olga jordi torres | Ecology biodiversity management | Best Researcher Award

Dr. olga jordi torres | Ecology biodiversity management | Best Researcher Award

Technician ecology management | Government of Catalonia | Spain

Olga Jordi Torres is a highly skilled ecologist and biologist specializing in biodiversity conservation and environmental management. She holds a PhD in Biology with a focus on conservation and biodiversity management from the University of Barcelona. Currently, she works in the Biodiversity and Natural Environment Section at the Department of Territory, Housing, and Ecological Transition of the Generalitat de Catalunya. Olga’s work revolves around the conservation of biodiversity, forest management, and water body rehabilitation, with a particular emphasis on designing and planning conservation strategies that adapt to climate change and human activity. She is also a member of the research group ECOCONS of IRBIO/UB.

Profile

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Education:

Olga Jordi Torres completed her undergraduate degree in Biology at the Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), with a specialization in zoology and systems biology. She furthered her education by obtaining a Master’s degree in Terrestrial Ecology and Biodiversity Management from UAB. Her doctoral research, focused on bioacoustics and forest management, was conducted at the Alt Pirineu Natural Park, studying the ecoacoustics of the Western Capercaillie (Tetrao urogallus). She also holds certifications in drone piloting and forest analysis through remote sensing technologies such as LIDAR and GIS software.

Experience:

Olga’s professional experience spans over a decade, with a focus on fauna and forest management. She has worked in various research and conservation projects across Spain and internationally, including species recovery programs, ecosystem monitoring, and habitat restoration. From 2016 to 2023, she played a key role in managing wildlife and ecosystems in Catalonia, particularly within the context of natural parks and conservation projects. Her experience includes the management of forest ecosystems, the assessment of wildlife populations, and the implementation of forest management strategies to enhance resilience to climate change.

Research Interests:

Olga’s research interests are centered on forest ecology, biodiversity conservation, bioacoustics, and the use of remote sensing technologies in environmental management. Her doctoral thesis focused on the ecoacoustics of the Western Capercaillie, utilizing ambisonic bio-acoustic techniques to study the relationship between sound propagation and habitat selection. She is particularly interested in how acoustic monitoring can inform the management of species and habitats, ensuring their resilience in the face of climate change. Additionally, her work involves analyzing forest structure and using LIDAR and satellite technologies for ecosystem monitoring.

Awards:

Throughout her career, Olga has been recognized for her contributions to biodiversity conservation and forest management. Notably, her doctoral research was well-received, and she has been involved in numerous award-winning conservation projects. She has received various accolades for her work on bioacoustics and her contributions to the ecological management of natural habitats.

Publications:

Olga’s work has been published in several prominent scientific journals. Her doctoral thesis, “Ecoacústica del gall fer Tetrao urogallus al Pirineu català,” was submitted to the University of Barcelona. Other significant publications include:

  1. Jordi, O., Farina, A., Mañosa, S. (2024). Sound amplitude (dB) of male Western Capercaillie Tetrao urogallus calls. Revista Catalana d’Ornitologia, 39, 60–64. DOI
  2. Jordi, O., Puig, X., Farina, A., Mañosa, S. (2024). Vocal individuality of Western Capercaillie Tetrao urogallus male calls, an ambisonic bio-acoustic approach. Bird Study. DOI
  3. Jordi, O., Farina, A., Mañosa, S. (2024). Forest sound propagation and habitat selection in Western Capercaillie (Tetrao urogallus L.). Forest Ecology and Management. (In press)
  4. Jordi, O., Arizaga, J. (2016). Sex differences in growth rates of Yellow-legged Gull Larus michahellis chicks. Bird Study, 63(2), 273–278. DOI
  5. Jordi, O., Herrero, A., Aldalur, A., Cuadrado, J. F., Arizaga, J. (2014). The impact of non–local birds on yellow–legged gulls (Larus michahellis) in the Bay of Biscay: a dump–based assessment. Animal Biodiversity and Conservation, 37, 183-190. DOI

Conclusion:

Olga Jordi Torres has demonstrated exceptional expertise in ecology and biodiversity management. With a solid foundation in research and practical experience, she continues to contribute to the scientific community through her work in biodiversity conservation, forest management, and the application of innovative techniques such as bioacoustics and remote sensing. Her research not only advances scientific knowledge but also provides practical solutions for ecosystem management and conservation. Through her work, Olga is dedicated to enhancing the resilience of natural environments and ensuring their sustainability for future generations.

