Lakmali Weerasena – Ecological Conservation Award – Best Researcher Award

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

Ziaul Haq Doost – Water Resource- Best Researcher Award

Ziaul Haq Doost – Water Resource- Best Researcher Award

Mr. Ziaul Haq Doost distinguished academic and researcher in the field Water Resource. He has dedicated over nine years to his pursuits and professional endeavors, maintaining a multifaceted career path. During this time, he has been engaged with King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals (KFUPM) as a PhD student, contributing to his academic advancement and research endeavors. Simultaneously, he has served as a District Engineer at MRRD, where he applied his engineering expertise to various projects. Additionally, he took on the role of Project Manager at Tawana Services, Development, and Cultural Organization, specifically leading the FFA Project. He further extended his impact by collaborating with OXFAM Novib-(Herat-AFG) International Organization, where he participated in the CITEZEN’s CHARTER program as a Civil Engineer, contributing to community development initiatives. Prior to these roles, he gained valuable experience as a Civil Engineer at Shahran Construction & Engineering LTD (SCL), focusing on irrigation projects. Through these diverse experiences, he has demonstrated his versatility and commitment to making meaningful contributions across academia, development projects, and construction initiatives.

🌐 Professional Profiles

Educations📚📚📚

He has pursued a comprehensive educational journey, showcasing his dedication to academic excellence and professional development. Currently, he is a PhD student at King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals, where he is engaged in advanced studies to further his expertise in his field. Prior to his doctoral studies, he completed his Master of Science in Civil and Environmental Engineering with a focus on Water Resource Management and Environment at the same university, graduating on January 4, 2024. He laid the foundation for his academic pursuits with a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from Herat University, attained in December 2015. Additionally, he holds a Diploma of Science in Construction Engineering from Herat Technical Institute, completed in December 2011. His educational journey began with his Diploma from Wazir Fateh Khan High School in Herat, Afghanistan, which he achieved in December 2008. Through these educational accomplishments, he has equipped himself with a solid academic background and practical skills to excel in his chosen field.

 

Training/Workshop participation

• Certificate of Completion: GIS (Spatial Data Science: The New Frontier in Analytics) by
ESRI with support of ESRI Online, October 01 – November 11, 2022.
• Certificate of Completion: Women Livelihood Projects by IDLG with support of IDLG
in Herat Afghanistan, July 27 – July 28, 2019.
• Certificate of Completion: Solid Waste Management by Afghanaid with support of
OXFAM-Novib in Herat Afghanistan, December 11 – December 13, 2018.
• Certificate of Completion: Water Resources Management Project by ADB in Herat
Afghanistan, Nov 25 – Dec 11, 2014.
• Certificate of Completion: Construction QC & Safety conducted by
USAID/AWDP/AMRAN in Herat Afghanistan, June 30 – July 15, 2013.
• Certificate of Completion: Engineering Construction of Decentralized Wastewater
Treatment Systems conducted Online by BORDA in Herat Afghanistan, Feb 01 – Feb 4,
2015.
• Attended: Autodesk 3D Max conducted by USAID/AWDP in Herat Afghanistan, May 4 –
Jun 02, 2015.
• Attended: 3D animation & Video Editing conducted by USAID/AWDP in Herat
Afghanistan, April 12 – May 11, 2015.
• Attended: Business Communication & Employability Skills conducted by USAID/AWDP
in Herat Afghanistan, May 09 – June 11, 2013.
• Attended: Network conducted by ITCH in Herat University, Herat-Afghanistan 2014 –

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

During his tenure at King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals (KFUPM) from January 1, 2022, to January 4, 2024, he served as a Master Student/Assistant, actively contributing to various aspects of research, coursework, and academic support. His responsibilities encompassed a wide range of tasks, including research in water resources management and environmental engineering. He conducted comprehensive analyses on water availability, quality, and demand, while also developing sustainable water management strategies and plans. Additionally, he delved into the study of the hydrological cycle’s impact on water resources and evaluated the environmental implications of engineering projects. He played a pivotal role in designing and implementing water treatment and wastewater management systems, as well as assessing and mitigating the environmental impacts of civil engineering projects. Utilizing Geographic Information Systems (GIS), he conducted thorough water resources analysis and evaluated the effects of climate change on water resources. Furthermore, he demonstrated proficiency in understanding and applying relevant laws, regulations, and policies related to water resources management. In addition to his research duties, he provided invaluable assistance to students, offering guidance on various topics, facilitating tutoring sessions, and supporting professors in grading assignments and term papers. He also actively participated in organizational meetings, led class sessions, and conducted experiments and dissections for students. Through his dedication and expertise, he significantly contributed to the academic and research endeavors within the Civil and Environmental department.

