Tae Sung Jung | Aquatic | Innovative Research Award

Published on by Academic Achievements

Prof. Dr. Tae Sung Jung | Aquatic | Innovative Research Award 

Prof. Dr. Tae Sung Jung | Aquatic | Professsor at Gyeongsang National University, South Korea

Prof. Dr. Tae Sung Jung is a highly accomplished scholar and researcher in aquatic veterinary science, currently serving as a Professor at the Laboratory of Aquatic Animal Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, Gyeongsang National University, South Korea. He holds a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Aquaculture from the University of Stirling, United Kingdom, a Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Fisheries Science from Hokkaido University, Japan, and a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (D.V.M.) from Seoul National University, Korea. With an extensive academic and research background, Prof. Dr. Tae Sung Jung has made groundbreaking contributions to fish immunology, aquatic disease prevention, and vaccine development. His professional career includes prior work as a researcher at the National Veterinary Research and Quarantine Service, Korea, and over two decades of teaching and mentoring at Gyeongsang National University. His research focuses on discovering new biomarkers using variable lymphocyte receptors (VLRs) of hagfish, developing passive immune vaccines with yeast and protozoa expression systems, and exploring antibiotic resistance in aquatic pathogens. His technical skills span molecular immunology, vaccine formulation, biomarker discovery, and microbial diagnostics. Prof. Dr. Tae Sung Jung is an active member of international scientific communities including the American Fisheries Society, European Association of Fish Pathologists, and the Asian Fisheries Society-Fish Health Section, and has served on editorial boards for leading journals such as Vaccines, Frontiers in Immunology, and the Journal of Veterinary Science. Recognized with the Korean Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry Award, he has also led prestigious national and international research projects like Brain Korea 21+ and the World Class University Project. Through his dedication, innovation, and global collaborations, Prof. Dr. Tae Sung Jung continues to shape the future of aquatic animal health and fish immunology with an enduring commitment to advancing sustainable aquaculture and veterinary research.

Profile: Google Scholar

Featured Publications

  1. Jung, T. S. (2024). Modeling of FAK-PROTAC candidates from GSK2256098 analogs for targeted protein degradation. Biochemical and Biophysical Research Communications, 740, 151001. (Citations: 6)

  2. Jung, T. S. (2024). Inhibition of melanogenesis via passive immune targeted alpha-MSH binder polypeptide. Cosmetics, 12(1), 12. (Citations: 5)

  3. Jung, T. S. (2024). Screening and characterization of sialic acid-binding variable lymphocyte receptors from hagfish. BioTech, 13(4), 46. (Citations: 7)

  4. Jung, T. S. (2024). Passive immunoprophylaxis with Ccombodies against Vibrio parahaemolyticus in Pacific white shrimp (Penaeus vannamei). Fish & Shellfish Immunology, 109973. (Citations: 9)

  5. Jung, T. S. (2024). Uncovering potential CDK9 inhibitors from natural compound databases through docking-based virtual screening and MD simulations. Journal of Molecular Modeling, 30(8), 267. (Citations: 10)

  6. Jung, T. S. (2024). Unveiling the mechanisms underlying the immunotherapeutic potential of gene–miRNA and drugs in head and neck cancer. Pharmaceuticals, 17(7), 921. (Citations: 8)

  7. Jung, T. S. (2024). Leveraging the biotechnological promise of the hagfish variable lymphocyte receptors: tools for aquatic microbial diseases. Fish & Shellfish Immunology, 109565. (Citations: 12)

Miguel Torres Rodríguez | Marine Biology | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Academic Achievements

Dr. Miguel Torres Rodríguez | Marine Biology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Miguel Torres Rodríguez | Marine Biology | Postdoctoral Researcher at IFAPA Centro Agua del Pino | Spain

Dr. Miguel Torres Rodríguez is an accomplished researcher in the field of aquaculture and marine biology, with a focus on larval development, animal welfare, and nutritional genomics. With a strong foundation in biological sciences and years of research experience at prestigious Spanish research institutions, Dr. Torres Rodríguez has become a recognized expert in sustainable aquaculture systems. His work integrates molecular biology, physiology, and environmental science to address challenges in aquatic animal production. Throughout his academic career, he has demonstrated a consistent commitment to interdisciplinary collaboration, innovation, and academic leadership, contributing to both national and international research communities.