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.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Augustine Ovie Edegbene | Aquatic ecology | Best Scholar Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Augustine Ovie Edegbene | Aquatic ecology | Best Scholar Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Augustine Ovie Edegbene, Federal University of Health Sciences Otukpo, Nigeria

🌍 Dr. Augustine Ovie Edegbene, an Associate Professor at the Federal University of Health Sciences Otukpo, Nigeria, is a distinguished scholar with dual PhDs in Water Resources Science and Zoology. With over 15 years of teaching and research experience, he has mentored 50+ students globally. 🌊 His pioneering research in aquatic ecology led to the first macroinvertebrate biotic index in West Africa. 🌱 Dr. Edegbene serves as the Deputy Director of the Institute of Global Health and Health Security and co-leads Climate Change & Disaster Risk Reduction at the Global Young Academy. 📚 A prolific author, his work advances freshwater ecosystem monitoring.

Professional Profile:

Google Scholar

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Scopus

Suitability for the Best Scholar Award:

Dr. Augustine Ovie Edegbene stands out as a highly deserving candidate for the Best Scholar Award due to his outstanding contributions to environmental science, particularly in the areas of aquatic ecology, biodiversity conservation, and climate change. His dual PhDs in Water Resources Science and Zoology provide a strong interdisciplinary foundation, allowing him to address complex environmental challenges with innovative solutions. Dr. Edegbene’s research has had a profound global impact, exemplified by his development of the first macroinvertebrate biotic index in West Africa, a groundbreaking tool for monitoring the health of freshwater ecosystems in the region. This achievement underscores his leadership and transformative role in advancing environmental science in West Africa.

Education & Experience 

🎓 Education:

  • PhD in Water Resources Science 🏞️
  • PhD in Zoology 🐾
  • Bachelor’s & Master’s in Biological Sciences 🧬

💼 Experience:

  • Associate Professor, Federal University of Health Sciences Otukpo, Nigeria 🏢
  • Deputy Director, Institute of Global Health and Health Security 🏥
  • Co-lead, Climate Change and Disaster Risk Reduction, Global Young Academy 🌏
  • 15+ years of teaching and research experience 📚
  • Mentor to 50+ postgraduate students globally 🌐

Professional Development

🚀 Dr. Edegbene is a leader in biodiversity conservation, climate change, and aquatic ecology. 🌊 He has developed innovative biotic indices for freshwater ecosystem biomonitoring, transforming environmental science in West Africa. As a reviewer for 50+ international journals and editorial board member for Discover Sustainability and Frontiers in Environmental Science, he contributes significantly to global academia. 📖 His collaborations span six continents, highlighting his international impact. 🌍 Dr. Edegbene has spearheaded high-impact projects, such as developing tools for biomonitoring wadeable riverine systems and studying Lassa fever in Nigeria. 💡 His expertise integrates science diplomacy and sustainability.

Research Focus

🔬 Dr. Edegbene’s research focuses on applied aquatic ecology, freshwater biodiversity, and climate change. 🌿 He developed the first macroinvertebrate multimetric index in West Africa and introduced macroinvertebrate trait-based biomonitoring in Africa. 🌊 His work advances water governance, ecological health, and socio-ecology in line with the UN Sustainable Development Goals. 🌏 His interdisciplinary approach bridges public health and environmental sciences, including the study of emerging diseases like Lassa fever. 🦠 As a global collaborator, Dr. Edegbene fosters innovations that address critical environmental and health challenges, ensuring resilience and sustainability in diverse ecosystems. 💧

Awards & Honors 

🏅 Fellow, African Research Excellence Fund (AREF)
🌟 Member, Global Young Academy (GYA)
🌍 Member, Society for Freshwater Science (SFS)
📖 Editorial Board Member, Discover Sustainability (Springer)
🔍 Guest Editor, Frontiers in Environmental Science & Ecology and Evolution
📜 Over 40 peer-reviewed publications indexed in SCI & Scopus

Publication Top Notes:

  • 📄 Anthropogenic impact on water chemistry and benthic macroinvertebrate associated changes in a southern Nigeria stream
    • Cited by: 126
  • 📄 Identifying and classifying macroinvertebrate indicator signature traits and ecological preferences along urban pollution gradient in the Niger Delta
    • Cited by: 52
  • 📄 Developing and applying a macroinvertebrate‐based multimetric index for urban rivers in the Niger Delta, Nigeria
    • Cited by: 51
  • 📄 Exploring the distribution patterns of macroinvertebrate signature traits and ecological preferences and their responses to urban and agricultural pollution in selected rivers
    • Cited by: 46
  • 📄 Effect of anthropogenicity on the composition and diversity of aquatic insects of a municipal river in North Central Nigeria
    • Cited by: 43