 

Diptanshu Gaur- Development Economics – Best Researcher Award

Diptanshu Gaur- Development Economics

Dr. Diptanshu Gaur distinguished academic and researcher in the field  Development Economic .He  currently working on inequalities in educational achievements by exploring the role of individual capabilities and cultural capital in improving the outcomes.

🌐 Professional Profiles

Educations📚📚📚

He completed his academic journey with a Ph.D. in Management from the Indian Institute of Management Rohtak in 2023. Prior to his doctoral studies, he pursued a Master of Commerce (M.Com) in Economic Administration at the P.G School of Commerce, University of Rajasthan, from 2014 to 2016. He laid the groundwork for his academic pursuits with a Bachelor of Commerce (Hons.) in Economic Administration and Financial Management from Commerce College, University of Rajasthan, which he attained from 2011 to 2014.

He has been actively contributing to academic literature with his research endeavors. His publications span various topics, showcasing his interdisciplinary expertise. For instance, in a collaborative effort with colleagues, he explored the dynamics of educational achievement disparities, delving into the impact of individual capabilities and social identities. Another notable contribution lies in the realm of sustainable waste management, where he co-authored a guide tailored to emerging economies. Furthermore, his research extends to areas like education policies, COVID-19 stimulus packages, technology-driven responsiveness during crises, and the application of netnography in digital government research. His work reflects a commitment to addressing contemporary challenges and advancing knowledge in diverse fields, ranging from management and economics to education and technology.

 

 Conferences/Workshops

He actively participated in several prestigious international conferences, where he presented his research findings on critical socio-economic issues. At the 1st PAN IIT International Management Conference in 2018, hosted by IIT Roorkee, he discussed the growth of Indian business communities and families from an institution-based perspective. Subsequently, at the Human Development & Capabilities Association Conference in 2019, held at University College London, he examined the inequality of opportunities in educational achievements, focusing on the influence of individuals’ social networks. The following year, he presented at the 7th PAN IIM World Management Conference in 2019, organized by IIM Rohtak, shedding light on inequalities in educational achievements and the impact of individuals’ social relationships. Furthermore, his engagement continued at the Human Development & Capabilities Association Conference in 2020, held in Auckland, New Zealand, where he further explored the pervasive issue of inequalities within society. Through his active involvement in these conferences, he demonstrated a commitment to advancing scholarly discourse and addressing pressing societal challenges.

 

Academic Projects

He undertook various academic projects, showcasing his commitment to practical research and societal impact. In 2021, under the auspices of the Government of Haryana, he conducted an oxygen supply audit at PGIMS, Rohtak, contributing to the healthcare infrastructure’s efficiency and preparedness. Additionally, he evaluated the PRASHAD Scheme in 2021, commissioned by the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, to assess its effectiveness in promoting tourism and cultural heritage. Furthermore, in 2017, he collaborated with the Jammu & Kashmir Police to study public confidence in policing, aiming to enhance law enforcement strategies and community relations. Through these projects, he demonstrated his ability to apply academic knowledge to real-world challenges, fostering positive change and informed policymaking.

Administrative Experience

He has amassed a diverse range of experiences across entrepreneurship, academia, teaching, and administrative roles, showcasing his versatility and dedication to various endeavors. As the founder of Bliss The Unisex Salon Chain since 2021, and co-founder of MohThe Eternal Dhaga since 2022, he demonstrates his entrepreneurial acumen and leadership in the business sector. Additionally, his academic engagements include teaching courses on Macroeconomics at Birla Institute of Management Technology in 2024, Financial Markets at Jindal Global Business School in 2023, and Indian Economy & Culture to underprivileged Kashmiri students in 2021, reflecting his commitment to education and social empowerment.

His administrative roles, including serving as the FPM Representative at IIM Rohtak and as a founding member of the Swaniti Policy Club, highlight his organizational skills and involvement in academic initiatives. Proficient in various software tools such as MS Office, STATA, SPSS, NVivo, R, and Gephi, he possesses a strong analytical and technical aptitude. His research interests span diverse fields such as social inequalities, educational achievements, capability approach, cultural capital, and the Indian economy, underscoring his interdisciplinary approach to academia.

