Dr. Lydie Stella Koutika | Environment management | Women Researcher Award

Dr. Lydie Stella Koutika | Environment management | Women Researcher Award

CRDPI/ SCES, Congo, Republic of the

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🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Lydie-Stella Koutika was born on December 28, 1966, in Pointe-Noire, Republic of the Congo. She pursued her higher education with a keen interest in geosciences, particularly soil science. Her academic journey led her to France, where she enrolled in a Ph.D. program at the Centre de Pédologie Biologique, Centre National de Recherche Scientifique (CNRS) in Vandœuvre-lès-Nancy. Affiliated with Université Henri Poincaré Nancy I, she focused her doctoral research on the dynamics of organic matter in relation to soil chemical and structural properties under rainforests and pastures. This early work laid the foundation for her lifelong contributions to soil science and sustainable land management.

💼 Professional Endeavors

Dr. Koutika has built a formidable career dedicated to understanding and improving soil health in tropical environments. She has worked extensively in research institutions, leveraging her expertise to study soil organic matter, carbon sequestration, and sustainable land-use practices. Her research primarily revolves around the interplay between soil properties and vegetation management in tropical ecosystems, emphasizing the importance of maintaining soil fertility for long-term agricultural and environmental sustainability.

📝 Contributions and Research Focus

A significant portion of Dr. Koutika’s work centers on soil organic matter dynamics, carbon sequestration, and the impact of land-use changes on soil properties. She has conducted numerous studies on how different agricultural and forestry practices affect soil health, particularly in tropical regions. Her research provides valuable insights into sustainable land-use strategies that balance agricultural productivity with environmental conservation. She has also collaborated with international research teams to develop innovative approaches for improving soil management in regions facing deforestation and land degradation challenges.

🏆 Accolades and Recognition

Dr. Koutika’s contributions to soil science have been widely recognized in academic and professional circles. She has received multiple honors for her research excellence and has been invited to present her findings at international conferences. Her work is frequently cited in leading scientific journals, underscoring her influence in the field. Additionally, her affiliations with prestigious research institutions highlight her standing as a respected authority in soil science and geosciences.

🌱 Impact and Influence

Beyond academia, Dr. Koutika’s work has significant practical implications for policymakers, farmers, and environmentalists. Her research informs sustainable agricultural practices, guiding efforts to enhance soil fertility while minimizing environmental degradation. She actively engages in knowledge-sharing initiatives, mentoring young researchers and contributing to capacity-building efforts in soil science and sustainable land management.

💡 Legacy and Future Contributions

As a pioneering soil scientist, Dr. Koutika continues to push the boundaries of research in soil organic matter and sustainable land-use strategies. Her ongoing work aims to address critical global challenges such as climate change, food security, and ecosystem restoration. By fostering interdisciplinary collaborations and advocating for evidence-based policies, she is shaping the future of soil science and environmental sustainability. Her legacy as a dedicated researcher and mentor will undoubtedly inspire future generations of scientists committed to preserving our planet’s natural resources.

📝Notable Publication

Sharing Soil Knowledge of the Congolese Coastal Plains within International Research Partnerships

Author: Lydie-Stella Koutika

Journal: Soil Advances

Year: 2025

Role of Stockyard Litter Amendment in the Short-Term Restoration of Soil Microbial Efficiency in a Lowland Paddy

Authors: Bernard Y. Koffi, Armand W. Koné, Brahima Koné, Abigael N. Otinga, Lydie-Stella Koutika, Dominique Masse

Journal: Journal of Soil Science and Plant Nutrition

Year: 2024

Soil Quality Evaluation in Mono and Mixed Eucalypt Plantation

Authors: Arthur Prudencio de Araujo Pereira, Maurício Roberto Cherubin, Ademir S. F. de Araujo, Maiele C. Santana, Erika Medeiros, Diogo Paes da Costa, Adijailton José de Souza, Antonio Yan Viana Lima, Danilo Ferreira da Silva, Paula A. C. Estrada, et al.

