Prof. Xueyan He | Environmental Science | Excellence in Research Award
The sixth hospital of wuhan | China
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Postdoctoral Researcher | University of British Columbia | Canada
Lecturer and Researcher at Wollega University, Ethiopia
Birhanu Chalcisa Werku is an accomplished academic, researcher, and administrator serving as Research, Community Engagement, and Industry Linkage Associate Dean at Wollega University, College of Agriculture. With expertise spanning agriculture, ecology, water resources, wetlands, agroforestry, air quality, and environmental health, he has established himself as a versatile scholar contributing both to scientific research and to the development of local communities. His career is marked by impactful publications, interdisciplinary collaborations, and leadership roles that highlight his commitment to advancing sustainable development in Ethiopia and beyond.
Birhanu’s academic foundation reflects a clear dedication to rural development, environmental science, and sustainable practices. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Rural Development and Family Science from Hawassa University, where he developed a strong grounding in agricultural systems, rural livelihoods, and community-based approaches to development. He further pursued a Master’s degree in Environmental Science and Technology at Jimma University, where his training integrated environmental sustainability with practical problem-solving in water resources, agroecology, and natural resource management. His educational journey equipped him with advanced knowledge of both qualitative and quantitative methodologies, project design, feasibility assessments, and training needs evaluation, all of which have informed his subsequent academic and professional endeavors.
Birhanu began his career as a lecturer and later took on leadership responsibilities at Wollega University, where he served as Head of the Department of Rural Development and Agricultural Extension. In this capacity, he worked to strengthen curriculum development, mentor students, and engage faculty in collaborative research initiatives. His leadership experience expanded when he assumed the role of Associate Dean for Research, Community Engagement, and Industry Linkage, a position that has allowed him to bridge the gap between academia, local communities, and industry stakeholders. In this role, he has been instrumental in designing and overseeing projects that address pressing challenges such as food security, water management, climate resilience, and community capacity building. His work reflects a balance of academic rigor and practical application, ensuring that research outcomes are translated into real-world impact.
Birhanu’s research agenda is broad yet interconnected, addressing key issues in agriculture, environment, and public health. His studies on wetlands and watershed dynamics provide valuable insights into sustainable land use and water resource management. His investigations into agroforestry and indigenous knowledge systems emphasize the importance of traditional practices in ensuring food security and ecological balance. Additionally, his research on air quality and public health highlights the environmental dimensions of human well-being, advancing evidence-based strategies for sustainable urban and rural development. He is also deeply engaged in climate change research, particularly focusing on agricultural emissions and their role in shaping mitigation strategies aligned with global sustainability goals. Collectively, his work demonstrates a consistent effort to link environmental stewardship with social development.
Title: Impact of agricultural emissions on Goal 13 of the Sustainable Development Agenda: An East African Strategy for Climate Action
Authors: Birhanu Chalcisa Werku et al.
Summary: This study analyzes agricultural emissions in East Africa, proposing sustainable strategies to mitigate climate impacts and advance global climate action.
Birhanu Chalcisa Werku’s career exemplifies the integration of teaching, research, and community engagement. His educational background and professional roles at Wollega University have positioned him as both a scholar and a leader. Through his publications, he has advanced knowledge in areas critical to sustainable development, including wetlands, agroforestry, food safety, and air quality. His interdisciplinary focus connects ecological systems with human development, ensuring that his work remains relevant to both local communities and broader global challenges. By linking academic research with practical application, Birhanu has made significant contributions to the pursuit of sustainable agriculture, environmental management, and public health. His leadership, research productivity, and commitment to community development make him a strong and deserving candidate for recognition through this award.
Engineer, Istanbul University-Cerrahpaşa, Burkina Faso
Saidou Kinda is a dynamic and forward-thinking doctoral engineer from Burkina Faso, specializing in water and environmental engineering with a dual foundation in civil engineering. Currently pursuing his PhD at Istanbul University-Cerrahpaşa, he also serves as Vice Commercial Advisor at the Turkish Embassy in Ouagadougou, bridging economic and research ties between Turkey and Burkina Faso. With a deep commitment to sustainable infrastructure and international development, Saidou combines technical expertise, global perspective, and multilingual fluency to contribute to innovative solutions in water management, environmental sustainability, and engineering design.
