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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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.

Ahmed Makhlouf – Water resources – Young Scientist Award

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Ahmed Makhlouf – Water resources – Young Scientist Award

Dr. Ahmed Makhouf  distinguished academic and researcher in the field Water Resources.

🌐 Professional Profile

Educations📚📚📚

He holds a Master’s degree in Water Resources and Environmental Engineering from Minia University, graduating on August 10, 2021. His specialization is in Water Resources and Environmental Engineering. Currently, he is a PhD student affiliated with the Environmental Engineering Department at the Egypt-Japan University of Science and Technology in Egypt.

📝🔬Publications📝🔬

Victor Klaba – Hydrogeology- Best Researcher Award

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Victor Klaba – Hydrogeology- Best Researcher Award

Mr. Victor Klaba distinguished academic and researcher in the field Hydrogeology. Specialized in hydrogeology for five years, he has developed a range of skills from fieldwork to analysis and interpretation, while collaborating with scientists, water resource managers, and politicians. As water resources are one of the pillars of our societies, this science is crucial for humanity and its future, especially in view of current challenges such as climate change, war, and demographic development. Moreover, he specializes in the study of a specific hydrogeological object: the Karst. Representing the main drinking water resource for 25% of the world’s population, this object is highly vulnerable and difficult to study due to its high degree of heterogeneity and anisotropy.

🌐 Professional Profile

Educations📚📚📚

He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Earth Sciences and a Master’s degree in 3G, both from the University of Franche-Comté in Besançon, France, through the CMI cursus. Currently, he is a PhD student in Hydrogeology at the same university, enrolled in the Doctoral School of Science and Health.

 

Work Experience

He has interned with the COREAUNA project at the Geological Survey of New Caledonia, where he studied the functioning of the Koné alluvial aquifer through geochemical characterization and contributed to updating the water resource protection policy for Koné and the North Province. Additionally, he interned with the TRANSKARST project at the Chrono-environment Laboratory, where he conducted a study of groundwater circulation in the Montfaucon anticline through rigorous geological analysis, including structure, fracturing, and modeling. In another phase of the TRANSKARST project, he undertook a preliminary study of the Arcier hydrosystem’s functioning through hydrochemical and hydrodynamic characterization, involving fieldwork, laboratory analysis, and further geological modeling of Montfaucon.

📝🔬Publications📝🔬

Muhammad Nawaz – Geo Artificial Intelligence Award – Best Researcher Award

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Muhammad Nawaz – Geo Artificial Intelligence Award – Best Researcher Award

Dr. Muhammad Nawaz distinguished academic and researcher in the field Geo  Artificial Intelligence. He has held various academic positions spanning nearly four decades. Beginning his career as a secondary science teacher at the Institute of Academic Service in Lahore, Pakistan, from 1986 to 1990, he then transitioned into roles within the field of geography and GIS. His journey in academia led him to serve as a Subject Specialist in Geography for the Ministry of Education, Government of Punjab, Pakistan, from 1990 to 1993. Subsequently, he embarked on a career in higher education, holding positions such as Lecturer in Geography at Punjab University from 1993 to 1999, followed by roles as Assistant Professor and later as Associate Professor in GIS, along with various administrative responsibilities including Associate Head and Coordinator of the M.Sc. GIS Program at Punjab University from 1999 to 2006. He expanded his international experience by serving as a Lecturer in Environmental Science eLearning at the School of Environment, Charles Darwin University (CDU), Australia, from 2007 to 2012, and then as a Lecturer/Coordinator of the Tertiary Enabling Program (Environment & Geoscience) at CDU from 2012 to 2015. Since 2015, he has been contributing his expertise as a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Geography at the National University of Singapore. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated a commitment to education and has made significant contributions to the fields of geography, environmental science, and geoscience education.

🌐 Professional Profiles

Educations📚📚📚

He holds a diverse range of qualifications reflecting his dedication to academic excellence and professional development. His educational journey began with a Bachelor’s degree in Geography, with majors in Geology and Chemistry, from Bahauddin Zakariya University, Pakistan, in 1986. Building upon this foundation, he pursued a Master’s degree in Geography from Punjab University, Pakistan, in 1990. Continuing his academic pursuits, he obtained a Master of Science in Geoinformatics from the University of Twente – ITC, Netherlands, in 1998, further specializing in the field. In 2010, he achieved a significant milestone by earning his Doctor of Philosophy in Environmental Science from Charles Darwin University (CDU), Australia, showcasing his commitment to advanced research and scholarship. Recognizing the importance of pedagogical skills in higher education, he completed a Graduate Certificate in Teaching and Learning in Higher Education from CDU in 2012. This extensive educational background underscores his expertise and dedication to his field, enabling him to make significant contributions to academia and research throughout his career.

