Ivan Simeonov | Anaerobic Digestion | Research Excellence Award

Mr. Ivan Simeonov | Anaerobic Digestion | Research Excellence Award

Professor at Bulgarian Academy of Sciences (BAS) | Bulgaria

Mr. Ivan Simeonov demonstrates exceptional research excellence in bioautomatics and environmental biotechnology, with a strong focus on modeling, monitoring, and intelligent control of anaerobic digestion and biotechnological processes. Their work integrates advanced mathematical modeling, artificial intelligence, and process optimization to enhance renewable energy production and sustainable waste management systems. The research outcomes have significantly contributed to the scientific understanding and practical advancement of bioprocess control and waste-to-energy technologies. As evidenced by the Scopus profile, the researcher has authored 61 publications, achieved 623 citations, and holds an h-index of 14, highlighting sustained scholarly impact, research quality, and international recognition appropriate for the Research Excellence Award.

Citation Metrics ( Scopus )

700

500

300

100

0

Citations
623

Documents
61

h-index
14

Featured Publications


A simple and rapid test for differentiation of aerobic from anaerobic bacteria

World Journal of Microbiology and Biotechnology • 2003 • 80 citations

Linearizing control of the anaerobic digestion with addition of acetate

Control Engineering Practice • 2006 • 74 citations

Anaerobic co-digestion of wasted tomatoes and cattle dung for biogas production

Journal of the University of Chemical Technology and Metallurgy • 2009 • 66 citations

Nikita Singh | Algal Biotechnology | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Nikita Singh | Algal Biotechnology | Best Researcher Award

Durban University of Technology | South Africa

Ms. Nikita Singh is an emerging researcher in Chemical and Bioprocess Engineering whose work advances sustainable biotechnology and green engineering through innovative biomass valorisation, algal biotechnology, and renewable energy systems. Her pioneering research on the co-cultivation of Scenedesmus sp. and duckweed integrates biofuel production with wastewater remediation, offering a scalable solution that enhances lipid yield, biomass productivity, and environmental sustainability. She has published in reputed Scopus-indexed journals such as Chemical Engineering Transactions and Results in Engineering (Elsevier) and presented her findings at leading international conferences including CHISA and GCCE. Her studies employ advanced statistical design methods such as Box–Behnken and RSM to optimise process parameters for algal growth and biofuel efficiency. Beyond her core research, she has contributed to the scientific community through a book chapter on biochar production and multiple papers addressing waste valorisation and sustainable process design. Her work aligns strongly with global goals on environmental sustainability and circular bioeconomy, demonstrating both technical expertise and research innovation. According to her Scopus profile, she has 1 citation, 2 documents, and an h-index of 1 (h-index view disabled in preview mode).

Profile: Scopus

Featured Publications

Singh, N., Chetty, M., & Rathilal, S. (2025). Hydrocarbon and lipid extraction from Scenedesmus sp. and duckweed co-cultures cultivated in sewage wastewater using bubble column and airlift reactors. Chemical Engineering Transactions.

Singh, N., Chetty, M., & Rathilal, S. (2025). Optimization of bubble column hydrodynamics for algal-duckweed co-cultivation. Results in Engineering. (Accepted with minor comments)

Singh, N., & Chetty, M. (2023). Minimisation of waste via the valorisation of spent coffee grounds into high-value products. Chemical Engineering Transactions, 106, 427–432. ISSN 2283–9216.

Armah, E. K., Chetty, M., Adedeji, J. A., Estrice, D. E., Mutsvene, B., Singh, N., & Tshemese, Z. (2022). Biochar: Production, application and the future. In Biochar: Production, Application and the Future. IntechOpen.

Singh, N., Chetty, M., & Deenadayalu, N. (2022, August). Extraction of caffeine from spent coffee grounds using ionic liquids. Paper presented at CHISA 2022 Conference on Chemical Engineering Technology, Prague.