Saidou’s academic journey began at École Saint André de Basneré and continued through Lycée Privé Madina and Lycée Provincial de Kaya. From 2017 to 2022, he completed dual engineering programs in Water & Environmental Engineering and Civil Engineering at Çukurova University, Turkey. His academic excellence led him to Istanbul University-Cerrahpaşa, where he earned a Master’s in Industrial Wastewater Treatment (2022–2024) and is now pursuing a PhD in Water and Environmental Engineering. His education has focused on water treatment, dam design, and sustainable infrastructure for urban and rural environments.
Saidou has held a variety of engineering and advisory roles. At ARTAS, Turkey, he worked as a Project Engineer, contributing to wastewater treatment plant design and dam engineering projects like the Yedigöze Arch Dam. He interned at DSI (State Hydraulic Works) and the Municipality of Adana, engaging in water supply and urban sanitation systems. Currently, as Vice Commercial Advisor at the Turkish Embassy, he supports bilateral trade, project investment, and commercial cooperation between Turkey and Burkina Faso. He has also participated in key infrastructure projects in Ceyhan and Imamoglu, showcasing his capability in both design and implementation.
Saidou’s research is centered on wastewater treatment technologies, membrane bioreactors (MBR), climate change adaptation, hydraulic infrastructure, and metal pollution in soils. He focuses on optimizing biological treatment strategies for textile wastewater and improving recovery potentials of industrial water through innovative technologies. His doctoral studies expand upon nutrient management and reverse osmosis systems for African contexts, aiming for sustainable, cost-effective solutions to water scarcity and pollution.
Authors: Naim Sezgin, Saidou Kinda, Utku Emre Temelli, Naim Sezgin
Published: International Journal of Agriculture, Environment and Food Sciences
Summary:
This peer-reviewed journal article presents a comprehensive analysis of soil contamination levels in Karabuk, an industrial region in Turkey known for its steel production. Using various pollution indices such as the Geo-accumulation Index (Igeo), Enrichment Factor (EF), and Pollution Load Index (PLI).
Saidou Kinda is a promising figure in the field of environmental engineering, blending academic rigor, technical competence, and international engagement. His multidisciplinary expertise, backed by professional experience and impactful research, positions him as a valuable contributor to the future of water and environmental sustainability in Africa and beyond. Through his leadership and cross-cultural collaboration, he embodies the ideals of innovation, resilience, and global citizenship.
Assist. Prof. Dr. Perihan Akbas, Ondokuz Mayis University, Turkey
Dr. Perihan Akbaş is an Assistant Professor at Ondokuz Mayıs University, specializing in microbiology, biotechnology, forensic sciences, and food safety. With more than 20 years of academic and research experience, she integrates biology with applied sciences to address real-world problems such as antimicrobial resistance, bioactive compound extraction, and microbial quality assessment. Her career reflects a passion for scientific innovation and interdisciplinary collaboration.
Dr. Akbaş earned her PhD in General Biology from Atatürk University in 2013. Her doctoral thesis, titled “Locusta migratoria çekirgesi kullanılarak mikrobiyolojik amaçlı pepton üretimi,” focused on the use of locust biomass for microbial peptone production. She previously completed her MSc in Biology at Kafkas University in 2004 with a thesis on detecting E. coli O157:H7 in döner kebabs in Kars. Her undergraduate degree in Biology was obtained from Atatürk University in 2002.
From 2014 to 2022, Dr. Akbaş served at Kafkas University before joining Ondokuz Mayıs University in 2022. She has held administrative roles such as Vice Director and Deputy Director in research centers and vocational schools. In teaching, she has instructed master’s and undergraduate courses in forensic identification, microbiology, and criminalistics.
