Ivan Marović | Project Management | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Ivan Marović | Project Management | Best Researcher Award

University of Rijeka, Faculty of Civil Engineering | Croatia

Dr. Ivan Marović, a distinguished academic at the University of Rijeka, Faculty of Civil Engineering, has dedicated over twenty years to advancing research and education in the field of civil engineering, progressing from research assistant to full professor. His expertise lies in Project Management, particularly in management information systems, multi-criteria decision analysis, and soft computing methods. A recipient of numerous prestigious awards-including the Best Doctoral Thesis Award from the Croatian Association of Civil Engineers, the Vera Johanides Award from the Croatian Academy of Technical Sciences, the UNIRI Foundation Award for young interdisciplinary scientists, several scientific and teaching awards from UNIRI and GRADRI, and the Global Peer Review Award (Clarivate Analytics) for ranking among the top 1% of reviewers globally in Environment and Ecology as well as Cross-Field-Dr. Marović has made remarkable contributions to both academia and research innovation. His current and past research projects span critical areas such as climate change adaptation for coastal structures, performance management in construction using soft computing, artificial intelligence applications in project planning, and sustainable urban management. Notable projects include COS, GAIA COFUND, PerfMAN, CRESCO Adria, and DSC4SUM, among others, all under the aegis of prestigious funding schemes such as Horizon Europe, INTERREG V-A Italy–Croatia, and the University of Rijeka’s Experienced Researchers Grant Scheme. Through his interdisciplinary research and leadership, Dr. Marović continues to shape innovative methodologies that enhance the resilience, efficiency, and sustainability of civil engineering practices.

Profiles: Scopus | Orcid | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

"Application of multi-criteria decision-making methods in the selection of a sustainable solution in urban planning"

"Hybrid urban block: The end outcome of the city's filling and extension"

"The Role of the Built Environment in Achieving Sustainable Development: A Life Cycle Cost Perspective"

"Making Informed Choices: AHP and SAW for Optimal Formwork System Selection"

"Understanding and Quantifying the Impact of Adverse Weather on Construction Productivity"

Zainab Rehman | Sustainable | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Zainab Rehman | Sustainable | Best Researcher Award

Research Scholar at Bahauddin Zakariya University Multan, Pakistan

Dr. Zainab Rehman is a Ph.D. scholar specializing in Urban Forestry at the Department of Forestry and Range Management, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences & Technology, Bahauddin Zakariya University (BZU), Multan, Pakistan. With a robust academic background and hands-on teaching and research experience, she is committed to promoting sustainable urban landscapes through science-driven environmental strategies. Her expertise lies in ecosystem services, climate resilience, and sustainable urban development.

🔹Professional Profile:

Scopus Profile

🎓Education Background

  • Ph.D. Forestry (2020–2025)
    Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan, Pakistan
    CGPA: 4.00/4.00 (Coursework completed, First Position)
    Dissertation: Socio-Environmental Assessment of Urban Parks: Perceived Ecosystem Services, Biodiversity Conservation, and Climate Amelioration in Southern Punjab, Pakistan

  • M.Phil. Forestry (2016–2018)
    Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan, Pakistan
    CGPA: 3.77/4.00
    Thesis: Effect of Water Stress on Biofuel Feedstock

  • B.Sc. (Hons.) Agriculture – Major in Forestry (2012–2016)
    Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan, Pakistan
    CGPA: 3.76/4.00

💼 Professional Development

Dr. Rehman served as a Visiting Lecturer at the Department of Forestry & Range Management, Bahauddin Zakariya University from February 2021 to January 2023, where she taught undergraduate courses including Forest Engineering-I and Forest Engineering-II. Her academic role involved curriculum delivery, student mentoring, and practical engagement in forestry education.

🔬Research Focus

As an Urban Forest Specialist, Dr. Rehman’s research focuses on:

  • Urban forests and green infrastructure

  • Nature-based solutions and environmental mitigation

  • Socio-ecological services and economic valuation

  • Urban heat island reduction and climate amelioration

  • Biodiversity conservation and plant adaptation

  • Urban sustainability and resilience

📈Author Metrics:

  • Key Publications:

    1. Urban Parks and Native Trees: A Profitable Strategy for Carbon Sequestration and Climate ResilienceMDPI Land

    2. Biodiversity and Quality of Urban Green Landscape Affect Mental Restorativeness of Residents in Multan, PakistanFrontiers in Sustainable Cities

    3. Deforestation Perspectives of Dry Temperate Forests: Main Drivers and Possible StrategiesFrontiers in Environmental Sciences

    (Author metrics such as citations, h-index, and i10-index can be compiled upon request from platforms like Google Scholar or Scopus if profiles are available.)

