Musamba Banza | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

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Musamba Banza | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Postdoc fellow | UNISA | South Africa

Dr. Musamba Jean Claude Banza is a distinguished researcher and expert in machine learning and material development, with a strong commitment to advancing sustainable technologies. His research spans multiple domains, including machine learning applications in computer vision, natural language processing, and predictive analytics, alongside material science innovations aimed at addressing environmental challenges. Dr. Banza has contributed to the development of advanced materials like biodegradable packaging, polymeric hydrogels for environmental remediation, and nanocomposites for wastewater treatment. He is passionate about exploring cutting-edge technologies to solve complex real-world problems and has a track record of delivering impactful solutions. Dr. Banza holds a Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering from Vaal University of Technology and has published extensively in international journals. His work is recognized globally, having earned him several awards for excellence in research and innovation.

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Education

Dr. Musamba Jean Claude Banza completed his Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Chemical Engineering at Vaal University of Technology in 2022. His academic journey began with a Bachelor of Technology in Chemical Engineering (2014), followed by a Master of Technology in Chemical Engineering (2019), also from Vaal University of Technology. He further honed his expertise in the field with a National Diploma in Chemical Engineering (2016). Throughout his studies, Dr. Banza consistently demonstrated excellence, paving the way for his future groundbreaking work in machine learning and material development. His education provided him with a solid foundation in chemical engineering principles, materials science, and data analysis, which he has successfully applied in both academic research and industrial projects. His studies in sustainable materials and environmental science form the backbone of his innovative solutions in addressing pressing global challenges.

 

Experience

Dr. Musamba Jean Claude Banza has extensive professional experience in both academia and industry. He currently holds a Postdoctoral Fellowship at the University of South Africa (2025-2027) in the Department of Environmental Sciences. Prior to this, he worked as a Postdoctoral Fellow at Vaal University of Technology from 2023 to 2024, contributing to research in the Department of Chemical and Metallurgical Engineering. Between 2019 and 2022, Dr. Banza served as a part-time lecturer and supervised numerous Bachelor’s and Master’s students. His industry experience includes working at Ruashi Mining (Metorex and Jinchuan Group) from 2012 to 2014, where he optimized copper and cobalt leaching circuits and conducted mass balance analysis and water balance studies. His diverse career has allowed him to bridge the gap between research and practical applications, demonstrating his ability to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world challenges in both academia and the industrial sector.

Research Interests

Dr. Musamba Jean Claude Banza’s research focuses on the intersection of machine learning, material development, and environmental science. He has made significant strides in applying machine learning techniques, such as artificial neural networks (ANN) and adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference systems (ANFIS), to solve complex challenges in various fields, including water treatment and environmental remediation. His work includes the development of advanced materials, such as biodegradable packaging, nanocomposites, and polymeric hydrogels designed to remove organic dyes, heavy metals, and rare earth elements from wastewater. Dr. Banza’s research also emphasizes the optimization of adsorption processes using novel materials for sustainable solutions in hydrometallurgical effluent treatment. By combining his expertise in material science with advanced machine learning algorithms, Dr. Banza is creating groundbreaking solutions that address both environmental and industrial challenges. His focus on sustainability and performance has led to practical applications that contribute to cleaner, safer environments.

Awards

Dr. Musamba Jean Claude Banza has received several prestigious awards for his exceptional contributions to research and innovation. In 2021, he was recognized as a Young Researcher by the International Academic Awards for his pioneering work in material science and machine learning. He was again honored in 2024 when he was selected as the Best Researcher by the International Academic Awards, acknowledging his significant impact on environmental remediation technologies and sustainable materials. Additionally, Dr. Banza earned a certificate from Elsevier for his article’s contribution to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, showcasing the global relevance of his research. These accolades underscore his dedication to addressing critical environmental issues through innovative scientific solutions. Dr. Banza’s awards demonstrate his consistent excellence in both academic and applied research, marking him as a leader in his field.

Publications

Blast Furnace Slag for SO2 Capture: Optimization and Prediction Using Response Surface Methodology and Artificial Neural Network

Authors: Kohitlhetse, I., Evans, S.K., Banza, M., Makomere, R.