Academic Profile:

ORCID

Education:

Dr. Miguel Torres Rodríguez holds a Doctorate in Science and Technology of Animal Production from a top Spanish polytechnic university, where he developed his expertise in fish physiology and lipid metabolism. Prior to his doctoral studies, he earned a degree in Biology and pursued postgraduate education in agricultural biology and aquaculture. His academic training also includes a master’s in secondary education, reinforcing his dedication to knowledge dissemination and science education. His educational pathway reflects a blend of research rigor and practical application, preparing him for a dynamic career in aquatic sciences and biotechnology.

Experience:

Dr. Torres Rodríguez has held various academic and research positions in notable institutions across Spain, including marine-focused research centers, public universities, and innovation-driven aquaculture organizations. His roles have ranged from predoctoral researcher to postdoctoral investigator and senior scientist in marine resource departments. He has contributed to both laboratory-based and field-based studies on fish and mollusk species, taking part in ecological assessments, aquafeed trials, and genomic studies. His recent appointments have placed him at the forefront of marine sustainability initiatives, where he leads or supports funded research programs on aquaculture development and environmental adaptation of aquatic species.

Research Interest:

Dr. Torres Rodríguez’s research interests revolve around the intersection of aquaculture nutrition, fish larval development, lipid biosynthesis, and animal welfare. His work particularly emphasizes the molecular mechanisms regulating long- and very-long-chain fatty acid synthesis and their influence on neural development and physiological performance in fish. He also investigates the ecological and nutritional regulation of gene expression and how dietary strategies, such as microalgae inclusion in aquafeeds, can improve sustainability in aquaculture. His broader research activities include studies in ecotoxicology, trophic dynamics, and fish health under changing environmental conditions.

Awards:

Dr. Torres Rodríguez has contributed to several nationally and internationally funded research projects and has been recognized through competitive fellowships and grants. He has played key roles in initiatives supported by European funding programs and national research agencies, focusing on marine biodiversity, sustainable aquafeeds, and genetic improvement of aquatic organisms. His project involvement often spans interdisciplinary teams, allowing him to integrate genomics, physiology, and environmental sciences. In addition to research funding, he has been acknowledged by professional networks for his contribution to sustainable aquatic food systems and genetic research in aquaculture species.

Selected Publications:

  • “Enzymatic treatment of plant proteins in combination with algae-based nutraceutical inclusion in aquafeeds improves growth performance and physiological traits in the greater amberjack (Seriola dumerili)” (2025, 34 citations)

  • “Sex Determination, Evolution of Gonadal Stage in Females, and Seasonal Evolution of Sperm Production in Chelon labrosus (Risso, 1827)” (2024, 19 citations)

  • “Potential effects of microalgae-supplemented diets on the growth, blood parameters, and the activity of the intestinal microbiota of Sparus aurata and Mugil cephalus” (2023, 28 citations)

  • “Molecular and Functional Characterization of Elovl4 Genes in Sparus aurata and Solea senegalensis Pointing to a Critical Role in Very Long-Chain Fatty Acid Synthesis during Early Neural Development of Fish” (2020, 56 citations)

Conclusion:

Dr. Miguel Torres Rodríguez is a highly qualified nominee for academic and scientific recognition in marine and aquaculture research. His sustained contributions to aquatic animal nutrition, genetic regulation, and environmental sustainability highlight his impact in both scholarly and applied contexts. Through collaborative research, publication, and institutional involvement, he continues to advance the field of aquaculture science. Dr. Torres Rodríguez’s future research is poised to make significant contributions to sustainable seafood systems, aquatic biodiversity, and the global challenges surrounding food security and climate adaptation in marine ecosystems.

 

 

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

Published on by Academic Achievements

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

Orcid

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

 

 

Mr. Ho-Tu Chiang | Environmental Crime | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Academic Achievements

Mr. Ho-Tu Chiang | Environmental Crime | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Ho-Tu Chiang, Ocean Outcomes, Taiwan

Mr. Ho-Tu Chiang is an expert in sustainable seafood and fisheries management, currently serving as Asia Fishery Improvement Manager at Ocean Outcomes, where he has overseen impactful projects enhancing fishery sustainability and transparency. He holds an MA in International Criminal Justice from John Jay College, CUNY, and an MSc in Marine Geology and Geophysics from National Taiwan University. His research and professional work span areas such as IUU fishing, ocean governance, and environmental crime. With certifications in social responsibility and fishery assessments, Mr. Chiang has contributed significantly to policies and programs aimed at advancing sustainable practices in global fisheries. He is a published researcher on drug trafficking and marine crime, and a recognized leader, honored by Common Wealth Magazine and the Blue Pioneer Accelerator Program.

