Mr. Michael Kpakpo Allotey | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Posted on by Academic achievements

Mr. Michael Kpakpo Allotey | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Michael Kpakpo Allotey | Environmental Science – University of North Texas, United States

Michael Kpakpo Allotey is an emerging researcher in the fields of Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Remote Sensing, and Environmental Science. His academic and professional trajectory reflects a strong commitment to geospatial technology and its applications in addressing real-world challenges such as climate change, urban heat, land use, and food security. With experience spanning both academic and industry sectors, Michael has developed and contributed to impactful spatial analysis projects and scholarly research with both local and global relevance. He combines strong technical skills with a collaborative research ethos, positioning him as a rising voice in the scientific community.

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Education:

Michael holds a Master of Science in Geo Information Science from the University of Ghana, where he graduated with Distinction, and is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Geography at the University of North Texas, maintaining a perfect GPA of 4.0. His academic foundation also includes a Bachelor of Arts in Economics and Geography from the University of Ghana. Through his formal education, Michael has undertaken rigorous coursework in spatial statistics, Python GIS programming, remote sensing, digital image processing, and geodatabase development, which he has translated into real-world applications and scholarly outputs.

Experience:

Michael has amassed rich and varied experience across academic, research, and consulting settings. He has served as a Teaching and Research Assistant at the University of Ghana, supporting instruction in advanced GIS and remote sensing courses at undergraduate, postgraduate, and PhD levels. His responsibilities extended to managing departmental servers, providing lab support, and advising students on geospatial data projects. He also worked with BigData Ghana Limited, where he led the design of a national tourist map and contributed to the development of spatial data infrastructures and real-time traffic monitoring systems. Currently, at the University of North Texas, he serves as a Teaching Assistant, providing academic support and guidance to students enrolled in GIS courses.

Research Interest:

Michael’s research interests lie at the intersection of geospatial science and sustainable development. His work spans remote sensing of urban and rural environments, land surface temperature analysis, spatial planning, food insecurity mapping, and environmental monitoring. He is particularly focused on leveraging satellite data, GIS platforms, and programming tools to inform policy and decision-making processes in Africa and beyond. His methodological approach incorporates data-driven techniques and interdisciplinary perspectives to address socio-environmental issues such as urban heat, land degradation, and rural revitalization.

Award:

Michael’s academic excellence has been recognized through prestigious fellowships and awards, including the 2025 Graduate Student Success Award and a Graduate Teaching Assistantship at the University of North Texas. These awards highlight both his scholarly achievements and his dedication to academic service and mentoring. His recognition reflects his ability to maintain high standards in research while actively contributing to institutional teaching and outreach.

Publications 📚:

Michael has co-authored several peer-reviewed publications, each addressing timely and impactful themes:

  1. 🌡️ Combining remote sensing applications and local knowledge in understanding urban heat in a semi-arid region (Local Environment, 2025) – Cited by 9 articles.
  2. 🍽️ Understanding the Nexus Between Food Insecurity and School Readiness (2025) – Cited by 4 articles.
  3. 🌾 A region-wide, multi-year set of crop field boundary labels for Africa (2024) – Cited by 7 articles.
  4. 🏞️ A bibliometric analysis of China’s rural revitalization paradox (Environment, Development and Sustainability, 2024) – Cited by 5 articles.
  5. 🌍 Advances in global land use systems development and sustainability (Acta Scientiarum Polonorum, 2024) – Cited by 6 articles.
  6. 🌬️ Dust Outbreaks across East Iran: Application of Multi-Source Remote Sensing Data (Journal of Geography, Environment and Earth Science International, 2023) – Cited by 3 articles.
  7. 🪵 Charcoal Scars Mapping Project using Collect Earth (In Review) – A forthcoming contribution focusing on deforestation and energy use.

Conclusion:

Michael Kpakpo Allotey stands out as a dynamic and committed researcher who combines technical proficiency with a passion for sustainable development. His body of work reflects thoughtful engagement with critical global issues through spatial science and remote sensing. He has proven himself as a collaborative researcher, a dedicated academic mentor, and an innovator in the use of geographic data for real-world impact. With his growing portfolio of publications, ongoing academic success, and professional experience in both instructional and applied settings, Michael is exceptionally well-qualified for the Best Researcher Award. Recognizing his contributions through this award would not only validate his current work but also encourage continued innovation and leadership in the geospatial sciences.

 

 

 

 

Zaid Thanawala | Sustainability | Excellence in Scientific Innovation Award

Posted on by Academic achievements

Mr. Zaid Thanawala | Sustainability | Excellence in Scientific Innovation Award

Mr. Zaid Thanawala | Sustainability – Senior Sustainability Scientist at Amazon, United States

Zaid Thanawala is a renowned sustainability scientist with a proven track record in innovative solutions aimed at decarbonization and energy efficiency. He is currently serving as a Senior Sustainability Scientist at Amazon, where he leads the development of AI-powered tools for life cycle assessments (LCAs) and decarbonization models. His work is not only limited to technological advancements but also extends to strategic initiatives that help large corporations meet their sustainability targets. With expertise in sustainable systems, energy technologies, and chemical engineering, Zaid has played an instrumental role in integrating sustainability into business operations, contributing to global efforts towards reducing carbon emissions and promoting renewable energy.

