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.

Fabricio Leandro Damasceno | Ecology | Best Scholar Award

Mr. Fabricio Leandro Damasceno | Ecology | Best Scholar Award

PhD at Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro | Brazil

Mr. Fabricio Leandro Damasceno is an emerging environmental scholar and PhD student at the Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro, specializing in ecology, environmental geoscience, and geochemistry. His academic journey reflects a strong foundation in geological and environmental sciences, with advanced training in the application of geotechnologies for ecological monitoring and environmental analysis. Professionally, he has contributed to multiple research initiatives addressing marine and coastal ecosystem health, particularly in southeastern Brazil, focusing on Guanabara, Sepetiba, and Ilha Grande Bays. His research interests center on ecological quality assessment, environmental pollution, biogeochemical processes, and the use of living benthic foraminifera as bioindicators for ecosystem evaluation. Equipped with strong research skills in geochemical analysis, biomonitoring, isotopic modeling, and ecological data interpretation, he effectively integrates field observations with laboratory-based methods to provide holistic environmental insights. Damasceno’s works published in high-impact journals such as Environmental Pollution, Chemosphere, and Marine Environmental Research demonstrate his innovative approach to environmental diagnostics. He has been recognized for his scholarly contributions and collaboration in advancing ecological assessment frameworks in Brazil. Overall, his research and academic achievements reflect a deep commitment to sustainable coastal management and the development of reliable tools for environmental decision-making.

Profile : Google Scholar | ORCID

Featured Publications

Nunes, M., Martins, M. V. A., Frontalini, F., Bouchet, V. M. P., Francescangeli, F., & Damasceno, F. L. (2023). Inferring the ecological quality status based on living benthic foraminiferal indices in transitional areas of the Guanabara Bay (SE Brazil). Environmental Pollution, 320, 121003.

Damasceno, F. L., Martins, M. V. A., Frontalini, F., Pawlowski, J., Cermakova, K., & others. (2024). Assessment of the ecological quality status of the Sepetiba Bay (SE Brazil): When metabarcoding meets morphology on foraminifera. Marine Environmental Research, 195, 106340.

Damasceno, F. L., Martins, M. V. A., Senez-Mello, T. M., Santos, L. G. C., & others. (2024). Potential ecological risk by metals in Sepetiba Bay (SE Brazil): Exporting metals to the oceanic region. Journal of South American Earth Sciences, 141, 104934.

Senez-Mello, T. M., Martins, M. V. A., de Lima Ferreira, P. A., Figueira, R., & Damasceno, F. L. (2024). Assessment of anthropogenic pollution in Guanabara Bay (SE Brazil) through biogeochemical data and stable isotope mixing models. Environmental Science and Pollution Research, 31(22), 32972–32997.

Ferreira, F. L. D., & da Silva, T. P. (2019). Avaliação morfotectônica com base em assimetria de bacias de drenagem em um setor da depressão topográfica do Rio Pomba (Palma/MG–RJ). Revista Multidisciplinar Mundo Livre (UFF-Campos), 5(2).

Azad Teimori | Ecology | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Azad Teimori | Ecology | Best Researcher Award

 

Academic Staff st Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman | Iran 

Prof. Dr. Azad Teimori is a distinguished ichthyologist with extensive expertise in fish taxonomy, systematics, evolution, and biodiversity, focusing on both freshwater and marine species, particularly killifishes. He earned his advanced degrees in biology and ichthyology, establishing a strong foundation in molecular and morphological approaches to phylogeny, speciation, and adaptive responses to environmental extremes. Over his career, he has gained extensive professional experience in field sampling, laboratory breeding, microscopy, molecular biology, and phylogenetic analyses, contributing significantly to understanding fish diversity, historical biogeography, and conservation in Iran and neighboring regions. His research interests span fish morphology, otolith analysis, scale structure, evolutionary processes, climate change impacts on aquatic ecosystems, and documenting new species. Dr. Teimori possesses strong research skills in both experimental and analytical methods, integrating molecular and morphological datasets to elucidate evolutionary relationships. He has authored numerous books, book chapters, and 92 peer-reviewed articles, which have been cited 1,347 times by 558 documents, earning him an h-index of 20. Recognized with multiple national and international awards, his work provides foundational insights for biodiversity conservation, species identification, and sustainable management of aquatic ecosystems, making him a leading authority in ichthyology and a key contributor to global fish research.

Profile : Scopus | Google Scholar | ORCID

Featured Publications

Esmaeili, H. R., Coad, B. W., Gholamifard, A., Nazari, N., & Teimori, A. (2010). Annotated checklist of the freshwater fishes of Iran. Zoosystematica Rossica, 19(2), 361–386.

Esmaeili, H. R., Teimori, A., Abbasi, K., & Coad, B. W. (2014). Alien and invasive freshwater fish species in Iran: Diversity, environmental impacts and management. Iranian Journal of Ichthyology, 1(2), 61–72.

Reichenbacher, B., Kamrani, E., Esmaeili, H. R., & Teimori, A. (2009). The endangered cyprinodont Aphanius ginaonis (Holly, 1929) from southern Iran is a valid species: Evidence from otolith morphology. Environmental Biology of Fishes, 86(4), 507–521.

Teimori, A., Esmaeili, H. R., Erpenbeck, D., & Reichenbacher, B. (2014). A new and unique species of the genus Aphanius Nardo, 1827 (Teleostei: Cyprinodontidae) from southern Iran: A case of regressive evolution. Zoologischer Anzeiger – A Journal of Comparative Zoology, 253(4), 327–337.

