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📝🔬

Ziaul Haq Doost – Water Resource- Best Researcher Award

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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.

 

📝🔬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.

Obed Asamoah – Forest resources management – Excellence in Research

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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;