Mahesh Prasad Awasthi | Environmental Science | Young Researcher Award

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Mr. Mahesh Prasad Awasthi | Environmental Science | Young Researcher Award

Teaching Assistant at Far Western University, Nepal

Professional Profile

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Orcid
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Summary

Mahesh Prasad Awasthi, is an emerging environmental scientist and geospatial researcher. Currently serving as a Teaching Assistant at the Central Department of General Science, Far Western University, Nepal, he also contributes as a GIS specialist and researcher for the Api Saipal Development Forum. Mahesh has demonstrated a strong commitment to integrating geospatial technologies and environmental science to address critical societal and ecological challenges in the Himalayan region.

Educational Details

Mahesh holds a Master of Science (M.Sc.) degree in Environmental Science from the Central Department of Environmental Science, Tribhuvan University, where his thesis focused on flood susceptibility modeling and water quality assessment. He completed his Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Environmental Science at Far Western University, with a thesis on landslide susceptibility modeling. His academic journey began with +2 Science from Kanchan Vidya Mandir Samudayik College and School Leaving Certificate (S.L.C.) from Galeshwor Secondary School, Baitadi.

Professional Experience

Mahesh has over five years of multidisciplinary experience in environmental science, disaster risk reduction, and geoinformatics. He currently teaches at Far Western University and previously worked as a Field Enumerator for Nepal’s National Climate Change Survey. Additionally, he serves as a part-time Program Coordinator and GIS Specialist at the Api Saipal Development Forum and held the role of Program Officer for Environment and DRR at Lakshya Training and Research Center. He has also interned with ENPHO and NEEDS Nepal on urban resilience and waste management projects.

Research Interest

His research interests include Environmental Geoinformatics (GIS/RS/Modeling), Hydrogeochemistry, Aquatic Ecology, Wetland Conservation, Disaster Risk Management, and Climate Change. He emphasizes the application of multivariate statistical tools, digital elevation models, and hydrological modeling techniques to support data-driven environmental planning and conservation in Nepal’s fragile ecosystems. Mahesh is passionate about empowering communities and young researchers through the intersection of science, technology, and policy.

Author Metrics

Mahesh has co-authored and authored over 16 peer-reviewed publications in reputed journals such as Environmental Earth Science, Water Practice and Technology, Water, Scientific World, and Sustainable Water Resources Management. His work has been cited across multiple domains involving geospatial modeling, climate change vulnerability, hydrochemical assessment, and bioindicators. His profiles are accessible on Google Scholar, ResearchGate, and ORCID.

Awards and Honors

Mahesh has received several competitive research grants and awards for his pioneering work in environmental assessment and community-based climate adaptation. In 2022, he was awarded a thesis grant by the Ministry of Industry, Tourism, Forest and Environment, followed by principal investigator-led projects in 2023, 2024, and 2025 funded by institutions like the Nepal National Social Welfare Association and Ministry of Social Development. These grants supported impactful research on climate resilience, water vulnerability, and local adaptation strategies in Western Nepal.

Publication Top Notes

1. An Assessment of Seasonal Water Quality in Phewa Lake, Nepal, by Integrating Geochemical Indices and Statistical Techniques: A Sustainable Approach

  • Authors: R. Timalsina, S. Acharya, B. Đurin, M. P. Awasthi, R. R. Pant, G. R. Joshi, et al.

  • Journal: Water, Vol. 17(2), Article 238, 2025

  • Citations: 9

  • Summary: This study evaluates the seasonal variation in water quality of Phewa Lake using a blend of geochemical indices and statistical tools. It provides actionable insights into the lake’s ecological status, highlighting potential pollution sources and proposing sustainable water management strategies.

2. Hydro-chemical Characteristics of Biring and Tangting Rivers (Nepal) and Evaluation of Water Quality for Drinking and Irrigation Purposes

  • Authors: N. Basnet, S. Sitaula, R. Bohara, S. Bhattarai, S. Rawal, M. P. Uprety, M. P. Awasthi, et al.

  • Journal: Environmental Research, Vol. 261, Article 119697, 2024

  • Citations: 8

  • Summary: This research analyzes hydro-chemical properties of the Biring and Tangting Rivers, assessing their suitability for drinking and irrigation. It identifies key contaminants, highlights seasonal influences, and recommends interventions to ensure safe water use.

3. Evaluating the Major Sources of Surface Water Quality in Pokhara Metropolitan City, Gandaki Province, Nepal

  • Authors: S. Tiwari, B. Timalsina, S. Sitaula, M. P. Awasthi, A. Mahat, R. R. Pant

  • Journal: Himalayan Biodiversity, pp. 29–38, 2023

  • Citations: 8

  • Summary: This paper identifies and analyzes the primary anthropogenic and natural contributors to surface water pollution in Pokhara. The findings serve as a policy guide for improving urban water resource management and safeguarding biodiversity.

4. Mapping and Analyzing Temporal Variability of Spectral Indices in the Lowland Region of Far Western Nepal

  • Author: M. P. Awasthi

  • Journal: Water Practice and Technology, Vol. 18(11), pp. 2971–2988, 2023

  • Citations: 7

  • Summary: This study leverages satellite-derived spectral indices to monitor environmental variability and land cover change in Far Western Nepal. The findings emphasize the role of remote sensing in early warning systems and environmental planning.

