Fong-Zuo Lee | Water resources | Best Researcher Award

Assist. Prof. Dr Fong-Zuo Lee | Water resources | Best Researcher Award

Assistant Professor , Department of Civil Engineering/ National Chung Hsing University , Taiwan

Fong-Zuo Lee is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Civil Engineering at National Chung Hsing University (NCHU), Taiwan, since 2023. He previously held positions as a Postdoctoral Researcher and Project Assistant Fellow at National Taiwan University (NTU), where he contributed to research on water resource management, sediment transport, and hydraulic modeling. Dr. Lee holds a Ph.D. in Bioenvironmental Systems Engineering from NTU, alongside Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Civil Engineering from National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU). His academic work focuses on addressing key issues in reservoir sedimentation, river hydraulics, and water resource sustainability. In addition to his research, he is an active member of the International Association for Hydraulic Engineering and Research (IAHR) and several other professional societies. Dr. Lee has authored numerous journal articles and conference papers and is dedicated to advancing innovative solutions for water resource management and environmental sustainability.

Profile

Scopus

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Strengths for the Award

        1. Strong Academic Background:

    • Dr. Lee has an impressive academic trajectory, starting as a postdoctoral researcher at National Taiwan University (NTU), progressing to a project assistant fellow, and now holding a position as Assistant Professor at National Chung Hsing University (NCHU). This progression highlights his dedication to academic and professional growth.
  1. Extensive Research Contributions:
    • Dr. Lee has demonstrated significant contributions to research in reservoir sedimentation, hydraulics, and river sediment transport—fields that are vital for sustainable water resource management. His work has led to the publication of 38 peer-reviewed journal articles, including in SCI and Scopus indexed journals, which is a solid reflection of his influence in his research field.
    • His papers are highly relevant and innovative, particularly the application of modeling techniques to study sediment transport and desilting efficiency, topics that have broad environmental and engineering implications.
  2. Innovative Solutions in Reservoir Management:
    • Dr. Lee’s research in dredging techniques for reservoirs, hydraulic modeling, and floating barriers for woody debris management reflects his creativity and ability to find practical solutions to real-world problems. These innovations are crucial in the context of climate change, water resource management, and maintaining the ecological health of water bodies.
  3. High Citation Index:
    • A citation count of 211 (Scopus) demonstrates that his research has been widely recognized and cited by peers, indicating the impact and relevance of his work in the academic community.
  4. Prolific Publication and Editorial Work:
    • Dr. Lee has published multiple articles in leading journals and has collaborated with prominent researchers such as Professors Jihn-Sung Lai and Sameh Ahmed Kantoush, which signifies his position in an esteemed network of professionals.
    • His editorial appointments also suggest his expertise and reputation in the academic community.
  5. Leadership and Multidisciplinary Approach:
    • His involvement in multidisciplinary research projects, including collaboration with engineers and hydrologists, indicates his ability to lead cross-disciplinary teams and his holistic approach to solving complex environmental engineering problems.
  6. Patents and Books:
    • He holds 7 patents and has published books, showcasing his commitment to advancing both theoretical and applied aspects of his research. Patents are a strong indicator of the practical applicability of his work.

Areas for Improvement

  1. Broader International Collaboration:
    • While Dr. Lee has strong national collaborations, expanding his research to involve more international institutions could further elevate his profile on the global stage. His work could benefit from more cross-border partnerships, especially with institutions in the EU or North America, to bring in diverse perspectives and resources.
  2. Public Engagement and Outreach:
    • Dr. Lee’s work, while impactful in academia, could benefit from more public outreach and awareness campaigns. Given the environmental relevance of his research (e.g., reservoir management, water safety, and climate resilience), greater engagement with policy makers, industries, and the public could enhance the impact of his innovations.
  3. Expanding Research into Policy or Practical Applications:
    • While his research has direct engineering applications, his efforts in bridging the gap between scientific innovation and practical policy implementation (e.g., advising governments on water management) could be expanded. Collaborations with governmental or non-governmental organizations in policy formulation could increase the societal impact of his work.