Professional Profile:

Orcid

Suitability for the Award:

Mr. Chiang’s research in IUU fishing, fishery management, and environmental crime makes him a suitable candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His work directly addresses pressing environmental and policy challenges, and his multidisciplinary approach bridges criminal justice and marine science, making valuable contributions to global sustainability and conservation efforts.

Academic Background:

Ho-Tu Chiang holds a MA in International Criminal Justice from John Jay College of Criminal Justice in New York and an MSc in Marine Geology and Geophysics from National Taiwan University. His academic journey emphasizes the intersection of criminal justice, marine science, and sustainability.

Professional Experience:

As the Asia Fishery Improvement Manager at Ocean Outcomes, Ho-Tu led impactful projects with over 100 tuna longline vessels, boosting revenue by more than 600%. He pioneered a National Electronic Monitoring Policy with a budget of USD 665,000, advancing transparency and data in sustainable fishing. Previously, he conducted research at John Jay College, publishing studies on drug trafficking via fishing vessels and contributing to international wildlife trade policy assessments.

Research Focus & Certifications:

Ho-Tu’s expertise spans IUU Fishing, Crimes at Sea, Wildlife Crime, and Fishery Management. His certifications include the Marine Stewardship Council Fishery Team Member Certificate and Social Responsibility Assessment for Seafood.

Honors & Awards:

He is a Blue Pioneer Accelerator Program Fellow at UC Santa Cruz, recognized as a Top 10 Highlight Leader by Common Wealth Magazine in 2023, and has earned grants such as the Blue Pioneer Accelerator Program Grant and the Coast Guard Administration Extraordinary Graduate Scholarship.

Publication Top Notes:

  • Title: A synthesis of wild animal-related trade laws in some of the world’s most biodiverse countries
  • Journal: Journal of Environmental Management
  • Publication Date: March 2024
  • Contributors: Gohar A. Petrossian, Angie Elwin, Monique Sosnowski, Thanaphon Nunphong, Ho-Tu Chiang, Jim Karani Riungu, Neil D’Cruze

 

Azita Farashi | Biodiversity Conservation | Women Researcher Award

Published on by Academic Achievements

Assoc Prof. Dr. Azita Farashi | Biodiversity Conservation | Women Researcher Award

Associate professor at Ferdowsi university of mashha, Iran

Dr. Azita Farashi is an accomplished associate professor at Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Iran, specializing in biodiversity conservation and environmental science. With a robust academic background and an impressive portfolio of research, her work primarily focuses on ecological modeling, species distribution, and conservation efforts in response to climate change. Her contributions have garnered international attention, and she is actively involved in collaborations with leading institutions worldwide to further her research. Dr. Farashi’s passion for environmental preservation and her dedication to advancing ecological science make her a notable figure in the field of biodiversity conservation.

Profile:

Google Scho;lar

Education:

Dr. Farashi holds a Ph.D. in Natural Resources Engineering – Environmental Science from the University of Tehran, completed in 2014. Her thesis focused on the habitat and genetic diversity of the endemic Iranian cavefish (Iranocypris typhlops), a study initiated due to a lack of information about the species in Iran. This research resulted in the publication of two ISI journal articles and two national journal papers, as well as the submission of 11 genetic sequences to GenBank. She also earned her Master’s degree in Natural Resources Engineering from the University of Tehran in 2010, where her research on the invasive raccoon species (Procyon lotor) in Iran contributed to further journal publications. Dr. Farashi completed her Bachelor’s degree in Natural Resources Engineering at Isfahan University of Technology in 2007, focusing on habitat modeling of wild goat (Capra aegagrus) in the Kolah-Ghazi national park.

Experience:

Dr. Farashi has been involved in extensive international collaborations and environmental research. Her expertise lies in developing models to predict species distribution and assessing conservation strategies under the impact of climate change. She has worked on projects with the University of Oxford, Universidade Federal da Paraíba, University of Twente, and Canadian Museum of Nature, where she contributed to the conservation of threatened species, biodiversity hotspot identification, and land use management. Her long-standing role as a board member of the Biodiversity Conservation Society further highlights her leadership and commitment to environmental conservation.

