Elizabeth Grace Bengi | Environmental science | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Elizabeth Grace Bengi | Environmental science | Best Researcher Award

Associated Professor | Kyrenia University | Turkey

Dr. Elizabeth Grace Tunka Bengil is an esteemed academic and researcher with expertise in marine sciences, particularly in the biology, ecology, and conservation of elasmobranch species. With a passion for marine conservation, she has dedicated her career to studying the biodiversity of marine ecosystems, focusing on chondrichthyans, including sharks and rays. Dr. Bengil holds a Ph.D. from Ege University, where she has also contributed significantly to various research projects aimed at understanding the complex dynamics of marine species and habitats.

Profile

Scopus,

Education:
Dr. Bengil completed her BSc in Fisheries at Ege University in 2009, followed by an MSc in the Graduate School of Natural and Applied Sciences at the same institution in 2012. Her doctoral studies, culminating in a PhD in 2018 from Ege University, focused on marine biodiversity and conservation. Additionally, she earned an associate degree in Agriculture from Anadolu University, further expanding her interdisciplinary knowledge in environmental sciences.

Experience:
Dr. Bengil has extensive academic and research experience, currently serving as an Associate Professor at the University of Kyrenia’s Faculty of Marine Science since 2022. Prior to this, she held faculty positions at Girne American University, where she served as an Assistant Professor and Associate Professor in the School of Marine and Logistics. Her leadership extends to her role as a member of the Board of Directors of the Mediterranean Conservation Society. Dr. Bengil has been instrumental in shaping the academic environment and fostering marine research initiatives at various institutions.

Research Interests:
Dr. Bengil’s research interests lie in marine biodiversity, particularly the conservation of elasmobranchs and other marine species. Her work focuses on understanding the feeding ecology, reproductive biology, and migratory patterns of sharks and rays, as well as the impacts of human activities such as fishing and pollution on marine ecosystems. She is also involved in assessing the restoration potential of marine habitats and exploring the role of estuaries and lagoons as vital nurseries for endangered species.

Awards and Recognition:
Dr. Bengil has been recognized for her significant contributions to marine science and conservation. She was awarded multiple research grants from prestigious organizations such as The Rufford Foundation, the Mediterranean Conservation Society, and the European Commission. Her work has been acknowledged for its impact on marine conservation and the advancement of knowledge in the field of marine sciences. Dr. Bengil’s ability to bridge science and conservation has earned her a reputation as a leader in the field.

Publications:
Dr. Bengil has authored several key publications in top-tier journals. Her notable works include:

  1. Bengil, E. G. T., & Erdoğan Sağlam, N. (2024). Beyond the anchovy: Unveiling the Black Sea’s elasmobranchs, Zoology in the Middle East.
  2. Bengil, E. G. T., & Başusta, N. (2024). The biology and conservation of elasmobranchs and chimaeras, Frontiers in Marine Science.
  3. Kılıç, E., Yücel, N., Bengil, F., Bengil, E. G. T., & Şahutoğlu, S. M. (2024). Microplastic pollution levels in the surface water and sediment of Orontes basin, Marine Pollution Bulletin.
  4. O’Keefe, M., Bengil, E. G. T., et al. (2023). Diversity and distribution of elasmobranchs in the coastal waters of Cyprus, Frontiers in Marine Science.
  5. Bengil, E. G. T. (2022). Biology and ecology of Squalus blainville (Risso, 1827) from the eastern Mediterranean, Thalassas: An International Journal of Marine Sciences.
  6. Papageorgiou, M., Bengil, E. G. T., et al. (2022). Increased knowledge affects public attitude and perception towards elasmobranchs, Mediterranean Marine Science.
  7. Bengil, E. G. T., Bengil, F., et al. (2021). Descriptive capability of datasets as proxy of sea water temperature in coastal systems, Turkish Journal of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences.

Conclusion:
Dr. Elizabeth Grace Tunka Bengil is a prominent figure in marine science, particularly in the conservation of chondrichthyan species. With extensive research experience and a profound commitment to preserving marine biodiversity, her work continues to influence conservation practices and marine research. Through her scholarly publications, leadership roles, and involvement in international projects, Dr. Bengil has made substantial contributions to the scientific community, advancing knowledge on marine ecosystems and advocating for the protection of vulnerable species. Her ongoing efforts in research and conservation ensure her continued impact in the field.