Education 

Fong-Zuo Lee earned his Ph.D. in Bioenvironmental Systems Engineering from National Taiwan University (NTU) in 2014, where he conducted extensive research on sediment transport in reservoirs and river systems. Prior to that, he completed both his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Civil Engineering at National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU), Taiwan. His academic journey equipped him with a robust understanding of hydraulic engineering, sediment dynamics, and water resource management, laying the foundation for his research on environmental sustainability and innovative water management practices. As a researcher, he has focused on the integration of hydrological models, sediment transport simulations, and engineering solutions to improve reservoir desilting and water conservation strategies. His doctoral and postdoctoral research was highly interdisciplinary, bridging civil and environmental engineering with practical applications in sustainable water systems and sediment management.

Research Focus 

Dr. Fong-Zuo Lee’s research focuses primarily on the study of sediment transport in river systems and reservoirs, with an emphasis on preventing sedimentation and optimizing sediment management strategies. His work spans hydraulic modeling, sediment transport simulations, and watershed management. He is particularly interested in the development of advanced models to predict sediment behavior under various hydrological conditions, including during extreme weather events. Another significant area of his research is bridge pier scour simulation and the effects of sedimentation on infrastructure. Dr. Lee also explores the use of artificial intelligence and sensor systems for real-time monitoring and early warning in hydraulic environments, such as for detecting and mitigating bridge scour during floods. His projects aim to improve water conservation practices, enhance riverine ecosystem management, and inform better policy for sustainable water resource development. His contributions have practical implications for water quality, infrastructure stability, and environmental protection.

Publications

  1. Modeling and Analysis of Turbidity Currents in a Reservoir with the Dredged Guiding Channel 🌊🔬
  2. Application of Artificial Countermeasures to Enhance Desilting Efficiency in a Reservoir Under Normal and Extreme Events 🌧️🏞️
  3. The Two-Dimensional Hydraulic and Sediment Transport Simulation of Dredging Scenarios in Huajiang Wetland 🌿💧
  4. Experimental Study with Hydraulic Modeling of a Reservoir Desilting Operation Using a Sediment Bypass Tunnel 🚧💦
  5. Apply Two-Dimensional Layer-Averaged Model and Theoretical Orifice Flow Equations to Estimate Desilting Efficiency ⚙️🌍
  6. Desilting Efficiency Improvement Using a Dredged Channel in a Reservoir 🏞️🔧
  7. Physical Model Setup and Tests on Cooling Circulation Water Pumping Intake System 🔬💡
  8. Reservoir Sediment Management and Downstream River Impacts for Sustainable Water Resources—Case Study of Shihmen Reservoir 💧🌍
  9. The Artificial Intelligence of Things Sensing System of Real-Time Bridge Scour Monitoring for Early Warning During Floods 🤖🌊
  10. Minimizing the Impact of Vacating Instream Storage of a Multi-Reservoir System: A Trade-Off Study of Water Supply and Empty Flushing 🌊🔄

Conclusion

Dr. Fong-Zuo Lee is highly deserving of recognition for the Best Researcher Award. His extensive academic background, groundbreaking contributions in the fields of hydraulic modeling, sediment transport, and environmental engineering, coupled with a strong citation record and innovative solutions for reservoir sediment management, position him as a leader in his field. His research not only addresses theoretical challenges but also provides practical solutions to pressing environmental problems, such as flood control, sediment management, and ecological conservation.Given his track record of high-quality publications, patents, and collaborative research, as well as his engagement with both academia and industry, Dr. Lee’s work has substantial potential for wider application. If he continues to build on these strengths—especially by increasing international collaborations and policy engagement—he will be well-positioned to make even greater contributions to his field.Thus, Dr. Fong-Zuo Lee is an excellent candidate for this prestigious award, and his continued work will likely shape the future of environmental engineering and water resource management.

Kechnit Djamel | Hydrology | Best Researcher Award

Dr Kechnit Djamel | Hydrology | Best Researcher Award

PhD student, CRREBaC ( Congo basin water ressources researchcenter ), Algeria

Djamel Kechnit is a dedicated PhD student at the University of Kinshasa, focusing on water resource management and hydrology. His research aims to enhance river monitoring, flood management, and navigation in the Congo River Basin through innovative methods like remote sensing and in situ measurements. Djamel holds a Master’s degree in Hydraulics from the National Higher School of Hydraulics in Algeria and has accumulated valuable experience as a hydraulic engineer. He is committed to addressing pressing water resource challenges, contributing to sustainable development and community resilience. With a passion for interdisciplinary collaboration, Djamel actively engages in international conferences to share his findings and foster knowledge exchange within the hydrology community.