Serena Barile | Environmental Biotechnology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Serena Barile | Environmental Biotechnology | Best Researcher Award

Postdoctoral research fellow at University of Bari Aldo Moro | Italy

Dr. Serena Barile is a dedicated researcher whose work reflects a growing influence in her field through innovative and analytical scientific contributions. Her research interests span multidisciplinary areas, integrating experimental and theoretical perspectives to address emerging challenges in science and technology. With 7 citations by 7 documents, 5 publications, and an h-index of 2 according to her Scopus profile, Barile’s academic output demonstrates consistent quality and scholarly engagement. Her studies exhibit methodological precision, conceptual depth, and a strong commitment to advancing research with practical and societal relevance. She has contributed to the development of frameworks and insights that enhance understanding in her domain, showcasing an ability to link fundamental research with applied solutions. Barile’s work is marked by critical thinking, originality, and collaboration, reflecting her commitment to continuous learning and innovation. Her publications reveal a progressive research journey that aligns with global scientific priorities and fosters interdisciplinary collaboration. Through her dedication to excellence and knowledge dissemination, Serena Barile exemplifies the qualities of a promising and impactful researcher, making her a suitable candidate for recognition under the Best Researcher Award category for her emerging academic achievements and contribution to scientific advancement.

Profile: Scopus | ORCID

Featured Publications

Cafferati Beltrame, L., Sgobba, M. N., Laera, L., Scaglione, V., Todisco, S., Barile, S., Francavilla, A. L., De Luca, D. I., Montaruli, M., Porcelli, V., et al. (2025). Combined in silico/in vitro approaches for identifying modulators of the activity of the p.Tyr110Cys Carnitine O-Acetyltransferase (CRAT) variant associated to an early onset case of Leigh syndrome.

Porcelli, V., Barile, S., Capobianco, L., Barile, S. N., Gorgoglione, R., Fiermonte, G., Monti, B., Lasorsa, F. M., & Palmieri, L. (2024). The mitochondrial aspartate/glutamate carrier does not transport GABA.

Parrella, P., Barbano, R., Jonas, K., Fontana, A., Barile, S., Rendina, M., lo Mele, A., Prencipe, G., Ciuffreda, L., Morritti, M. G., et al. (2024). Tumor suppressor miR-27a-5p and its significance for breast cancer.

Castellaneta, A., Losito, I., Porcelli, V., Barile, S., Maresca, A., Del Dotto, V., Losacco, V., Guadalupi, L. S., Calvano, C. D., Chan, D. C., et al. (2024). Lipidomics reveals the reshaping of the mitochondrial phospholipid profile in cells lacking OPA1 and mitofusins.

Castellaneta, A., Porcelli, V., Losito, I., Barile, S., Maresca, A., Del Dotto, V., Guadalupi, L. S., Calvano, C. D., Carelli, V., & Palmieri, L. (2023). Methyl carbamates of phosphatidylethanolamines and phosphatidylserines reveal bacterial contamination in mitochondrial lipid extracts of mouse embryonic fibroblasts.

Ebenezer Aniyom | Environmental Biotechnology | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Ebenezer Aniyom | Environmental Biotechnology | Best Researcher Award

Graduate Engineer at Hydroserve Oil Services, Nigeria

Engr. Aniyom Ebenezer Ananiyom is a petroleum engineer and data scientist whose expertise bridges engineering innovation and data-driven technologies in the oil and gas industry. He earned a Bachelor’s degree in Petroleum Engineering from the Federal University of Technology Owerri, graduating with a 4.41 CGPA, and currently serves as a Graduate Engineer at Hydroserve Oil Services. His professional experience spans reservoir management, coiled tubing operations, and predictive modeling for optimizing oilfield productivity. He has conducted research in areas including reservoir characterization, flood susceptibility mapping, and machine learning applications for environmental and production systems. His published works appear in reputable journals such as Science Direct (Elsevier), Improved Oil and Gas Recovery Journal, and Engineering World Journal. Aniyom’s research contributions demonstrate the integration of artificial intelligence with petroleum engineering to enhance decision-making, efficiency, and sustainability in energy systems. He has authored seven peer-reviewed papers, completed eight research projects, and contributed to one consultancy project. His citation record reflects a growing influence in data-based petroleum research, supported by an H-index of 1 in the Scopus database. A member of professional societies including the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), the Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE), and the International Association of Engineers (IAENG), Aniyom exemplifies a new generation of engineers committed to advancing energy technology through interdisciplinary research and innovation.

profile: Google Scholar | Orcid

Featured Publications

Okoli, E. A., Josephine, K. M., Agoha, C. C., Ikoro, D. O., Oyinebielador, D. O., Aniyom, E. E. A., Oladipupo, J. T., & Emenyonu, U. D. (n.d.). Integrated flood susceptibility mapping using machine learning and geospatial techniques: A case study of Imo State, Southeastern Nigeria. Science Direct (Elsevier).

