Dalel Daâssi | Waste Management | Research Excellence Award

Ms. Dalel Daâssi | Waste Management | Research Excellence Award 

Sfax, Tunisia | Centre Biotechnologie de Sfax | Tunisia

Ms. Dalel Daâssi is a distinguished researcher at the Centre de Biotechnologie de Sfax, Tunisia, specializing in environmental biotechnology, sustainable waste valorization, and bioprocess engineering. Her research focuses on the development of innovative mycelium-based biocomposites and the use of fungal consortia for the bioremediation of organic pollutants and metal uptake from wastewater, integrating fundamental science with practical agro-environmental applications. She has authored 21 publications, which have garnered 843 citations, reflecting her scholarly influence with an h-index of 14. Ms. Daâssi’s work advances understanding of biodegradation processes, the physico-mechanical and thermal properties of biocomposites, and plant-microbe interactions, offering eco-friendly solutions for waste management and sustainable agriculture. She has established extensive national and international collaborations, promoting multidisciplinary approaches to biotechnology challenges. Her research not only contributes to scientific knowledge but also delivers tangible societal benefits by supporting environmentally sustainable technologies, enhancing agricultural productivity, and promoting circular bioeconomy initiatives. Through her innovative contributions and collaborative efforts, Ms. Daâssi continues to play a vital role in advancing global environmental biotechnology and fostering sustainable development.

Profiles: Scopus

Featured Publications

1. Daâssi, D., Rodríguez-Couto, S., Nasri, M., & Mechichi, T. (2014). Biodegradation of textile dyes by immobilized laccase from Coriolopsis gallica into Ca-alginate beads. International Biodeterioration & Biodegradation, 90, 71–78. Cited by: 283

2. Daâssi, D., Prieto, A., Zouari-Mechichi, H., Martínez, M. J., Nasri, M., & Mechichi, T. (2016). Degradation of bisphenol A by different fungal laccases and identification of its degradation products. International Biodeterioration & Biodegradation, 110, 181–188. Cited by: 147

3. Jellouli, K., Bougatef, A., Daâssi, D., Balti, R., Barkia, A., & Nasri, M. (2009). New alkaline trypsin from the intestine of grey triggerfish (Balistes capriscus) with high activity at low temperature: Purification and characterisation. Food Chemistry, 116(3), 644–650. Cited by: 110

4. Daâssi, D., Mechichi, T., Nasri, M., & Rodriguez-Couto, S. (2013). Decolorization of the metal textile dye Lanaset Grey G by immobilized white-rot fungi. Journal of Environmental Management, 129, 324–332. Cited by: 87

5. Daâssi, D., Zouari-Mechichi, H., Prieto, A., Martínez, M. J., Nasri, M., & Mechichi, T. (2013). Purification and biochemical characterization of a new alkali-stable laccase from Trametes sp. isolated in Tunisia: Role of the enzyme in olive mill waste water treatment. World Journal of Microbiology and Biotechnology, 29(11), 2145–2155. Cited by: 62

Ms. Dalel Daâssi has made significant contributions to environmental biotechnology through her pioneering research on fungal bioremediation and sustainable biocomposites. Her work on utilizing fungal consortia for the treatment of organic and metallic pollutants in wastewater, as well as developing mycelium-based biocomposites from agro-wastes, advances eco-friendly solutions that benefit both industry and society by promoting sustainable waste valorization and reducing environmental impact.