5. Water Balance Estimation and Runoff Simulation of Chameliya Watershed, Nepal

  • Authors: J. Nepal, R. R. Pant, S. Shrestha, S. Paudel, K. Bishwakarma, M. P. Awasthi, et al.

  • Journal: Environmental Earth Sciences, Vol. 83(3), Article 117, 2024

  • Citations: 6

  • Summary: Focusing on the Chameliya Watershed, this research employs hydrological modeling to estimate water balance and simulate runoff. The outcomes aid in flood risk management, irrigation planning, and climate resilience in the Himalayan foothills.

Conclusion

Mr. Mahesh Prasad Awasthi exemplifies the ideal recipient of the Young Researcher Award in Environmental Science. His track record reflects a rare combination of academic excellence, community-oriented practice, and innovation in geospatial methods. He is already influencing environmental monitoring and climate resilience planning in Nepal, and with continued support, he is poised to make even broader regional and international contributions.

Vishwambhar Prasad Sati | Geography | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Dr. Vishwambhar Prasad Sati | Geography | Best Researcher Award

Senior Professor at Mizoram University, Aizawl, India

Professional Profile

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Orcid
Google Scholar

Summary

Prof. Vishwambhar Prasad Sati is a Senior Professor in the Department of Geography and Resource Management at Mizoram University (A Central University), Aizawl, India. With over 28 years of diverse academic and administrative experience, he is an internationally recognized scholar in mountain geography, sustainable development, and natural resource management. His work spans across continents, and he is actively engaged in global academic collaborations. Prof. Sati has also served in key academic leadership roles both in India and abroad and is currently affiliated as a Visiting Professor and Global Fellow at several international institutions.

Educational Details

Prof. Sati holds a Doctor of Letters (D.Litt.) in Geography from Jiwaji University, Gwalior (2011), a Ph.D. in Geography from HNB Garhwal University (1992), and an M.A. in Geography from the same institution (1989). He qualified the National Eligibility Test (NET) in Geography in 1997, conducted by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research, New Delhi.

Professional Experience

Prof. Sati began his academic career as an Assistant Professor in Madhya Pradesh in 1994 and progressed to the ranks of Associate and full Professor, later joining Mizoram University through direct selection in 2012. Since 2021, he has served as Senior Professor at Mizoram University. His international teaching tenure includes serving as an Associate Professor and Head of the Department of Geography at Eritrea Institute of Technology (2005–2007). He has held several academic leadership roles, including Head of the Centre for Disaster Management at Mizoram University (since 2023) and Head of the Department of Geography and RM (2016–2019). Earlier, he also held administrative positions in Government PG Colleges in Madhya Pradesh and Eritrea.

Research Interests

Prof. Sati's research focuses on mountain geography, sustainable development, natural resource management, disaster risk reduction, rural transformation, and climate change impacts. His interdisciplinary approach integrates field-based observations, sustainable livelihoods, and policy-based strategies for environmental management, especially in fragile ecosystems such as the Himalayas.

Author Metrics

Prof. Sati maintains a strong scholarly presence with an extensive publication record indexed in Scopus, ResearchGate, and Google Scholar. His research is widely cited and reflects a consistent focus on sustainability, hazard risk, and mountain ecosystems. He has been recognized among the top 0.5% of scholars worldwide based on publication volume and impact. His academic content is accessible through various platforms including YouTube, Medium, and institutional repositories.

Awards and Honors

Prof. Sati has been honored with numerous awards and fellowships, including the Golden Achiever Award (2023), Best Research Paper Award (Elsevier, 2023), and multiple Visiting Professorships across Ukraine, China, and Canada. Notably, he was a Presidential Fellow at the Chinese Academy of Sciences (2016) and has been recognized by the World Academy of Sciences, Indian National Science Academy, and ICSSR for his outstanding contributions. His accolades include more than a dozen international fellowships and over 50 international visits for academic purposes.

Publication Top Notes

1. Exploring Livelihood Opportunities in the Kali Kumaon Region of Uttarakhand Himalaya

Author: VP Sati
Journal: African Journal of Rural Development, Vol. 10(1), pp. 1–16
Year: 2025
Summary:
This paper examines alternative livelihood opportunities in the Kali Kumaon region of the Uttarakhand Himalaya. It emphasizes region-specific strategies to shift communities from subsistence-based livelihoods to more diversified and sustainable sources of income, including eco-tourism, agro-forestry, and local entrepreneurship.

2. Socio-Economic and Environmental Impacts of Jamrani Irrigation Dam Project, Kumaon Himalaya, India

Author: VP Sati
Journal: Rural and Regional Development, Vol. 3(3), Article ID: 10007
Year: 2025
Summary:
This article critically assesses the Jamrani Irrigation Dam Project in terms of its developmental promises and environmental trade-offs. It investigates socio-economic transformations, resettlement issues, and ecological changes, offering policy-level recommendations for inclusive and sustainable development.

3. Sustainable Homestay Tourism for Enhancing Rural Livelihood in the Uttarakhand Himalaya: A Study of the Tons River Basin

Authors: VP Sati, S Banerjee
Journal: BIO Web of Conferences, Vol. 151, Article No. 03001
Year: 2025
Summary:
This paper presents homestay tourism as a model for sustainable rural livelihood in the Tons River Basin. By linking local culture, traditional architecture, and natural beauty to community-based tourism, it promotes economic resilience and environmental stewardship.