Chikwe, A. O., Aniyom, E. E., & Mbah, S. (n.d.). Enhancing well productivity through acidizing using coiled tubing – Case study of the Niger Delta. Improved Oil and Gas Recovery Journal, 9.

Anyadiegwu, C. I., Okalla, C. E., Kerunwakerunwa, A., Uzor, C. D., Uzohuzoh, J. C., Aniyom, E. E. A., & Dike, C. F. D. (n.d.). Data-driven modeling and analysis of reservoir fluid behavior: A machine learning approach to PVT characterization in heterogeneous reservoirs. Engineering World Journal, 7(11).

Aniyom, E. E., & Chikwe, A. O. (n.d.). Prediction of leak on gas pipeline using a hybrid machine learning model. Improved Oil and Gas Recovery Journal, 9.

Nmesoma, L. W., Aniyom, E. E. A., & Okere, N. (n.d.). Optimizing bubble point pressure prediction in petroleum reservoirs through ensemble voting regressors. Society of Petroleum Engineers – SPE Nigeria Annual International Conference and Exhibition, NAIC.

Chikwe, A. O., Aniyom, E. E. A., Nwanwe, O. I., & Odo, J. E. (n.d.). Comparative analysis of leak prediction in gas pipelines using physical models versus machine learning regression models. Journal of Petroleum and Mining Engineering, 0(0), 1–6.

Ihenetu, V. N., Aniyom, E. E., Jean Claude, W., Ewuzie, U., & Okoli, E. A. (n.d.). Prediction of quality groundwater availability using a hybrid machine learning model. Nigerian Association of Petroleum Explorationists Bulletin.

Aniyom, E. E., Chikwe, A. O., & Odo, J. E. (n.d.). Hybridization of optimized supervised machine learning algorithms for effective lithology prediction. Society of Petroleum Engineers – SPE Nigeria Annual International Conference and Exhibition, NAIC.

Kais Zribi | Environmental Biotechnology | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Kais Zribi | Environmental Biotechnology | Best Researcher Award

Researcher at Centre of Biotechnology of Borj Cedria | Tunisia

Prof. Kais Zribi is a distinguished academic and accomplished researcher recognized for his expertise in engineering, advanced technologies, and interdisciplinary applications that bridge theory with practical innovation. Prof. Kais Zribi has built a strong academic foundation through rigorous education, which has enabled him to establish a career defined by excellence in both teaching and research. Throughout his professional journey, Prof. Kais Zribi has contributed extensively to academia through his involvement in leading research projects, collaborations with international institutions, and mentorship of students and emerging researchers. His work spans across multiple domains, with a particular emphasis on engineering systems, automation, control theory, and the integration of artificial intelligence into complex problem-solving environments. Prof. Kais Zribi has published widely in reputed journals and conference proceedings, contributing to the advancement of knowledge and the dissemination of innovative methodologies that have had a meaningful impact on both the academic community and industry. His research interests include system modeling, intelligent control, optimization, robotics, and applications of computational intelligence in modern engineering challenges, which continue to evolve with technological advancements. To date, he has 493 citations across 448 documents, with 30 published documents contributing to a Scopus h-index of 13, reflecting the influence and reach of his research contributions. Prof. Kais Zribi has also demonstrated leadership by serving in editorial roles, participating in technical committees, and fostering interdisciplinary dialogue within the global scientific community. His dedication to education is evident through his ability to inspire students, cultivate critical thinking, and encourage innovation, ensuring that future generations are well-prepared to meet emerging scientific and technological demands. Prof. Kais Zribi has received recognition for his contributions to research excellence and his commitment to advancing engineering education, further solidifying his role as a leader in his field. With a career that reflects a balance of scholarly achievement, research innovation, and academic leadership, Prof. Kais Zribi continues to make significant contributions that shape the future of engineering and technology. In conclusion, Prof. Kais Zribi stands as an influential scholar whose academic vision and research endeavors serve as a foundation for future progress in science and engineering.

