of input variable selection methods in artificial neural networks for estimating missing daily precipitation, Hydrological Sciences Journal 🌟

Ghodrati, Mehran & Dariane, Alireza (2024). Enhancing Hydrological Model Efficiency through Satellite Image Classification, Hydrological Sciences Journal 🌟

Agnieszka Pieniążek | Sustainability Award | Best Researcher Award

Dr Agnieszka Pieniążek | Sustainability Award | Best Researcher Award

Dr Agnieszka Pieniążek, Institute of Physics PAS , Poland

Agnieszka Pieniążek 🌟 is an Assistant Professor at the Institute of Physics PAS, Warsaw, Poland. She completed her doctoral studies in Physical Sciences and holds master’s degrees in Analytical Chemistry and Applied Physics from leading Polish universities. Agnieszka’s research focuses on wide bandgap semiconductors, perovskites, and nanostructures, exploring their optical and electronic properties. She has authored 22 SCI and Scopus indexed articles and holds a patent for quantum nanostructures. Recognized for her Outstanding Doctoral Dissertation by the Polish Society for Crystal Growth, she continues to contribute significantly to the field of materials science and semiconductor physics.

 

Publication Profile

Scopus

Education

Agnieszka Pieniążek pursued her academic journey with dedication and achievement. She completed her Doctoral Studies in Physical Sciences at the Institute of Physics PAS, Warsaw, Poland, spanning from October 2013 to June 2019. Prior to that, she earned a Master’s Degree in Analytical Chemistry from Maria Curie-Skłodowska University, Faculty of Chemistry, Lublin, Poland, during October 2008 to July 2013. Her educational foundation also includes a Master’s Degree in Applied Physics from the same university’s Faculty of Mathematics, Physics, and Computer Science, obtained between October 2007 and July 2012. 🎓

Awards

In June 2022, Agnieszka Pieniążek was honored with the Award from the Polish Society for Crystal Growth for her Outstanding Doctoral Dissertation titled “Local Optical Properties of ZnO Microrods Grown by Hydrothermal Method.” This prestigious accolade recognizes her exceptional research contributions in the field of crystal growth and semiconductor optics. Agnieszka’s dissertation delved into the intricate optical characteristics of ZnO microrods, cultivated through innovative hydrothermal techniques. Her work not only expands the understanding of semiconductor materials but also underscores her commitment to advancing scientific knowledge and applications in materials science. 🏆

Research Focus

Agnieszka Pieniążek 🌟 specializes in the research of wide bandgap semiconductors, perovskites, and nanostructures. Her work primarily revolves around investigating the optical and electronic properties of these materials, with a focus on understanding defects, structural dynamics, and their implications for optoelectronic applications. Through her studies, she explores topics such as the bandgap pressure coefficient in perovskite thin films, interdiffusion phenomena in semiconductor alloys, and the cathodoluminescence patterns of semiconductor microrods. Agnieszka’s contributions significantly advance the field of materials science, particularly in enhancing the efficiency and reliability of semiconductor devices for renewable energy and optoelectronics.

 

Dr Rommel AlAli | Sustainable Development Award | Best Extension Activity Award

Dr Rommel AlAli | Sustainable Development Award | Best Extension Activity Award 

Dr Rommel AlAli, king Faisal university, Saudi Arabia

Dr. Rommel AlAli is an accomplished academic specializing in Measurement and Evaluation in education, with a Ph.D. from University Technology Malaysia. His research focuses on enhancing educational practices and integrating AI in teaching methodologies. With extensive teaching experience across various educational institutions, he currently serves as an Associate Professor at King Faisal University. Dr. AlAli is recognized for his contributions to STEM education and educational reform programs in Jordan and Saudi Arabia. He is also noted for his publications on blended learning, AI integration, and educational technology’s impact on student achievement.

Publication Profile

Google scholar

Education

Dr. Rommel AlAli has attained a distinguished academic journey in the field of education, culminating in a Ph.D. from University Technology Malaysia. He began with a B.Sc. in Mathematics from Al AlBayt University in Jordan in 2001, followed by a Higher Diploma in Education from Amman Arab University in 2004. His pursuit of deeper insights led to an M.Sc. in Measurement and Evaluation from the same university in 2005. Dr. AlAli’s academic trajectory reached its peak with a Ph.D. in Measurement and Evaluation in 2016, focusing on Educational & Psychological Measurement & Evaluation. His thesis explored “Assessment of Social Perception and Mathematical Thinking Amongst Jordanian Students in Higher Education.” 🎓

Experience

Dr. Rommel AlAli’s career spans diverse educational roles, reflecting his commitment to advancing teaching methodologies and educational leadership. Beginning as a teacher in Jordan’s Ministry of Education, he later served as a Math Teacher in the UAE under MOE & ADEC for five years. His career evolved to include positions such as Math and Science Coordinator, where he facilitated curriculum development. Dr. AlAli’s passion for teaching extended to training new educators as a MOE trainer and Adjunct Professor at The University of Jordan. Since 2018, he has contributed significantly as an Assistant Professor at King Faisal University, now advancing to the role of Associate Professor, focusing on research arbitration in prestigious ISI and Scopus journals. 📚

Research Focus

Dr. Rommel AlAli’s research primarily focuses on educational measurement and evaluation, with a special emphasis on enhancing teaching practices and student learning outcomes in mathematics and STEM education. His work spans various dimensions of educational psychology, including assessing social perception, mathematical thinking, and creativity among students. Dr. AlAli is particularly interested in the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and technology in education, exploring their impacts on educational effectiveness and student engagement. His studies also delve into curriculum development, educational reform, and the application of innovative teaching strategies to cater to diverse learner needs. 📊