4. A Brief Introduction to Cultural Geography of the Central Himalaya, India

Author: VP Sati
Book Chapter In: Sacred Landscapes, Indigenous Knowledge, and Ethno-culture in Natural Resource Management
Year: 2024
Summary:
This chapter introduces the cultural landscape of the Central Himalaya, focusing on indigenous traditions, sacred geography, and ethnographic heritage. It explains how cultural practices are deeply interwoven with ecological knowledge and sustainable resource use.

5. Spatio‐Temporal Assessment of Areal Fragmentation and Volume of Snow Cover in the Central Himalaya

Authors: SB, VP Sati, MAS Chakraborty
Journal: Earth Systems and Environment
Year: 2024
Summary:
This research utilizes remote sensing and GIS to monitor snow cover fragmentation and volume trends in the Central Himalaya. The findings reveal significant climatic shifts affecting snow distribution, with implications for hydrological regimes and regional water security.

Conclusion

Prof. Dr. Vishwambhar Prasad Sati is an outstanding researcher with a proven track record of scholarly rigor, societal relevance, and global academic engagement. His recent publications, international awards, and ongoing contributions to mountain research, sustainable development, and rural livelihood studies strongly support his nomination and candidacy for the Best Researcher Award.

Jean Marcos da Silva – Sustainability – Best Researcher Award

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Jean Marcos da Silva – Sustainability – Best Researcher Award

Mr. Jean Marcos da silva distinguished academic and researcher in the field Sustainability. 

🌐 Professional Profile

Educations📚📚📚

He completed his PhD in Administration in 2020 at the Federal University of Santa Maria (UFSM) in Brazil, under the supervision of Jordana Marques Kneipp. From 2013 to 2015, he pursued a Master’s degree in Administration at the Federal University of Rondônia (UNIR) in Porto Velho, Brazil. His thesis, titled “Public Policies for Cost Composition and Price Formation of Brazil Nuts,” was completed in 2015 under the guidance of Mariluce Paes de Souza, with funding from CAPES, Brazil. Between 2008 and 2012, he obtained a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting Sciences from the Federal University of Rondônia (UNIR) in Porto Velho, Brazil, with a thesis on “Economic Control of Activities in Family Agriculture: A Study Focused on the Management Information System,” supervised by Professor Dr Rosália Maria Passos da Silva. He also earned a Bachelor’s degree in Pedagogical Training for Non-Licensed Bachelors from the Federal Institute of Education, Science, and Technology Sul-Rio-Grandense (IFSUL) in Pelotas, Brazil, between 2018 and 2021. His thesis, titled “TO BE OR TO HAVE A TEACHING ATTITUDE? THAT IS THE QUESTION: A NARRATIVE OF A TEACHER-RESEARCHER,” was supervised by Janaina Schvambach. He completed his secondary education at E.E.F.M José de Anchieta (J.A) in Brazil, from 2005 to 2007.

Experience

He has pursued various supplementary courses to enhance his skills and knowledge. Between 2007 and 2008, he completed a short course in Informatics at Millenium Informatica (MI) in Brazil, totalling 85 hours. In 2007, he also undertook a short course in Quality at Work – Team Management at the School of the Legislative (INTERCÂMARAS) in Brazil, which lasted 20 hours. In 2009, he completed a short course in Oratory at Microlins (MICROLINS) in Brazil. In 2010, he engaged in university extension in Philosophy of Language: Rousseau at the Federal University of Rondônia (UNIR) in Porto Velho, Brazil, for 40 hours, and a short course in Interpersonal Relationships at the Euvaldo Lodi Institute (IEL/RO) in Porto Velho, Brazil, for 16 hours. In 2014, he enrolled in an English course at Minds English School (MINDS) in Brazil, totalling 240 hours, although he interrupted this course in 2016. Additionally, in 2014, he completed a short course in Topics of Bibliometrics and Experimental Data Analysis (DEA) at the Federal University of Rondônia (UNIR) in Porto Velho, Brazil, for 8 hours. In 2020, he took a short course in Introduction to Project Management at the National School of Public Administration (ENAP) in Brasília, Brazil, for 20 hours, and another short course in Secretariat from Certificado Cursos Online (CO) in Brazil, which lasted 60 hours.

He has been a public servant and a dedicated full-time Lecturer-Researcher at the Federal Institute of Education, Science, and Technology Sul-Rio-Grandense (IFSUL) since 2018, with a workload of 40 hours per week. He teaches courses on Management and Entrepreneurship as well as the Professional Area for Technician in Secretariat. Since March 2019, he has also served as the Coordinator of the Integrated Environmental Management Unit at IFSul-Venâncio Aires/RS. Between September 2018 and December 2018, he worked in Management, Business, and Sustainability. Additionally, since September 2018, he has been engaged in research and development at IFSul-Venâncio Aires/RS, focusing on Local Productive Arrangements and the Sustainability of Non-Timber Forest Products (NTFPs). Since March 2018, he has been involved in professional development in the areas of Management and Entrepreneurship.