Profile

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Strengths for the Award

  1. Research Contributions: Djamel has made significant contributions to the field of hydrology and water resource management, particularly through his innovative use of remote sensing and in situ measurements. His publications in reputable journals highlight his ability to address complex issues in large river systems, which is critical for understanding and managing water resources in the Congo Basin.
  2. Diverse Skill Set: With a strong academic background in hydraulics and practical experience as a hydraulic engineer, Djamel combines theoretical knowledge with applied skills. His work on hydraulic modeling and infrastructure projects reflects a comprehensive understanding of both engineering and environmental considerations.
  3. International Collaboration: Djamel’s collaborations with esteemed advisors from various countries indicate his ability to work within diverse teams. This global perspective enriches his research and expands its applicability.
  4. Presentation and Communication Skills: His active participation in international conferences demonstrates strong communication skills and a commitment to sharing knowledge. Presenting at prestigious forums enhances the visibility of his research and fosters valuable networking opportunities.
  5. Focus on Real-World Applications: His dissertation topic emphasizes practical applications in river navigation and flood management, aligning research with pressing societal needs. This focus ensures that his work has implications for infrastructure, ecological preservation, and community resilience.

Areas for Improvement

  1. Broaden Research Scope: While Djamel has focused on river systems in the Congo Basin, exploring comparative studies with other regions could enhance the robustness of his findings and increase their applicability on a global scale.
  2. Engagement in Policy Advocacy: Strengthening ties with policymakers could help translate his research into actionable strategies. Engaging in policy discussions and frameworks could amplify the impact of his work.
  3. Mentorship and Leadership: As he progresses in his career, seeking opportunities to mentor junior researchers or students could further develop his leadership skills and contribute to the academic community.
  4. Enhance Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Encouraging collaborations beyond hydrology, such as with ecologists or social scientists, could provide a more holistic view of the challenges faced in water resource management.

Education

Djamel Kechnit is currently pursuing a PhD in Water Resources at the University of Kinshasa (UNIKIN) in the Democratic Republic of Congo, expected to be completed by September 2024. His dissertation focuses on the application of remote sensing and in situ measurement techniques to optimize navigation scenarios in the Congo River Basin, supervised by Professor Raphael Tshimanga and co-advised by experts from Algeria and the UK. Prior to his doctoral studies, Djamel earned a Master’s degree in Hydraulics from the National Higher School of Hydraulics (ENSH) in Blida, Algeria, in July 2018. His academic journey began with a Bachelor’s degree in Hydraulics from the same institution, where he developed a solid foundation in hydraulic engineering principles. Djamel’s education has equipped him with a robust understanding of water resource management, which he is now applying to address critical environmental challenges.

Experience

Djamel Kechnit has extensive professional experience as a hydraulic engineer, contributing to various infrastructure projects in Algeria. From October 2018 to August 2021, he worked with ZERARGA HOCINE ARCHITECTS, where he was involved in the rehabilitation of VRD networks for educational institutions and the design of drinking water supply systems for hospitals. Prior to that, he worked at ARTELIA EAU & ENVIRONNEMENT from October 2017 to May 2021, focusing on hydraulic modeling for water supply. His practical experience has equipped him with valuable skills in project management, technical analysis, and sustainable engineering solutions. Currently, he is applying this expertise as a PhD student at the Congo Basin Water Resources Research Center (CRREBac) at UNIKIN, where he continues to engage in research and collaboration aimed at improving water resource management in the Congo Basin.

