Idorenyin Jacob | Environmental Microbiology | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Idorenyin Jacob | Environmental Microbiology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Idorenyin Jacob | Environmental Microbiology – Lecturer Ph.D at Akwa Ibom State University, Nigeria

Dr. Idorenyin Oscar Jacob is a dedicated Environmental Microbiologist with a robust academic and research background. Currently affiliated with Akwa Ibom State University, his work centers on microbial biotechnology and bioremediation. With a Ph.D. earned in 2025, Dr. Jacob combines his passion for science and environmental sustainability to address pressing ecological challenges. His research explores the optimization of microbial processes to remediate contaminated environments, reflecting his commitment to advancing applied microbiology in the public health and environmental sectors.

Academic Profile:

ORCID

Education

Dr. Jacob’s academic journey is marked by progressive excellence in microbiology and environmental sciences. He obtained his Ph.D. in Environmental Microbiology from Akwa Ibom State University in 2025, following an M.Sc. in Environmental Microbiology & Public Health completed in 2013. His foundational training began with a B.Sc. (Hons) in Microbiology in 2008. Throughout his studies, he engaged in rigorous scientific training, gaining expertise in microbial metabolism and environmental microbiology techniques that underpin his current research endeavors.

Experience

With extensive experience in both academic and applied microbiology, Dr. Jacob has held multiple teaching and research positions. Since 2023, he has served as a part-time lecturer at Akwa Ibom State University, contributing to courses in Public Health and Microbiology. Previously, he worked at Peace Institute of Management & Technology as a part-time lecturer from 2018 to 2022 and has long-standing involvement in secondary education, mentoring future scientists. His early professional experience includes a microbiologist role during an industrial attachment at a General Hospital, where he applied microbiological principles in clinical settings. This diverse experience has shaped his comprehensive understanding of microbiology’s practical and theoretical aspects.

Research Interest

Dr. Jacob’s research interests focus primarily on bioremediation, microbial biotechnology, and microbial metabolism. His recent studies investigate bacterial exopolysaccharide production for enhancing bioremediation processes in heavy metal-impacted ecosystems. This niche combines environmental sustainability with microbiological innovation, aiming to develop eco-friendly solutions to pollution. He also explores public health microbiology, particularly the prevalence of pathogenic microbes in vulnerable populations. Dr. Jacob’s research is characterized by a blend of laboratory experimentation and field studies, often involving collaborative projects that span national and regional boundaries.

Awards

While relatively early in his research career, Dr. Jacob’s work has gained recognition through academic presentations and peer-reviewed publications that demonstrate his potential as a rising scholar in environmental microbiology. He has been actively involved in scientific conferences such as the Faculty of Biological Sciences’ 1st Scientific Conference at Akwa Ibom State University (2024) and the Nigerian Society for Microbiology’s annual meetings, which reflect acknowledgment from the broader scientific community. His nomination for the Best Researcher Award is a testament to his growing influence and dedication.

Publications

  • Jacob, I.O., Umoh, V.J., & Antia, U.E. (2025). “Exopolysaccharide production by Heyndrickxia oleronia strain EPHOS1 isolated from brewery wastewater sludge for enhanced bioremediation of heavy metal-impacted ecosystem” in The Microbe 🧫 (Cited by 5).
  • Jacob, I.O., Umoh, V.J., Antia, U.E., Agbo, B.E., & Stephen, N.U. (2024). “Optimization of Exopolysaccharide Production by Bacteria Strains Isolated from Brewery Wastewater Sludge” in Journal of Applied Sciences and Environmental Management 🌿 (Cited by 8).
  • Jacob, I.O., Umoh, V.J., & Antia, U.E. (2024). “Optimization of fermentation conditions required for exopolysaccharide production by Bacillus altitudinis strain EPBAS.1” in International Journal of Scientific Research in Biological Sciences 🔬 (Cited by 3).
  • Icha, P.S., Bassey, M.E., Owowo, E.E., Jacob, I.O., & Ntekpere, E.I. (2025). “Prevalence of Vulvovaginal Candidiasis among Pregnant Women in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria” in Microbes and Infectious Diseases 🦠 (Accepted).
  • Ofofon, E.D., Owowo, E.E., Bassey, M.E., Ntekpere, E.I., Idiongo, U.I., & Jacob, I.O. (2025). “Prevalence of Uro-Bacterial Pathogen in Relation to Risk Factors Associated with Diabetic Patients” in Microbes and Infectious Diseases 💉 (Accepted).
  • Mboto, C.I., Jacob, I.O., & Ndem, E.E. (2013). “Phytochemical and antibacterial potentials of Tetrapleura tetraptera fruits on medically important bacteria” in Journals of Microbiology and Biotechnology Research 🌱 (Cited by 10).
  • Manji, P.L., Antai, S.P., & Jacob, I.O. (2012). “Incidence of Staphylococcus aureus, coliforms and antibiotic-resistant strains in rural water supplies” in Journals of Public Health and Epidemiology 🚰 (Cited by 12).

Conclusion

Dr. Idorenyin Oscar Jacob exemplifies the qualities of a promising researcher whose work bridges environmental sustainability and microbiology. His academic rigor, combined with practical experience and active research in microbial bioremediation, has led to significant contributions in the field. Dr. Jacob’s growing portfolio of peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations reflects his commitment to advancing scientific knowledge and addressing environmental challenges. As a leader and educator, he continues to inspire the next generation of scientists while forging collaborations that expand the impact of his research. His nomination for the Best Researcher Award recognizes his achievements and his potential for continued innovation in environmental microbiology and public health.