Journal: Chemical Industry and Chemical Engineering Quarterly

Year: 2024

Volume: 30(4), pp. 349–357

Citations: 0

Modeling of Biomethane Production from Ultrasonic Pretreated Fruit and Vegetable Waste via Anaerobic Digestion

Authors: Matobole, K., Seodigeng, T., Banza, M., Rutto, H.

Journal: Journal of Environmental Science and Health – Part A Toxic/Hazardous Substances and Environmental Engineering

Year: 2024

Volume: 59(10), pp. 513–522

Citations: 0

Batch and Continuous Fixed Bed Adsorption of Copper (II) from Acid Mine Drainage (AMD) Using Green and Recyclable Adsorbent from Cellulose Microcrystals (CMCs)

Authors: Banza, M., Seodigeng, T., Linda, S., Owona, S., Musampa, P.

Journal: Journal of Environmental Science and Health – Part A Toxic/Hazardous Substances and Environmental Engineering

Year: 2024

Volume: 59(9), pp. 488–498

Citations: 0

Preparation, Characterization, and Application of Polymeric Ultra-Permeable Biodegradable Ferromagnetic Nanocomposite Adsorbent for Removal of Cr(VI) from Synthetic Wastewater: Kinetics, Isotherms, and Thermodynamics

Authors: Suter, E., Rutto, H., Makomere, R., Kiambi, S., Omwoyo, W.

Journal: Frontiers in Environmental Chemistry

Year: 2024

Volume: 5, Article: 1451262

Citations: 1

The Impact of Ozone Treatment on the Removal Effectiveness of Various Refractory Compounds in Wastewater from Petroleum Refineries

Authors: Khoza, N., Seodigeng, T., Banza, M., Ochieng, A.

Journal: Journal of Environmental Science and Health – Part A Toxic/Hazardous Substances and Environmental Engineering

Year: 2024

Volume: 59(4), pp. 189–199

Citations: 0

Energy Storage Through a Regenerative Hydrogen Fuel Cell in a Hybrid System of Renewable Energy for Power Generation

Authors: Nkwambe, M.S., Sutherland, T., Seodigeng, T., Banza, M.

Journal: Chemical Engineering Transactions

Year: 2024

Volume: 108, pp. 73–78

Citations: 2

Mass Transfer Modelling of Sclerocarya Birrea Kernels in Supercritical Carbon Dioxide

Authors: Reddy, T., Seodigeng, T., Banza, M., Rutto, H.

Journal: Chemical Engineering Transactions

Year: 2024

Volume: 108, pp. 25–30

Citations: 0

Application of Artificial Neural Network and Shrinking Core Model for Copper (II) and Lead (II) Leaching from Contaminated Soil Using Ethylenediaminetetraacetic Acid

Authors: Banza, M., Rutto, H., Seodigeng, T.

Journal: Soil and Sediment Contamination

Year: 2024

Volume: 33(1), pp. 43–63

Citations: 5

Comparison Study of ANFIS, ANN, and RSM and Mechanistic Modeling for Chromium(VI) Removal Using Modified Cellulose Nanocrystals–Sodium Alginate (CNC–Alg)

Authors: Banza, M., Seodigeng, T., Rutto, H.

Journal: Arabian Journal for Science and Engineering

Year: 2023

Volume: 48(12), pp. 16067–16085

Citations: 16

The Use of Artificial Neural Network (ANN) in Dry Flue Gas Desulphurization Modeling: Levenberg–Marquardt (LM) and Bayesian Regularization (BR) Algorithm Comparison

Authors: Makomere, R., Rutto, H., Koech, L., Banza, M.

Journal: Canadian Journal of Chemical Engineering

Year: 2023

Volume: 101(6), pp. 3273–3286

Citations: 15

 

Conclusion

Given his innovative contributions to sustainable technologies, interdisciplinary research in machine learning and material development, and global recognition through multiple awards, Dr. Musamba Jean Claude Banza is undoubtedly deserving of the Best Researcher Award. His research, publications, and commitment to making a lasting impact on both industry and academia further solidify his candidacy. Dr. Banza’s work is poised to continue influencing global solutions for environmental challenges, making him an outstanding candidate for this prestigious recognition.

