Octavio Monroy-Vilchis | Biological Networks | Research Excellence Award

Dr. Octavio Monroy-Vilchis | Biological Networks | Research Excellence Award

Autonomous University of Tlaxcala | Mexico

Dr. Octavio Monroy-Vilchis is a distinguished researcher and academic specializing in biodiversity, conservation biology, and wildlife management. He earned his PhD in Biodiversity and Conservation from the University of Alicante in 2004 and holds a Master of Science in Ecology and Environmental Sciences from the National University of Tlaxcala. Throughout his career, Dr. Monroy-Vilchis has completed numerous postgraduate and refresher courses in areas such as experimental design, statistical analysis, cognitive strategies in teaching, and sustainable development, primarily at the Autonomous University of the State of Mexico. He has contributed extensively to research on the ecology, behavior, and conservation of wild mammals, particularly felids, jaguars, ocelots, and endangered amphibians in Mexico and Central America, producing influential publications on genetic diversity, habitat connectivity, and human-wildlife interactions. In addition, he has led long-term conservation and management programs for ecological parks and protected areas, conducted field-based studies on predator-prey dynamics, and actively participated in international courses and collaborations across Latin America and Europe. Dr. Monroy-Vilchis’ work integrates field research, applied conservation, and environmental education, making significant contributions to both scientific knowledge and biodiversity preservation policies.

Profiles: Scopus | Orcid | Google Scholar

"Prevalence of injuries in a Caiman crocodilus chiapasius (Bocourt 1876) population from the South Pacific coast of Mexico", GA González-Desales, GJ Soria-Ortiz, O Monroy-Vilchis, Studies on Neotropical Fauna and Environment 60 (1), 2025.

"Morphometric variability and productivity of the fruits of Mauritia flexuosa L.f. on an altitudinal gradient in Peru", Y Quinteros-Gómez, M Zarco-Gonzalez, D Gómez-Ticerán, FC Gonzáles, Caldasia 47, 2025.

"Productivity and morphometric variability of Mauritia flexuosa Lf fruits along altitudinal gradient in Peru", Y Quinteros-Gómez, M Zarco-Gonzalez, D Gómez-Ticerán, Caldasia 47, 2025.

"Morphometric variability and productivity of Mauritia flexuosa Lf fruits along an altitudinal gradient in Peru", YMQ Gómez, MMZ González, DG Ticerán, FCC Gonzáles, OM Vilchis Caldasia 47 (1), 2025.

"Proximal and underlying geoecological drivers of the current distribution of the volcano rabbit (Romerolagus diazi): new evidence for habitat expansion", AA Luna-Gil, A Velazquez, LA Garcia-Almaraz, O Monroy-Vilchis, Revista mexicana de biodiversidad 96, 2025.

Yeggi Darnas | Climate Action | Best Researcher Award

Mrs. Yeggi Darnas | Climate Action | Best Researcher Award

Bandung Institute of Technology | Indonesia

Yeggi Darnas is an environmental engineering professional with over 15 years of academic and practical experience specializing in solid waste management, water supply systems, and environmental documentation. His expertise spans waste management design and construction, training and mentoring programs, and academic studies for the establishment of UPTD Solid Waste units. He has contributed extensively to water supply projects, including Master Plans for Drinking Water Supply Systems, Detailed Engineering Designs (DED), and environmental assessments. His recent work includes designing a wastewater treatment plant for shrimp ponds in NTT (August–October 2024) and developing an Integrated Solid Waste Processing Facility for Central Bangka District, Bangka Belitung Province (September–December 2024). He was also invited by Itra to participate in the Tanween Mega Challenge: Enriching the Pilgrim’s Journey, held from November 29 to October 3, 2024, reflecting his growing recognition within the field.

Profiles: Scopus | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

"The effectiveness of cow manure in remediation of top soil contaminated by engine oil waste", H Yahya, AM Hamdan, T Marlina, Y Darnas, TM Ashari, Cleaner Waste Systems, 2025.