Profile:

Google Scholar

Education:


Zaid Thanawala’s academic journey reflects his commitment to sustainability and scientific innovation. He holds a Master of Science in Sustainable Systems from the Rochester Institute of Technology, where he achieved a perfect CGPA of 4/4, securing a full scholarship. Prior to that, he completed his Master of Science in Sustainable Energy Technologies at the Delft University of Technology in the Netherlands, with a CGPA of 3.67/4 and a part scholarship. Zaid also earned his Bachelor of Engineering in Chemical Engineering from Thadomal Shahani Engineering College in Mumbai, India, where he graduated with a CGPA of 7.3/10. His rigorous academic background laid the foundation for his pioneering work in sustainability science and innovation.

Experience:


Zaid Thanawala’s professional experience spans across leading corporations and institutions, where he has significantly impacted sustainability strategies. At Amazon, he leads several initiatives, including the development of automated life cycle assessment tools and forecasting models for renewable energy needs, saving valuable resources and optimizing sustainability efforts. Previously, Zaid worked as a Sustainability Data Analyst at Salesforce, where he managed the company’s carbon footprint reporting and helped procure renewable energy to meet the company’s public commitments. He also held the position of Sustainability Engineer at Owens-Illinois, where he contributed to the development of a life cycle assessment tool for glass manufacturing and played a key role in the company’s decarbonization efforts. His experience across diverse industries has given him a unique ability to innovate and lead sustainability initiatives at scale.

Research Interests:


Zaid Thanawala’s research interests lie at the intersection of sustainable systems, renewable energy, and data-driven environmental solutions. He is particularly focused on the development of advanced life cycle assessment (LCA) tools and predictive models for decarbonization, with an emphasis on automating these processes to increase efficiency and reduce resource consumption. His research extends to the integration of artificial intelligence in sustainability, where he applies machine learning algorithms to enhance forecasting accuracy for energy needs and carbon emissions. Zaid is also interested in the application of circular economy principles in product life cycles, specifically the recycling and reuse of materials like lithium-ion batteries, which are key to reducing environmental impacts in electronics and energy storage systems.

Awards:


Zaid Thanawala’s work has been widely recognized for its innovation and impact on the sustainability field. While he has not received specific individual awards, his leadership in creating and implementing sustainability strategies has contributed to the recognition of the companies he works for, including Amazon and Salesforce. His work on AI-powered LCA tools and forecasting models for renewable energy procurement has been instrumental in achieving significant corporate sustainability milestones. Zaid’s ability to lead high-impact sustainability initiatives has positioned him as a thought leader and innovator in the field.

Publications:

  1. “A Thin-Film Silicon/Silicon Hetero-Junction Hybrid Solar Cell for Photoelectrochemical Water-Reduction Applications” ☀️ (2016) – Published in Solar Energy Materials and Solar Cells, cited by 24 articles.
  2. “Measure of Primary Data as a Quality Indicator in Life Cycle Assessments” 📊 (2025) – Published in International Journal for Multidisciplinary Research.
  3. “The Application of AI for Solving Critical Challenges within LCAs” 🤖 (2025) – Published in International Journal on Science and Technology.
  4. “Importance of Product Carbon Footprints in Sustainable Procurement” 🌍 (2024) – Published in International Journal of Multidisciplinary Research and Growth Evaluation.
  5. “Understanding the Potential for Renewable Energy in Supply Chain Decarbonization” 🔋 (2024) – Published in International Journal of Social Science Exceptional Research.
  6. “Enabling Sustainable Product Development through the Use of AI and Life Cycle Assessment” 🔄 (2024) – Published in International Journal of Innovative Research in Engineering.
  7. “The Importance of Including Water Footprints in Life Cycle Assessments” 💧 (2023) – Published in International Scientific Journal of Engineering and Management.

Conclusion:


Zaid Thanawala exemplifies the qualities of an innovative sustainability scientist, consistently driving technological advancements that contribute significantly to environmental sustainability. His expertise in life cycle assessments, renewable energy forecasting, and decarbonization strategies has had a measurable impact on major global companies, helping them meet their sustainability targets. Zaid’s ability to blend cutting-edge technology with real-world applications in sustainability makes him an outstanding candidate for the “Excellence in Scientific Innovation Award.” His research and contributions continue to inspire progress in the fields of sustainable systems and renewable energy, offering promising solutions to some of the most pressing environmental challenges of our time.