Teaching Experience

With an extensive background in teaching, he has been actively engaged in educating students in various facets of geography and environmental science since 2015 at the Department of Geography, National University of Singapore. His teaching portfolio encompasses a wide array of courses catering to different aspects of spatial data handling, GIS applications, environmental modeling, earth surface processes, energy futures, and terrestrial and coastal environments.

In courses such as Spatial Data Handling (GE6211), GIS Application (GE5226), and Environment Modelling (GE4212), he imparts knowledge on topics ranging from spatial data mining, big data analytics, and spatial uncertainty to ecological models, epidemic dynamics, and environmental modeling with GIS and remote sensing.

Moreover, his expertise extends to courses like Earth Surface Processes, Landform, and Ecosystem (GE3256), Energy Futures, Environment, and Sustainability (GE3254), and Planet Earth (XD3103), where he delves into subjects such as geomorphological processes, climate change, global energy resources, and the geological evolution of Earth.

Additionally, he plays a pivotal role in educating students on water and environmental issues in courses like Water and Environment (GE2229) and Terrestrial and Coastal Environments (GE2220), covering topics such as catchment hydrology, fluvial geomorphology, coastal processes, and landforms.

Furthermore, he contributes to courses like The Biophysical Environment of Singapore (GES1004/GESS1002), providing insights into Singapore’s geology, weather, climate, soil erosion, and coastal processes, tailored to the local context.

Through his teaching endeavors, he enriches students’ understanding of geographical and environmental concepts, equipping them with the knowledge and skills necessary to address contemporary challenges in these fields.

Recent Teaching, Research and Service Awards

He has been consistently recognized for his outstanding contributions in teaching, research, and service within the academic community. In 2023, he received the Annual Digital Education Award (ADEA 2023) from the National University of Singapore, acknowledging his innovative approaches to digital education. Additionally, he was honored with the NUS Safety & Health Commitment Award (NUSSHA 2023) by the Office of Risk and Management Compliance (ORMC) for his dedication to ensuring safety and health standards in academic environments.

In 2022, his commitment to teaching excellence was recognized with the Faculty Teaching Excellence Award (FTEA 2022) from the Faculty of Arts and Social Science at the National University of Singapore. Furthermore, his research efforts were acknowledged with the Encouragement (Research) Award (PUPP 2022) from the Wuhan Municipal Bureau of Natural Resources & Planning, China, highlighting his significant contributions to the field.

Moreover, in 2021, he was honored with the Service Award and Certificate of Accomplishment (COA 2021) from the Office of Human Resources at the National University of Singapore, underscoring his exemplary service to the university community.

These awards reflect his dedication, expertise, and impact across various domains of academia, demonstrating his commitment to excellence in teaching, research, and service roles.

📝🔬Publications📝🔬

Mohamed Hamdy Eid- Biological Networks – Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Mohamed Hamdy Eid distinguished academic and researcher in the field Biological and Technological Networks. He served as an Assistant Lecturer at Beni-Suef University’s Faculty of Science from 2017 to 2021. In this role, he was responsible for teaching a range of practical courses covering subjects such as Hydrology, Hydrogeology, water quality assessment, water resources management, Geophysics, Rocks, Mineralogy, Stratigraphy, Crystallography, and water treatment methods. Additionally, he provided instruction in various software applications essential to the field, including ArcGIS, AQUACHEM, Grapher, Surfer, and Diagrammes, equipping students with valuable technical skills. Moreover, he supervised fieldwork and laboratory sessions, guiding students in conducting measurements and analyses of water samples and rocks sourced from diverse environments. Through his teaching and mentorship, he contributed significantly to the academic and professional development of students in the field of Earth Sciences.

 

🌐 Professional Profiles

Educations📚📚📚

He holds a BSc in Geology and Chemistry from Beni-Suef University, Egypt, graduating with first honor class (excellent grade) in September 2015. Subsequently, he pursued a Pre-Master’s program in Hydrogeology at the same university from September 2016 to September 2020. During this time, he demonstrated a strong academic foundation and passion for the field.

Expanding his academic horizons, he pursued an MSc in Environmental Engineering at Szent István University, Hungary, achieving an outstanding GPA of 4.85/5 from September 2018 to June 2020. His dedication to excellence continued as he embarked on a PhD journey in Hydrogeology at the Faculty of Earth Science and Engineering, Miskolc University, where he has maintained an impressive GPA of 4.88/5 in his third year, demonstrating his commitment to advanced research and scholarly pursuits since 2021.