Furthermore, he actively contributes to the academic community through referee activities for esteemed publications and conferences, including Social Indicators Research, Academy of Management Conference, and PAN IIM World Management Conference. His professional journey also includes experiences as a team member at Purna Shiksha, where he conducted field visits, developed teaching content, and taught classes for immigrant children, as well as a Credit Risk Analyst at Zouk Loans, where he assessed loan applicants’ risk profiles and contributed to client acquisition strategies. Through these varied experiences, he has demonstrated his commitment to personal and professional growth, along with a dedication to making positive contributions to society.

 

Publication

 

Wenfu Peng -Vegetation dynamic monitoring- Best Researcher Award

Wenfu Peng -Vegetation dynamic monitoring

Prof Dr. Wenfu Peng  distinguished academic and researcher in the field of Vegetation dynamic monitoring. In 2002, he embarked on a postgraduate journey, undertaking Master’s studies at the College of Resources and Environment at Sichuan Normal University. Building on this foundation, he pursued a Doctorate, completing his PhD from the State Key Laboratory of Geological Disaster Prevention and Geological Environmental Protection at Chengdu University of Technology in 2009. Throughout his academic trajectory, he demonstrated a steadfast commitment to advancing his understanding of geography and related disciplines.

Eduvation

He began his educational journey in 1985, earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Geography from the Department of Geography at Sichuan Normal University, where he dedicated himself to the study of geographic principles and phenomena. After a brief hiatus, from 1992 to 1995, he continued his academic pursuits at Southwest University (formerly Southwest Normal University), further expanding his knowledge in the field.
Professional Profiles:

 

Academic Positions:

Since July 2005, he has held the esteemed position of Professor at the School of Geography and Resource Science at Sichuan Normal University, where he has made significant contributions to academia. His expertise encompasses a range of teaching activities, primarily focusing on postgraduate courses such as “Understanding and Analysis of Remote Sensing Image Science.” Additionally, he imparts his knowledge to undergraduate students through courses like “GIS Spatial Analysis,” “GIS Principles,” “Territorial Planning,” and other related subjects. Throughout his tenure, he has been dedicated to fostering a comprehensive understanding of geographical and spatial sciences among his students, leaving an indelible mark on the academic landscape.

Research Overview:

Throughout the years, he has actively engaged in a multitude of research projects, showcasing his commitment to advancing knowledge in various domains. From 2014 to 2017, he spearheaded the National Natural Science Foundation of China Project titled “Maintenance Mechanism of Land Ecological Security in Chengdu Plain based on LUCC Disturbance” (Project No. 41371125), delving into the intricate dynamics of land use and ecological security. Subsequently, from 2018 to 2020, he directed his efforts towards the Humanities and Social Science Planning Project of the Ministry of Education (Project No. 17YJA850007), contributing valuable insights to the intersection of social sciences and education.

In the earlier years, his involvement in key projects at Sichuan Normal University included the 2013-2015 Key Cultivation Project, “Ecological Security Research of Chengdu Plain Based on LUCC” (Project No. 13ZDL03), and the 2014-2015 Sichuan Provincial Department of Education Project, “Research on Ecotourism Development Model of West Sichuan Plateau Based on GIS” (Project No. LYC13-11). His diverse expertise also extended to national initiatives, such as the National Science and Technology Major Project’s special topic on “Water Pollution Control and Treatment” (Project No. 2009ZX07106-004-01-02), specifically focusing on the spatial and temporal distribution of water resources and salinity in the Bosten Lake Basin. Additionally, his contributions were integral to the National Science and Technology Support Program’s topic on “Research on Rural Housing Planning, Design, and Construction Standards” (Project No. 2008BAJ08B09-5), concentrating on the formulation of standards for village and township rural community planning. His extensive involvement in these projects reflects his dedication to advancing scientific understanding and addressing critical issues in various fields.

Awards

In recognition of his notable contributions to the field, he was honored with the third prize of the Sichuan Science and Technology Progress Award in 2011 for his exemplary project titled “Research on Urban Land Use Change and Its Ecological Environment Effect Based on RS & GIS.” Beyond his research endeavors, he actively engages in social contributions by serving as a review expert for various international journals, demonstrating his commitment to advancing scholarly discourse and maintaining rigorous standards within the academic community.