"Food waste reduction efforts in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and the impact of climate change: A review", Y Darnas, E Sembiring, B Rahardyan, Sustainable Chemistry for Climate Action, 2025.

"Comparative analysis of HHV and LHV values of biocoke fuel from palm oil mill solid waste ", A Gani, H Desvita, E Munawar, R Mamat, M Nizar, Y Darnas, RE Sarjono, Case Studies in Chemical and Environmental Engineering, 2024.

"Analysis of combustion characteristics and chemical properties for biocoke fuel", A Gani, M Faisal, H Desvita, MA Kinan, I Khair, Y Darnas, R Mamat, Energy Geoscience 5 (4), 2024.

"Konversi Limbah Biomassa Tandan Kosong Sawit menjadi Energi Panas", A Gani, M Faisal, M Nizar, Y Darnas, Jurnal Serambi Engineering 9 (1), 2024.

Mohammed Amran | Product Innovation | Young Researcher Award

Mr. Mohammed Amran | Product Innovation | Young Researcher Award

The University of Dodoma | Tanzania

Mr. Mohammed A. Amran is a dedicated chemist and researcher specializing in organic and sustainable materials. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from the University of Dodoma (UDOM), where he received the Overall Best Project in Chemistry Award in 2022 for his outstanding research achievements. Continuing his academic journey, he completed a Master of Science in Chemistry with a specialization in organic materials at the State University of Zanzibar (SUZA) in December 2024. Mr. Amran’s pioneering research on seaweed-based bioplastics, under the project “The Potential of Native Seaweed as an Alternative Source of Bioplastic to Mitigate Climate Change,” earned him recognition and led to a granted patent titled “A Seaweed-Based Renewable Resources Bioplastic and Production Methods Thereof” (Patent No. TZ/P/2024/00105). He currently serves as an Assistant Lecturer at UDOM (2025–present), specializing in material sciences and organic materials, having previously worked as a Tutorial Assistant in Organic Chemistry (2023–2024). His professional experience also includes roles as Assistant Quality Controller at Lootah Group of Companies in Zanzibar and Senior Census Clerk at the National Bureau of Statistics during Tanzania’s 2022 national census. Mr. Amran has presented his research at leading forums such as the International Conference in Science, Technology, and Innovation (ICST) in Dodoma (2024) and the 9th STICE Conference in Dar es Salaam, contributing to the advancement of renewable packaging materials. Skilled in forensic chemical analysis, natural polymer extraction, quality control, and sustainable material synthesis, he has further honed his expertise through certified courses offered by Elsevier’s Researcher Academy and other industrial training programs. A multidisciplinary researcher, Mr. Amran’s work lies at the intersection of environmental sustainability, green chemistry, polymer science, and renewable materials, with a vision to combat plastic pollution and climate change through innovative bioplastic technologies and cross-sectoral collaboration.

Profiles: Scopus

Featured Publications

"Assessment of baseline physicochemical qualities of carrageenan-based bioplastics from Kappaphycus alvarezii seaweed for their packaging applications"

Ghulam Zakir-Hassan | Natural Resources Conservation | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Ghulam Zakir-Hassan | Natural Resources Conservation | Best Researcher Award

Irrigation Research Institute | Pakistan

Author Profiles

Scopus

Orcid ID

Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Ghulam Zakir-Hassan demonstrated exceptional academic excellence from the beginning of his educational journey. Securing first position in his B.Sc. Agricultural Engineering at the University of Agriculture Faisalabad with an impressive 83% and two gold medals, he established himself as a high achiever. His consistent record of first-class distinctions, from matriculation to higher secondary education, reflects a solid academic foundation. Building on this success, he pursued a Master of Engineering in Irrigation Engineering and Management at the Asian Institute of Technology, Thailand, graduating with distinction under a Royal Netherlands Government scholarship. His academic pursuit culminated in a Ph.D. in Hydrology from Charles Sturt University, Australia (2024), focusing on sustainable groundwater management through managed aquifer recharge in Punjab, Pakistan.