 

 

Soumia BELOUAFA | Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Academic Achievements

Prof. Soumia BELOUAFA | Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Soumia BELOUAFA | Sciences – Associate Professor at Faculty of Sciences Ben M’Sick, Morocco

Dr. Soumia Belouafa is an accomplished academic and researcher with significant contributions to the fields of biology, environmental science, and materials engineering. She currently holds the position of Habilitated Associate Professor at the University Hassan II of Casablanca, Morocco. Her research is dedicated to advancing knowledge in the realms of environmental nanotechnology, wastewater treatment, and the development of sustainable materials for various applications, including health and construction sectors. Through her consistent dedication to scientific innovation and problem-solving, she has garnered a reputation as a leading expert in her field, with a substantial impact on both academic research and industry practices.

Profile:

Google Scholar

Education:

Dr. Belouafa’s educational background laid the foundation for her successful research career. While the specifics of her degree achievements are not disclosed, her professional standing and expertise indicate a comprehensive educational journey in the fields of biology and environmental science. Over the years, she has continually refined her knowledge through ongoing professional development and advanced research training, which has contributed to her current role as an associate professor at a prestigious university.

Experience:

With over two decades of experience in academia and research, Dr. Belouafa has developed a diverse skill set that spans research leadership, project management, and academic instruction. She has spearheaded several prominent research projects, including those focused on optimizing the antibacterial properties of dental biomaterials and improving the formulation of hybrid construction materials. As the leader of key research projects, Dr. Belouafa has collaborated with international and local teams, advancing her expertise in a variety of interdisciplinary research fields. In addition to her academic position, she has been actively involved in peer-reviewed journals, conferences, and professional networks, contributing to the dissemination of her work on a global scale.

Research Interests:

Dr. Belouafa’s research interests are centered around the intersection of environmental sciences, materials engineering, and biotechnology. Her primary focus is on developing innovative solutions for environmental pollution, particularly through the treatment of wastewater using eco-technologies like multi-soil layering. Her work also addresses the development of advanced composite materials for applications in health and construction, including creating antiseptic composite materials for medical use. Furthermore, her research includes studying the potential of nanotechnology for environmental remediation and the optimization of industrial processes for greater sustainability. Dr. Belouafa’s interdisciplinary approach and commitment to environmental and health solutions make her research highly relevant in today’s global context of sustainability and public health.

Awards:

Throughout her career, Dr. Belouafa has earned recognition for her scientific contributions. Notably, she received the Best Research Work Award at the 1st Conference on the Valorization of Phosphates and Phosphorous Compounds in Marrakech, Morocco, in 2004. This distinction acknowledged her innovative research and contributions to the understanding and application of phosphates in environmental and industrial contexts. While her award history may be modest, her ongoing research and impact in the scientific community showcase her dedication and achievements, positioning her as a strong candidate for future accolades.

Publications:

Dr. Belouafa’s scholarly output is extensive, with numerous publications in respected international journals. Below are seven of her key publications:

  1. H. Bennari, S. El Omari, A. Habsaoui, H. Chaair, S. Belouafa. “Toward ISO/IEC 17025 compliance: challenges and strategies for a university research laboratory.” Accreditation and Quality Assurance (2024).
  2. H. Jyia, A. Mohssine, S. Belouafa, S. El Harfaoui, Z. Zmirli, B. Sallek, K. Digua, H. Chaair. “Modeling and optimization of olive mill wastewater dephenolization by a process combining coagulation and advanced oxidation using an activated lime coagulant and hydrogen peroxide.” Environmental Nanotechnology, Monitoring & Management (2024).
  3. A. Mohssine, Z. Zmirli, S. El Harfaoui, S. Belouafa, B. Sallek, H. Chaair. “Wastewater remediation using multi-soil layering (MSL) eco-technology: A comprehensive and critical review.” Process Safety and Environmental Protection (2023).
  4. S. El Harfaoui, A. Driouich, A. Mohssine, S. Belouafa, Z. Zmirli, H. Mountacer, K. Digua, H. Chaair. “Modelization and optimization of the treatment of the reactive black-5 dye from industry effluents using experimental design methodology.” Scientific African (2022).
  5. S. Belouafa. “Synthesis, Processing, and Fabrication of Antiseptic Composite: Apatite/Collagen.” The Advanced Composite Materials Congress (2018).
  6. H. Bennari, S. Belouafa. “Challenges in the certification of environmental testing laboratories: Towards ISO/IEC 17025 compliance.” Materials Research (2022).
  7. A. Mohssine, S. Belouafa, H. Chaair. “The effect of irradiation on the antibacterial properties of composite materials.” Materials Science and Engineering (2021).

Conclusion:

Dr. Soumia Belouafa’s contributions to research, particularly in environmental science, materials engineering, and biotechnology, showcase her as a dedicated and innovative academic. With a robust portfolio of publications, research projects, and academic leadership, she has firmly established herself as a key figure in her field. Her work continues to push the boundaries of sustainable technology and health-related innovations. Dr. Belouafa’s accomplishments make her a worthy nominee for the Best Researcher Award, with her potential to influence future breakthroughs in scientific research being immeasurable.