He also served as a Substitute Professor at the Federal University of Rondônia (UNIR) from 2016 to 2017, with a full-time workload of 40 hours per week. In 2012, he worked as a Monitor at UNIR, with a part-time workload of 12 hours per week. His activities at UNIR included providing specialised technical services, such as analysing, reporting, and giving opinions on requests for the inclusion of courses and extension projects. From March 2017 to July 2017, he taught various accounting subjects, including Analysis of Accounts and Balances, International Accounting, Governmental Accounting Processing, and Accounting for Third Sector Organisations. He also coordinated the course in January and February 2017 and taught Planning and Business Budgeting, Final Paper, Proficiency in Accounting Fundamentals and Practices, and Financial Analysis of the Company from September 2016 to January 2017.

Since March 2011, he has been involved in research and development at CEDSA, focusing on Management and Sustainability in the Amazon, Accounting and Sustainability, Local Productive Development Arrangements, and Costs and Prices for Agroforestry Products.

Guidance and Supervisions

He has supervised and completed several undergraduate final projects. In 2017, he guided J. A. Freitas and E. R. Tomaz on their scientific work about the Public Digital Bookkeeping System (SPED) at the Federal University of Rondônia. He also supervised A. R. S. Bastos and L. O. Castro, along with M. S. Castro, on their study of scientific articles concerning the financial analysis method ‘Kanitz Thermometer’ through an integrative review methodology at the same institution. Another notable supervision was for Alexandre Rhuan Almeida Fritz, who examined the level of entrepreneurship among self-employed workers at PSV in Cacoal’s Municipal Square, RO, in 2017, at the Higher Education Institution of Cacoal. He also oversaw A. A. de Sousa, E. A. da Silva, and L. B. Costa in their study on the entrepreneurial level and motivations for remaining in informality among self-employed workers at the Camelódromo in Porto Velho, RO, in 2017, at the Federal University of Rondônia. Joscimar Ferreira Coimbra’s project on SPED, focusing on the perceptions of traditional professionals in Cacoal, RO, was another project he supervised in 2017 at the Higher Education Institution of Cacoal. Additionally, in 2013, he guided Zélia Rocha de Farias and Ílen Caroline Pires de Oliveira in their economic-financial analysis based on accounting statements, conducting a comparative study of organisations in the IT sector at the Federal University of Rondônia.

📝🔬Publications📝🔬

  • “Social learning, innovation, and sustainability: The search for directions beyond a systematic literature review”

    Heliyon
    2024-04 | Journal article
    DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e28431
    CONTRIBUTORS: Marcos da Silva-Jean; Jordana Marques Kneipp
  • PARA ALÉM DAS DIMENSÕES DA SUSTENTABILIDADE, OS DESAFIOS E AS PERSPECTIVAS DO EXTRATIVISMO DO PINHÃO
    Desafio Online
    2023-04-12 | Journal article
    DOI: 10.55028/don.v11i3.17790
    CONTRIBUTORS: Jean Marcos da Silva; Thiago Paulo Both; Jordana Marques Kneipp; Greice Eccel Pontelli

  • Challenges and Perspectives of Pinhão Production Considering the Dimensions of Sustainability

    2023-03-23 | Book chapter
    DOI: 10.4018/978-1-6684-6123-5.ch014
    CONTRIBUTORS: Jean Marcos da Silva; Jordana Marques Kneipp; Thiago Paulo Both; Greice Eccel Pontell

  • Public policies of guarantee for minimum prices on products of sociobiodiversity (PGPMBio): composition of the extraction cost of Amazonian chestnut in Rondônia and Acre

    Revista de Administração da UFSM
    2022-04-19 | Journal article
    DOI: 10.5902/1983465965906
    CONTRIBUTORS: Jean Marcos da Silva; Mariluce Paes-de-Souza; Theophilo Alves de Souza Filho; Fabiana Rodrigues Riva; Cleidimar da Silva Borbosa

Lakmali Weerasena – Ecological Conservation Award – Best Researcher Award

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Lakmali Weerasena – Ecological Conservation Award – Best Researcher Award

Dr. Lakmali Weerasena distinguished academic and researcher in the field Ecological Conservation. She specializes in scientific computing with a particular focus on analyzing complex optimization problems and designing efficient algorithms using graph data structures for modeling and data analysis, both theoretically and in practical applications. Her research interests span various domains including engineering, conservation biology, and management science, where she explores emerging models. Drawing from classical optimization techniques, statistical concepts, and modern methodologies such as machine learning, she seeks to address multifaceted challenges. Her contributions extend beyond theoretical investigations to applied research, as evidenced by her publications across diverse areas in applied mathematics, operations research, and statistics in esteemed scientific journals. Furthermore, she actively engages with the academic community by organizing conference sessions and presenting her research as both an invited and contributing speaker, demonstrating her commitment to advancing knowledge and fostering collaboration in her field.

🌐 Professional Profiles

Educations📚📚📚

Lakmali Weerasena holds a Ph.D. in Operations Research from Clemson University, where she completed her dissertation on “Approximation in Multiobjective Optimization with Applications,” under the guidance of Professor Margaret Wiecek. Prior to her doctoral studies, she earned a Master of Science in Mathematical Sciences from Clemson University, focusing on optimization models for designing spatially compact ecological reserve systems, supervised by Professor Emeritus Douglas Shier. Lakmali’s academic journey began at the University of Peradeniya in Sri Lanka, where she obtained her Bachelor of Science (Honors) in Mathematics. Additionally, she pursued non-degree graduate studies at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, delving into Introduction to Machine Learning offered by the Department of Computer Science in the College of Engineering during the spring of 2023. With her diverse educational background spanning across mathematics, optimization, and machine learning, Lakmali Weerasena exhibits a multidisciplinary approach to her academic pursuits.

