Masoud Bijani | Ecology | Editorial Board Member

Dr. Masoud Bijani | Ecology | Editorial Board Member

Tarbiat Modares University | Iran

Dr. Masoud Bijani is an Associate Professor of Agricultural Extension and Education in the Department of Agricultural Extension and Education at the College of Agriculture, Tarbiat Modares University in Tehran, Iran, recognized for his extensive academic, administrative, and research contributions across agricultural extension, rural sociology, natural resources, and environmental studies. He holds multiple academic degrees in Agricultural Extension and Education from Shiraz University, the University of Tehran, and the Islamic Azad University Science and Research Branch, with each stage of his training culminating in high-ranking scholarly performance, including first-grade standings in his B.Sc., M.Sc., and initial Ph.D. programs and second-grade distinction in his additional Ph.D. specialization in Agricultural Extension. His scholarly journey includes a study leave at Freie Universität Berlin under the supervision of leading experts in water conflicts and environmental sociology, where he also taught applied statistics and SPSS for doctoral students. Dr. Bijani has served in a wide range of influential academic roles, including faculty positions at the Islamic Azad University Boroujerd Branch and Ramin University of Ahwaz, research affairs director, head of department, portal committee director, vice-chancellor of national agricultural academic networks, head of the College of Agriculture library, and board member or council member in numerous national scientific, technical, agricultural extension, and water resource organizations. His research interests span agricultural extension productivity, ICT in agriculture, rural development, social studies in agriculture and natural resources, water conflict analysis, environmental decision-making, e-learning, qualitative and quantitative research methods, and statistical applications in social sciences. He is widely recognized for his professional mastery of SPSS, Word, PowerPoint, and extension teaching methods, holding editorial and guest editor roles in various scholarly journals. Dr. Bijani is also author of major academic works including Learning of Triple Knowledge (Knowledge for Knowing, Knowledge for Doing, Knowledge for Being) and Introduction on Analyzing and Measuring Agricultural Extension Productivity, illustrating his long-standing dedication to advancing agricultural education, sustainability, and human–environment interaction.

Profile : Scopus | ORCID

Featured Publications : 

Human ecological analysis of conflict toward using natural resources: Evidence from Iran. (2025). Environmental Challenges.

Digital markets, local products: Psychological drivers of buying nomadic local foods online. (2025). Foods.

Mapping socio-institutional studies of biodiversity governance and climate change justice in wetland ecosystems. (2025).

Assessment of sustainability trend of apicultural industry: Evidence from beekeepers in Iran. (2025). Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology.

Comparing predictive power of planned behavior and social cognition theories on students’ pro-environmental behaviors: The case of University of Zanjan, Iran. (2025). Journal of Cleaner Production.

Toward tenure security: The relationship between women’s land ownership, formal land title documents and their empowerment. (2025). Land Use Policy.

 

Morteza Jafarsalehi | Ecology | Editorial Board Member

Dr. Morteza Jafarsalehi | Ecology | Editorial Board Member

Ph.D. Student at Kashan University of Medical sciences | Iran

Dr. Morteza Jafarsalehi is an environmental health engineering professional with a strong interdisciplinary background bridging environmental biotechnology, wastewater treatment innovation, and sustainable engineering solutions, recognized for his extensive experience across hospital environmental management, wastewater system design, and advanced academic research. His academic journey includes foundational and advanced studies in environmental health engineering, culminating in research focused on nutrient removal using enhanced anaerobic baffled reactor–anammox configurations and earlier work on carbon dioxide biofixation from flue gases through Spirulina microalgae cultivation in photobioreactors, supported by additional projects evaluating phosphorus removal and microalgal biomass production. He has authored publications addressing CO₂ removal using microalgae, phosphorus recovery in wastewater, carbon capture from residential combustion gases, biogas optimization in wastewater treatment facilities through co-digestion strategies, and cleaner biomass combustion practices for NOx mitigation, reflecting his commitment to environmentally sustainable technologies. Professionally, he has maintained a long-term role as an Environmental Health Officer at a major hospital, supervising critical systems including wastewater treatment operations, sterile services, ventilation systems, hazardous waste handling, infection control measures, and environmental risk management, alongside responsibilities in procurement and training. In parallel, he has contributed as a wastewater treatment designer involved in packaged treatment plants, anaerobic baffled reactors, septic systems, and grease traps. His earlier engineering roles included sewer planning, hydraulic calculations, pipeline pressurization, field surveying, and software-based sewer network modeling. His research and professional interests span CO₂ biofixation, carbon capture and storage, high-rate anaerobic systems, enhanced biomethane generation, energy–environment integration, autonomy in wastewater treatment plants, and sustainable management of desalination brine. His profile reflects a blend of scientific depth, engineering practice, and environmental stewardship dedicated to advancing cleaner technologies.