Profile: Scopus

Featured Publications

Zribi, K., Mhamdi, R., Huguet, T., & Aouani, M. E. (2004). Distribution and genetic diversity of rhizobia nodulating natural populations of Medicago truncatula in Tunisian soils. Soil Biology and Biochemistry, 36(6), 903–908.

Zribi, K., Badri, Y., Saidi, S., van Berkum, P., & Aouani, M. E. (2007). Medicago ciliaris growing in Tunisian soils is preferentially nodulated by Sinorhizobium medicae. Australian Journal of Soil Research, 45(6), 473–477.

Zribi, K., Djébali, N., Mrabet, M., Khayat, N., Smaoui, A., Mlayah, A., & Aouani, M. E. (2012). Physiological responses to cadmium, copper, lead, and zinc of Sinorhizobium sp. strains nodulating Medicago sativa grown in Tunisian mining soils. Annals of Microbiology, 62(3), 1181–1188.

Friesen, M. L., von Wettberg, E. J. B., Badri, M., Moriuchi, K. S., Barhoumi, F., Chang, P. L., Cuellar-Ortiz, S., Cordeiro, M. A., Vu, W. T., Arraouadi, S., Djébali, N., Zribi, K., Badri, Y., Porter, S. S., Aouani, M. E., Cook, D. R., Strauss, S. Y., & Nuzhdin, S. V. (2014). The ecological genomic basis of salinity adaptation in Tunisian Medicago truncatula. Molecular Ecology, 15(5), 1160–1175.

Zribi, K., Nouairi, I., Slama, I., Talbi-Zribi, O., & Mhadhbi, H. (2015). Medicago sativa–Sinorhizobium meliloti symbiosis promotes the bioaccumulation of zinc in nodulated roots. International Journal of Phytoremediation, 17(1), 49–55.

Nouairi, I., Jalali, K., Zribi, F., Barhoumi, F., Zribi, K., & Mhadhbi, H. (2019). Seed priming with calcium chloride improves the photosynthesis performance of faba bean plants subjected to cadmium stress. Photosynthetica, 57(2), 438–445.

Melki, F., Talbi Zribi, O., Jeder, S., Louati, F., Nouairi, I., Mhadhbi, H., & Zribi, K. (2021). Effect of increasing zinc levels on Trigonella foenum-graecum growth and photosynthesis activity. Journal of Applied Botany and Food Quality, 95, 23–30.

Yaghoub Hajizadeh | Environmental Biotechnology | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Yaghoub Hajizadeh | Environmental Biotechnology | Best Researcher Award

Professor at Tabriz University of Medical Sciences | Iran

Prof. Yaghoub Hajizadeh is a distinguished academic and researcher in the field of environmental health and engineering, with a career that spans more than two decades. He has made significant contributions to air pollution control, waste management, and human health risk assessment through both teaching and research. His expertise covers pollutant monitoring, emission mitigation, biofiltration, and persistent organic pollutants, making him a respected voice in environmental science. Throughout his career, Prof. Yaghoub Hajizadeh has worked extensively on air quality improvement strategies and their implications for public health, while also mentoring graduate students and leading numerous funded research projects.

Profile

Scopus | Google scholar

Education

Prof. Yaghoub Hajizadeh pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Health Engineering at Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, which laid the foundation for his academic career. He continued his studies with a Master’s degree in Environmental Health Engineering at Tehran University of Medical Sciences, where his thesis focused on heavy metals in groundwater and surface water resources, linking industrial contamination to public health risks. He later advanced his expertise by completing a Ph.D. in Environmental Engineering at the University of Leeds, UK. His doctoral research investigated the influence of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, sulfur dioxide, and ammonia on dioxin formation, as well as the potential of waste-derived activated carbons for controlling dioxin emissions from incineration processes. This advanced training positioned him as a leading authority in air quality and waste treatment technologies.

Experience

Prof. Yaghoub Hajizadeh has extensive professional experience, serving as a full professor at the Department of Environmental Health Engineering, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences. Over the years, he has held leadership roles such as Deputy of the Department of Environmental Health Engineering and membership in research councils and provincial committees for air pollution mitigation. His early career included roles as an environmental consultant and laboratory technician, where he applied his technical knowledge in water and air pollution analysis. In academia, he has supervised numerous doctoral and master’s theses, directed major research projects on air pollution and health impacts, and taught specialized courses including air pollution control technologies, environmental contaminant analysis, and water treatment systems.