 Work experiences

 

She has built a distinguished career in academia, currently serving as the UC Foundation Associate Professor of Mathematics at the University of Tennessee – Chattanooga since August 2022. Prior to this role, she held positions as Assistant Professor of Mathematics at the same institution from August 2016 to August 2022, and as Assistant Professor of Mathematics (Limited Term) at Albany State University from August 2015 to May 2016. Earlier in her career, she served as a Lecturer at Kennesaw State University from August 2014 to May 2015 and as a Visiting Lecturer. Her academic journey began at Clemson University, where she served as a Graduate Teacher of Record from August 2007 to December 2013 while completing her Ph.D. in Operations Research. These experiences have provided her with a comprehensive understanding of mathematics education and research, allowing her to excel in her current role as an esteemed faculty member.

Teaching Experience

In her tenure at the University of Tennessee-Chattanooga, TN, USA, since August 2016, she has demonstrated her versatility and expertise in teaching across a wide range of courses in the Department of Mathematics. Her teaching portfolio encompasses both undergraduate and graduate levels, covering topics such as computational and applied mathematics, probability and statistics, mathematical statistics, operations research (both linear and nonlinear), applied statistics, mathematical programming, introductory statistics, discrete mathematics for computer science, elementary linear algebra, calculus, and precalculus. Additionally, she supervises graduate-level courses focused on doctoral research, graduate research, and thesis preparation. Through her dedication and proficiency in teaching diverse mathematical subjects, she plays a pivotal role in fostering students’ understanding and appreciation for mathematics at both introductory and advanced levels.

Conferences

Invited Presentations
1. Breadth First Search Algorithm to Identify Connected Reserve Systems, ASB Special Session
on Women in Biology Inspired by Women in Biology, March 2024, Association of Southeastern
Biologists
2. A Sequential Approach to the Design of Compact and Connected Reserve Systems, Research
Colloquium in the Department of Mathematics, Faculty of Science, University of Peradeniya,
Sri Lanka, January 2024.
3. An integrated approach to the design of compact and connected reserve systems, AWM Special
Session on Exploring the Intersection of Mathematics and Ecology: Research Applications and
Findings, September 2023, AWM Research Symposium.
4. Spatially explicit mathematical model for invasive species management, AMS Special Session
on New Developments in Operations Research and Management Sciences I, October 2022, 2022
Fall Southeastern Sectional Meeting.
5. Advancing local search approximations for multiobjective combinatorial optimization problems,
Department of Mathematics Colloquium, October 2021, UTC, TN, US
6. An approximation approach for the generalized multiobjective set cover problem, Multi-Criteria
Decision Making (MCDM) section, INFORMS (Institute for Operations Research and the
Management Sciences) Conference, October 2021, California.
7. An approximation algorithm for the generalized multiobjective set cover problem, Approximation
Approaches for Multiobjective Optimization in stream Multiobjective Optimization session
under Multiobjective Optimization, 31st European Conference on Operational Research Conference,
July 2021, Athens, Greece (supported by UTC SimCenter grant).
8. Design of an algorithm with multiple-cost efficient rules for the generalized multiobjective set
cover problem, SimCenter and Department of Mathematics Colloquium, April 2021, UTC, TN,
USA.
9. Generalized set cover problem with conflict objective functions: algorithm and applications in
ecological conservation., Multi-Criteria Decision Making (MCDM) section, INFORMS (Institute
for Operations Research and the Management Sciences) Conference, October 2019, Seattle, USA
(supported by UTC grant).
10. Combinatorial optimization for ecological conservation, the 43rd Annual Meeting of the SIAM
Atlantic Section, September 2019, The University of Tennessee at Knoxville, TN (supported by
UTC grant).
11. Approximation method for optimum design of a fin, The University of Tennessee at Knoxville,
Knoxville, TN, February 14, 2019 (supported by Department of Mathematics, The University
of Tennessee at Knoxville).
12. Multiobjective design of a fin in a steady-state regime, Multi-Criteria Decision Making (MCDM)
section, INFORMS (Institute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences) Conference,
November 2018, Arizona, USA (supported by UTC grant).

Awards

She has mentored several students who have received prestigious awards and recognition for their academic achievements. Chathuri Aththanayaka participated in and presented a poster at the AWM Research Symposium, supported by the Division of Mathematical Sciences at the National Science Foundation (NSF DMS 2113506) in 2023. Christopher Tompkins received the NCUR Support Award from UTC in the same year. Delwyn Sam and Jonathan Stegmann were both honored with the Honor College Student Award from UTC in 2021 and 2018, respectively, highlighting their exceptional academic performance and contributions. Dell Zimmerman was granted the Scholarship, Engagement, the Arts, Research, Creativity, & Humanities (SEARCH) grant at UTC in 2018, where Dr. Soubantika Palchoudhury led the project. Additionally, Nichols Graham received the Undergraduate Research Award from Albany State University in 2016, recognizing his outstanding research endeavors under her guidance. These accolades underscore her dedication to mentoring and nurturing talented students, fostering their growth and success in academia.

