Qiuyan Yu | Ecosystems | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Qiuyan Yu | Ecosystems | Best Researcher Award

Senior Scientist | New Mexico State University | United States

Dr. Qiuyan Yu is a distinguished environmental and ecological researcher affiliated with New Mexico State University, United States. With an academic portfolio comprising 26 publications and over 870 citations, Dr. Yu has made significant contributions to the fields of forest ecology, remote sensing, and environmental change analysis. Her research integrates geospatial technologies, ecological modeling, and landscape analysis to understand how environmental factors and human activities influence terrestrial ecosystems, particularly forests and agricultural landscapes. Notably, her recent works—such as “Interactions between the environment and plant functional type control global forest top-of-canopy height” (2026) and “Urban Expansion and the Loss of Agricultural Lands and Forest Cover in Limbe, Cameroon” (2025)—demonstrate her expertise in assessing the ecological consequences of urbanization and climate variability on land cover dynamics. With an h-index of 14, Dr. Yu’s scholarship reflects both depth and global relevance, emphasizing sustainable environmental management and conservation. Collaborating with a broad network of 68 co-authors across interdisciplinary domains, she advances scientific understanding of ecosystem resilience and biodiversity conservation in the context of rapid environmental transformation. Her work not only enhances predictive models of vegetation dynamics but also provides valuable insights for policy formulation, land-use planning, and sustainable development. Through her continued research and collaboration, Dr. Qiuyan Yu remains a leading figure in environmental science, contributing meaningfully to addressing global ecological challenges.

Profiles: Scopus |Google Scholar

Featured Publications

1. Zhao, A., Yu, Q., Feng, L., Zhang, A., & Pei, T. (2020). Evaluating the cumulative and time-lag effects of drought on grassland vegetation: A case study in the Chinese Loess Plateau. Journal of Environmental Management, 261, 110214. 
Cited by: 203

2. Acheampong, M., Yu, Q., Enomah, L. D., Anchang, J., & Eduful, M. (2018). Land use/cover change in Ghana’s oil city: Assessing the impact of neoliberal economic policies and implications for sustainable development goal number one–A remote sensing perspective. Land Use Policy, 73, 373–384. 
Cited by: 125

3. Pu, R., Landry, S., & Yu, Q. (2018). Assessing the potential of multi-seasonal high resolution Pléiades satellite imagery for mapping urban tree species. International Journal of Applied Earth Observation and Geoinformation, 71, 144–158.
Cited by: 117

4. Yu, Q., Ji, W., Pu, R., Landry, S., Acheampong, M., O’Neil-Dunne, J., Ren, Z., et al. (2020). A preliminary exploration of the cooling effect of tree shade in urban landscapes. International Journal of Applied Earth Observation and Geoinformation, 92, 102161.
Cited by: 85

5 Sun, Z., Luo, J., Yang, J., Yu, Q., Zhang, L., Xue, K., & Lu, L. (2020). Nation-scale mapping of coastal aquaculture ponds with Sentinel-1 SAR data using Google Earth Engine. Remote Sensing, 12(18), 3086.
Cited by: 85

Dr. Qiuyan Yu’s research advances global understanding of vegetation dynamics, land-use change, and climate–ecosystem interactions. Her work provides critical insights for sustainable environmental management, guiding policies that balance ecological resilience with human development in a changing world.

Ali Razban | Energy Managment | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Ali Razban | Energy Managment | Best Researcher Award 

Associate Professor | Purdue University | United States

Dr. Ali Razban is a researcher at Indiana University–Purdue University Indianapolis (IUPUI), United States, specializing in intelligent building systems, energy management, and advanced control strategies for Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems. With 41 scientific publications and over 700 citations, his work focuses on integrating Internet of Things (IoT) technologies, model predictive control (MPC), and environmental sensing to enhance building performance, occupant comfort, and energy efficiency. His recent studies include privacy-preserving methods for indoor occupancy forecasting, optimized sensor placement for accurate environmental monitoring, and real-world implementation of cloud-based MPC systems for educational buildings. Dr. Razban has also contributed to comprehensive reviews of occupancy detection techniques, addressing their practical challenges in large-scale deployment. His collaborative research spans multiple disciplines—bridging mechanical engineering, computer science, and data analytics—and involves partnerships with over 40 co-authors worldwide. Through both experimental and simulation-based approaches, his work advances sustainable building design and smart infrastructure, contributing to global efforts in reducing energy consumption and carbon emissions. Dr. Razban’s research not only strengthens the academic understanding of intelligent built environments but also delivers practical, scalable solutions for industry applications, thereby fostering the development of resilient, data-driven, and energy-efficient urban ecosystems.