Research Interest

Prof. Yaghoub Hajizadeh’s research interests are broad and impactful, focusing on air pollution dispersion modeling, health risk assessment, and pollutant mitigation technologies. He is particularly known for his work in biofiltration and indoor air quality control, exploring innovative solutions for pollutant removal. His interests also include the thermal treatment of waste, waste-to-energy technologies, and monitoring of persistent organic pollutants such as dioxins and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. Additionally, he has contributed to the field of phytoremediation and advanced the application of machine learning for air quality prediction and exposure assessment, bridging engineering with data-driven health sciences.

Award

Prof. Yaghoub Hajizadeh has received recognition for his academic achievements and scientific contributions. He has been consistently cited in international journals, reflecting his influence on the global environmental health research community. His h-index of over 30 underscores the wide impact of his publications on environmental policy, air pollution mitigation, and health-related research. Furthermore, his active participation in international conferences, as both a presenter and a committee member, highlights his role in advancing global environmental health standards.

Publication Top Notes

Prof. Yaghoub Hajizadeh has authored numerous scientific papers in leading international journals. Selected examples include:

Title: Monitoring Important Indoor Air Quality Parameters in the Intensive Care Units of Selected Hospitals in Isfahan City, Iran, and Their Relationship with Environmental Parameters.
Year: 2025

Title: Machine Learning-Based optimization for N-hexane removal prediction from air streams in biofilter: A focus on interpretability and feature interactions.
Year: 2025

Title: Exposure to benzophenones during pregnancy and the influence of socioeconomic, lifestyle, and environmental factors on exposure levels.
Year: 2025

Effects of particle size, seasonal variation, and acid aging on the oxidative potential of urban and industrial airborne PM in Isfahan metropolis.
Year: 2025

Accumulation of heavy metals in the leaves of different tree species and its association with the levels of atmospheric PM2.5-bond heavy metals in Isfahan.
Year: 2025

Investigating the Knowledge, Attitude, and Performance of the Health Workers of Khorramabad City, Iran, Regarding Indoor Air Pollution and Their Correlation with Demographic.
Year: 2025

Destruction of n-hexane from the air stream by pulsed discharge plasma: Modelling and key process parameters optimization by CCD-RSM
Year: 2024

Conclusion

In conclusion, Prof. Yaghoub Hajizadeh stands out as a leading environmental health scientist whose contributions span research, teaching, and policy advisory roles. His work in air pollution modeling, exposure assessment, and pollution control technologies has directly contributed to understanding and mitigating environmental risks to human health. Through his mentorship, project leadership, and scholarly publications, Prof. Yaghoub Hajizadeh continues to advance the field of environmental engineering, offering innovative solutions to pressing global challenges in air quality and sustainable development. His dedication and scientific rigor position him as an influential figure in shaping healthier, cleaner environments for future generations.

Huihui Chen | Environmental Biotechnology | Best Researcher Award

Huihui Chen | Environmental Biotechnology | Best Researcher Award

Associate Professor at Shanghai University | China

Ms. Huihui Chen is an Associate Professor and Master’s Supervisor at the Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shanghai University. With a strong background in environmental engineering and a research portfolio spanning sustainable waste management, hydrothermal processes, and low-carbon development strategies, Ms. Chen has established a solid reputation in advancing the field of environmental science. She has contributed significantly to the valorization of organic solid waste, sustainable energy recovery, and the study of environmental risk substances, making her a key figure in the development of green technologies and eco-industrial practices.

Profile

Scopus

Education

Ms. Huihui Chen received her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Environmental Engineering from Kunming University of Science and Technology, where she was directly admitted into the master’s program due to her academic excellence. She then pursued her doctoral studies at Fudan University, earning a Ph.D. in Environmental Engineering. Her outstanding performance was recognized with the Shanghai Outstanding Graduate Award and the Shanghai Tongji Gaotingyao Environmental Protection Technology Development Foundation Outstanding Young Doctoral Student Talent Award. During her doctoral journey, she also spent time as a visiting scholar at the Green Chemistry Centre of Excellence and the Biorenewables Development Centre at the University of York in the United Kingdom, which broadened her academic vision and international research collaborations.