Journal: Sustainability

Year: 2024

Sustaining Forest Plantations for the United Nations’ 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development

Authors: Lydie-Stella Koutika, Rosalie Matondo, André Mabiala-Ngoma, Viviane Sogni Tchichelle, Mélanie Toto, Jean-Claude Madzoumbou, Juste Armand Akana, Hugues Y. Gomat, François Mankessi, Armel Thongo Mbou, et al.

Journal: Sustainability

Year: 2022

Boosting C Sequestration and Land Restoration through Forest Management in Tropical Ecosystems: A Mini-Review

Author: Lydie-Stella Koutika

Journal: Ecologies

Year: 2022

Mr. MD SHORIFUL ISLAM | Sustainability |Best Researcher Award

Mr. MD SHORIFUL ISLAM | Sustainability |Best Researcher Award

Zhengzhou University, China

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Early Academic Pursuits 📚

Md. Shoriful Isla’s academic journey began in his homeland of Bangladesh, where he developed a strong foundation in the field of finance and economics. His commitment to education led him to pursue a BBA (Bachelor of Business Administration) and MBA (Master of Business Administration), where he excelled in core subjects related to finance, economics, and accounting. Throughout his academic career, Shoriful showed a keen interest in understanding the complexities of business operations, economic trends, and financial management.

His thirst for knowledge and academic excellence laid the groundwork for his future endeavors in higher education. After completing his MBA, Shoriful set his sights on contributing to the world of finance through both teaching and research. Motivated by a desire to create a meaningful impact, he pursued advanced studies and began preparing for a career in academia, with a particular focus on social finance, microfinance, and sustainability.

Professional Endeavors 💼

Shoriful Isla’s professional journey has been nothing short of impressive. He began his academic career as an Assistant Professor at the School of Business at Northern University Bangladesh, where he not only taught finance, economics, and accounting courses but also played a key role in shaping the careers of many students. As Coordinator of the Internship and Placement Program (IPP), Shoriful was instrumental in guiding students towards professional success. His efforts included helping students find relevant placements, organizing workshops and career-oriented seminars, and conducting training programs to ensure their readiness for the job market.

In his subsequent role as the Coordinator of the MBA Program at Northern University Bangladesh, Shoriful continued to nurture future business leaders, teaching advanced finance courses while maintaining his focus on equipping students with the skills necessary for today’s competitive business environment.

However, his pursuit of academic excellence did not end with his role as an educator. Shoriful also sought to extend his influence in the global academic community. This led him to pursue a PhD as a Research Fellow at Zhengzhou University in China, where he currently conducts cutting-edge research. His focus lies in areas such as social entrepreneurship financing, social finance, microfinance, and sustainability, with an emphasis on addressing real-world economic challenges.

Contributions and Research Focus 🔬

As an academic researcher, Shoriful Isla is making significant strides in understanding the intersections of finance and social impact. His research focuses on exploring innovative solutions for social finance, microfinance, and sustainable entrepreneurship. Shoriful aims to develop strategies that enable businesses to integrate social and environmental concerns into their financial models, aligning them with sustainable development goals.

Through his thesis work, Shoriful is pushing the boundaries of existing research in social finance and sustainability. By addressing the unique challenges faced by microfinance institutions and social entrepreneurs, his research seeks to provide actionable insights that can empower these organizations to create lasting positive change in communities.

Shoriful’s ongoing research at Zhengzhou University is positioned to contribute valuable knowledge to the field, particularly in relation to financing mechanisms for social ventures and their potential for long-term impact.

Accolades and Recognition 🏅

Throughout his career, Shoriful Isla has received recognition for his academic contributions, both in teaching and research. His dedication to his students has earned him the respect of his peers, as he has consistently gone above and beyond to foster an environment of learning and personal growth. As a result, he has built a reputation as a passionate educator and mentor who is deeply committed to student success.

In addition to his teaching accolades, Shoriful’s research on social finance has gained attention from both academic institutions and industry leaders. His work has been presented at various international conferences, contributing to the global dialogue on sustainable finance and social entrepreneurship. His commitment to addressing pressing societal issues through research has positioned him as a leading figure in the field of social finance.

Impact and Influence 🌍

Shoriful Isla’s work has had a profound impact on the academic community and beyond. Through his teaching, research, and involvement in professional development programs, he has influenced the careers of numerous students, many of whom have gone on to pursue successful careers in finance, business, and entrepreneurship.