Dhekra Ben Amara | Circular Economy | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Dhekra Ben Amara | Circular Economy | Best Researcher Award

Associate Professor | Qingdao Hengxing University of Science and Technology | China

Dr. Dhekra Ben Amara is an accomplished Associate Professor at Qingdao Hengxing University of Science and Technology, China, and a Postdoctoral Researcher in the Department of Geography and Environmental Science at Henan University, with expertise in Agricultural and Environmental Economics. She earned her Ph.D. in Agricultural Economics and Management from Northeast Forestry University, Harbin, China; an M.Sc. in Economy of Agriculture, Agri-food, and Environment; and an Engineering degree in Agricultural and Agri-food Economics and Management from the National Agronomic Institute of Tunisia, in addition to a Diploma in Biology–Geology Engineering Studies from the Faculty of Sciences of Tunis. Dr. Ben Amara’s academic journey reflects her deep commitment to sustainability science, eco-innovation, and green growth. Her research focuses on the intersections of climate change, circular economy, environmental policy, and green finance, using advanced econometric modeling to identify pathways for sustainable development. She has published extensively in leading journals, including Journal of Cleaner Production, Sustainable Development, Environment, Development and Sustainability, and Journal of Environmental Management. Beyond research, she has contributed to international projects such as the China–Tunisia collaboration on biomass valorization and bio-circular economy models. Her professional achievements include serving as a Reviewing Editor with Springer Nature Reviewer Communities and receiving multiple honors, such as the Best Researcher Award in Environmental Science and the Outstanding Graduate Award from Northeast Forestry University. Demonstrating strong academic influence and research productivity, Dr. Ben Amara has achieved 248 citations, 13 indexed documents, and an h-index of 8.

Profiles: Scopus | ORCID | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

1. Ben Amara, D., & Chen, H. (2020). A mediation–moderation model of environmental and eco-innovation orientation for sustainable business growth. Environmental Science and Pollution Research, 27(14), 16916–16928.

2. Ben Amara, D., & Chen, H. (2022). Driving factors for eco-innovation orientation: Meeting sustainable growth in Tunisian agribusiness. International Entrepreneurship and Management Journal, 18(2), 713–732.

3. Ben Amara, D., & Qiao, J. (2023). From economic growth to inclusive green growth: How do carbon emissions, eco-innovation, and international collaboration develop economic growth and tackle climate change? Journal of Cleaner Production, 425, 138986.

4. Ben Amara, D., & Chen, H. (2020). Investigating the effect of multidimensional network capability and eco-innovation orientation for sustainable performance. Clean Technologies and Environmental Policy, 22(6), 1297–1309. 0

5. Ben Amara, D., & Chen, H. (2021). The impact of participative decision-making on eco-innovation capability: The mediating role of motivational eco-innovation factors. Environment, Development and Sustainability, 23(5), 6966–6986.

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.

Hao Jiang | Cryogenic Recycling Technologies | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Hao Jiang | Cryogenic Recycling Technologies | Best Researcher Award

Senior Manager at Construction Industry Council, Hong Kong

Hao Jiang is a highly accomplished engineering leader and innovator in the construction industry, serving as President-elect of the ASCE Greater China Section. With an extensive portfolio of leadership roles, professional affiliations, and research achievements, he is recognized for advancing modular integrated construction, high-performance materials, and robotics applications in construction. As Senior Manager of Industry Development at the Construction Industry Council, a statutory body established by the Hong Kong government, he oversees the Construction Productivity Department, managing the R&D Fund, manpower forecasting, and technology implementation. His exceptional contributions have earned multiple prestigious awards for innovation, sustainability, and professional excellence.

Professional Profile

Scopus Profile

Education

Hao Jiang holds a Bachelor of Engineering from Southeast University, a Master of Science from The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, and dual Master of Business Administration degrees from Tsinghua University and Cornell University. This combination of technical expertise and advanced business acumen has enabled him to approach construction engineering challenges with both innovation and strategic insight. His academic foundation bridges engineering principles, applied research, and managerial leadership, equipping him to design and implement industry-wide solutions. His education also reflects a global outlook, combining leading institutions in Mainland China, Hong Kong, and the United States, which has broadened his perspective on international engineering practices.