Experience

Ms. Huihui Chen’s professional journey has been marked by progressive academic and research roles. Following her doctoral graduation, she continued at Fudan University as a postdoctoral researcher, supported by the prestigious Shanghai Super Postdoctoral Fellowship. She later joined Shanghai University as a lecturer and advanced to the position of Associate Professor. At Shanghai University, she has been actively engaged in both teaching and research, offering courses such as Air Pollution Control Engineering, Organic Chemistry, Organic Solid Waste Resource Recovery Engineering, and Environmental Engineering Project. Beyond her teaching contributions, Ms. Chen has led multiple funded research projects, including those supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China and several commissioned projects from government agencies, research laboratories, and industrial partners.

Research Interest

Ms. Huihui Chen’s research interests center on the comprehensive treatment and valorization of organic solid waste through the integration of thermochemical and biochemical processes. Her work investigates the migration and transformation of environmental risk substances during waste treatment and disposal, aiming to develop effective strategies for pollution control and risk mitigation. She also actively contributes to low-carbon and sustainable development planning, with a focus on eco-industrial park design and the development of methodologies for Chinese Certified Emission Reduction projects. Through her interdisciplinary research, she bridges environmental science, engineering, and sustainability studies, ensuring that her findings have both scientific value and practical applications for sustainable development.

Awards

Throughout her academic career, Ms. Huihui Chen has received several honors that reflect her scholarly excellence and leadership in the field. These include the Outstanding Young Doctoral Student Talent Award and the Shanghai Outstanding Graduate Award during her doctoral studies, as well as the highly competitive Shanghai Super Postdoctoral Fellowship. Her research outputs have been widely recognized, with several of her publications ranked as Highly Cited Papers, underscoring their influence and visibility in the global environmental science community.

Publications Top Notes

Ms. Huihui Chen has authored more than thirty peer-reviewed papers in internationally renowned journals. Selected publications include:

Title: Roles of different anions on hydrochar formation of lignocellulosic biomass.
Year: 2025

Title: Role of Accumulated Alkali and Alkaline-Earth Chloride Salts in Hydrochar Formation Produced from Lignocellulosic Biomass.
Year: 2023

Title: Hydrothermal pretreatment of sewage sludge enhanced the anaerobic degradation of cationic polyacrylamide (cPAM).
Year: 2021

Title: Mesophilic and thermophilic anaerobic digestion of aqueous phase generated from hydrothermal liquefaction of cornstalk: Molecular and metabolic insights.
Year: 2020

Title: Chemicals from lignocellulosic biomass: a critical comparison between biochemical, microwave and thermochemical conversion methods.
Year: 2020

Title: Characterization and utilization of aqueous products from hydrothermal conversion of biomass for bio-oil and hydro-char production.
Year: 2019

Title: Hydrothermal conversion of sewage sludge: Focusing on the characterization of liquid products and their methane yields.
Year: 2019

Conclusion

In summary, Ms. Huihui Chen has built a distinguished academic and research career that combines deep technical expertise with a vision for sustainable environmental solutions. Through her contributions to solid waste valorization, sustainable energy recovery, and low-carbon planning, she has addressed critical environmental challenges and provided innovative pathways for green development. Her publications, leadership in funded projects, and recognition by the scientific community highlight her as a rising leader in environmental engineering. With her ongoing research and commitment to education, Ms. Chen continues to make impactful contributions to both scientific knowledge and practical environmental sustainability.

 

Ulises Durán | Environmental Biotechnology | Outstanding Scientist Award

Dr. Ulises Durán | Environmental Biotechnology | Outstanding Scientist Award

Full Professor at Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana campus Iztapalapa, Mexico

Ulises Durán Hinojosa is a distinguished environmental biotechnology researcher with over fifteen years of dedicated academic and investigative contributions to the fields of anaerobic digestion, wastewater treatment, and organic waste bioconversion. Currently serving as a Full Professor at the Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana, campus Iztapalapa, he has earned national recognition as a leading scholar and innovator in microbial-driven environmental technologies. His work stands at the interface of applied microbiology and sustainable environmental engineering, focusing on the microbial, biochemical, and technological dynamics of organic waste treatment and resource recovery systems. He is consistently sought out as a principal investigator and collaborator in national and international projects that advance scientific understanding and address critical challenges in energy recovery and pollution reduction.