Research Interest:

Dr. Farashi’s research interests are centered around ecological modeling and conservation planning. She applies Species Distribution Models (SDMs) to estimate the current and future geographic distributions of species and to identify biodiversity hotspots. Her work focuses on systematically designating conservation areas to protect habitat quality and ecosystem services, especially under the threat of climate change. Additionally, Dr. Farashi investigates the risks of biological invasions and land use zoning to mitigate these risks. Her predictive models help assess areas prone to invasion and guide conservation efforts toward effective biodiversity preservation.

Awards:

Dr. Farashi has been recognized for her groundbreaking research in environmental science. Her publications in high-impact journals and contributions to biodiversity conservation have earned her accolades in both national and international research circles. While details about specific awards are not available, her work’s significant influence on ecological research and conservation highlights her as a strong candidate for awards recognizing women in science and environmental research.

Publications:

Dr. Farashi has authored numerous peer-reviewed journal articles, many of which are cited by leading experts in environmental science. Her most notable publications include studies on species distribution, climate change impacts on ecosystems, and invasive species risk assessments. Below are some of her key publications:

  • Farashi, A., & Alizadeh-Noughani, M. (2023). Global distribution modeling and spatial invasion risk of Asian pied starling under climate change. European Journal of Wildlife Research, 69(4), 83.
    [DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10344-023-01713-y]
    Cited by 5
  • Yadollahvandmiandoab, R., Farashi, A., & Ebrahimi, A. (2023). Species distribution modeling of Spalerosophis diadema: Fragmentation in the Zagros Mountains. Geology, Ecology, and Landscapes.
    [DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/24749508.2023.2254007]
    Cited by 2
  • Fekrat, L., & Farashi, A. (2022). Climatic changes and dispersal of the leopard moth. Global Ecology and Conservation, 34, e02050.
    [DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.gecco.2022.e02050]
    Cited by 7
  • Farashi, A., & Alizadeh-Noughani, M. (2021). Invasion risk of non-native reptiles in the Middle East. Global Ecology and Conservation, 31, e01818.
    [DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.gecco.2021.e01818]
    Cited by 10
  • Moghadam, Z. R., Farashi, A., & Rashki, A. (2021). Climate change impact on birds. Ecological Complexity, 47, 100952.
    [DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ecocom.2021.100952]
    Cited by 8
  • Karimian, Z., & Farashi, A. (2021). Predicting the potential habitat of Russian-Olive (Elaeagnus angustifolia) in urban landscapes. Italian Journal of Agrometeorology, (1), 3-19.
    [DOI: https://doi.org/10.36253/ijam-1071]
    Cited by 3
  • Erfani, M., Farashi, A., & Alizadeh, M. (2021). Simulating the state of jungle cat (Felis chaus) using cross-impact analysis in Sistan, Iran. Modeling Earth Systems and Environment, 7(2), 783-793.
    [DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s40808-020-00980-x]
    Cited by 4
  • Farashi, A., & Karimian, Z. (2021). Assessing climate change risks to the geographical distribution of grass species. Plant Signaling & Behavior.
    [DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/15592324.2021.1913311]
    Cited by 6
  • Karimian, Z., Farashi, A., Samiei, L., & Alizadeh, M. (2020). Predicting potential sites of nine drought-tolerant native plant species in urban regions. Journal of Applied Botany and Food Quality, 93, 84-94.
    [DOI: https://doi.org/10.5073/JABFQ.2020.093.011]
    Cited by 3
  • Farashi, A., & Alizadeh-Noughani, M. (2019). Niche modeling of the potential distribution of the Egyptian Vulture during summer and winter in Iran. Bird Conservation International, 29(3), 423-436.
    [DOI: https://doi.org/10.1017/S0959270918000278]
    Cited by 12

Conclusion

In conclusion, Dr. Azita Farashi is a distinguished researcher whose work in species distribution modeling, habitat connectivity, and climate change impacts on ecosystems makes her a strong contender for the Women Researcher Award. Her scientific contributions are substantial, and her ongoing international collaborations highlight her influence in the global scientific community. With her strong foundation in biodiversity conservation, expanding the practical and interdisciplinary applications of her research could elevate her profile further, making her even more deserving of this prestigious recognition.