Kwame Darkwah | Public Health | Young Scientist Award

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Mr. Kwame Darkwah | Public Health | Young Scientist Award

Graduate Student | University of Cape Coast | Ghana

Darkwah Kwame Osei is an accomplished researcher with a deep focus on neurodegenerative diseases, neuroimmune interactions, and drug discovery, particularly within the context of the gut-brain axis. Currently, he is pursuing an MSc in Molecular Biology at Jeonbuk National University, South Korea, where his research explores the roles of nitric oxide synthase in Drosophila melanogaster. Osei has a robust academic background, having completed his BSc in Medical Laboratory Science from the University of Cape Coast, Ghana. His work has garnered attention through various publications and presentations in notable journals and academic conferences.

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Education
Osei’s educational journey includes a Master’s degree in Molecular Biology from Jeonbuk National University, South Korea (2024), where his thesis focuses on understanding the functional roles of nitric oxide synthase in Drosophila melanogaster. He also holds a Bachelor’s degree in Medical Laboratory Science from the University of Cape Coast, Ghana (2015). His undergraduate research project investigated the use of the RIFLE criteria in diagnosing acute kidney injury among ICU patients, guided by Dr. Richard K.D. Ephraim.

Experience
With extensive research and teaching experience, Osei has contributed significantly to academic life. As a Graduate Research Volunteer at Jeonbuk National University, he helped design plasmids and taught molecular biology techniques such as PCR primer design and gel electrophoresis to undergraduate students. Osei also served as an Undergraduate Research Assistant at the University of Cape Coast, where he supervised student research and assisted in teaching various medical laboratory science courses. His professional experience extends to a role as a Medical Laboratory Scientist at Baiden-Ghartey Hospital, where he led the laboratory department and performed critical diagnostic testing.

Research Interests
Osei’s research interests lie in the intersection of neurodegenerative diseases and neuromodulation, particularly how the gut-brain axis and neuroimmune interactions influence disease processes. His work aims to uncover mechanisms in the brain and immune system that could potentially lead to the development of therapeutic strategies for neurodegenerative diseases. Additionally, he is deeply involved in drug discovery and development, seeking to explore new avenues for treating such complex conditions.

Awards
Osei has earned several prestigious awards, including the Global Korea Scholarship Program (GKSP) for his graduate studies in South Korea (2021-2024). He was also recognized as the Best Graduating Student (2nd rank) in the Medical Laboratory Science Department at the University of Cape Coast, Ghana, a testament to his academic excellence and dedication.

Publications
Osei has contributed to several impactful publications in renowned scientific journals, focusing on health diagnostics and disease mechanisms. His notable publications include:

  1. Gyamfi, N. K. A., Osei, G. N., Brenyah, R. C., Agyemang, L. D., Ampomah, P., Darkwah, K. O., … & Ephraim, R. K. (2024). Assessing Concordance of Results: A Comparative Study of the Manual and Automated Urinalysis Methods. BioMed Research International, 2024(1), 6963423.
  2. Ephraim, R. K., Ativi, E., Ashie, S. A., Abaka-Yawson, A., & Darkwah, K. O. (2023). Assessment of estimated low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-c) equations: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Bulletin of the National Research Centre, 47(1), 71.
  3. Ephraim, R. K., Baah, S. K., Sakyi, S. A., Darkwah, K. O., & Abaka-Yawson, A. (2021). Hyperglycaemia in newly diagnosed pulmonary tuberculosis patients: a cross-sectional study of the Agona District Hospital. Annals of Medical Laboratory Science, 1(2), 50-58.
  4. Bedu-Addo, K., Ephraim, R. K., Tanoe-Blay, C., Ahenkorah-Fondjo, L., Darkwah, K. O., Ephraim, M., … & Abaka-Yawson, A. (2020). Prevalence and associated factors of fetal macrosomia in a rural community in Ghana. Cogent Medicine, 7(1), 1746602.
  5. Anthony, R., Brenyah, R. C., Darkwah, K. O., Egbule, B. C., Ninnoni, J. P., Okantey, C., & Ephraim, R. K. (2019). Hepatitis B Infection in People Living with HIV/AIDS; A Retrospective Study of the Effia Nkwanta Regional Hospital. Journal of Advances in Medicine and Medical Research, 29(8): 1-9.
  6. Ephraim, R., Brenyah, R., Osei, B., Anto, E., Basing, A., & Darkwah, K. (2017). Demographic, clinical, and therapeutic characteristics of children aged 0–15 years with nephrotic syndrome: a retrospective study of the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Kumasi, Ghana. Asian Journal of Medicine and Health, 5(2), 1-9.
  7. Adu, P., Dogfobaare, I., Kuuzie, P., Darkwah, K., Twum, B., & Ephraim, R. (2017). No association between Helicobacter pylori infection and type 2 diabetes mellitus; a case-control study in the North-Western part of Ghana. Asian Journal of Medicine and Health, 2(4), 1-7.