His focus on social finance and sustainability is contributing to a global shift towards more responsible and inclusive business practices. By emphasizing the importance of ethical finance and the role it plays in promoting sustainable development, Shoriful’s work is helping to shape the future of finance in a more socially conscious direction.

His academic research, particularly on microfinance and social entrepreneurship, has the potential to inspire new policies and initiatives that could have a far-reaching impact on communities in need. By developing frameworks that promote financial inclusion and sustainability, Shoriful is helping to create a more equitable world.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🔮

As Shoriful Isla continues his journey in academia, his legacy is one of dedication to the advancement of knowledge and social impact. His research will likely continue to influence the field of social finance, providing new insights that will drive innovation in sustainable entrepreneurship.

Looking to the future, Shoriful is poised to become a leading expert in social finance, microfinance, and sustainability. He plans to continue his academic career with a focus on publishing his research and collaborating with global institutions to tackle pressing social and economic issues. Through his work, Shoriful will continue to contribute to the development of policies and financial strategies that promote both economic growth and social welfare.

In the coming years, his efforts are likely to result in transformative contributions that will not only shape the future of finance but also leave a lasting impact on communities around the world. With his commitment to sustainability and social responsibility, Shoriful Isla’s legacy will undoubtedly inspire future generations of scholars, entrepreneurs, and professionals to create positive change in the world.

📝Notable Publications

 Financial factors influencing investment willingness in environment-friendly business: Empirical study on an emerging economy

Authors: Fairtown Zhou Ayoungman, Md. Shoriful Islam, Mohammad Masukujjaman, Abid Hossain Shawon, Abdullah Al Mahmud

Journal: Innovation and Green Development

Year: 2025

Institutional Capital, Ancestral Hall, and the Reshaping of Ancient Rule: an Empirical Analysis of the New Energy of Chinese Heritage Elements in Rural Revitalization

Authors: Zhang, Frank Lee; Ayoungman, Fairtown Zhou; Islam, Md. Shoriful

Journal: Journal of the Knowledge Economy

Year: 202

 Butterfly Change of Commercial Enterprise into Social Enterprise: Based on Mechanism and Case Study of Institutional Capital

Authors: Frank Lee Zhang, Md. Shoriful Islam, Fairtown Zhou Ayoungman, Yuchen Wang

Journal: Journal of Social Entrepreneurship

Year: 2023

Dr. Kunpeng Zhang | Innovative Leadership | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Kunpeng Zhang | Innovative Leadership | Best Researcher Award

School of Electrical Engineering at Shandong University, China

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🌱 Early Academic Pursuits

Kunpeng Zhang’s academic journey began at Shandong University, where he demonstrated exceptional aptitude in electrical engineering. As an undergraduate student, his keen interest in the growing field of renewable energy led him to focus on topics related to electrical power systems. His diligent studies earned him multiple academic scholarships, reflecting his commitment to excellence. Recognized for his potential, he was recommended to continue his education in the Ph.D. program at the same esteemed institution. During this phase, Kunpeng laid a strong foundation in theoretical knowledge and practical applications, which prepared him for advanced research.

🔧 Professional Endeavors

Kunpeng Zhang is currently a Ph.D. student in the School of Electrical Engineering at Shandong University. His research focuses on the optimal dispatch of large-scale renewable energy bases, a critical area for advancing sustainable energy solutions. To complement his academic endeavors, he has actively participated in consultancy projects that bridge the gap between theoretical insights and practical applications. His involvement in a consultancy project provided him with firsthand experience in addressing industry challenges, particularly in optimizing the performance and efficiency of renewable energy systems.

🧠 Contributions and Research Focus

Kunpeng has made significant strides in renewable energy research, particularly in the integration and optimization of wind, solar, and hydrogen storage systems. His work on “协同优化 for wind-solar-hydrogen hybrid power systems” represents a novel approach to enhancing energy efficiency and reliability. This research, for which he has applied for an invention patent, addresses key challenges in coordinating diverse energy sources to ensure consistent power supply.

