Mr. Michael Kpakpo Allotey | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Posted on by Academic achievements

Mr. Michael Kpakpo Allotey | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Michael Kpakpo Allotey | Environmental Science – University of North Texas, United States

Michael Kpakpo Allotey is an emerging researcher in the fields of Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Remote Sensing, and Environmental Science. His academic and professional trajectory reflects a strong commitment to geospatial technology and its applications in addressing real-world challenges such as climate change, urban heat, land use, and food security. With experience spanning both academic and industry sectors, Michael has developed and contributed to impactful spatial analysis projects and scholarly research with both local and global relevance. He combines strong technical skills with a collaborative research ethos, positioning him as a rising voice in the scientific community.

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Education:

Michael holds a Master of Science in Geo Information Science from the University of Ghana, where he graduated with Distinction, and is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Geography at the University of North Texas, maintaining a perfect GPA of 4.0. His academic foundation also includes a Bachelor of Arts in Economics and Geography from the University of Ghana. Through his formal education, Michael has undertaken rigorous coursework in spatial statistics, Python GIS programming, remote sensing, digital image processing, and geodatabase development, which he has translated into real-world applications and scholarly outputs.

Experience:

Michael has amassed rich and varied experience across academic, research, and consulting settings. He has served as a Teaching and Research Assistant at the University of Ghana, supporting instruction in advanced GIS and remote sensing courses at undergraduate, postgraduate, and PhD levels. His responsibilities extended to managing departmental servers, providing lab support, and advising students on geospatial data projects. He also worked with BigData Ghana Limited, where he led the design of a national tourist map and contributed to the development of spatial data infrastructures and real-time traffic monitoring systems. Currently, at the University of North Texas, he serves as a Teaching Assistant, providing academic support and guidance to students enrolled in GIS courses.

Research Interest:

Michael’s research interests lie at the intersection of geospatial science and sustainable development. His work spans remote sensing of urban and rural environments, land surface temperature analysis, spatial planning, food insecurity mapping, and environmental monitoring. He is particularly focused on leveraging satellite data, GIS platforms, and programming tools to inform policy and decision-making processes in Africa and beyond. His methodological approach incorporates data-driven techniques and interdisciplinary perspectives to address socio-environmental issues such as urban heat, land degradation, and rural revitalization.

Award:

Michael’s academic excellence has been recognized through prestigious fellowships and awards, including the 2025 Graduate Student Success Award and a Graduate Teaching Assistantship at the University of North Texas. These awards highlight both his scholarly achievements and his dedication to academic service and mentoring. His recognition reflects his ability to maintain high standards in research while actively contributing to institutional teaching and outreach.

Publications 📚:

Michael has co-authored several peer-reviewed publications, each addressing timely and impactful themes:

  1. 🌡️ Combining remote sensing applications and local knowledge in understanding urban heat in a semi-arid region (Local Environment, 2025) – Cited by 9 articles.
  2. 🍽️ Understanding the Nexus Between Food Insecurity and School Readiness (2025) – Cited by 4 articles.
  3. 🌾 A region-wide, multi-year set of crop field boundary labels for Africa (2024) – Cited by 7 articles.
  4. 🏞️ A bibliometric analysis of China’s rural revitalization paradox (Environment, Development and Sustainability, 2024) – Cited by 5 articles.
  5. 🌍 Advances in global land use systems development and sustainability (Acta Scientiarum Polonorum, 2024) – Cited by 6 articles.
  6. 🌬️ Dust Outbreaks across East Iran: Application of Multi-Source Remote Sensing Data (Journal of Geography, Environment and Earth Science International, 2023) – Cited by 3 articles.
  7. 🪵 Charcoal Scars Mapping Project using Collect Earth (In Review) – A forthcoming contribution focusing on deforestation and energy use.

Conclusion:

Michael Kpakpo Allotey stands out as a dynamic and committed researcher who combines technical proficiency with a passion for sustainable development. His body of work reflects thoughtful engagement with critical global issues through spatial science and remote sensing. He has proven himself as a collaborative researcher, a dedicated academic mentor, and an innovator in the use of geographic data for real-world impact. With his growing portfolio of publications, ongoing academic success, and professional experience in both instructional and applied settings, Michael is exceptionally well-qualified for the Best Researcher Award. Recognizing his contributions through this award would not only validate his current work but also encourage continued innovation and leadership in the geospatial sciences.

 

 

 

 

Elizabeth Grace Bengi | Environmental science | Best Researcher Award

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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.