Conclusion
Darkwah Kwame Osei’s contributions to the fields of molecular biology, neurodegenerative diseases, and medical laboratory science have made a significant impact on both academic and practical applications. His leadership skills, extensive research, and teaching experience exemplify his dedication to advancing scientific knowledge. As he continues his studies and professional journey, Osei is well-poised to make further strides in understanding complex health issues, especially in the areas of neurology and immunology. With a firm commitment to both education and scientific research, he remains an influential figure in his field.

Wenyan Liang | Wastewater treatment | Best Researcher Award

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Ms. Wenyan Liang | Wastewater treatment | Best Researcher Award

Associate Professor at Beijing Forestry University, China.

Dr. Wenyan Liang is an Associate Professor at the College of Environmental Science & Engineering, Beijing Forestry University, China. With over two decades of experience in environmental science, her research focuses on electrochemistry in environmental pollution control, treatment of fluoride and other pollutants in drinking water, algae and algal metabolites pollution control, and physical and chemical treatment processes. Dr. Liang received her Ph.D. from Beijing Forestry University, where she conducted research at the Research Center for Eco-Environmental Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences. She has also studied algae biodiesel at the State University of New York, advised by Dr. Gregory L. Boyer. Dr. Liang has published over 60 papers and authored five professional books.

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Education

Dr. Wenyan Liang earned her Ph.D. in Environmental Science from Beijing Forestry University (2002-2005). Her doctoral research, completed at the Research Center for Eco-Environmental Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, focused on the inactivation of Microcystis aeruginosa and the degradation of microcystins using electrooxidation and electromagnetic fields. This research marked a significant step in her career, laying the foundation for her expertise in water pollution control and treatment technologies. Following her Ph.D., she pursued a Master’s degree in Environmental Engineering at Beijing Polytechnic University (1997-2000), where she honed her skills in environmental monitoring and engineering practices. Dr. Liang’s undergraduate studies in Environmental Monitoring (1987-1992) at the same institution equipped her with a solid grounding in environmental science fundamentals. These academic achievements have provided her with a comprehensive understanding of environmental science and engineering, making her a well-rounded expert in her field.

Experience

Dr. Wenyan Liang has accumulated extensive experience in both academia and environmental management:

2000–Present, College of Natural Resource & Environment, Beijing Forestry University: At Beijing Forestry University, Dr. Liang has been an Associate Professor, teaching and conducting research in environmental science and engineering. Her work focuses on electrochemistry, water treatment technologies, and pollution control. She mentors graduate and undergraduate students and contributes to the development of curricula in environmental science.

1994–1997, Environmental Protection Bureau of Jiangxi Province: During her tenure at the Environmental Protection Bureau of Jiangxi Province, Dr. Liang worked on implementing environmental regulations and monitoring pollution sources. Her role involved assessing environmental impacts, enforcing compliance, and coordinating with local industries to mitigate pollution.

1992–1994, Environmental Monitoring Center of Jiangxi Province: As part of the Environmental Monitoring Center of Jiangxi Province, Dr. Liang was responsible for environmental monitoring and data analysis. She conducted fieldwork to assess pollution levels, collected samples, and analyzed data to inform policy decisions. This experience laid the foundation for her career in environmental science and provided valuable insights into the challenges and methodologies of environmental monitoring.