 

Research Experience

Throughout his academic career, he has actively contributed to the scientific community as a reviewer for prestigious international journals such as Science of the Total Environment, Applied Water Science, and Applied Geochemistry, showcasing his expertise and engagement in the field.

In addition to his academic achievements, he has participated in several noteworthy research projects, including the water quality assessment of the Rákos stream in Hungary (2020), the development of effective desalination methods for brackish groundwater utilizing zeolitized diatomite/kaolinite geopolymer membranes (2018), and the application of multi-isotopes and geochemical modeling for delineating recharge and salinization sources in Siwa Oasis aquifers, Egypt (2021). His involvement in these projects underscores his practical skills and commitment to addressing real-world environmental challenges.

Throughout his academic and professional journey, he has consistently demonstrated a strong dedication to advancing knowledge in hydrogeology and environmental engineering, making significant contributions to both research and practical applications in the field.

🏆🏆Awards🏆🏆

He has garnered numerous accolades throughout his academic and professional journey, underscoring his exceptional achievements and leadership qualities. Notable awards include receiving an MSc scholarship in Hungary from September 2018 to June 2020 and subsequently earning a PhD scholarship in Hungary from 2021 to 2025, which reflect his academic prowess and dedication to advancing knowledge in his field.

In recognition of his outstanding academic performance, he was honored with the Prize for the Best Student in Egyptian Universities by the Institute for the Preparation of Leaders in August 2014, highlighting his exemplary standing among his peers.

Furthermore, he has assumed significant roles within the academic community, serving as an Ambassador for Egyptian PhD students in Hungary since 2022 and taking on the responsibilities of Student Coordinator for the Faculty of Earth Science and Engineering at Miskolc University from 2022 to the present. Additionally, he contributes to fostering international relationships between Egypt and Hungary as a Consultant, leveraging his expertise and cross-cultural understanding.

His commitment to mentorship and guidance is evident through his role as a Mentor at Miskolc University since 2023, where he imparts knowledge and supports the academic growth of fellow students.

Moreover, his dedication to excellence and innovation earned him the prestigious First Place in the IWA Young Water Professionals Conference held in Canada in 2023, showcasing his leadership and expertise in the field of water management and environmental engineering.

Through his multifaceted contributions and achievements, he continues to inspire and make a significant impact within the academic, professional, and international spheres, embodying the values of excellence, leadership, and collaboration.

 

Research interests
Hydrology, Hydrogeology, Isotopes geochemistry, water quality, water management, Environmental and health risk assessment, groundwater modeling and water treatment, statistical analysis, ML and Artificial intelligence.
📝🔬Publications📝🔬
1. Eid, M.H., Eissa, M., Mohamed, E.A., Ramadan, H.S., Czuppon, Gyö.,Kovács, A., Szűcs, Pé., Application of stable isotopes, mixing models, and K-means cluster analysis
todetect recharge and salinity origins in Siwa Oasis, Egypt, Groundwater for Sustainable Development(2024), doi: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.gsd.2024.101124.
2. Eid, M.H., Eissa, M., Mohamed, E.A. et al. New approach into human health risk assessment associated with heavy metals in surface water and groundwater
using Monte Carlo Method. Sci Rep 14, 1008 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-023-50000-y.
3. Szűcs, P., Dobróka, M., Turai, E., Szarka, L., Ilyés, C., Eid, M. H., & Szabó, N. P. (2024). Combined inversion and statistical workflow for advanced
temporal analysis of the Nile River’s long term water level records. Journal of Hydrology, 130693.
4. Hemida, M. H. E., Kovács, A., & Szűcs, P. (2024). Integration of Geochemical Modeling, Hydrodynamic Condition, and Change Detection Supported with
Machine Learning For Sustainable Development of the Water Resources in Western Desert, Egypt Methodology. Authorea Preprints.
5. Elmaadawy, K.G., Bayan, M.F., Gad, M., Eid, M.H., Abukhadra, M.R., El-Sherbeeny, A.M., … & Abdelmaksoud, A.S. (2024). The Impact of Oligo-Miocene
Basaltic Intrusions on the Petroleum System in Gulf of Suez Rift Basin, Egypt: New Insights into Thermal Maturity and Reservoir Quality. Frontiers in Earth Science , 11 , 1295271.
6. Saeed, O., Székács, A., Jordán, G., Mörtl, M., Abukhadra, M. R., & Eid, M. H. (2023). Correction: Investigating the impacts of heavy metal (loid) s on
ecology and human health in the lower basin of Hungary’s Danube River: A Python and Monte Carlo simulation-based study. Environmental Geochemistry and Health, 45(12), 9785.
7. Eid, M. H., Elbagory, M., Tamma, A. A., Gad, M., Elsayed, S., Hussein, H., … & Péter, S. (2023). Evaluation of Groundwater Quality for Irrigation in Deep
Aquifers Using Multiple Graphical and Indexing Approaches Supported with Machine Learning Models and GIS Techniques, Souf Valley,
Algeria. Water, 15(1), 182.
8. Flores, Y.G.; Eid, M.H.; Szűcs, P.; Szőcs, T.; Fancsik, T.; Szanyi, J.; Kovács, B.; Markos, G.; Újlaki, P.; Tóth, P.; et al. Integration of Geological,
Geochemical Modelling and Hydrodynamic Condition for Understanding the Geometry and Flow Pattern of the Aquifer System, Southern Nyírség–
Hajdúság, Hungary. Water 2023, 15, 2888. https://doi.org/10.3390/w15162888.
9. EID, M. H., Tamma, A. A., Péter, S., & Kovács, A. (2023). Hydrogeochemical Evaluation of Groundwater and its Suitability for Drinking and Irrigation Using
Water Quality Index, Statistical and Geochemical Modelling, Debila and El-Oued regions, Algeria.
10. Ghoneim, E., Healey, C., Hemida, M., Shebl, A., & Fahil, A. (2023). Integration of geophysical and geospatial techniques to evaluate geothermal energy
at Siwa Oasis, Western Desert, Egypt. Remote Sensing, 15(21), 5094.