 

Sher Afghan Khan | Energy | Best Researcher Award

Posted on by Academic achievements

Dr. Sher Afghan Khan | Energy | Best Researcher Award 

Professor at IIUM, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Dr. Sher Afghan Khan is a distinguished academic and researcher in the field of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, particularly known for his contributions to gas dynamics and high-speed aerodynamics. He has dedicated over four decades to teaching and research, making significant advancements in the understanding of fluid mechanics and aerodynamics. Currently serving as a Professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at a prominent university in Malaysia, he has played a vital role in shaping the educational landscape and inspiring future generations of engineers.

Profile

ORCID

Education

Dr. Khan holds an impressive academic background, having completed his Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering at the Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur (IITK) in 2001. His doctoral thesis, titled “Control of Suddenly Expanded Flows,” addressed complex challenges in gas dynamics and set the stage for his subsequent research endeavors. Prior to his Ph.D., he obtained a Master of Technology (M.Tech) in Aerospace Engineering (Aerodynamics) from IITK in 1984, and a Bachelor of Science in Engineering (B.Sc. (Engg.)) from Aligarh Muslim University in 1982. This strong educational foundation has equipped him with a comprehensive understanding of mechanical and aerospace principles.

Experience

Dr. Khan’s professional journey has been marked by a series of impactful academic and administrative roles across various esteemed institutions. He has served as a Professor and Dean of Research at Bearys Institute of Technology in India, Principal at Z.H. College of Engineering & Technology, and has held numerous key positions at Aligarh Muslim University. His extensive experience in academia has not only enriched his teaching methods but has also contributed to institutional growth and innovation in engineering education.

Research Interests

Dr. Khan’s research interests are extensive and highly influential, focusing on gas dynamics, experimental aerodynamics, and active and passive control of high-speed jets. His work on sudden expansion problems and base drag reduction techniques has profound implications for the aerospace industry. Dr. Khan actively supervises both Ph.D. and Master’s students, promoting research excellence and the development of innovative solutions to complex engineering challenges.

Awards

Throughout his illustrious career, Dr. Khan has garnered numerous accolades for his outstanding contributions to science and engineering. He has been recognized as one of the top 2% of scientists worldwide in his field by Stanford University for several consecutive years (2020-2023), based on comprehensive data analysis from Elsevier Data Repository. Additionally, Dr. Khan is a life member of several professional organizations, including the Indian Society of Fluid Mechanics and Fluid Power and the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (India), further showcasing his commitment to advancing the field of mechanical and aerospace engineering.

Publications

Dr. Khan’s prolific research output includes over 431 research papers published in reputable international and national journals, along with 158 conference presentations. His notable publications include:

Khan, S. A., & Rathakrishnan, E. (2002). Active Control of Suddenly Expanded Flows from Over Expanded Nozzles. International Journal of Turbo and Jet Engines, 19(1-2), 119-126. Cited by: 50

Khan, S. A., & Rathakrishnan, E. (2003). Control of Suddenly Expanded Flows with Micro Jets. International Journal of Turbo and Jet Engines, 20(2), 63-81. Cited by: 45

Khan, S. A., & Rathakrishnan, E. (2004). Control of Suddenly Expanded Flow from Under Expanded Nozzles. International Journal of Turbo and Jet Engines, 21(4), 233-253. Cited by: 30

Khan, S. A., & Rathakrishnan, E. (2006). Active Control of Base Pressure in Supersonic Regime. Journal of Aerospace Engineering, 87, 1-8. Cited by: 25

Khan, S. A., & Baig, M. A. A. (2011). Control of Base Flows with Micro Jets. International Journal of Turbo and Jet Engines, 28(1), 59-69. Cited by: 20

Khan, S. A., & Rathakrishnan, E. (2005). Active Control of Suddenly Expanded Flow from Under Expanded Nozzles – Part II. International Journal of Turbo and Jet Engines, 22(3), 163-183. Cited by: 18

Khan, S. A., & Rathakrishnan, E. (2006). Nozzle Expansion Level Effect on a Suddenly Expanded Flow. International Journal of Turbo and Jet Engines, 23(4), 233-258. Cited by: 22

Khan, S. A., & Crasta, A. (2010). Oscillating Supersonic Delta Wing with Curved Leading Edges. International Journal of Advanced Studies in Contemporary Mathematics, 20(3), 359-372. Cited by: 15

Khan, S. A., Baig, M. A. A., & Rathakrishnan, E. (2012). Active Control of Base Pressure in Suddenly Expanded Flow for Area Ratio 4.84. International Journal of Engineering Sciences and Technology, 4(5), 1885-1895. Cited by: 14

Rehman, S., & Khan, S. A. (2008). Control of Base Pressure with Micro Jets Part-I. International Journal of Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology, 80(2), 158-164. Cited by: 17

Conclusion:

Dr. Sher Afghan Khan’s extensive contributions to gas dynamics, aerodynamics, and related fields, along with his strong publication record, make him a compelling candidate for the Best Researcher Award. With continued focus on interdisciplinary research and expanded global collaborations, his future work has the potential to break new ground in aerospace engineering. His achievements, particularly his recognition among the top 2% of scientists globally, make him deserving of such an accolade.