Research Interests

Dr. Wenyan Liang’s research interests revolve around environmental pollution control using electrochemical techniques and treatment of water pollutants. Her primary focus includes the inactivation of harmful algae such as Microcystis aeruginosa and the degradation of toxic microcystins through electrooxidation methods. This work is aimed at improving the quality of drinking water and reducing the environmental impact of algae blooms. Additionally, Dr. Liang investigates the treatment of fluoride and other pollutants in drinking water, aiming to develop effective, sustainable, and cost-efficient removal technologies. She also explores the role of algae and algal metabolites in environmental pollution, particularly in relation to their biofuel potential and impact on water quality. Her research encompasses physical and chemical treatment processes, contributing to a broader understanding of water treatment technologies and their application in real-world scenarios. Through her work, Dr. Liang aims to advance the field of environmental science by developing innovative solutions to tackle pollution challenges.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Wenyan Liang has been widely recognized for her outstanding contributions to environmental science and engineering. She has received several prestigious awards and honors that reflect her dedication and achievements in the field. In 2011-2013, she was awarded a National Natural Science Foundation Grant, which supported her research on electrochemistry in environmental pollution control. This was followed by a National High Technology Research and Development Program (863 Program) grant (2009-2012), acknowledging her efforts in developing advanced technologies for water pollution control. In 2015-2018, Dr. Liang was honored with the National Water Pollution Control and Management Technology Major Projects grant, which provided funding for her work on algae biofuel technology, aiming to reduce environmental impacts and promote sustainability. Her research contributions have also been supported by the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities (2016-2019) and the Environment Public Welfare Scientific Research Project (2017-2020) from the Ministry of Environmental Protection, recognizing her role in advancing algae metabolites pollution control and environmental protection strategies. These awards highlight Dr. Liang’s leadership and innovative approach in addressing critical environmental challenges.

Publications

Efficient degradation and Ni recovery from Ni-EDTA wastewater by Ni/GAC electrodes

Authors: Yang, T., Lu, H., Qin, Y., …, Han, X., Liang, W.

Citations: 0

Year: 2024

Catalytic applications of amorphous alloys in wastewater treatment: A review on mechanisms, recent trends, challenges, and future directions

Authors: Liu, Y., Lu, H., Yang, T., …, Han, X., Liang, W.

Citations: 1

Year: 2024

Photosynthetic microalgae microbial fuel cells for bioelectricity generation and microalgae lipid recovery using Gd-Co@N-CSs/NF as cathode

Authors: Qin, L., Qin, Y., Cui, N., …, Yang, T., Liang, W.

Citations: 1

Year: 2024

Synthesis of chitosan-based grafting magnetic flocculants for flocculation of kaolin suspensions

Authors: Liu, C., Wang, X., Du, S., Liang, W.

Citations: 13

Year: 2024

Chitosan-Based Grafted Cationic Magnetic Material to Remove Emulsified Oil from Wastewater: Performance and Mechanism

Authors: Du, S., Liu, C., Cheng, P., Liang, W.

Citations: 0

Year: 2024

Electrocatalytic degradation of nitrogenous heterocycles on confined particle electrodes derived from ZIF-67

Authors: Liu, Y., Qin, L., Qin, Y., …, Zhang, Q., Liang, W.

Citations: 6

Year: 2024

Electrocatalysis degradation of biochemical tail water from coking wastewater using particle electrode with persulphate

Authors: Lu, H., You, X., Yang, T., …, Han, X., Liang, W.

Citations: 0

Year: 2024

Fabrication and mechanism of La/Al bimetallic organic frameworks for phosphate removal

Authors: Zhu, Z., Qin, L., Liu, Y., …, Cheng, P., Liang, W.

Citations: 15

Year: 2024

Magnetic coagulation and flocculation of kaolin suspension using Fe3O4 with plant polyphenol self-assembled flocculants

Authors: Liu, C., Wang, X., Du, S., Cheng, P., Liang, W.

Citations: 6

Year: 2023

Binary regulation of photoelectron-heterojunction Sg-CN/BMO using sulfur-doping and oxygen vacancy construction for boosting chloroquine degradation

Authors: Qin, Y., Qin, L., Zhu, Z., …, Zhang, Q., Liang, W.

Citations: 7

Year: 2023

 

Conclusion

Dr. Wenyan Liang is a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award due to her significant contributions to environmental science, particularly in water pollution control and algae biofuels. Her extensive publication record and leadership in funded research projects position her as a distinguished researcher with the potential to make further impactful contributions in the field. Continued interdisciplinary collaboration and strategic expansion of funding opportunities could further enhance her research impact.