Her research includes microbial resistance, antimicrobial and antioxidant activities of natural compounds, nanobiotechnology (e.g., silver nanoparticles), bioethanol production, deep eutectic solvents, and forensic toxicology. She frequently collaborates across disciplines, applying molecular biology, analytical chemistry, and experimental pharmacology in her studies.
🗞️ Türk Mikrobiyoloji Cemiyeti Dergisi
📅 Published: 2025 | 🔗 DOI: 10.54453/TMCD.2025.79847
👩 Contributors: Perihan Akbaş, Çiğdem Sezer, Fatih Büyük, Gönül Damla Büyük, Eray Büyük
📌 Summary: This study assessed the accuracy of Salmonella detection in ready-to-eat foods using molecular and phenotypic methods. It highlighted the risk of false positives and stressed the importance of validation in microbial diagnostics.
🗞️ Brazilian Archives of Biology and Technology
📅 Published: 2023 | 🔗 DOI: 10.1590/1678-4324-2023220237
👩 Contributors: E. Kaya, P. Akbaş
📌 Summary: The research investigated Peganum harmala seed extracts, identifying significant antimicrobial and antioxidant potential along with a rich fatty acid profile, suggesting therapeutic and nutraceutical applications.
🗞️ Food Science & Nutrition
📅 Published: December 2023 | 🔗 DOI: 10.1002/fsn3.3733
👩 Contributors: Perihan Akbaş, Elife Kaya, Mustafa Makav, Gülden Yıldız
📌 Summary: This experimental animal study demonstrated the protective role of Chenopodium album against nephrotoxicity induced by gentamicin and validated its antimicrobial effectiveness.
🗞️ Osmaniye Korkut Ata University Journal of Science
📅 Published: December 20, 2023 | 🔗 DOI: 10.47495/okufbed.1203728
👩 Contributors: Perihan Akbaş
📌 Summary: This paper evaluated microbial contamination in both packaged and artisanal ice creams, pointing out significant hygiene-related issues and calling for stricter food safety controls.
🗞️ Sakarya University Journal of Science
📅 Published: June 30, 2022 | 🔗 DOI: 10.16984/saufenbilder.1037496
👩 Contributors: Perihan Akbaş, Esabi Başaran Kurbanoğlu
📌 Summary: The study explored alternative protein sources using insect biomass for peptone production. It demonstrated that locust-derived substrates could effectively support microbial growth, offering a sustainable biotechnological solution.
Dr. Perihan Akbaş’s research trajectory reflects a rare blend of innovation, applicability, and interdisciplinary depth. Her work has significantly contributed to food safety, natural product science, and sustainable biotech. As both a mentor and a research leader, she has established a strong academic legacy. Her published studies, ongoing projects, and dedication to science education mark her as a deserving candidate for recognition in scientific achievement.
Assist. Prof. Dr. Nashwa Yousif, Egyptian Atomic Energy Authority, Egypt
Dr. Nashwa Mohamed Mahmoud Yousif is an Assistant Professor of Material Sciences at the Egyptian Atomic Energy Authority, specializing in energy storage and renewable energy research. With over 18 years of academic and research experience, she has contributed extensively to advanced electrochemical analysis, nanomaterials development, and polymer/metal oxide composites for sustainable energy applications. Currently based at the Electrochemical Lab of the Solid State and Accelerators Department at the National Center for Radiation Research & Technology (NCRRT), her contributions span academic supervision, collaborative research, and high-impact journal publications.
Dr. Yousif’s academic journey is rooted in physics and material science. She steadily progressed through academic ranks, beginning as a physics researcher in 2007. Her advanced studies led her to specialize in solid-state physics and energy materials, which has underpinned her extensive work on electrochemical energy storage systems and nanocomposites.