His five published or accepted papers in reputable journals like IJEPES and IET showcase his ability to contribute valuable insights to the scientific community. These publications reflect his focus on cutting-edge topics, including grid stability, energy storage optimization, and renewable resource integration.

🏆 Accolades and Recognition

Kunpeng’s consistent academic excellence has been recognized through multiple scholarships awarded over three consecutive years. These accolades highlight not only his academic rigor but also his dedication to contributing to the field of electrical engineering. His ability to balance high-quality research with academic performance underscores his potential as a future leader in renewable energy innovation.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Through his research and professional activities, Kunpeng Zhang is addressing some of the most pressing issues in renewable energy management. His focus on optimizing the dispatch of large-scale renewable energy bases aligns with global efforts to transition toward sustainable energy systems. By contributing innovative solutions and sharing his findings through reputable journals, Kunpeng is influencing both academia and industry. His work serves as a catalyst for advancing renewable energy technologies, particularly in China, where large-scale energy projects are critical for meeting energy demands sustainably.

🌟 Legacy and Future Contributions

Kunpeng envisions a future where his work contributes to the seamless integration of renewable energy into power systems worldwide. As he continues his doctoral studies, he aims to expand the scope of his research to include emerging technologies like artificial intelligence and machine learning for grid optimization. His patent application signifies his commitment to not only theoretical innovation but also practical implementation.

In the years to come, Kunpeng plans to collaborate with international researchers and industry experts to scale the impact of his work. He aspires to publish more groundbreaking research and contribute to policies that promote the adoption of renewable energy. His legacy will likely be defined by his role in shaping efficient, reliable, and sustainable energy systems.

 

📝Notable Publications

Two-stage multi-objective optimal dispatch of hybrid power generation system for ramp stress mitigation

Authors: Kunpeng Zhang, Tianhao Liu, Yutian Liu, Huan Ma, Linlin Ma

Journal: International Journal of Electrical Power & Energy Systems

Year: 2024

An Optimal Scheduling Strategy for Wind-PV and Multi-Type Energy Storage Co-Generation System

Authors: Huan Ma, Hao Tian, Kunpeng Zhang, Yutian Liu

Journal: Proceedings of the 2023 6th International Conference on Power and Energy Applications (ICPEA)

Year: 2023

A heterogeneous accelerated simulation framework for wind field dynamic model

Authors: Bing Li, Haoran Zhao, Kunpeng Zhang

Journal: IET Renewable Power Generation

Year: 2023

Dr. John Wasswa | Environmental Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Dr. John Wasswa | Environmental Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Makerere University, Uganda 

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🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

John Wasswa, born on July 2, 1970, in the Luwero District of Uganda, embarked on an academic journey that would see him become one of Uganda’s leading chemists. His academic foundation was laid at Makerere University, where he pursued a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry, graduating with an Upper Second Division in 1994. Driven by a passion for chemistry, Wasswa continued his studies at Makerere, earning a Master of Science degree in Chemistry in 1999. His relentless pursuit of knowledge culminated in a Ph.D. in Chemistry, awarded by Makerere University in 2010. These academic achievements provided him with a solid foundation in chemistry, paving the way for a career marked by scholarly excellence and groundbreaking research.

👨‍🏫 Professional Endeavors

Wasswa’s professional journey spans over two decades, during which he has served in various academic and leadership roles. His career began as a Research Assistant at the Department of Chemistry, Makerere University, from 1995 to 1998. His commitment to teaching and research soon earned him a position as a Lecturer at Mbarara University of Science and Technology, where he also served as the Head of the Department of Chemistry from 1998 to 1999. After returning to Makerere University in 1999, Wasswa steadily rose through the academic ranks, becoming a Senior Lecturer in 2012 and later the Head of the Department of Chemistry from 2016 to 2024. His dedication to education extended beyond Uganda, as he also served as a Visiting Lecturer at Gulu University in 2006 and as a Doctoral Research Fellow at the University of Florida in 2005. Throughout his career, Wasswa has been a mentor to countless students, guiding them in their academic pursuits and inspiring the next generation of chemists.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Wasswa’s research has significantly contributed to the field of environmental chemistry, with a particular focus on the fate and transport of organic pollutants in the environment. His work on legacy and emerging chemicals, including Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) and petrochemicals, has had a profound impact on environmental management practices in Uganda and beyond. He has also played a pivotal role in various national and international projects, serving as the Principal Investigator for several internationally funded projects. His expertise in chemicals management has been recognized by his appointments to national steering committees for the Stockholm Convention on POPs, the Sustainable Consumption and Production Plans for Uganda, and the MINAMATA Convention on Mercury Initial Assessment in Uganda.