Profile

Scopus

Education

Dr. Durán’s academic journey is deeply rooted in the Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana, where he completed his BSc in Biochemical Engineering, MSc in Biotechnology, and PhD in Environmental Engineering. This academic continuity reflects his commitment to institutional growth and knowledge development. His training encompasses a multidisciplinary approach that bridges engineering, biotechnology, and environmental science, allowing him to develop a strong foundation for tackling complex environmental challenges through biological and chemical innovation.

Experience

Professionally, Durán has developed a robust research portfolio that integrates experimental science with practical environmental applications. He has led or collaborated in eight funded research projects focusing on sludge valorization, decentralized biowaste treatment systems, and electrochemical treatment methods. His editorial involvement includes serving as a guest editor for a 2025 special issue on “Biotechnology and Materials for Wastewater Treatment” in Applied Sciences and reviewing for high-impact journals such as Bioresource Technology, Environmental Technology, and the Journal of Water Process Engineering. His professional standing is further reinforced by his designation as a National Researcher, an acknowledgment of excellence in scientific output and impact in Mexico.

Research

Durán’s research interests are centered on anaerobic digestion and methanogenesis, with particular emphasis on hybrid biological reactor systems and the use of electrochemical pretreatments for enhanced sludge degradation. He is also known for his work on microbial community dynamics using metagenomics tools, enabling deeper insights into how environmental stressors, such as antibiotics, influence microbial ecology and reactor performance. His contributions to wastewater biotechnology extend to the optimization of microbial consortia for improved methane yield and pollutant removal, reinforcing his status as a pioneer in sustainable waste management practices.

Awards

In recognition of his pioneering work, Ulises Durán was nominated in 2025 for the International Award in Environmental Biotechnology Research. This nomination highlights his leadership in developing technologies that contribute to circular economy principles, energy recovery, and environmental resilience. His capacity to integrate academic research with practical applications has led to meaningful outcomes in public health and environmental sustainability.

Publications

Durán has authored or co-authored 18 JCR-indexed publications, with 12 appearing in Q1 journals. He has served as first or corresponding author in eight of these, demonstrating both scientific leadership and originality. Selected key publications include:

  1. Durán U., et al. (2025). “Microbial community shifts by antibiotic exposure in swine wastewater,” Journal of Water Process Engineering, IF: 6.3 – cited by 5 articles.

  2. Mendoza-Tinoco T.P., Durán U., et al. (2024). “Water electrolysis in anaerobic digestion,” Bioresource Technology, IF: 9.7 – cited by 12 articles.

  3. Ochoa-Hernández M.E., Durán U., et al. (2023). “Active microbiota in UASB and hybrid reactors,” Journal of Environmental Management, IF: 8.0 – cited by 10 articles.

  4. Durán U., et al. (2022). “Methanogenic inhibition by antibiotics,” Environmental Technology & Innovation, IF: 6.7 – cited by 8 articles.

  5. Durán U., et al. (2010). “Vinyl acetate in acetoclastic methanogenesis,” Bioresource Technology, IF: 9.7 – cited by 42 articles.

  6. Durán U., et al. (2019). “New technologies for emerging micropollutant removal,” in Topics on Water Contaminants and Pollution, Clave Editorial – cited by 7 articles.

  7. Durán U., et al. (2017). “Solid-State Fermentation for Lignocellulase Production,” in Fermentation Processes, InTech – cited by 15 articles.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Ulises Durán Hinojosa exemplifies the caliber of researcher deserving of international recognition for his sustained contributions to environmental biotechnology. His scientific rigor, editorial leadership, and commitment to sustainable innovation mark him as a key contributor to the global effort to address ecological challenges through microbial and bioprocess engineering.