 

 

BANJI RILDWAN OLALEYE | Strategy and Sustainability | Best Researcher Award

Dr . BANJI RILDWAN OLALEYE | Strategy and Sustainability | Best Researcher Award 

Postdoctoral research fellow , North West University , South Africa

Dr. Banji Rildwan Olaleye is a Lecturer 1 in the Department of Business Administration at the Federal University Oye-Ekiti, Nigeria, and a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at the North-West University Business School in South Africa. With over 11 years of experience in academia, administration, and mentorship, Dr. Olaleye specializes in strategic and innovation management, entrepreneurship, and operations management. His career includes roles ranging from administrative staff to pioneering lecturer in his department.

Profile

Scopus

Strengths for the Award

  1. Extensive Research Output: Dr. Olaleye has published over 40 works in reputed international journals and conferences, demonstrating a robust and consistent research output. His work is indexed in prominent databases such as Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar, indicating significant visibility and impact in his field.
  2. Diverse Research Areas: His research spans various crucial topics including strategic management, innovation performance, supply chain management, and sustainable development. This breadth highlights his ability to address multiple facets of business administration and management.
  3. High Impact Publications: Dr. Olaleye’s publications are featured in well-regarded journals such as the Journal of Public Affairs, TQM Journal, and Kybernetes, reflecting high-quality research with substantial contributions to the field.
  4. Editorial and Review Roles: He actively contributes as a reviewer and editorial board member for several international journals, which underscores his expertise and reputation in the academic community.
  5. Academic and Administrative Experience: With over 11 years in academia and administration, including roles at Federal University Oye-Ekiti and North-West University, Dr. Olaleye combines substantial teaching experience with a strong administrative background, adding to his qualifications as a researcher.

Areas for Improvement 

  1. Interdisciplinary Research: While Dr. Olaleye’s research covers multiple areas within business administration, exploring interdisciplinary approaches that integrate fields like technology, data analytics, or behavioral science could further enhance the impact and applicability of his work.
  2. Research Collaborations: Expanding collaborative research efforts with international researchers or institutions could provide new perspectives and increase the scope of his research projects.
  3. Grants and Funding: Securing more research grants and funding could support larger-scale studies and innovative projects, potentially increasing his research’s reach and influence.
  4. Public Engagement: Greater emphasis on translating research findings into practical applications or policy recommendations could enhance the societal impact of his work.

    Education 

    Dr. Olaleye earned his PhD in Business Management from Girne American University, Turkey, in 2022, with a thesis on “Strategic Thinking and Innovation Performance: Mediating Role of Absorptive Capability.” He holds an MSc in Business Administration from Obafemi Awolowo University, Nigeria (2017), and a BSc in Cooperative and Business Management from Olabisi Onabanjo University, Nigeria (2010). His academic journey also includes a Diploma in Business Administration from the same institution (2007).

    Experience

    Dr. Olaleye’s career began as an Administrative Officer II at Federal University Oye-Ekiti in 2013, transitioning to a Lecturer in 2018. His teaching covers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses including Business Statistics, Strategic Management, and Advanced Research Methods. He currently serves as a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at North-West University Business School, South Africa, where he continues his research and academic contributions.

    Research Interests

    Dr. Olaleye’s research focuses on strategic and innovation management, entrepreneurship, supply chain management, and sustainable development. His work employs strategic theories to enhance corporate competitiveness, quality education, and poverty eradication. He is particularly interested in action-based competitive interaction within the competitive dynamics sub-stream.

    Awards

    Dr. Olaleye has been recognized for his extensive contributions to academia and research. His notable achievements include his role in curriculum development for business administration programs and his participation in accreditation exercises that led to the department’s full accreditation. He continues to be a prominent figure in both local and international academic circles.

    Publications

    Dr. Olaleye has authored over 40 publications in renowned journals and conferences. Notable works include:

    1. Exploring the Link Between Customer Satisfaction, Service Quality, and Perceived Organizational Support: The Mediating Role of Relational Psychological Contract, Studia Universitatis Vasile Goldiș Arad, Seria Științe Economice, 34(3), 2024.
    2. Relationship between workplace ostracism and job productivity: the mediating effect of emotional exhaustion and lack of motivation, Asia-Pacific Journal of Business Administration, ahead-of-print, 2024.
    3. Attaining Organizational Sustainability Through Competitive Intelligence: The Roles of Organizational Learning and Resilience, Journal of Intelligence Studies in Business, 13(3), 2023.
    4. Influence of eco-product innovation and firm reputation on corporate social responsibility and competitive advantage: A mediation-moderation analysis, Journal of Public Affairs, 23(4), 2023.