Profile : Scopus

Featured Publications : 

Jafarsalehi, M. (in press). Primary measures for cleaner biomass combustion to reduce NOx: A narrative review on solid biomass fuels, NOx sources, small-scale boilers, auxiliary equipment, fuel management and fuel quality improvement. Fuel.

Hiroto Yamamoto | Ecology | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Hiroto Yamamoto | Ecology | Best Researcher Award

Ph.D Student at Department of Natural Environmental Studies, Graduate School of Frontier Sciences, The University of Tokyo | Japan

Mr. Hiroto Yamamoto is a dedicated marine scientist currently pursuing his Ph.D. at the Graduate School of Frontier Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Japan. His academic journey reflects a strong commitment to the advancement of fisheries science and marine technology. He earned his Master’s degree in Fishery Science from the Graduate School of Kindai University, where he developed a deep interest in the intersection of aquatic biology, fishery management, and technological innovation in marine research. As a researcher, Mr. Yamamoto focuses on exploring advanced methodologies for understanding and conserving marine megafauna, particularly through the integration of modern imaging techniques and quantitative analysis. His publication “Estimating Whale Shark, Rhincodon typus, Length Using Multi-Stereo-Image Measurement” highlights his contribution to the field of marine biology and his expertise in applying digital and imaging technologies to enhance accuracy in aquatic species assessment. His work demonstrates how innovative image-based approaches can provide non-invasive, reliable, and scalable solutions for monitoring large marine organisms, which are often challenging to study in natural habitats. By combining field-based observation with computational modeling, he aims to contribute toward sustainable ocean resource management and the broader goals of marine biodiversity conservation. Based at the University of Tokyo’s Kashiwa Campus in Chiba, Hiroto Yamamoto continues to expand his research portfolio through interdisciplinary collaborations and cutting-edge techniques in marine ecosystem analysis. His forward-looking research vision reflects a deep passion for understanding the dynamics of ocean life and advancing the scientific foundation for global marine sustainability.

Profile : ORCID

Featured Publications

Yamamoto, H., Sasaki, A., Kanna, T., Mitsunaga, Y., & Torisawa, S. (2025, October 10). Estimating whale shark (Rhincodon typus) length using multi-stereo-image measurement. Fishes, 10(10), 513.

Thais Santos Castro | Ecology | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Thais Santos Castro | Ecology | Best Researcher Award

Professor Assistente Dra at Unesp/FEG, Brazil

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Thais Santos Castro is an accomplished academic and researcher in the field of Mechanical Engineering. She earned her undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral degrees from Universidade Estadual Paulista Júlio de Mesquita Filho (UNESP), where her doctoral research focused on energy generation for electric vehicles. Dr. Castro has 12 years of experience in the aeronautical industry, contributing to aircraft project development in both commercial and executive aviation. As a professor at the Faculty of Engineering and Sciences at UNESP, she teaches courses in mechanics, machine elements, vibrations, and technical drawing. Her research interests include wind turbines, electric vehicles, and sustainability, with a commitment to advancing green technologies. Dr. Castro has received several research scholarships from CAPES and continues to enhance her skills through professional development courses. Her academic work, coupled with her industry experience, positions her as a highly respected figure in her field.

Professional Profile 

Education 🎓 

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Thais Santos Castro has a distinguished educational background in Mechanical Engineering. She completed her undergraduate degree at Universidade Estadual Paulista Júlio de Mesquita Filho (UNESP) in 2008, followed by a master’s degree in the same field in 2014. Dr. Castro then pursued a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering at UNESP, which she obtained in 2018. Her doctoral research focused on energy generation for electric vehicles, specifically on the sizing and emission analysis of power plants to support electric car systems. Throughout her academic journey, she has been mentored by esteemed professors such as Teófilo Miguel de Souza, who has guided her research in various engineering domains. Dr. Castro’s dedication to furthering her expertise is evident in her continuous pursuit of complementary education, including numerous short courses in topics like sustainability, renewable energy, and teaching methodologies. Her educational journey has shaped her into a respected academic and researcher in her field.