Experience

In his current role as Senior Manager of Industry Development at the Construction Industry Council, Ir JIANG leads initiatives that directly impact the future of Hong Kong’s construction sector. He manages the council’s Construction Productivity Department, oversees research funding allocation, drives manpower forecasting, and champions the adoption of advanced technologies such as robotics to enhance productivity and safety. Before joining the CIC, he served as a Research Fellow at the Chinese National Engineering Research Centre for Steel Construction (Hong Kong Branch) at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, where he advanced research on steel construction technologies. His professional journey also includes extensive involvement in key infrastructure and construction projects, demonstrating his ability to apply academic knowledge to real-world engineering challenges.

Research Focus

JIANG’s research interests center on modular integrated construction, high-performance materials, and cutting-edge construction technologies. He has contributed significantly to the integration of robotics into construction workflows, addressing industry needs for automation, efficiency, and safety enhancement. His work on modular construction has advanced prefabrication methodologies, improving project delivery speed and reducing environmental impact. In the area of high-performance materials, he has been involved in developing solutions that improve structural durability and sustainability. His efforts reflect a strong commitment to applying research outcomes to practical applications, bridging the gap between academic innovation and industry adoption.

Publication Top Note

Title: A meta-analysis of environmental impacts of building reuse and recycling
Authors: Bowen Zheng, Yang Yang, Albert Ping-chuen Chan, Hao Jiang, Zhikang Bao
Summary: This study synthesizes life cycle assessment (LCA) data to compare the environmental impacts of building reuse, recycling, and landfilling. Results show that reuse has substantially lower impacts than recycling, and recycling outperforms landfilling. Mass timber reuse and design-for-disassembly modular buildings perform especially well, with only 20–50% of the impacts of recycling. The authors recommend prioritizing reuse, then recycling, as sustainable waste management strategies in construction.

Conclusion

Hao Jiang is a distinguished engineering leader whose career blends technical expertise, research innovation, and strategic leadership. His work in modular integrated construction, high-performance materials, and robotics has positioned him at the forefront of modern construction technology advancement. Through his leadership roles, academic achievements, and industry contributions, he has significantly impacted both the Hong Kong construction sector and the global engineering community. His dedication to bridging research and industry, fostering sustainable practices, and embracing emerging technologies exemplifies the qualities of an outstanding award nominee. As ASCE Greater China Section President-elect, he continues to inspire innovation and set new benchmarks for excellence in the field of civil and structural engineering.

Perihan Akbas | Biodegradable | Best Academic Researcher Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Perihan Akbas | Biodegradable | Best Academic Researcher Award

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.

Professional Profile

Scopus Profile

ORCID

🎓 Education

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.

🧑‍🏫 Experience

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.

🔬 Research Interests

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.

📚 Publications Top Notes

1️⃣ Investigation of Salmonella spp. in Doner Kebab and Salads: Significance of False Positive Results

🗞️ 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.

2️⃣ Determination of the Antimicrobial, Antioxidant Activities and Fatty Acid Composition of Peganum harmala Seed

🗞️ 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.

3️⃣ Antimicrobial and Antioxidant Activities of Chenopodium album Extracts and Their Effects on Gentamicin Nephrotoxicity in Rats

🗞️ 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.

4️⃣ Assessment of Microbial Quality of Local and Packaged Ice Creams

🗞️ 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.

5️⃣ Using Locusta Migratoria as a Nitrogen Source for the Growth and Development of Microorganisms

🗞️ 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.

🧾 Conclusion

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.

 

 

Ohidul Alam | Environment | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Ohidul Alam | Environment | Best Researcher Award

Post-doc Research fellow, Jiangsu University, China

Dr. Ohidul Alam is a Post-doctoral Research Fellow at the School of the Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, China. With a deep-rooted commitment to environmental sustainability, he has dedicated his academic and professional life to research in hazardous waste treatment, microplastic pollution, heavy metal remediation, and sustainable energy technologies. Dr. Alam’s work emphasizes low-cost, scalable environmental solutions tailored to both urban and coastal contexts in developing regions. His extensive experience across Bangladesh and China has contributed to a robust academic output and practical environmental advancements.