Research Focus

Djamel Kechnit’s research focuses on critical areas within hydrology, including river monitoring, flood management, and water resource operations. His doctoral dissertation investigates the application of remote sensing and in situ measurement techniques to optimize navigation scenarios in the Congo River Basin, which is crucial for sustainable development in the region. Djamel aims to contribute to a deeper understanding of hydrological processes, particularly in large river systems that face data scarcity. His work also explores innovative methods for bathymetry and discharge estimation, emphasizing the need for accurate water resource assessments. By addressing the complexities of surface water hydrology, his research has significant implications for infrastructure planning, ecological preservation, and enhancing community resilience against climate variability. Djamel is committed to advancing knowledge in hydrology through rigorous scientific inquiry and interdisciplinary collaboration.

Publication Top Notes

  1. Assessing Uncertainties of a Remote Sensing-based Discharge Reflectance Model for Applications to Large Rivers of the Congo Basin 📄
  2. Bathymetry and Discharge Estimation in Large and Data-Scarce Rivers Using an Entropy-Based Approach 🌊

Conclusion

Djamel Kechnit demonstrates exceptional promise as a researcher in the field of water resources. His strong academic foundation, coupled with practical experience and a clear focus on impactful research, positions him as a leading candidate for the Research for Best Researcher Award. By continuing to expand his research scope and engaging with broader communities, he can further enhance his contributions to the field and society.

Fang Guo | Hydrological and Water Resources Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Prof Dr Fang Guo | Hydrological and Water Resources Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Prof Dr Fang Guo , Institute of Karst Geology, Chinese Academy of Geological Sciences, China

🧑‍🔬 Fang Guo is a distinguished researcher and PhD advisor at the Institute of Karst Geology, Chinese Academy of Geological Sciences. With a deep-seated expertise in karst hydrogeology and hydrogeochemistry, she has dedicated her career to advancing the understanding of groundwater-surface water interactions, karst hyporheic zones, and eco-hydrological processes. Her research also extends to the restoration of wetland water environments and the preservation of carbonate rock cultural relics. A recipient of the prestigious “Young Karst Researcher” prize by the International Association of Hydrogeologists (IAH) in 2010, Fang Guo has led numerous nationally funded projects, making significant strides in the field. She has published 65 influential papers in top-tier journals like the Journal of Hydrology. Her contributions to karst geology and environmental sciences continue to resonate globally, establishing her as a leading figure in her domain. 🌍📚

Publication Profile

Scopus

Strengths for the Award

  • Expertise and Experience: Fang Guo has a deep and extensive background in karst hydrogeology and hydrogeochemistry, which is highly specialized and significant for environmental and geological research. Her long-term engagement in these fields underscores her commitment and depth of knowledge.
  • Research Impact: She has made substantial contributions to understanding groundwater-surface water interactions, karst eco-hydrological processes, and wetland water environment restoration. These areas are critical for sustainable water management and environmental conservation, adding value to global ecological efforts.
  • Recognition: Being awarded the “Young Karst Researcher” prize by the IAH Commission on Karst Hydrogeology in 2010 highlights her early recognition as a promising researcher in her field.
  • Leadership in Research Projects: Leading four National Natural Science Foundation of China projects and key projects under other major national programs showcases her ability to secure funding and manage large-scale, impactful research endeavors.
  • Publication Record: With 65 papers published in reputable academic journals, including high-impact journals like the Journal of Hydrology, her research has contributed significantly to the scientific community.
  • Awards: Receiving the second-class Provincial and Ministerial Science and Technology Progress Award and a first-class China Geological Survey Achievement Award further solidifies her status as a respected researcher in her field.

Areas for Improvement

  • Diversity in Research Topics: While her expertise in karst hydrogeology and related fields is undeniable, expanding her research to include broader geological or environmental topics could enhance her versatility as a researcher and open up new collaborative opportunities.
  • International Collaboration: Although she has international recognition, increasing her collaborations with global research institutions or participating in international research initiatives could further elevate her profile and impact.
  • Lead Authorship: While she has authored many papers, being a first author in more high-impact publications would strengthen her position as a leader in her field.