🏆Awards and Honors:

  • Merit Laptop Award during B.Sc. (Hons.) in Agriculture

  • Ph.D. Coursework Topper with a perfect 4.00/4.00 CGPA

  • Internship Certification from National Agriculture Research Centre (NARC), Islamabad (2016)

  • Participation Certification in Agricultural Innovation Program Seminar by USAID, CIMMYT, ICARDA, and others (2015)

  • Certified as a Bonafide Student of Forestry at BZU (2014)

📝Publication Top Notes

1. Urban Parks and Native Trees: A Profitable Strategy for Carbon Sequestration and Climate Resilience

  • Authors: Zainab Rehman, Muhammad Zubair, Basharat A. Dar, Muhammad M. Habib, Ahmed M. Abd-ElGawad, Ghulam Yasin, Matoor Mohsin Gilani, Jahangir A. Malik, Muhammad Talha Rafique, Jahanzaib Jahanzaib

  • Journal: Land (MDPI), Volume 14, Issue 4, Article 903

  • Publication Date: 2025

  • DOI: 10.3390/land14040903

  • Abstract: This study evaluates the carbon sequestration potential of four native tree species—Pongamia pinnata, Azadirachta indica, Melia azedarach, and Dalbergia sissoo—in urban parks across Multan City, Pakistan. By inventorying 456 trees within six parks and applying species-specific allometric equations, the research estimates biomass and carbon stock. Findings highlight the significant role of native trees in enhancing urban carbon sinks and promoting climate resilience. MDPI+3MDPI+3MDPI+3MDPI+1ResearchGate+1

2. Biodiversity and Quality of Urban Green Landscape Affect Mental Restorativeness of Residents in Multan, Pakistan

  • Authors: Zainab Rehman, Muhammad Zubair, Dalia Osama Hafiz, Syed Amir Manzoor

  • Journal: Frontiers in Sustainable Cities, Volume 5

  • Publication Date: 2024

  • DOI: 10.3389/frsc.2023.1286125

  • Abstract: This study investigates the relationship between the perceived biodiversity and quality of urban parks and the mental restorativeness experienced by visitors in Multan, Pakistan. Conducted through a cross-sectional survey of 550 park visitors across six randomly selected urban parks, the research finds a positive correlation between park biodiversity/quality and visitors’ mental restoration. Additionally, it explores factors influencing visitors’ willingness to pay for park conservation and management. Frontiers+4OUCI+4Liverpool University Press+4CoLab+5Frontiers+5OUCI+5CoLab+4OUCI+4Liverpool University Press+4

3. Deforestation Perspectives of Dry Temperate Forests: Main Drivers and Possible Strategies

  • Authors: Ehsan Ali, Muhammad Farooq Azhar, Edris Alam, Zainab Rehman, Sami Ullah, Aqeel Ahmad, Abu Reza Md. Towfiqul Islam, Praveen Mittal

  • Journal: Frontiers in Environmental Science

  • Publication Date: 2023

  • DOI: 10.3389/fenvs.2023.1151320

  • Abstract: Focusing on the dry temperate forests of Chilas, Gilgit-Baltistan, this study examines the current state of deforestation, identifies its primary drivers, and proposes potential mitigation strategies. Utilizing stratified random sampling and fixed area plot methods, the research employs binary regression models to analyze data collected between October 2021 and August 2022. The findings underscore the urgent need for targeted interventions to address deforestation in the region.

.Conclusion:

Dr. Zainab Rehman stands out as an emerging expert in sustainable urban forestry. Her work is scientifically rigorous, socially relevant, and academically excellent, meeting core criteria for a Best Researcher Award in sustainability or environmental science domains.

Her track record in research, teaching, and publication, combined with a clear commitment to urban resilience and ecosystem services, makes her an ideal candidate for the award.

Recommendation: Strongly Recommended for Best Researcher Award in Sustainability/Urban Forestry