Alphonse Kayiranga | Geoinformatics applications

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Dr. Alphonse Kayiranga | Geoinformatics applications

Academician/Research Scholar

Congratulations , Dr. Alphonse Kayiranga | Geoinformatics applications on winning the esteemed Best Researcher Award  from sciencefather! Your dedication, innovative research, and scholarly contributions have truly made a significant impact in your field. Your commitment to advancing knowledge and pushing the boundaries of research is commendable. Here’s to your continued success in shaping the future of academia and making invaluable contributions to your field. Well done!

 

Professional Profiles:

Education:

  • Skilled in remote sensing and geo-informatics applications in ecohydrology and landscape
    monitoring and management. Currently working on modeling land and atmosphere
    interactions, specifically modelling the eco-hydro-climate characteristics using different
    process-based models; Remote sensing, in-situ observations and reanalyzed datasets; and
    Geo-Informatics techniques. Skilled also in computer programming using various language
    and machine learning such as Python, R for data science and Google earth engine (GEE).
  • Since July 2022-Present (December 2023): Special research assistant (post-doctoral)
    position at Xinjiang Institute of Ecology and Geography, Chinese Academy of Sciences
    (XIEG-CAS). State Key Laboratory of Desert and Oasis Ecology. Responsibility:
    Conducting Eco-hydrological research in Aral Sea basin.
  • Since September 2018- July 2022: PhD of research in Institute of Geographic Sciences and
    Natural Resources Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences (IGSNRR-CAS), Key
    Laboratory of Resource and Environmental Information System. During this PhD,  He have
    specialized in modelling the ecohydro-climate characteristics using different process-based
    models. My PhD thesis topic was: Impacts of the changes in regional climate and land use
    on forest dynamics and ecosystem services in the greater Mekong subregion. Awarded a
    doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Cartography and GIS.

publications

  • Understanding grain virtual water flux dynamics and drivers from a socio-ecohydrological perspective: A case study of landlocked developing countries of Africa
  • Anthropogenic activities dominated tropical forest carbon balance in two contrary ways over the Greater Mekong Subregion in the 21st century
  • Virtual water transfers in Africa: Assessing topical condition of water scarcity, water savings, and policy implications
  • Spatiotemporal Variation in Gross Primary Productivity and Their Responses to Climate in the Great Lakes Region of Sub-Saharan Africa during 2001–2020

The implementation of genetic algorithm for the identification of DNAPL sources

  • Spatiotemporal variations of forest ecohydrological characteristics in the Lancang-Mekong region during 1992-2016 and 2020-2099 under different climate scenarios
  • Evaluation the WRF model with different land surface schemes: Heat wave event simulations and its relation to pacific variability over Coastal region, Karachi, Pakistan