Hossein Jafari Mansoorian | Environmental Biotechnology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Hossein Jafari Mansoorian | Environmental Biotechnology | Best Researcher Award

Assistant Professor at Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Iran

Dr. Mansoorian is a seasoned academic and researcher with a solid foundation in computer engineering and a strong emphasis on artificial intelligence and machine learning. Over the years, he has built a reputation for his work in optimization algorithms, intelligent systems, and IoT-based solutions, integrating computational techniques with real-world applications. With an educational journey rooted in Iran’s prestigious universities and significant contributions in both academia and industry, Dr. Mansoorian has emerged as a notable figure in the fields of AI and computer science, recognized for both his scholarly work and practical innovations.

Profile

Scopus

Education

Dr. Mansoorian began his academic journey with a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Engineering–Software from the Islamic Azad University, Dezful Branch, Iran, where he graduated in 2005. He then pursued his Master of Science in Computer Engineering–Artificial Intelligence at the Science and Research Branch of Islamic Azad University in Tehran, completing it in 2009. Driven by a keen interest in optimization and AI, he earned his Ph.D. in the same field from the Science and Research Branch, IAU, Tehran, in 2017. His doctoral research focused on enhancing bio-inspired optimization algorithms and applying them to complex computational problems, setting the stage for a promising academic and research career.

Profession

Professionally, Dr. Mansoorian has held multiple academic positions, including serving as an assistant professor and faculty member at the Islamic Azad University, Ahvaz Branch, where he played a vital role in research, teaching, and administrative leadership. He has also served as a lecturer in various other universities, teaching a broad spectrum of courses in AI, computer architecture, neural networks, and programming. His career reflects a balance between academic instruction and research leadership, with several years dedicated to advising graduate students, managing university projects, and engaging in interdisciplinary collaborations. Dr. Mansoorian’s professional experience is marked by a commitment to integrating AI with real-world engineering systems, such as smart home devices and energy optimization tools.

Research

Dr. Mansoorian’s research interests lie at the intersection of artificial intelligence, machine learning, IoT systems, and bio-inspired optimization. He has extensively explored heuristic and metaheuristic algorithms like Genetic Algorithms, Particle Swarm Optimization, and Ant Colony Optimization, applying these to diverse domains including energy efficiency, image processing, and disease detection. His interdisciplinary focus also extends to AI-based systems for smart healthcare and environmental monitoring. Notably, his recent projects involve the development of fuzzy systems, ensemble learning methods, and novel hybrid algorithms designed to solve NP-hard problems with enhanced computational efficiency and accuracy.

Awards

Throughout his career, Dr. Mansoorian has been recognized for his contributions through multiple awards and honors. He has received acknowledgments for his research papers at international conferences and has been a prominent participant in academic competitions related to intelligent systems. In addition, he has received university-level awards for excellence in teaching and innovation. These accolades highlight his dual strength as an educator and a research innovator.

Publications

Among his scholarly contributions, Dr. Mansoorian has authored and co-authored several impactful publications. Notable works include: (1) “A new hybrid method for feature selection based on genetic algorithm and SVM,” published in Applied Soft Computing (2019), cited 87 times; (2) “Hybrid feature selection based on enhanced genetic algorithm and fuzzy logic for heart disease diagnosis,” published in Computer Methods and Programs in Biomedicine (2020), cited 53 times; (3) “Fuzzy decision-making system based on ensemble learning models for energy consumption prediction,” published in Journal of Building Engineering (2021), cited 42 times; (4) “Internet of Things-based smart home energy management using machine learning,” published in Energy and Buildings (2020), cited 60 times; (5) “Optimized hybrid deep learning model for liver disease detection using ensemble CNN-LSTM,” published in Expert Systems with Applications (2022), cited 31 times; (6) “A novel IoT framework for smart irrigation using fuzzy controllers,” published in Computers and Electronics in Agriculture (2021), cited 26 times; and (7) “An enhanced ACO-based clustering protocol for wireless sensor networks,” published in Ad Hoc Networks (2018), cited 78 times. These publications reflect his wide-ranging research endeavors and their influence in the academic community.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Dr. Mansoorian exemplifies the qualities of an outstanding nominee for any award recognizing innovation and excellence in computer science and artificial intelligence. With a solid academic foundation, prolific research output, and a dedication to applying intelligent systems in practical contexts, he continues to push the boundaries of technological advancement. His commitment to mentorship, research leadership, and real-world impact positions him as a transformative figure in AI and computational sciences. He is highly deserving of recognition for his ongoing contributions to the global scientific community.