Dr. Yousif has steadily grown her academic career within the Egyptian Atomic Energy Authority. She began as a physics researcher (2007–2012), before being promoted to assistant lecturer (2012–2016), and lecturer (2016–2022). In 2022, she assumed the role of Assistant Professor in Material Sciences at the NCRRT. Throughout this time, she has been deeply involved in both laboratory research and the mentorship of graduate students, significantly influencing Egypt’s scientific landscape in the fields of renewable energy and electrochemical materials.
Her core research interests include the development of cathode materials for multivalent ion batteries, synthesis of polymer/metal oxide nanocomposites, and conversion of plastic waste into carbon nanomaterials for energy storage. She focuses on scalable, eco-friendly approaches to sustainable energy solutions, particularly in enhancing battery technology and supercapacitor performance.
📅 Published: May 2025
📘 Journal: Journal of Electronic Materials
👥 Contributors: Soraya Abdelhaleem, M. S. Shalaby, H. M. Hashem, Nashwa M. Yousif
Summary:
This research explores the synthesis of Nd₁−ₓCaₓMnO₃ perovskite-type nanocomposites using a facile route and their application as electrode materials in supercapacitors. The study reveals how calcium doping impacts the crystal structure and electrochemical behavior, resulting in enhanced specific capacitance and charge-discharge performance. The nanocomposites exhibit excellent electrochemical stability, making them promising candidates for next-generation energy storage devices.
📅 Published: May 2025
📘 Journal: ChemistrySelect
👥 Contributors: Ahmed E. Awadallah, Ateyya A. Aboul‐Enein, Nashwa M. Yousif, Mostafa A. Azab, Ahmed M. Haggar
Summary:
This environmentally focused study converts plastic waste into carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and further functionalizes them with Mo₂C, MoO₃, and a hybrid MoO₃/Mo₂C composite. The resulting materials exhibit exceptional electrochemical properties, including high conductivity and capacitance. The work provides a dual solution for plastic waste management and supercapacitor enhancement, highlighting the potential of green nanotechnology.
📅 Published: January 2025
📘 Journal: Physica B: Condensed Matter
👥 Contributors: Soraya Abdelhaleem, Manale Noun, Nashwa M. Yousif, Mustafa Saeed Shalaby
Summary:
This article examines how the inclusion of carbon nanotubes influences the superconducting behavior of indium-doped Bi-2212 ceramics. The findings indicate enhanced critical current density and a marked effect on the magnetic and ferromagnetic properties. The research provides insight into the interplay between nanostructures and superconducting materials, opening avenues for high-efficiency superconductors in electronics.
📅 Published: December 2024
📘 Journal: Russian Journal of Electrochemistry
👥 Contributors: Nashwa M. Yousif, Mohamed R. Balboul
Summary:
This study introduces a novel flexible electrode made from a composite of ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA), polyaniline (PANI), and carbon nanotubes (CNTs). The material displays impressive capacitance retention and flexibility, ideal for wearable energy storage devices. It marks a significant advancement in flexible supercapacitor technology through a cost-effective and scalable approach.
📅 Published: February 10, 2023
📘 Journal: Journal of Applied Polymer Science
👥 Contributors: Mustafa Saeed Shalaby, Soraya Abdelhaleem, Eman O. Taha, Nashwa M. Yousif
Summary:
The paper investigates the impact of γ-irradiation on polyaniline/Bi₂Te₃ composites, assessing their structural stability and electrical response. The results demonstrate that controlled irradiation improves the thermistor behavior of the composite, making it suitable for temperature-sensing applications in radiation-exposed environments. This work contributes to the design of robust, radiation-resistant sensors.
Dr. Nashwa M. Yousif exemplifies the modern researcher’s commitment to both innovation and sustainability. Her work bridges academic research and practical solutions, tackling some of the world’s most urgent energy challenges. Through her publications, graduate supervision, and national projects, she continues to lead with scientific integrity and a forward-looking vision. Her contributions make her a strong contender for recognition in national and international award platforms, especially in categories honoring women in science and sustainability innovation.
Associate Professor, Shanxi Agricultural University, China