Professional Experience 💼

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Thais Santos Castro has extensive professional experience in both academia and industry. She has spent over a decade working in the aeronautical industry, contributing to the development of aircraft projects for both executive and commercial aviation. This experience has enriched her research with practical insights into mechanical engineering applications. In academia, Dr. Castro has been an integral part of the Faculty of Engineering and Sciences at Universidade Estadual Paulista Júlio de Mesquita Filho (UNESP), where she has taught various courses, including machinery, vibrations, machine elements, and technical drawing. She initially served as a substitute professor before advancing to her current role as an Assistant Professor, where she is dedicated to both teaching and research. Dr. Castro has also been involved in various research projects related to wind turbines, electric vehicles, and renewable energy, making significant contributions to the field of sustainability and energy systems. Her professional experience bridges academia and industry, enhancing her research and teaching effectiveness.

Research Interest 🔬

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Thais Santos Castro’s research interests focus on sustainable energy solutions, with a particular emphasis on wind turbines, electric vehicles, and renewable energy systems. Her doctoral research explored the sizing and emission analysis of power plants for feeding electric cars, demonstrating her commitment to the intersection of energy generation and environmental sustainability. Dr. Castro is also deeply engaged in studying mechanical systems, particularly in the areas of machine elements, vibrations, and thermal management of mechanical components. Additionally, her work extends to the development of green technologies, where she investigates how mechanical engineering can contribute to a more sustainable future. Through her research, Dr. Castro seeks to advance the efficiency of renewable energy systems, particularly in the context of transportation and industrial applications. Her combined expertise in aeronautical engineering and sustainable energy positions her as a leader in addressing global energy challenges using innovative mechanical engineering solutions.

Research Skill🔎

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Thais Santos Castro possesses strong research skills in mechanical engineering, with a particular focus on energy systems, sustainability, and mechanical design. Her expertise includes energy generation analysis, especially in the context of electric vehicles and renewable energy sources like wind turbines. Dr. Castro’s research skills encompass advanced modeling and analysis techniques, including the sizing and emission assessments of power plants for energy-efficient applications. She is proficient in using computational tools and software for energy system simulations and mechanical design, enabling her to effectively explore and optimize complex engineering systems. Additionally, her background in the aeronautical industry has honed her skills in developing and testing mechanical components for high-performance applications. Dr. Castro’s research approach is characterized by a strong interdisciplinary perspective, blending mechanical engineering with environmental sustainability. She also excels in guiding students and collaborators in research, ensuring the effective execution of innovative projects and contributing to the advancement of her field.

Award and Honor🏆

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Thais Santos Castro has received several prestigious awards and honors throughout her academic and professional career. Notably, she was awarded a doctoral scholarship by the Coordination for the Improvement of Higher Education Personnel (CAPES) in Brazil, which supported her research on energy generation for electric vehicles. She also received a master’s scholarship from CAPES, reflecting her academic excellence and commitment to advancing engineering research. In addition to these research-focused honors, Dr. Castro was recognized for her contributions to the industry, having been part of a project at Philips do Brasil Ltda that led to significant cost savings. Furthermore, her consistent dedication to sustainable energy solutions and mechanical engineering has garnered recognition within both academic and professional circles. Dr. Castro’s commitment to professional growth is also reflected in her ongoing pursuit of additional certifications and development courses, which further solidify her reputation as a leading academic and researcher in her field.

Conclusion📝

Thais Santos Castro possesses many of the essential qualities that would make her a strong contender for the Best Researcher Award. She has a robust academic and professional background, contributes meaningfully to sustainability-related research, and demonstrates a clear commitment to her field through continuous learning and teaching. With further enhancement of her publication record, language proficiency, and expanded research collaborations, she could solidify her position as a leading researcher in her discipline.

Publications Top Noted📚

  • Title: Feasibility of electric vehicle: electricity by grid × photovoltaic energy

    • Author(s): TS Castro, TM de Souza, JL Silveira

    • Journal: Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews

    • Year: 2017

    • Cited by: 26

  • Title: Análise econômica e ambiental de sistemas de geração alternativa para suprimento energético de carros elétricos

    • Author(s): TS Castro

    • Institution: Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP)

    • Year: 2018

    • Cited by: Not provided

  • Title: Autonomia Inteligente na Geração de Energia Elétrica–População Rural e Pequenas Comunidades Isoladas

    • Author(s): TS Castro, TM de Souza, JL Silveira

    • Year: Not provided

    • Cited by: Not provided

Jesse Kosgei | Ecology | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Jesse Kosgei | Ecology | Best Researcher Award

