Niloofar Akbariansaravi | Circular Economy | Best Academic Researcher Award

Dr. Niloofar Akbariansaravi | Circular Economy | Best Academic Researcher Award

Postdoctoral Researcher | University of British Columbia | Canada

Dr. Niloofar Akbariansaravi is a Postdoctoral Research Fellow and Sessional Lecturer at the University of British Columbia (UBC) Okanagan, specializing in Applied Operations Research, Business Analytics, and Sustainable Supply Chain Management. She holds dual PhDs in Mechanical Engineering from UBC and Industrial Engineering from the University of Tehran, complemented by a master’s in Industrial Engineering and a bachelor’s degree from Ferdowsi University of Mashhad. Her professional experience spans academia, industry, and entrepreneurship, including leadership roles in collaborative sustainability projects with bioenergy, bioplastic, and sawmilling sectors, and the founding of SustainPro Solutions Inc., a UBC spin-off promoting circular economy analytics. Dr. Akbariansaravi’s research focuses on developing data-driven Decision Support Systems (DSS), multi-criteria optimization frameworks, and techno-economic sustainability models to support environmentally responsible manufacturing and supply chain practices. She has authored multiple refereed journal articles, book chapters, and international conference papers, earning recognition through awards such as the Best Student Paper at the IISE Conference and competitive research fellowships from UBC, MITACS, and Lab-to-Market Canada. As an educator and mentor, she has guided numerous graduate students and contributed to interdisciplinary teaching in analytics and sustainability. Her professional affiliations and achievements include serving as a journal reviewer, conference chair, Lean Six Sigma Black Belt certification holder, and active member of leading research networks advancing sustainable industrial systems worldwide.

Profile: Google Scholar

Featured Publications

1. Rabbani, M., Oladzad-Abbasabady, N., & Akbarian-Saravi, N. (2022). Ambulance routing in disaster response considering variable patient condition: NSGA-II and MOPSO algorithms. Journal of Industrial & Management Optimization, 18(2), 148.

2. Rabbani, M., Saravi, N. A., Farrokhi-Asl, H., Lim, S. F. W. T., & Tahaei, Z. (2018). Developing a sustainable supply chain optimization model for switchgrass-based bioenergy production: A case study. Journal of Cleaner Production, 200, 827–843.

3. Akbarian-Saravi, N., Mobini, M., & Rabbani, M. (2020). Development of a comprehensive decision support tool for strategic and tactical planning of a sustainable bioethanol supply chain: Real case study, discussions and policy implications. Journal of Cleaner Production, 244, 118871.

4. Rabbani, M., Mokarrari, K. R., & Akbarian-Saravi, N. (2021). A multi-objective location inventory routing problem with pricing decisions in a sustainable waste management system. Sustainable Cities and Society, 75, 103319.

5. Rabbani, M., Momen, S., Akbarian-Saravi, N., Farrokhi-Asl, H., & Ghelichi, Z. (2020). Optimal design for sustainable bioethanol supply chain considering the bioethanol production strategies: A case study. Computers & Chemical Engineering, 134, 106720.

Nursaya Makayeva | Carbon Capture and Storage | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Nursaya Makayeva | Carbon Capture and Storage | Best Researcher Award

Senior Researcher | Institute of Combustion Problems | Kazakhstan

Nursaya Makayeva is a dynamic educator and analytical chemist from Al-Farabi Kazakh National University, specializing in research and development, quality control, and advanced analytical methods. With several years of experience in academic and research settings, she has contributed significantly to the fields of catalysis, methane decomposition, and sustainable energy solutions. Her expertise bridges both teaching and applied research, making her a valuable contributor to the scientific community.

Professional Profile

ORCID

Education

Nursaya Makayeva pursued her higher education at Al-Farabi Kazakh National University, where she completed her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in chemistry. She continued her academic journey by enrolling in a doctoral program, deepening her expertise in catalysis and advanced chemical processes. Alongside her formal academic qualifications, she gained practical research experience through internships at the Center of Physico-Chemical Methods of Research and Analysis of Al-Farabi KazNU and at the Republican Center for Structural Research in Tbilisi, Georgia. These opportunities enriched her academic foundation by combining theoretical learning with hands-on laboratory practice.

Experience

Her professional career combines teaching, research, and practical application. As an educator, she designed engaging curricula and provided academic support that fostered student growth. In research, she served as a junior researcher at institutions such as the Institute of Combustion Problems and the Center of Physico-Chemical Methods of Research and Analysis, focusing on experimental design, catalytic systems, and advanced laboratory analysis. Skilled in techniques like chromatography, voltammetry, and TPR-H2, she applied these methods to produce reliable scientific outcomes. Her collaborations with senior researchers, contributions to R&D projects, and participation in international conferences further highlight her growing role in the global scientific community.