Hospice G. Gracias Avakoudjo | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Hospice G. Gracias Avakoudjo | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Postdoc Researcher | Laboratory of Applied Ecology of the University of Abomey-Calavi | Benin

Hospice Gérard Gracias Avakoudjo is an esteemed agronomist and forester specializing in climate change, biodiversity, and sustainable agriculture. With a PhD in Climate Change and Biodiversity, he has an extensive career focused on the impact of climate change on ecosystems and their relationship with human communities. Avakoudjo has contributed to several international research projects and consultancies, and his expertise spans across agroforestry, non-timber forest products, and dendrochronology, among others. He is dedicated to integrating climate adaptation strategies into national biodiversity policies and advancing sustainable resource management in West Africa.

Profile

Orcid

Education:

Avakoudjo holds a PhD in Climate Change, Biodiversity, and Sustainable Agriculture from the University Félix Houphouët-Boigny, Côte d’Ivoire (2020). He earned his MSc in Forestry with a focus on Natural Resources Management from the University of Abomey-Calavi, Benin (2015). His academic journey began with a degree in Agronomy, specializing in Natural Resources Management and Planning from the same institution in 2013. He also holds a Baccalaureate D in Mathematics and Natural Sciences from the Office of Baccalaureate in Benin (2016).

Experience: Avakoudjo has gained extensive professional experience, including his current role as a Research Associate at the Laboratory of Applied Ecology at the University of Abomey-Calavi. Here, he leads research projects, trains students, and collaborates with local communities. Previously, as a Postdoctoral Researcher, he implemented a project on the climate influence on plant growth. He has also held roles as a consultant for organizations like the African Forest Forum, where he contributed to the development of agroforestry systems and land management strategies. His leadership has extended to environmental volunteering and advisory roles in various NGOs.

Research Interests:

Avakoudjo’s primary research interests include the effects of climate change on biodiversity and ecosystem services, especially in West Africa. His work examines the role of climate-induced biodiversity loss, adaptation strategies, and ecosystem resilience. He is particularly focused on the conservation and valorization of non-timber forest products and sustainable agroforestry practices. His expertise also extends to tropical dendrochronology, quantitative ethnobotany, and biodiversity informatics, all aimed at developing solutions for sustainable natural resource management in tropical regions.

Awards: Throughout his career, Avakoudjo has received recognition for his contributions to environmental science and climate change adaptation. Notable accolades include his involvement in the African Tree-Ring Network and his role in advancing the understanding of climate-growth relationships in tropical trees. His research on the impact of climate change on indigenous species like Strychnos spinosa has been acknowledged for its scientific rigor and its practical implications for biodiversity conservation in West Africa.

Publications:

Avakoudjo has authored several influential peer-reviewed publications, including:

  1. Degila J., et al. (2023). “Digital Agriculture Policies and Strategies for Innovations in the Agri-Food Systems—Cases of Five West African Countries.” Sustainability, 15(12), 9192.
  2. Degila J., et al. (2023). “A Survey on Digital Agriculture in Five West African Countries.” Agriculture, 13(5), 1067.
  3. Kochoni B. I., et al. (2023). “Contribution of mangroves ecosystems to coastal communities’ resilience towards climate change.” GeoJournal.
  4. Coulibaly A., et al. (2022). “Impact of climate change on the distribution of Bombax costatum Pellegr.” Trees, Forests and People, 100359.
  5. Atindehou M. M. L., et al. (2022). “Old Sacred Trees as Memories of the Cultural Landscapes of Southern Benin.” Land, 11(4), 478.
  6. Avakoudjo H. G. G., et al. (2022). “Effects of climate and protection status on growth and fruit yield of Strychnos spinosa Lam.” Trees, 1-13.
  7. Avakoudjo H. G. G., et al. (2022). “Wood anatomy and vessel characteristics of spiny monkey orange (Strychnos spinosa).” Dendrochronologia, 72:125941.

These works are widely cited for their contributions to climate change adaptation strategies and biodiversity conservation, particularly in tropical ecosystems.

Conclusion:

Hospice Gérard Gracias Avakoudjo is a leading expert in climate change, biodiversity, and sustainable agriculture with a rich academic and professional background. His research continues to shape the understanding of climate-induced biodiversity changes and their impact on ecosystems and human communities in West Africa. Avakoudjo’s commitment to practical solutions for sustainable land management, agroforestry, and the conservation of natural resources reflects his dedication to fostering resilient ecosystems and promoting environmental stewardship. His ongoing contributions to the scientific community and local communities make him a valuable asset in the global effort to address climate change and biodiversity loss.