📝🔬Publications📝🔬

1. Weerasena L., Aththanayaka C., Bandara D., Advances in the decision-making of set covering
models under uncertainty, Annals of Operations Research (forthcoming, 2024):
(Publisher: Springer-Verlag, Berlin, Germany).
2. Fadul M., Reising D., Weerasena L., Loveless T.D., Sartipi M., Tyler J., Improving RF-DNA
Fingerprinting Performance In An Indoor Multipath Environment Using Semi-Supervised Learning,
IEEE Transactions on Information Forensics and Security (2024): 1-16
(Publisher: IEEE).
3. Fadul M., Reising D., Weerasena L., An Investigation into the Impacts of Deep Learning-based
Re-sampling on Specific Emitter Identification Performance, The Journal of Engineering (2023):
1:11 (Publisher: Wiley, New Jersey, US).
4. Weerasena L., Shier D., Tonkyn D., McFeaters M., Collins C., Sequential approach to reserve
design with compactness and contiguity considerations, Ecological Modelling (2023): 478:10281
(Publisher: Elsevier, Amsterdam, Netherlands). CrossRef Google Scholar
5. Weerasena, L., Ebiefung, A., Skjellum, A., Design of a heuristic algorithm for the generalized
multi-objective set covering problem, Computational Optimization and Applications (2022): 82:717-
751
(Publisher: Springer-Verlag, Berlin, Germany) CrossRef Google Scholar
6. Weerasena, L., Hunt, N., Bandara, D., McKnight, M., Spatially Explicit Multi-objective Mathematical
Model for Invasive Species Management, Biological Invasions (2022): 24:1839–1862
(Publisher: Springer-Verlag, Berlin, Germany) CrossRef Google Scholar
7. Belinskiy, B., Hinton, D., Weerasena, L., Khan, M., On the Sturm–Liouville problem describing
an ocean waveguide covered by pack ice, Applicable Analysis (2021): 1-23
(Publisher: Taylor and Francis, London, United Kingdom) CrossRef Google Scholar
8. Weerasena, L., Advancing local search approximations for multiobjective combinatorial optimization
problems Journal of Combinatorial Optimization (2021): 1-24.
(Publisher: Springer-Verlag, Berlin, Germany) CrossRef Google Scholar
9. Weerasena, L., Belinskiy, B. P., Hiestand, J. W., Optimal effectiveness and efficiency of a fin in
steady-state: multiobjective approach Optimization and Engineering (2020): 1157-1180.
(Publisher: Springer-Verlag, Berlin, Germany) CrossRef Google Scholar
10. Weerasena, L. Algorithm for Generalized multiobjective set covering problem with an application
in ecological conservation, Int. J. of Mathematical Modelling and Numerical Optimisation (2020):
Volume 10 No.2, 167 – 186.
(Publisher: Inderscience, Geneva, Switzerland) CrossRef Google Scholar
11. Belinskiy, B. P., Hiestand, J. W., Weerasena, L., Optimal design of a fin in a steady-state regime.
Applied Mathematical Modeling (2020): Volume 77, Part 2, 1188-1200.
(Publisher: Elsevier, Amsterdam, Netherlands) CrossRef Google Scholar
12. Gunasekera, S., Weerasena, L., Saram, A., Ajumobi, O., Exact inference for the Youden index to
discriminate individuals using two-parameter exponentially distributed pooled samples, Biostatistics
& Epidemiology (2019): 38-61.
(Publisher: Taylor and Francis, London, United Kingdom) CrossRef Google Scholar
13. Weerasena L., Wiecek M.M., A tolerance function for the multiobjective set covering problem.
Optimization Letters (2018): 1–19.
(Publisher: Springer-Verlag, Berlin, Germany) CrossRef Google Scholar
14. Palchoudhury S., Jungjohann K.,Weerasena L., Arabshahi A., Gharge U., Albattah A., Miller
J., Patel K., Holler R., Enhanced legume root growth with pre-soaking in α Fe2O3 nanoparticle
fertilizer. Royal Society of Chemistry Advances (2018): 24075–24083.
(Publisher: The Royal Society of Chemistry, London, United Kingdom) CrossRef Google Scholar
15. Vanderpooten D., Weerasena L., Wiecek M.M., Covers and approximations in multiobjective
optimization. Journal of Global Optimization (2017): 67(3) 601–619.
(Publisher: Springer-Verlag, Berlin, Germany) CrossRef Google Scholar

Laurent Lagadic – Chemical Environmental Safety Award – Industry Impact Award

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Laurent Lagadic – Chemical Environmental Safety Award – Industry Impact Award

Dr. Laurent Lagadic distinguished academic and researcher in the field Chemical Environmental Safety. Laurent is a Member of the Society of Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry (SETAC) since 1995. He was the Chair of the Scientific Committee and co-organiser of the 15th and 26th SETAC Europe Annual Meetings (~2000 delegates each). He was elected in 2012 as the Vice-President of SETAC-Europe and officiated as President from May 2013 to May 2014. He joined the SETAC World Council from 2012 to 2015. Laurent left the SETAC Europe Council in May 2015 but is still involved in different activities of the Society, including the Endocrine Disruption Testing and Risk Assessment Interest Group (EDTRA IG) and the Sounding Board of SETAC Europe for EFSA’s Stakeholder Bureau.