Fisheries and Coral Ecology Technical Lead at Wildlife Conservation Society, Kenya

Mr. Jesse Kiprono Kosgei is an accomplished marine ecologist and fisheries scientist with over a decade of experience in science-based conservation. He holds a Master’s degree in Fisheries from Pwani University and currently serves as the Technical Lead for Fisheries and Coral Ecology at the Wildlife Conservation Society – Kenya Marine Program. His expertise lies in small-scale fisheries, coral reef ecology, and the socioeconomics of marine resource use. Jesse has made significant contributions to ecological research, sustainable fisheries management, and data-driven conservation strategies across Kenya, Tanzania, and Mozambique. He has co-authored several peer-reviewed publications addressing pressing issues like climate change, resource sustainability, and fisheries policy. In addition to research, he plays a vital role in mentoring junior scientists, managing long-term datasets, and supporting global marine initiatives. Passionate about practical conservation solutions, Jesse combines technical skills, leadership, and regional collaboration to advance ecosystem resilience and community livelihoods in the Western Indian Ocean.

Professional Profile 

Education 🎓 

Mr. Jesse Kiprono Kosgei has a solid academic foundation in marine and fisheries sciences. He earned a Master of Science degree in Fisheries from Pwani University in Mombasa, Kenya, where he specialized in sustainable fisheries management and ecological research. Prior to that, he completed a Bachelor of Science degree in Coastal and Marine Resource Management at Kenyatta University in Nairobi, gaining comprehensive knowledge in marine ecosystems, conservation, and coastal resource use. To further enhance his technical capabilities, Jesse has pursued several professional certifications, including Social Safeguards and Community Engagement from the Wildlife Conservation Society, R Programming from Macquarie University, and Practical Tools in Quantitative Fisheries Stock Assessment from the University of Florida and Pwani University. He is also a certified diver through the Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI), which supports his field research activities. His educational background reflects both academic excellence and a commitment to continuous learning in applied marine science.

Professional Experience 💼

Mr. Jesse Kiprono Kosgei has over a decade of professional experience in marine conservation, fisheries science, and ecological research. Since 2015, he has served as the Fisheries and Coral Ecologist Technical Lead at the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) – Kenya Marine Program, where he leads research initiatives, develops conservation strategies, and mentors junior scientists. His work spans Kenya, Tanzania, and Mozambique, involving the design and implementation of ecological and socioeconomic monitoring programs. Jesse manages and analyzes over 30 years of data on coral reefs, fish, and sea urchins, applying advanced statistical and machine learning tools to inform conservation policies. Prior to WCS, he worked as a Research Assistant at the Kenya Fisheries Service, where he managed fish catch data and supported national fisheries assessments. He also gained early field experience as an intern at the Kenya Marine Fisheries Research Institute. His professional journey demonstrates a deep commitment to data-driven, impact-oriented marine conservation.

Research Interest 🔬

Mr. Jesse Kiprono Kosgei’s research interests center on marine ecology, small-scale fisheries, and the human dimensions of marine resource management. He is particularly focused on the sustainable use and conservation of coral reef ecosystems in the Western Indian Ocean. His work aims to establish ecological baselines, assess the impacts of fishing practices, and set sustainable fisheries targets that align with ecosystem health and community livelihoods. Jesse is also interested in the integration of socioeconomic data with ecological indicators to inform holistic, adaptive marine management strategies. He has explored topics such as bycatch reduction, the effects of gear subsidies, fisheries responses to environmental and policy changes, and the role of compliance in conservation outcomes. His research combines field-based data collection, long-term monitoring, and advanced analytics, including machine learning, to generate practical solutions for fisheries sustainability. Ultimately, his goal is to support science-based policies that enhance ecosystem resilience and benefit coastal communities.

Research Skill🔎

Mr. Jesse Kiprono Kosgei possesses a diverse and robust set of research skills that span ecological fieldwork, data analysis, and conservation planning. He is highly proficient in designing and implementing ecological and socioeconomic surveys related to coral reef health, fisheries, and coastal resource use. His expertise includes managing and analyzing complex datasets, including over 30 years of historical ecological data, using advanced statistical tools and machine learning techniques. Jesse is skilled in programming with R, enabling him to conduct quantitative stock assessments and generate data-driven insights to inform fisheries management. He has experience in digitizing monitoring tools and developing innovative approaches to track and assess conservation outcomes. Additionally, his diving certification enhances his ability to conduct in situ marine ecosystem assessments. Jesse is also adept at producing peer-reviewed scientific publications and technical reports, contributing to both academic knowledge and practical policy guidance. His research skills reflect strong analytical, technical, and field-based capabilities.

