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., & BaĹźusta, 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 GĂ©rard 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 FĂ©lix HouphouĂ«t-Boigny, CĂ´te 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 GĂ©rard 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.

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 đź“„

  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.

 

Mizbah Ahmed Sresto | Environmental Science, Geography and Urban Planning | Best Researcher Award

Mr.Mizbah Ahmed Sresto | Environmental Science, Geography and Urban Planning | Best Researcher Award

Student Khulna University of Engineering & Technology Bangladesh

Mizbah Ahmed Sresto specializes in environmental research using geospatial technology and machine learning techniques. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Urban and Regional Planning from Khulna University of Engineering and Technology (KUET), Bangladesh. Mizbah has professional experience as a GIS Analyst and Junior Urban Planner, focusing on GIS data analysis and urban planning projects. His research interests include land use transformation, hazard mapping, and natural resource management. Mizbah has received awards for his academic achievements and has published in peer-reviewed journals on topics related to remote sensing and environmental sustainability.

Profile

Google Scholar

👨‍🎓 Education

Mizbah Ahmed Sresto holds a Bachelor’s degree in Urban and Regional Planning from Khulna University of Engineering and Technology (KUET), Bangladesh, with a CGPA of 3.12 out of 4.00.

🏢 Professional Experience

As a GIS Analyst at Desh Upodesh Limited (DUL), Mizbah specializes in GIS data preparation and management, utilizing geospatial tools for road inventory and condition surveys.

🔬 Research Interests

Mizbah focuses on environmental research using geospatial technology and machine learning. His expertise includes land use transformation, hazard mapping, and natural resource management.

🏆 Awards

Mizbah has received the Dean’s Award from KUET Civil Faculty and the Scopus Index Author Award for outstanding research contributions.

đź“š Publications

  • Sresto, M. A., et al. (2022). A GIS and remote sensing approach for measuring summer-winter variation of land use and land cover indices and surface temperature in Dhaka district, Bangladesh. Heliyon. Article Link
  • Sresto, M. A., et al. (2022). Impact of COVID-19 Lockdown on Vegetation Indices and Heat Island Effect: A Remote Sensing Study of Dhaka City, Bangladesh. Sustainability. Article Link
  • Roy, T. K., Siddika, S., & Sresto, M.A. (2022). Assessment of Urban Resiliency Concerning Disaster Risk: A Review on Multi-Dimensional Approaches. Journal of Engineering Science. Article Link
  • Sresto, M. A., et al. (2022). Groundwater vulnerability assessment in Khulna district of Bangladesh by integrating fuzzy algorithm and DRASTIC (DRASTIC-L) model. Modelling Earth Syst. and Environment. Article Link
  • Sresto, M. A., et al. (2021). Application of fuzzy analytic hierarchy process and geospatial technology to identify groundwater potential zones in north-west region of Bangladesh. Environmental Challenges. Article Link
  • Haque, M., Siddika, S., Sresto, M.A. et al. (2021). Geo-spatial Analysis for Flash Flood Susceptibility Mapping in the North-East Haor (Wetland) Region in Bangladesh. Earth System and Environment. Article Link

 

Petra Chui | Microplastics in Aquatic environment | Best Researchers Awards

Ms. Petra Chui | Microplastics in Aquatic environment | Best Researchers Awards

Master student | Egerton University, Kenya | Cameroon

Short Bio

🎓 Chui Petra Kienyiy is a dedicated environmental scientist from Cameroon, currently pursuing her MSc in Natural Resources Management at Egerton University, Kenya. With a strong academic background and varied professional experience, she is passionate about environmental sustainability and innovative research in natural resource management.

Profile

ORCID

Education

đź“š Petra’s academic journey began with a B.Tech in Environmental Engineering from the University of Bamenda (2012-2016), where she researched soy effluent treatment. Currently, she is pursuing her MSc in Natural Resources Management at Egerton University (2020-Present), focusing on the spatial and seasonal variations of microplastics and surface water quality in Kenyan ecosystems.

Experience

🌍 Petra has held various roles, including Project Manager at Gordon’s Agricultural Organization-Uganda (2021-2022), where she managed administrative tasks and developed digital platforms. She also served as a Biology Teacher and Secretary at Gratitude Bilingual College in Cameroon (2019-2020), and as a Stock Accountant at SALEH Business (2018-2019). Her earlier roles include environmental delegate, intern, and data collector in multiple organizations, contributing to environmental audits, agricultural training, and waste management surveys.

Research Interest

🔬 Petra’s research interests lie in environmental sustainability, focusing on the assessment of microplastic pollution, water quality, and innovative waste management techniques. Her MSc research explores the spatial and seasonal variations of microplastics in the River Njoro and Lake Nakuru ecosystems in Kenya.

Awards

🏆 Petra has been recognized for her innovative contributions with the Audience Award on Digital Innovation at StartHub Africa (April 2022) in Nairobi, Kenya. She is also a recipient of the prestigious MasterCard Foundation Scholarship (2020) for her Master’s program and received Presidential grants (2012-2016) for her outstanding academic performance during her undergraduate studies.

Publications

đź“– Petra has contributed to several publications and conference proceedings, reflecting her research interests:

  • Spatial and Seasonal Variations of Microplastics and Surface Water Quality in River Njoro and Lake Nakuru Ecosystems, Kenya. (Under Review)
  • Seasonal Variations of Surface Water Quality in River Njoro and Lake Nakuru Kenya (2023, Asian Journal of Fisheries and Aquatic Research)
  • Integrated Water Resources Management and River Basin Governance: The case of Congo Basin Forest in Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC): Implications for Environmental Sustainability. (Conference Proceedings)
  • Biogeochemical Processes in Forest Ecosystems: A Review (Conference Proceedings)