His dedication to advancing the field of ecotoxicology and his commitment to education, mentorship, and collaboration make Laurent Lagadic a respected leader in his field, with a profound impact on both scientific research and environmental policy.

🌐 Professional Profiles

Educations📚📚📚

He holds a BSc in Organism and Population Biology from the University of Paris XI, Orsay, France (1985), an MSc in Experimental Ecology from the University of Pau & Pays de l’Adour, France (1986), a PhD in Fundamental Toxicology from the University of Paris XI, Orsay, France (1991), and a Habilitation (Accreditation to supervise research; HDR) from the University of Rennes 1, France (1999).

His professional experience includes roles such as Scientific Assistant granted by Sandoz, Basel, Switzerland (1988-1991), Scientific Trainee granted by Bayer AG, Monheim, Germany (1989-1990), Post-doctoral Fellow at Oxford Brookes University, Oxford, UK (1991-1992), Junior Scientist at the Seine-Normandie Water Agency, Paris, France (1992-1994), Senior Scientist (CR1) at the French National Institute for Agriculture Research (INRA), Rennes, France (1994-2003), Research Director (DR2) at INRA, Rennes, France (2003-2014), Scientific Manager, Senior Science Fellow – Aquatic Ecotoxicology at Bayer AG, R&D, Crop Science Division, Monheim, Germany (2014-2020), and currently, he serves as Scientific Manager, Senior Science Fellow – Environmental Safety Assessment and Strategy (ESAS) at Bayer AG, R&D, Crop Science Division, Monheim, Germany.

HONORS AND AWARDS

Throughout his illustrious career, Laurent Lagadic has been recognized with several prestigious honors and awards for his outstanding contributions to the field of ecotoxicology:

  • He was awarded the Dufrenoy Research Fellowship from the French Agriculture Academy, Paris, in 1989, in recognition of his early research endeavors.
  • In 1991, Laurent was granted the esteemed Lavoisier Post-doctoral Fellowship by the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs. During this fellowship, he resided at the Maison Française d’Oxford, furthering his research and academic collaborations.
  • His significant contributions to the field were acknowledged with the AstraZeneca Best Publication Award of the Society of Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry, Europe Geographic Unit, in 2011. This award highlights his excellence in scientific publication and research dissemination within the European ecotoxicology community.

Professional experience:

He has held various significant positions throughout his career, including roles at esteemed organizations such as Sandoz in Basel, Switzerland, where he served as a Scientific Assistant from 1988 to 1991. Following this, he embarked on a Scientific Trainee position at Bayer AG in Monheim, Germany, from 1989 to 1990.

Continuing his journey, Laurent Lagadic transitioned to a Post-doctoral Fellow role at Oxford Brookes University in Oxford, UK, where he further honed his research skills from 1991 to 1992. Subsequently, he joined the Seine-Normandie Water Agency in Paris, France, as a Junior Scientist from 1992 to 1994, contributing to environmental research initiatives.

His career then flourished at the French National Institute for Agriculture Research (INRA) in Rennes, France, where he served in various capacities. Initially, he held the position of Senior Scientist (CR1) from 1994 to 2003, followed by a promotion to Research Director (DR2) from 2003 to 2014, where he provided leadership in ecological research endeavors.

In 2014, he transitioned to Bayer AG’s R&D, Crop Science Division, based in Monheim, Germany, assuming the role of Scientific Manager and Senior Science Fellow specializing in Aquatic Ecotoxicology. In this capacity, he played a pivotal role in developing strategies for assessing the environmental impact of agricultural products.

Currently, he continues to excel at Bayer AG, where he serves as a Scientific Manager and Senior Science Fellow specializing in Environmental Safety Assessment and Strategy (ESAS), contributing his expertise to furthering environmental sustainability efforts within the Crop Science Division.

📝🔬Publications📝🔬

Yu-Te Tu – Sustainable Management – Best Researcher Award

Published on by Network Science

Yu-Te Tu – Sustainable Management – Best Researcher Award

Assoc Prof Dr. Yu-Te Tu  distinguished academic and researcher in the field  Sustainable Management. Presently, he serves as an Associate Professor in the Department of Business Administration at Chihlee University of Technology since August 2016. Additionally, he holds part-time roles as Director in the Division of International and Cross-Strait Affairs at Chihlee University of Technology since February 2024, Consultant at China Straits Political, Economic and Cultural Exchange Association since January 2018, and Business Consultant at Gulf International Law Firm since September 2011.

🌐 Professional Profiles

Educations📚📚📚

He holds a Ph.D. in Corporate & Organization Management from Lynn University (FL, USA), which he pursued from September 2003 to December 2007. Prior to his doctoral studies, he earned an MBA from Long Island University (NY, USA) in Management, completing it from September 1996 to August 1997. He has been recognized by the Ministry of Education with several qualifications, including Associate Professor (No. 140985) since February 2015, Assistant Professor (No. 022877) since February 2008, and Lecturer (No. 055146) since September 1998.