Award and Honor🏆

Mr. Jesse Kiprono Kosgei’s profile does not list formal awards or honors, his career achievements and contributions reflect significant professional recognition and impact within the marine conservation and fisheries science community. Serving as the Technical Lead for Fisheries and Coral Ecology at the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) – Kenya Marine Program is itself a testament to his leadership and expertise. His co-authorship in high-impact peer-reviewed journals alongside internationally respected scientists demonstrates the high regard for his research contributions. Jesse has also played key roles in regional and global conservation initiatives, and his mentorship of students and young scientists adds to his professional standing. His involvement in long-term ecological monitoring, data management, and sustainable fisheries strategies has made him a valued contributor to evidence-based environmental policy. While not yet formally decorated with awards, his growing influence and proven track record make him a strong candidate for future honors and recognitions in the field.

Conclusion📝

Mr. Jesse Kiprono Kosgei is a highly qualified and impactful researcher whose work has made meaningful contributions to marine conservation and sustainable fisheries management in East Africa. His scientific rigor, leadership, and applied research make him a strong contender for a Best Researcher Award. However, greater visibility through first-author publications, academic affiliations, and recognized honors would further solidify his candidacy.

Publications Top Noted📚

  • Coral reef fish communities, diversity, and their fisheries and biodiversity status in East Africa
    Author(s): TR McClanahan
    Journal: Marine Ecology Progress Series
    Year: 2019
    Cited by: 41

  • Improving sustainable yield estimates for tropical reef fisheries
    Author(s): TR McClanahan, MK Azali
    Journal: Fish and Fisheries
    Year: 2020
    Cited by: 20

  • Community biomass and life history benchmarks for coral reef fisheries
    Author(s): TR McClanahan
    Journal: Fish and Fisheries
    Year: 2018
    Cited by: 19

  • Perceptions of governance effectiveness and fisheries restriction options in a climate refugia
    Author(s): T McClanahan, C Abunge
    Journal: Biological Conservation
    Year: 2020
    Cited by: 16

  • Outcomes of gear and closure subsidies in artisanal coral reef fisheries
    Author(s): TR McClanahan, JK Kosgei
    Journal: Conservation Science and Practice
    Year: 2019
    Cited by: 16

  • Redistribution of benefits but not detection in a fisheries bycatch-reduction management initiative
    Author(s): TR McClanahan, JK Kosgei
    Journal: Conservation Biology
    Year: 2018
    Cited by: 13

  • Low optimal fisheries yield creates challenges for sustainability in a climate refugia
    Author(s): TR McClanahan, JK Kosgei
    Journal: Conservation Science and Practice
    Year: 2023
    Cited by: 7

  • Fish catch responses to Covid-19 disease curfews dependent on compliance, fisheries management, and environmental contexts
    Author(s): TR McClanahan, MK Azali, JK Kosgei
    Journal: Marine Policy
    Year: 2022
    Cited by: 5

  • Challenges to managing fisheries with high inter-community variability on the Kenya-Tanzania border
    Author(s): TR McClanahan, RM Oddenyo, JK Kosgei
    Journal: Current Research in Environmental Sustainability
    Year: 2024
    Cited by: 3

  • Fisheries sustainability eroded by lost catch proportionality in a coral reef seascape
    Author(s): TR McClanahan, JK Kosgei, AT Humphries
    Journal: Sustainability
    Year: 2025
    Cited by: 1

  • Variation in coral reef fisheries production, employment, and living wage goals
    Author(s): TR McClanahan, JK Kosgei
    Journal: [Not specified]
    Year: 2025
    Cited by: Not listed

  • Challenges of Implementing Fisheries and Coastal Management Policies in Climate Refuge on an International Boundary
    Author(s): TR McClanahan, RM Oddenyo, JK Kosgei
    Journal: SSRN (Preprint)
    Year: 2024
    Cited by: Not listed

  • Fisheries Sustainability Eroded by the Loss of Vulnerable Dominant Taxa and Insufficient Compensatory Production in a Coral Reef Seascape
    Author(s): T McClanahan, JK Kosgei, AT Humphries
    Journal: MDPI AG
    Year: [Not specified]
    Cited by: Not listed