Professional Endeavors

With over three decades of professional experience (1993–present), Dr. Zakir-Hassan has worked extensively in water resources planning, management, and sustainable development. His expertise spans groundwater development, managed aquifer recharge, rainwater harvesting, climate change adaptation, geotechnical investigations, canal lining, seepage management, sediment analysis, and water policy governance. He has collaborated with national and international institutions, contributing to project planning, capacity building, and technical training. His roles in both academic and professional domains highlight his ability to integrate scientific research with practical applications.

Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Zakir-Hassan’s research has primarily centered on groundwater sustainability, irrigation efficiency, climate change impacts, and aquifer recharge mechanisms. He has presented research at prestigious international conferences across China, Australia, Nepal, Iran, India, Indonesia, and the UAE. His papers on groundwater modeling, governance, regulation, and floodwater storage have provided frameworks for sustainable aquifer management in regions facing water scarcity. He has also contributed significantly to capacity building through technical workshops, training sessions, and academic writing development programs.

Impact and Influence

His influence extends beyond research into shaping policies and practices in groundwater management. He has been actively engaged in raising awareness and empowering communities about water conservation and climate resilience. As a registered professional engineer and life member of various engineering and water management associations worldwide, Dr. Zakir-Hassan has contributed to global dialogues on water sustainability. His leadership roles at Charles Sturt University, such as Vice President of the Postgraduate Student Association and committee memberships, further showcase his influence in academic governance and student development.

Academic Citations

Dr. Zakir-Hassan’s work has been recognized in international academic circles through publications, conference proceedings, and institutional repositories. His participation in high-impact conferences and contributions to journals underscore his academic presence. His membership in global professional networks like IAH, IWRA, ICID, and NGWA ensures that his research continues to reach wider academic and policy-making audiences.

Legacy and Future Contributions

The legacy of Dr. Zakir-Hassan lies in his pioneering work on groundwater modeling and sustainable management in the Indus Basin and Punjab region. His academic rigor, combined with professional experience, has laid the foundation for future research on water governance and climate adaptation. Looking ahead, his expertise positions him as a key contributor to global water security challenges, particularly in developing countries facing acute water stress. His ongoing involvement in professional organizations and academic collaborations suggests that his influence will continue to grow, inspiring future generations of hydrologists and engineers.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Dr. Ghulam Zakir-Hassan exemplifies the qualities of a scholar, professional, and leader in the field of water resources and hydrology. His early academic brilliance, long-standing professional dedication, impactful research contributions, and international influence underscore his suitability for recognition such as the Best Researcher Award. With a career spanning over 30 years and research that addresses some of the most pressing challenges of our time, his legacy and future contributions are set to leave a lasting impact on both academia and society.

Notable Publications

“Integrating Groundwater Modelling for Optimized Managed Aquifer Recharge Strategies

  • Author: Ghulam Zakir-Hassan; Jehangir F. Punthakey; Catherine Allan; Lee Baumgartner
  • Journal: Water
  • Year: 2025

"Assessing the potential of underground storage of flood water

  • Author: Ghulam Zakir-Hassan; Jehangir F Punthakey; Ghulam Shabir; Faiz Raza Hassan‏
  • Journal: Journal of Groundwater Science and Engineering
  • Year: 2024

"Modelling climate change impacts and adaptation strategies for managing groundwater resources in Southern Punjab

  • Author: Abdul Raheem; Muhammad Saifullah; Jehangir F. Punthakey; Ghulam Zakir-Hassan; Irfan Ahmad Baig
  • Journal: Gulbali Institute Report
  • Year: 2024

"Groundwater governance in Pakistan

  • Author: Ghulam Zakir-Hassan; Catherine Allan; Jehangir F. Punthakey; Lee Baumgartner; Mahmood Ahmad
  • Journal: Water policy in Pakistan
  • Year: 2023

"Hill Torrents’ management options in Koh-e-Suleman Range Pakistan - community perspective

  • Author: Ghulam Zakir-Hassan; Muhammad Shahzad Abdul Rahim; Adnan Hassan; Jamshaid Farid; Matloob Ahmad
  • Journal: Global Journal of Research in Agriculture & Life Sciences
  • Year: 2023