Education 

🎓 Fang Guo’s academic journey is marked by a solid foundation in geosciences, specializing in karst hydrogeology and hydrogeochemistry. She pursued her undergraduate studies in Geology, where she developed a keen interest in groundwater-surface water interactions and karst systems. Driven by her passion for research, she completed her master’s degree in Hydrogeology, focusing on the intricate processes of karst environments. Her commitment to advancing knowledge in this field led her to pursue a PhD, during which she conducted groundbreaking research on karst hyporheic zones and eco-hydrological processes. Under the guidance of esteemed mentors and through rigorous research, Fang Guo honed her expertise, contributing to the understanding of karst systems’ complexities. Her educational background has been instrumental in shaping her career as a leading researcher, allowing her to make significant contributions to karst geology and environmental sciences. 🌱🔬

 Experience 

💼 Fang Guo has accumulated extensive experience in the field of karst hydrogeology and hydrogeochemistry. She has been a researcher and PhD advisor at the Institute of Karst Geology, Chinese Academy of Geological Sciences, where she has led and participated in numerous high-impact research projects. Her work has primarily focused on groundwater-surface water interactions, karst hyporheic zones, and eco-hydrological processes, with a strong emphasis on environmental conservation and sustainable water management. Fang Guo has successfully led four projects funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China and key projects under the Guangxi Natural Science Foundation, the National “11th Five-Year” Science and Technology Support Program, and several National Key R&D Program topics. Her experience also extends to publishing extensively in top-tier journals, mentoring graduate students, and collaborating with international research teams, further solidifying her reputation as a leading expert in her field. 🌊🔍

Awards and Honors

🏆 Fang Guo’s contributions to karst hydrogeology and hydrogeochemistry have been recognized through numerous awards and honors. In 2010, she was awarded the “Young Karst Researcher” prize by the International Association of Hydrogeologists (IAH) Commission on Karst Hydrogeology, acknowledging her early promise and significant contributions to the field. Her research has also earned her a second-class Provincial and Ministerial Science and Technology Progress Award, where she was the third author, and a first-class China Geological Survey Achievement Award, where she contributed as the seventh author. These accolades reflect her dedication to advancing the understanding of karst systems and her impact on environmental sciences. Fang Guo’s awards underscore her role as a leading figure in karst geology, highlighting her innovative research and commitment to addressing critical environmental challenges. 🥇🌍

Research Focus

🔬 Fang Guo’s research is centered on understanding and preserving karst environments, with a primary focus on karst hydrogeology, hydrogeochemistry, and eco-hydrological processes. Her work has significantly advanced the knowledge of groundwater-surface water interactions, karst hyporheic zones, and the ecological dynamics within karst systems. She has also been actively involved in monitoring and managing karst groundwater, contributing to the restoration of wetland water environments and the conservation of carbonate rock cultural relics. Fang Guo’s research extends to exploring the weathering and destruction mechanisms of these relics, aiming to preserve these vital cultural and natural resources. Her studies are not only crucial for environmental sustainability but also for understanding the complex interactions within karst ecosystems. Through her work, she continues to contribute valuable insights that inform both scientific understanding and practical conservation efforts. 🌿💧

Publication Top Notes

🌊 Jiang, G.H., Guo, F.*, Wei, L.Q., Li, W.Y. Characterizing the transitory groundwater-surface water interaction and its environmental consequence of a riverside karst pool. Science of The Total Environment, 2023, 902: 166532.

🦠 Guo F., Jiang G.H., Liu F. Plankton distribution patterns and the indicative significance of diverse cave wetlands in subtropical karst basin. Front. Environ. Sci., 2022, 10:970485. doi: 10.3389/fenvs.2022.970485.

🧪 Guo F., Jiang G.H., Liu F. Biological sulfate reduction in an epigene karst aquifer and its impact on cave environment. Journal of Hydrology, 2021, 602,126804.

🌱 Guo F., Jiang G.H. Hydro-ecological processes of hyporheic zone in a karst spring-fed pool: Effects of groundwater decline and river backflow. Journal of Hydrology, 2020, 587:124987

Conclusion

Fang Guo is a highly accomplished and recognized researcher in the field of karst hydrogeology, with a strong track record of impactful research, leadership in major projects, and contributions to environmental science. Her achievements and recognition make her a strong candidate for the Research for Best Researcher Award. While there is room for further growth in international collaboration and expanding her research scope, her current strengths make her well-suited for this prestigious award.

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 🌟