Moreover, he has assumed significant roles in shaping academic and scientific landscapes. His responsibilities include serving as an evaluation expert for the Degree Center of the Ministry of Education, China, contributing to the assessment of educational standards. Additionally, he has lent his expertise as a science and technology plan evaluation expert for the Provincial Department of Science and Technology in Sichuan Province, playing a pivotal role in evaluating and shaping regional scientific initiatives. Further showcasing his multifaceted involvement, he serves as a technical expert for territorial ecological restoration support at the Provincial Department of Natural Resources, Sichuan Province, underscoring his commitment to environmental sustainability and ecological well-being. Through these diverse roles, he continues to make a meaningful impact in academia, research, and the broader scientific community.

Publication

1.Quantifying urban expansion and its driving forces in Chengdu, western China  – 2023                                                                  Wang, G.Peng, W.Zhang, L., …Shi, J.Wang, L.

2. Quantifying the impacts of natural and human factors on changes in NPP using an optimal parameters-based geographical detector -2023

3.Vegetation EVI changes and response to natural factors and human activities based on geographically and temporally weighted regression-2023

4. Assessment of Land Ecological Security from 2000 to 2020 in the Chengdu Plain Region of China                                    Zhang, L.Peng, W.Zhang, J. – 2023

5. Estimate of population density and diagnosis of main factors of spatial heterogeneity in the metropolitan scale,     western China  Wang, G.Peng, W.Zhang, L. -2023

6. Spatiotemporal variations and driving mechanisms of vegetation coverage in the Wumeng Mountainous Area, China

Obed Asamoah – Forest resources management – Excellence in Research

Mr. Obed Asamoah  distinguished academic and researcher in the field of Forest resources management. With over nine years of professional experience as a forestry researcher, he brings a wealth of knowledge and added value to the industry with expertise in several disciplines, including silvicultural adaptation treatment, climate change and harvesting, forestry bioresources management, business strategy, and financial planning. He has also developed techniques in the operation of LiDAR and Geode in harvesting. His current work is focused on evaluating the response at the tree and stand scale to the application of adaptive silviculture treatments to red maple stands in southern Quebec. He has developed this expertise through years of experience in the field, pursuing higher education, and leading collaborative research projects between industry, government, equipment manufacturers, and other stakeholders across three continents.

Eduvation

He is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Forest Ecology at the Universite du Quebec en Outaouais/ISFORT in Ripon, Canada, a program that commenced in October 2021. Prior to this, he was engaged in another Ph.D. program in Bioresources and Forest Science at the University of Eastern Finland since 2018. His academic journey includes a Master of Science in International Development Studies from Mendel University in Brno, Czech Republic, completed between 2015 and 2017. His undergraduate studies were undertaken at the University for Development Studies in Tamale, Ghana, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Natural Resources Management from 2009 to 2013.

His educational background also features a Diploma in Education obtained at Sefwi Wiawso College of Education in Wiawso, Ghana, spanning the years 2003 to 2007. This diverse educational trajectory reflects his commitment to advancing knowledge and expertise in the fields of ecology, bioresources, and international development.

Professional Profiles:

INTERESTS

  • Traveling
  • Watching football
  • Hiking and hunting

ASSOCIATIONS AND MEMBERSHIPS

  • Centre d’étude de la forêt
  • The Society of American Foresters
  • The Ecological Society of America (ESA)
  • International Union of Forest Research Organizations (IUFRO)

UNIVERSITY OF EASTERN FINLAND   

In his role at Ari’s Lab, he is dedicated to meticulous research, beginning with the development of precise research specifications and work plans that fully meet project requirements. Actively participating in the planning and execution of research projects, he employs a comprehensive approach to data gathering, utilizing diverse sources such as books, journal articles, newspapers, questionnaires, surveys, polls, and interviews. Subsequently, he applies advanced techniques to clean and analyze the collected data, interpreting it to extract meaningful insights and readying it for paper publication.

Beyond data analysis, he actively contributes to project management by assisting with budgeting and time schedules, ensuring resources are efficiently allocated and projects adhere to set timelines. His role extends to identifying trends and patterns, conducting necessary fieldwork and tests, and utilizing tools like Q GIS and LiDAR to map trees before and after harvest, facilitating an accurate tally of harvested and remaining trees. This comprehensive approach enables him to prepare detailed scientific reports, synthesizing complex information into accessible formats. Overall, his expertise contributes significantly to the success of Ari’s Lab projects, ensuring a meticulous and timely execution of research initiatives.

Publications;