Teaching Assistant at Far Western University, Nepal
Professional Profile
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
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Authors: R. Timalsina, S. Acharya, B. Đurin, M. P. Awasthi, R. R. Pant, G. R. Joshi, et al.
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Journal: Water, Vol. 17(2), Article 238, 2025
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Citations: 9
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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
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Authors: N. Basnet, S. Sitaula, R. Bohara, S. Bhattarai, S. Rawal, M. P. Uprety, M. P. Awasthi, et al.
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Journal: Environmental Research, Vol. 261, Article 119697, 2024
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Citations: 8
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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
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Authors: S. Tiwari, B. Timalsina, S. Sitaula, M. P. Awasthi, A. Mahat, R. R. Pant
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Journal: Himalayan Biodiversity, pp. 29–38, 2023
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Citations: 8
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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
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Author: M. P. Awasthi
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Journal: Water Practice and Technology, Vol. 18(11), pp. 2971–2988, 2023
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Citations: 7
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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
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Authors: J. Nepal, R. R. Pant, S. Shrestha, S. Paudel, K. Bishwakarma, M. P. Awasthi, et al.
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Journal: Environmental Earth Sciences, Vol. 83(3), Article 117, 2024
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Citations: 6
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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.