Profiles: Scopus | ORCID

Featured Publication

Guochun Zhang | Magnetic Refrigeration | Best Researcher Award

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Guochun Zhang | Magnetic Refrigeration | Best Researcher Award

Professor | Technical Institute of Physics and Chemistry | China

Professor Zhang Guochun, a leading faculty member at the Institute of Physical Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, is an accomplished inorganic chemist recognized for his pioneering contributions to crystal science. He earned his Ph.D. in Inorganic Chemistry from the University of Science and Technology of China, where he established a strong academic foundation in advanced material synthesis and characterization. His professional career has been devoted to advancing crystal research, with a focus on the discovery of new functional crystals, investigating the fundamental relationships between structure and properties, and developing innovative methods for bulk crystal growth. Through his expertise, Professor Zhang has significantly contributed to expanding the practical applications of crystalline materials in diverse scientific and technological fields. In addition to his research, he plays an active role in academic leadership, supervising students, mentoring young researchers, and fostering collaborations that promote innovation and excellence in physical chemistry. His impactful body of work, reflected in high-quality publications and influential contributions to the field, has advanced both fundamental understanding and practical applications, establishing him as a prominent figure whose achievements continue to shape the landscape of inorganic and materials chemistry.

Profile: Scopus

Featured Publications

Wide spectral range refractive indices of BBO crystal covering 0.2–2000 THz. (2025). Applied Optics.

Optical properties of barium borate crystal in the THz range revisited. (2025). Optics Letters.

The crystal structures, magnetic interactions and cryogenic magnetocaloric effects for NaGdXO₄ (X = Si, Ti) compounds. (2025). Journal of Alloys and Compounds.

Potential laser crystal of Zn₄B₆O₁₃:Mn²⁺ with low thermal expansion and high thermal conductivity: Single-crystal growth and characterization. (2024). Crystal Growth & Design.

Magnetic properties and cryogenic magnetocaloric effect in α-Gd₂(MoO₄)₃ compound. (2024). Cryogenics.

Marianna Vályi Nagy | Sustainability in Cryogenic Technologies | Best Researcher Award

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Ms. Marianna Vályi Nagy | Sustainability in Cryogenic Technologies | Best Researcher Award

Research assistant at Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences | Hungary

Marianna Vályi Nagy is a research assistant at the Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences (MATE), Institute of Agronomy, whose academic journey and professional career have been devoted to advancing sustainable agricultural practices. With a strong foundation in horticultural engineering, plant protection, and agronomy, she has established herself as a dedicated researcher focusing on mixed cropping systems, crop interactions, and climate-resilient agricultural methods. Her work bridges fundamental agricultural sciences with applied research, producing impactful results that contribute both to academic knowledge and to real-world agricultural innovations.

Professional Profile

ORCID

Education

Marianna began her academic journey at Corvinus University in Budapest, where she graduated as a Horticultural Engineer. Her interest in crop science and plant interactions motivated her to pursue further qualifications, and she later obtained a specialized degree in Plant Protection Engineering from the University of Szeged. Her commitment to higher learning led her to doctoral studies at the Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences, supported by the Young Researcher Training Program. Throughout her academic development, Marianna demonstrated a keen ability to integrate multiple disciplines within plant sciences, aligning her expertise with the pressing challenges of climate change, food security, and sustainable farming systems.

Experience

Marianna’s professional experience is rooted in her contributions to both research and applied agricultural innovation. She began her research career at the National Agricultural Research and Innovation Centre, where she gained valuable experience in experimental design and crop management practices. Later, she joined the Applied Agronomy Research Station, which became part of MATE, and contributed to experiments that combined scientific rigor with industry-driven needs. Over the years, she has participated in numerous commissioned research projects, collaborating with agricultural companies to test crop varieties, seeding strategies, and sustainable cultivation methods. This blend of academic and industry engagement has allowed her to create a research portfolio that is both scientifically robust and practically relevant.

Research Focus

Marianna’s primary research interests revolve around mixed cropping systems, with a particular emphasis on winter wheat–winter pea interactions. She explores the development process of companion crops, analyzing both their quantitative and qualitative characteristics. Her studies extend beyond traditional yield-focused research by considering plant development, interaction dynamics, seeding rates, and variety selection, providing a comprehensive understanding of crop coexistence. These investigations address one of the greatest challenges in modern agriculture: identifying cultivation methods that are environmentally sustainable, resilient to climate change, and adaptable to market fluctuations. Through her research, Marianna contributes to shaping agricultural practices that balance productivity with ecological responsibility.