      Conclusion

      Dr. Olaleye Banji Rildwan demonstrates exceptional research prowess through his prolific publication record, diverse research interests, and significant contributions to business management literature. His extensive experience in both academia and administration further complements his research achievements. Addressing the areas of improvement could enhance his already impressive profile, making him a strong contender for the Research for Best Researcher Award.

Nagham Sayour | Environmental Economics | Best Researcher Award

Dr.Nagham Sayour | Environmental Economics | Best Researcher Award 

Associate Professor Zayed University United Arab Emirates

Nagham Sayour is an esteemed Associate Professor in the Department of Finance and Economics at Zayed University, United Arab Emirates. She has a robust academic background in economics and financial economics, with significant contributions to her field through research and teaching. Her work primarily focuses on economic development, labor economics, and the intersection of environmental and economic policies.

Profile

Scopus

Education 🎓

Nagham holds a Ph.D. in Economics from McGill University, completed in 2016. She earned her M.A. in Financial Economics from the American University of Beirut (AUB) in 2009, and a B.S. in Mathematics with a minor in Computer Science (High Distinction) from AUB in 2006.

Experience 👩‍🏫

Currently an Associate Professor at Zayed University since 2023, Nagham was previously an Assistant Professor at the same institution from 2020 to 2023. Before this, she served as an Assistant Professor at the Lebanese American University from 2016 to 2019. Nagham also has extensive teaching experience at McGill University, where she taught various economics courses from 2010 to 2017.

Research Interests 🔬

Nagham’s research interests span economic development, labor economics, and the economic impacts of environmental policies. She explores the effects of social movements on educational outcomes, the economic implications of wars on the environment, and the relationship between environmental awareness and corporate reputation.

Awards 🏆

Nagham has received numerous accolades, including a significant grant from the Templeton World Charity Foundation worth USD $248,325 for 2023-2024, and the Research Incentive Fund (RIF) Grant worth AED 115,800 for 2022-2023. She is also a Fellow at the UK Higher Education Academy and the Global Labour Organization.

Publications 📄

  1. “Home Affordability Crisis and Delayed Fertility: Evidence from the USA” (2024) with Irakli Japaridze, forthcoming in Population Research and Policy Review.
  2. “Environmental Awareness and Firm Creation” (2024) with K. Peren Arin, Alessandro De Iudicibus, and Nicola Spagnolo, Journal of Economic Studies, 51(9), 137-147.
  3. “Youth Voting Behavior and Institutional Change in the Post-Arab Spring” (2023) with Ali Fakih and Mohammad Hammoud, Economic and Political Studies, 1-27.
  4. “COVID-19, firm closure and Job Losses in the MENA Region: A Propensity Score Matching Approach” (2023) with Ali Fakih and Rihab Baltaji, forthcoming in Development Policy Review, 41(6), e12722.
  5. “Adaptation to climate change and emissions: halo effect or complacency?” (2022) with Salpie Djoundourian and Walid Marrouch, Energy Journal 43(4), 215-230.
  6. “Dying from Envy: The Role of Inequality” (2021) with Irakli Japaridze, Health Economics 30(6), 1374-1392.
  7. “After-School Care, Childcare Arrangements and Child Development” (2020) with Ailin He, Journal of Human Capital 14(4), 617-652.
  8. “Hedonic Housing Prices and Environmental Quality in Lebanon” (2020) with Walid Marrouch, International Journal of Housing Markets and Analysis 14(5), 953-968.
  9. Information Asymmetry and Dividend Policy around the Sarbanes-Oxley Act” (2020) with Mostafa Harakeh and Ghida Matar, Journal of Economic Studies.
  10. “The Impact of Maternal Care on Child Development: Evidence from Sibling Spillover Effects of a Parental Leave Reform” (2019), Labour Economics, 58, 167-186.
  11. “Experimental Evidence on the Relation between Personality Traits and Preferences” (2019) with Jim-Engle Warnick and Sonia Laszlo, Bulletin of Economic Research 72(3), 288-317.
  12. “The Effects of a Change in the Point System on Immigration. Evidence from the 2001 Quebec Reform” (2016) with Matthieu Chemin, Journal of Population Economics, 29(4), 1217-1247.