Professional Profile

Google Scholar

🎓 Education

Dr. Alam’s academic journey began with a BSc (Hons.) in Environmental Science from the University of Chittagong, followed by an MS in the same field. He later pursued a Master of Engineering in Environmental Engineering at Tongji University, Shanghai, supported by the prestigious Chinese Government Scholarships. His Ph.D., earned from East China University of Science and Technology, focused on developing adsorbents from crustacean shells for the treatment and stabilization of heavy metals in wastewater and solid waste. Each degree added a layer of expertise in environmental science, waste treatment, and life cycle assessment, forming the foundation of his interdisciplinary research approach.

💼 Experience

Dr. Alam’s diverse career spans academia, research, consultancy, and development sectors. He is currently engaged in post-doctoral research on microplastics and hazardous waste management. His previous roles include serving as an Environmental Officer for the Sustainable Enterprise Project under IDF Bangladesh, a Manager at Aurora Consultant Ltd., and a Consultant at DM WATCH, where he worked on climate change and disaster risk projects. Earlier in his career, he contributed as a Research Assistant and Data Enumerator in several environment and livelihood-based projects funded by IUCN, USAID, and GIZ, further enhancing his field and policy-level expertise.

🔬 Research Interests

Dr. Alam’s research interests span critical areas of environmental sustainability, including hazardous and medical waste management, heavy metals and microplastics detection, coastal pollution, wastewater treatment technologies, and environmental materials development. He also has a keen interest in life cycle assessment (LCA), green supply chains, and sustainable urban environmental solutions. His current research integrates advanced characterization techniques like ICP-MS, XRF, and SEM-EDS, with real-world environmental challenges, focusing on the nexus between pollution control and public health.

🏆 Awards and Honors

Dr. Alam has received multiple international scholarships and accolades for his academic excellence and research. These include the Chinese Scholarship Council (CSC), Marine Scholarship of China (MSC), Tongji University President’s Award (2nd Prize), Shanghai Municipal Government Scholarship, and ECUST Comprehensive Scholarship (1st Prize). He also secured the Best Paper Award at the 2017 International Student Conference on Environment and Sustainability in China. These honors recognize his commitment to impactful research and global environmental leadership.

📚 Publications Top Notes

Alam O, Zheng X, Du D, et al. (2024)
Title: A critical review on advances in remediation of toxic heavy metals contaminated solids by chemical processes
Summary: Reviews latest chemical methods for remediating heavy metal-contaminated solids, focusing on sustainable, low-cost strategies.

Alam O, Hossain M. (2013)
Title: A comparative study on the differences between public and private healthcare entities in healthcare waste management in Chittagong, Bangladesh
Summary: Compares waste handling in public vs. private healthcare facilities, highlighting inefficiencies and regulatory gaps.

Alam O, Hossain MM. (2012)
Title: A comparison between public and private approaches of waste management in the healthcare industry of Chittagong City Corporation
Summary: Analyzes differences in medical waste generation, segregation, and disposal, offering policy suggestions for urban healthcare systems.

Hossain M, Alam O. (2012)
Title: A Comparison between Public and Private Approaches of Waste Management in the Healthcare Industry of Chittagong City Corporation
Summary: Similar themes on healthcare waste management strategies in public vs. private sectors.

Alam O, Mona IN, Mohinuzzaman M, Maliyath R, et al. (2023)
Title: A comprehensive study of existing solid waste management system and its impacts on the environment in a coastal city of Bangladesh
Summary: Investigates municipal solid waste management in a coastal city, assessing environmental risks and policy implications.

🧾 Conclusion

Dr. Ohidul Alam is a forward-thinking environmental researcher with a multidimensional skillset encompassing academic research, technical consultation, and project leadership. His dedication to solving environmental problems through innovative and low-cost technologies has made tangible impacts in both academia and policy. With a rich portfolio of international collaborations, impactful publications, and prestigious recognitions, Dr. Alam continues to contribute meaningfully to global environmental sustainability and public health. He stands as a deserving candidate for any environmental science award nomination recognizing excellence, innovation, and dedication in research and practice.