Basanda Nondlazi | Environmental science | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Basanda Nondlazi | Environmental science | Best Researcher Award

Researcher | The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research | South Africa

Dr. Basanda Xhantilomzi Nondlazi is a dedicated climate change researcher with over 18 years of experience in ecological research, remote sensing, and biodiversity conservation. He has specialized expertise in understanding the impacts of climate change on freshwater ecosystems and savanna environments, blending advanced technological approaches with traditional ecological methods. His work has contributed to policymaking, environmental management, and academic development, positioning him as a leader in climate change adaptation and mitigation strategies.

Profile

Scopus

Education
Dr. Nondlazi holds a Ph.D. in Ecological Remote Sensing from the University of KwaZulu-Natal (2022), where his thesis focused on spatial relationships between plant functional types and hydrological gradients in freshwater ecosystems. He also earned an MSc in Ecology from the University of the Witwatersrand, specializing in the effects of tree densification on grassland understory, and a BSc Honors in Botany with a focus on altitudinal gradients. His academic journey is complemented by a National Diploma in Animal Health and Production, which provided a strong foundation in veterinary sciences and pasture management.

Experience
Dr. Nondlazi has held various research and leadership roles, including his current position as a Climate Response Planning Specialist at the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR). His career spans roles as a postdoctoral researcher in climate adaptation and precision agriculture and as a research associate in wetland ecological remote sensing. He has contributed significantly to understanding the dynamics of depressional wetlands and savanna ecosystems in response to climate variability, providing actionable insights for environmental legislation and sustainable management.

Research Interest
Dr. Nondlazi’s research interests center on ecological remote sensing, climate change adaptation, and sustainable environmental management. He is passionate about using cutting-edge tools like UAVs, machine learning, and geographic information systems to address pressing ecological challenges. His work on wetland conservation, bush encroachment mitigation, and biodiversity protection demonstrates his commitment to creating resilient ecosystems in the face of global climate change.

Awards
Dr. Nondlazi received the Golden Key Excellence Award during his MSc studies, recognizing his outstanding academic and research contributions. His innovative approaches to ecological challenges have garnered respect and recognition from peers and institutions, reflecting his dedication to excellence in climate change research.

Publications

  1. “Spatial Variability of Edaphic Factors in Depressional Wetlands: A Remote Sensing Approach” (2023, Journal of Wetland Ecology), cited by 15 articles.
  2. “Impacts of Tree Densification on Grassland Understory” (2021, African Journal of Ecology), cited by 23 articles.
  3. “Altitudinal Gradients and Grass-Specific Leaf Area” (2019, Plant Ecology and Diversity), cited by 12 articles.
  4. “Advances in Remote Sensing for Wetland Monitoring” (2022, Remote Sensing in Ecology), cited by 18 articles.
  5. “Bush Encroachment: Quantitative and Trait-Based Approaches” (2020, Ecological Applications), cited by 21 articles.
  6. “Wetland Buffer Zones and Climate Resilience” (2023, Journal of Environmental Management), cited by 9 articles.

Conclusion
Dr. Nondlazi exemplifies the integration of research, policy, and technology in addressing climate change challenges. His work not only advances academic understanding but also offers practical solutions for sustainable environmental management. As a leader in his field, he continues to inspire collaborations and innovations that support global climate resilience efforts.

Nooshin Bigdeli | Energy systems | Best Researcher Award

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Prof.Dr.Nooshin Bigdeli | Energy systems | Best Researcher Award

Dean of Faculty of Engineering | Imam Khomeini International University | Iran

Nooshin Bigdeli, born on March 21, 1977, in Iran, is a distinguished professor at Imam Khomeini International University in Qazvin, Iran. She earned her Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering, specializing in Control, from Sharif University of Technology in Tehran in 2007. Her academic journey has been marked by significant contributions to Control Theory, Nonlinear Systems, Artificial Intelligence, Data Mining, and Energy System Management and Behavioral Analysis.

Profile

scholar

Education 📚

Nooshin Bigdeli received her Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering with a specialization in Control from Sharif University of Technology, Tehran, Iran, in 2007.

Experience 💼

Since obtaining her Ph.D., Dr. Bigdeli has been a faculty member in the Control Engineering Department at Imam Khomeini International University, Qazvin, Iran.

Research Interest 🧠

Her research interests span Control Theory, Nonlinear Systems, Artificial Intelligence, Data Mining, and the Management and Behavioral Analysis of Energy Systems. She has made significant contributions to Model Predictive Control (MPC) and Nonlinear Systems.

Award 🏆

Dr. Bigdeli has been recognized as the Outstanding National Professor of Iran in 2024 and was named the Influential Lady of Qazvin Province in 2023. She has also been acknowledged as a top researcher globally in various rankings, including by Stanford University and Elsevier.

Publications 📄

Nooshin Bigdeli has published numerous articles in reputable journals. One notable publication is:

  • Optimal management of hybrid PV/fuel cell/battery power system: A comparison of optimal hybrid approaches
    Published in Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews in 2015.
    Cited 175 times.