In addition to his environmental research, Wasswa has made significant contributions to the development of sustainable chemical processes. He has trained in environmental impact assessment, cleaner production technology, and the development of biofuels and bio-based chemicals from agricultural waste. His work in this area has focused on creating environmentally friendly and economically viable solutions to some of the world’s most pressing environmental challenges.

🏆 Accolades and Recognition

Wasswa’s scholarly work has earned him recognition in the scientific community, both in Uganda and internationally. He is a respected reviewer for several highly reputable scientific journals, where his expertise is sought after in the evaluation of research papers. His own research has been widely published in leading journals, including Bioactive Materials, Acta Biomaterialia, ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces, and Chemosphere. These publications are a testament to the quality and impact of his research, particularly in the areas of environmental chemistry and sustainable chemical processes.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Wasswa’s impact extends beyond academia and research. As a Coordinating Lead Expert for the Inventory on E-waste Management Practices in Uganda and Air Quality Standards, he has played a crucial role in shaping environmental policy and standards in Uganda. His work has influenced the management of chemical pollutants, the development of air quality standards, and the implementation of sustainable waste management practices in Uganda. Through his involvement in national and international committees, Wasswa has contributed to the global effort to address environmental challenges and promote sustainable development.

🔮 Legacy and Future Contributions

As John Wasswa continues to build on his impressive career, his legacy is one of dedication to scientific research, education, and environmental stewardship. His work has not only advanced the field of environmental chemistry but has also had a lasting impact on environmental policy and practice in Uganda. Looking to the future, Wasswa is poised to continue his contributions to the scientific community, with a focus on developing sustainable solutions to global environmental challenges. His commitment to mentoring the next generation of chemists ensures that his influence will be felt for years to come, as his students and colleagues carry forward the knowledge and principles he has imparted.

Wasswa’s career serves as an inspiring example of how dedication to research and education can lead to meaningful contributions to society and the environment. His work stands as a testament to the power of science to effect positive change, and his legacy will undoubtedly inspire future generations of scientists to follow in his footsteps.

Notable Publications 

Occurrence, distribution, and ecotoxicological risk assessment of selected pharmaceutical compounds in water from Lake Victoria, Uganda

Authors: Florence Nantaba, John Wasswa, Henrik Kylin, Wolf-Ulrich Palm, Hindrik Bouwman, Klaus Kümmerer

Journal: Chemosphere

Year: 2020

Agricultural expansion as risk to endangered wildlife: Pesticide exposure in wild chimpanzees and baboons displaying facial dysplasia

Authors: Sabrina Krief, Pierre Berny, Fredrick Gumisiriza, Richard Gross, Barbara Demeneix, Jean-Baptiste Fini, et al.

Journal: Science of the Total Environment

Year: 2017

Organochlorine pesticide residues in sediments from the Uganda side of Lake Victoria

Authors: John Wasswa, BT Kiremire, Peter Nkedi-Kizza, James Mbabazi, Paul Ssebugere

Journal: Chemosphere

Year: 2011

Organochlorine pesticides in soils from south-western Uganda

Authors: Paul Ssebugere, John Wasswa, James Mbabazi, SA Nyanzi, BT Kiremire, JAM Marco

Journal: Chemosphere

Year: 2010

Temporal dynamics and ecotoxicological risk assessment of personal care products, phthalate ester plasticizers, and organophosphorus flame retardants in water from Lake Victoria, Uganda

Authors: Florence Nantaba, Wolf-Ulrich Palm, John Wasswa, Hindrik Bouwman, Henrik Kylin, Klaus Kuemmerer

Journal: Chemosphere

Year: 2021