Research Focus

Nursaya’s primary research interests lie in catalysis, hydrogen production, and carbon utilization, with a particular emphasis on methane decomposition processes. Her studies explore the development and optimization of catalysts, including mono- and bimetallic systems, for efficient energy conversion. She has also investigated the effects of preparation methods and the incorporation of rare earth oxides, such as cerium, on catalyst performance. Her recent contributions extend to sustainable solutions in carbon dioxide utilization, where she has co-authored review studies on catalytic, photocatalytic, and electrocatalytic processes for CO₂ conversion. By addressing the intersection of renewable energy, environmental protection, and advanced materials, her research supports global efforts toward cleaner energy systems and reduced greenhouse gas emissions.

Publication Top Notes

Title: Advancements in catalytic, photocatalytic, and electrocatalytic CO₂ conversion processes: Current trends and future outlook
Year: 2024

Title: Effects of cerium oxide on the activity of Fe-Ni/Al₂O₃ catalyst in the decomposition of methane
Year: 2024

Title: Electrochemical synthesis of Fe-containing composite for decomposition of methane into COx-free hydrogen and nano-carbon
Year: 2022

Title: Effect of Preparation Method on the Activity of Fe₂O₃-NiO/γ-Al₂O₃ Catalyst in Decomposition of Methane
Year: 2022

Conclusion

Nursaya Makayeva exemplifies the qualities of an emerging leader in chemistry, combining strong academic foundations with impactful research and practical applications. Her dedication to advancing catalytic science, her ability to merge teaching with high-quality research, and her collaborative approach to scientific problem-solving highlight her as a deserving candidate for recognition. Through her contributions to methane decomposition, hydrogen production, and carbon dioxide utilization, she has positioned herself at the forefront of sustainable energy research. Her growing body of publications, active participation in international collaborations, and innovative patent demonstrate her potential to continue shaping the field of chemistry with lasting impact.

Yunxiao Li | Water Carbon Cycling | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Yunxiao Li | Water Carbon Cycling | Best Researcher Award

Associate Professor, Shanxi Agricultural University, China

Yunxiao Li is an esteemed Associate Professor at Shanxi Agricultural University, with a specialization in environmental science and a focus on river carbon cycling. With a Ph.D. in environmental science from Ocean University of China, he has dedicated his research to understanding the intricate dynamics of water carbonate systems. His work spans critical regions in China, including Jiaozhou Bay, Yellow River, and Fenhe River. Dr. Li’s contributions to environmental science have been instrumental in uncovering the impacts of ecological restoration and human activities on carbon cycles in coastal and river systems. His interdisciplinary approach has earned him recognition both within China and globally, making him a prominent figure in the field.

Profile

Scopus

 Education🎓

Dr. Yunxiao Li obtained his Doctorate in Environmental Science from Ocean University of China in 2018. During his academic journey, he laid the groundwork for his expertise in coastal and riverine biogeochemistry. His research throughout his doctoral studies focused on understanding carbon dynamics in aquatic ecosystems, particularly in areas impacted by urbanization and ecological changes. This strong educational foundation has propelled him toward groundbreaking research in carbon cycling processes, ecological restoration, and environmental sustainability.

Experience 💼 

Dr. Li has garnered extensive experience in both academic research and applied environmental science. As an Associate Professor at Shanxi Agricultural University, he has contributed significantly to the advancement of knowledge in environmental science. His leadership in research projects, such as water pollution source analysis and ecological restoration in the Fenhe River, showcases his ability to combine academic rigor with practical solutions. Furthermore, Dr. Li has served as a Topic Editor for reputable journals such as Frontiers in Marine Science and Sustainability, where his expertise guides the discussion on critical environmental issues. His involvement in numerous high-impact research projects has cemented his role as a leader in environmental science.

Research Interests🔬

Dr. Yunxiao Li’s research primarily revolves around coastal biogeochemistry and river carbon cycling. His work explores how ecological restoration and anthropogenic factors, such as wastewater discharge, influence carbon dynamics in aquatic environments. By studying the Yellow River, Fenhe River, and Jiaozhou Bay, Dr. Li has gained valuable insights into the control mechanisms of CO₂ fluxes in semi-arid regions. He is also dedicated to understanding how carbon cycles in coastal systems can be altered by both natural processes and human intervention, ultimately aiming to enhance environmental sustainability.

Publications Top Note📚

Wang, G., Yao, X., Zhang, Z., Li, Y., & Fan, W. (2024). “Effect of jujube orchard abandonment time on soil properties and enzyme activities at soil profile in the Loess Plateau.” Scientific Reports.

Li, Y., Dang, J., Huang, X., Bai, J., & Chen, X. (2024). “The response of carbonate system to watershed urbanization process in a semi-arid river.” Journal of Ocean University of China.

Conclusion🌍

Dr. Yunxiao Li’s academic journey and extensive research on river and coastal carbon cycles have positioned him as a leading expert in the field of environmental science. His work in areas like the Jiaozhou Bay and Fenhe River is integral to understanding the effects of human activity on carbon dynamics in aquatic ecosystems. As he continues to innovate in the areas of ecological restoration and environmental sustainability, Dr. Li remains committed to driving meaningful change in the management and preservation of water resources. His leadership in both research and academia ensures that his contributions will have a lasting impact on the field.