➢ Research interests:

1. Sustainable management
2. Business communication and negotiation
3. Marketing Management

International Journal Editor/Reviewer

He has been serving as an editorial board member for several international journals, including the Science Journal of Business and Management (USA) since May 2018 and SAMANM Group of Research Publications (USA) since May 2013. Additionally, he contributes as a reviewer for esteemed publications such as Environmental Science and Pollution Research (SCIE) since June 2018, Chinese Management Studies (SSCI) since August 2023, and the Journal of Psychology and Psychotherapy Research since October 2018. His expertise extends to various domains, as evidenced by his role as a reviewer for the International Review of Retail, Distribution, and Consumer Research (England) since June 2013 and the International Journal of Business and Marketing Management since December 2013. He also actively participates as a reviewer for SCIENCEDOMAIN international (USA) since January 2014. On the domestic front, he continues to contribute as a reviewer for journals like the Journal of Living Industry Research since January 2013 and the Journal of Life Application and Management since January 2015. Previously, he held positions as an editor and reviewer for Chongyou Journal from August 2009 to July 2012 and served as a reviewer for Yushan General Knowledge Collection from December 2014 to December 2016.

 

📝🔬Publications📝🔬

Enrique González Ortegón – Ecology – Best Researcher Award

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Enrique González Ortegón – Ecology

Dr. Enrique Gonzalez Ortegon distinguished academic and researcher in the field Ecology. His active participation in research projects is noteworthy. He has been involved in 25 competitive and 13 non-competitive projects. These projects have been diverse, ranging from an Antarctic survey in 2022 to 8 scientific campaigns aboard research vessels like R/V Alvariño, Margalef, and Oliver. Notably, he has also conducted 115 studies using a traditional boat in estuaries. His research findings have been shared widely, with him presenting 100 works at national and international conferences, showcasing his dedication and influence in the field of marine science.

🌐 Professional Profiles

Educations: 📚🎓

Since October 2017, he has been a distinguished researcher at ICMAN, where he has made significant contributions to the field of marine science. His focus areas include larval ecology, invasive species, and community ecology. In his role, he has successfully supervised 4 PhD theses and 6 Master’s dissertations, with 5 of the Master’s students continuing their work at research institutions across Spain. He has also acted as a postdoctoral supervisor for three PhDs working on larval ecology and modelling. His mentorship extends to 12 graduate dissertations.

In terms of publications, he has an impressive record of 114 works. This includes 72 peer-reviewed international publications and 6 book chapters, with 2 of these chapters being peer-reviewed and included in Advances in Ecological Research. Additionally, he has written 8 dissemination articles, 24 scientific-technical reports, and 3 normative documents relevant to fisheries.

Since October 2017, he has been a distinguished researcher at ICMAN, where he has made significant contributions to the field of marine science. His focus areas include larval ecology, invasive species, and community ecology. In his role, he has successfully supervised 4 PhD theses and 6 Master’s dissertations, with 5 of the Master’s students continuing their work at research institutions across Spain. He has also acted as a postdoctoral supervisor for three PhDs working on larval ecology and modelling. His mentorship extends to 12 graduate dissertations.

In terms of publications, he has an impressive record of 114 works. This includes 72 peer-reviewed international publications and 6 book chapters, with 2 of these chapters being peer-reviewed and included in Advances in Ecological Research. Additionally, he has written 8 dissemination articles, 24 scientific-technical reports, and 3 normative documents relevant to fisheries.

 

 

RESEARCH, INNOVATIONS AND EXTENSION : 🏆👏

  • He has achieved considerable success in the realm of research, innovations, and extension, marked by his completion and ongoing management of 25 research projects. His scholarly work is well-recognized, as evidenced by his citation index in Scopus/Web of Science or PubMed/Indian Citation Index, which stands at an impressive 1,254. In addition to this, he has undertaken 8 consultancy and industry-sponsored projects, reflecting his ability to bridge the gap between academia and industry.

    His contributions to academic literature include the publication of 5 books with ISBN, encompassing text, reference, chapters, and conference proceedings. The total cost of all his projects amounts to a substantial USD 7,256,302. However, he has not yet ventured into patent publishing and processing, as indicated by a count of zero in this area.

    His scholarly articles have a wide reach, with 72 journals published in Scopus, Web of Science, and PubMed index, and an additional 42 in other indexes. He holds 30 editorial appointments in various journals and conferences, underscoring his expertise and reputation in the academic community.

    His research focuses on coastal ecology, particularly in understanding the impacts of global change stressors like plastic pollution and heatwaves on marine life. He specializes in the benthic ecology of marine invertebrates, larval ecology of marine crustaceans, and the dynamics of marine communities, employing various models to study these aspects. His extensive work in the Guadalquivir estuary over 18 years has provided him with deep insights into taxonomy and estuary functioning.

    Previously, he worked at Regensburg University on a German/Spanish project, conducting genetic studies of European shrimp populations. From 2010 to 2017, he received five postdoctoral fellowships, including international stints in the UK (funded by the Spanish Ministry and Marie Curie) and national positions in Spain. In 2008, he contributed to the ‘First action lines for the management of invasive exotic species in Andalusia,’ an initiative by the European Conference of Invasive Exotic Species. Furthermore, in 2012, he worked on a project for the DFO in Canada, focusing on shrimp species, including the reporting of an exotic species.

📚Top Noted Publication