Publication Top Notes

Title: Yield and Quality Parameters of Winter Wheat in a Wheat–Pea Mixed Cropping System
Authors: Marianna Vályi-Nagy, István Kristó, Melinda Tar, Attila Rácz, Lajos Szentpéteri, Katalin Irmes, Csaba Gyuricza, Márta Ladányi
Summary: This study evaluated wheat–pea intercropping, showing improved grain yield, protein content, and crop resilience, highlighting ecological and economic advantages compared to monoculture wheat cultivation.

Title: Competition Indices and Economic Benefits of Winter Wheat and Winter Peas in Mixed Cropping
Authors: Marianna Vályi-Nagy, István Kristó, Melinda Tar, Attila Rácz, Lajos Szentpéteri, Katalin Irmes, Gergő Péter Kovács, Márta Ladányi
Summary: Research analyzed competition indices and profitability of wheat–pea mixtures, concluding intercropping enhances land-use efficiency and offers greater economic sustainability than sole cropping systems.

Title: The Effect of Foliar Zinc Application on the Leaf Chlorophyll Concentrations and Grain Yields of the Winter Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) in the Field Experiments of Two Seasons
Authors: Katalin Irmes, István Kristó, Lajos Szentpéteri, Attila Rácz, Marianna Vályi-Nagy, Mária Katalin Kassai, Klára Veresné Valentinyi, Melinda Tar
Summary: Two-season field trials revealed foliar zinc application increased chlorophyll levels and grain yields in winter wheat, emphasizing zinc’s critical role in improving crop productivity.

Title: Effects of Winter Cereals (Triticum aestivum L., Hordeum vulgare L., Triticosecale Wittmack) and Winter Pea (Pisum sativum L.) Intercropping on Weed Cover in South-Eastern and Central Hungary
Authors: Attila Rácz, Marianna Vályi-Nagy, Melinda Tar, Katalin Irmes, Lajos Szentpéteri, Apolka Ujj, Klára Veresné Valentinyi, Márta Ladányi, István Kristó
Summary: Field experiments demonstrated cereal–pea intercropping significantly reduced weed cover, promoting ecological weed management and enhancing sustainability in Hungarian winter cropping systems.

Conclusion

Marianna Vályi Nagy stands out as a promising researcher whose dedication to sustainable agriculture is evident in her academic achievements, applied research, and innovative contributions. Her expertise in mixed cropping systems addresses one of the most urgent agricultural challenges of our time—developing cultivation methods that align with ecological principles while ensuring productivity and resilience. With a growing body of publications, patents, and industry collaborations, she exemplifies the qualities of a forward-thinking researcher who bridges science and practice. Her membership in professional associations and recognition through national research programs further reinforce her position as an emerging leader in agricultural sciences. Marianna’s work holds significant potential to guide future research directions and agricultural policies, making her a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

Nashwa Yousif | Renewable Energy | Women Researcher Award

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Assist. Prof. Dr. Nashwa Yousif | Renewable Energy | Women Researcher Award

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.

Professional Profile

ORCID

🎓 Education

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.

🧪 Experience

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.

🔬 Research Interests

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.

📚 Publications Top Notes

🔬 Title: Facile Synthesis and Characterization of Perovskite-Type Nd₁−ₓCaₓMnO₃ Nanocomposites for High-Performance Supercapacitor Electrodes

📅 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.

🔬 Title: Plastic Waste‐Derived Carbon Nanotubes Decorated with Mo₂C, MoO₃, or MoO₃/Mo₂C as Effective Nanocomposite Materials for Supercapacitor Applications

📅 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.

🔬 Title: Impact of Carbon Nanotubes on Superconducting Properties and Ferromagnetism of Indium-Doped Bi-2212 Superconductors: Critical Current Density Enhancement

📅 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.

🔬 Title: Electrochemical Performance of Flexible Supercapacitor Electrodes Based on EVA/PANI@CNT Nano-Composite

📅 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.

🔬 Title: γ‐Irradiation Hardness Investigations of (PANI)₁−ₓ(Bi₂Te₃)ₓ Composites for Thermistor Applications

📅 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.

🧭 Conclusion

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.

Yunxiao Li | Water Carbon Cycling | Best Researcher Award

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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.