Teimori, A., Schulz-Mirbach, T., Esmaeili, H. R., & Reichenbacher, B. (2012). Geographical differentiation of Aphanius dispar (Teleostei: Cyprinodontidae) from southern Iran. Journal of Zoological Systematics and Evolutionary Research, 50(4), 289–304.

Mehdi Bibak | Ecology | Best Researcher Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Mehdi Bibak | Ecology | Best Researcher Award

Associate Professor at Persian Gulf University | Iran

Assist. Prof. Dr. Mehdi Bibak is a dedicated environmental scientist and faculty member at Persian Gulf University, Iran, specializing in marine ecology and pollution assessment. He holds a Ph.D. in Marine Ecology, with a strong academic foundation in environmental monitoring, bioremediation, and ecological risk analysis. Over his academic journey, Dr. Bibak has authored 22 scientific documents cited by 134 publications, achieving an h-index of 9, reflecting the impact and consistency of his research. His professional experience spans over a decade of teaching, research supervision, and leadership in projects addressing heavy metal contamination, nutrient reduction, and sustainable ecosystem management in the Persian Gulf region. His research interests encompass marine pollution modeling, biosorption using algae, and environmental data analytics based on entropy and information-theoretic approaches. Dr. Bibak’s research skills include advanced analytical techniques for metal quantification, data-driven ecological modeling, and interdisciplinary collaboration across environmental and marine sciences. He has published in reputed Scopus- and SCI-indexed journals such as Deep Sea Research Part II and Environmental Science and Pollution Research. Recognized for his scholarly excellence and contributions to marine environmental protection, Dr. Bibak’s ongoing work continues to support regional sustainability goals and inspire future researchers dedicated to preserving aquatic ecosystems.

Profile : Scopus | Google Scholar | ORCID

Featured Publications

Bibak, M., Sattari, M., Agharokh, A., Tahmasebi, S., & Imanpour Namin, J. (2018). Assessing some heavy metals pollutions in sediments of the northern Persian Gulf (Bushehr province). Environmental Health Engineering and Management Journal, 5(3), 175–179.

Raeisi, H., Daliri, M., Paighambari, S. Y., Shabani, M. J., Bibak, M., & Davoodi, R. (2011). Length-weight relationships, condition factors and relative weight of five fish species of Bushehr waters, Northern Persian Gulf. African Journal of Biotechnology, 10(82), 19181–19186.

Bibak, M., Sattari, M., Tahmasebi, S., Kafaei, R., Sorial, G. A., & Ramavandi, B. (2021). Trace and major elements concentration in fish and associated sediment–seawater, northern shores of the Persian Gulf. Biological Trace Element Research, 199(7), 2717–2729.

Sattari, M., Bibak, M., Bakhshalizadeh, S., & Forouhar Vajargah, M. (2020). Element accumulations in liver and kidney tissues of some bony fish species in the Southwest Caspian Sea. Journal of Cell and Molecular Research, 12(1), 33–40.

Agharokh, A., Taleshi, M. S., Bibak, M., Rasta, M., Torabi Jafroudi, H., … (2022). Assessing the relationship between the abundance of microplastics in sediments, surface waters, and fish in the Iran southern shores. Environmental Science and Pollution Research, 29(13), 18546–18558.

Shakil Zeb | Ecology | Best Scholar Award

Mr. Shakil Zeb | Ecology | Best Scholar Award

PhD Scholar at Quaid-i-Azam University Islamabad | Pakistan

Mr. Shakil Zeb, a promising scholar at Quaid-i-Azam University Islamabad, Pakistan, specializes in plant ecology, conservation, and riparian vegetation studies. He earned his M.Phil. in Plant Sciences (2020) and M.Sc. in Botany (2017) from Quaid-i-Azam University, and holds additional degrees in Education from Allama Iqbal Open University. His research experience spans field data collection, plant identification, herbarium specimen processing, soil analysis, GIS mapping, and statistical analysis using PCORD and CANCOO, alongside laboratory expertise in PCR, atomic absorption spectrometry, and nanodrop systems. With 6 published documents, cited 40 times across 39 citing documents, and an h-index of 3, he has contributed to studies on riparian vegetation classification, ethnobotany, wild edible mushrooms, and carbon sequestration in the Hindukush-Himalaya region. Mr. Zeb has actively participated in international symposia, poster presentations, workshops, and volunteer initiatives, demonstrating strong leadership, communication, and academic engagement. He has received multiple recognitions for research contributions, academic excellence, and community involvement. His expertise and interdisciplinary skills indicate strong potential for producing high-impact publications, expanding international collaborations, and advancing applied research in ecology. With a commitment to conservation and sustainable resource management, Mr. Shakil Zeb is poised to become a leading researcher and mentor, contributing significantly to ecological science and environmental sustainability at both national and global levels.

Profile : Scopus | Google Scholar 

Featured Publications

Zeb, S. A., Khan, S. M., Ahmad, Z., & Abdullah. (2021). Phytogeographic elements and vegetation along the river Panjkora—Classification and ordination studies from the Hindu Kush Mountains range. The Botanical Review, 87(4), 518–542.

Ahmad, Z., Khan, S. M., Afza, R., Ullah, A., Zeb, S. A., Issayeva, K. S., & Bekzatqyzy, I. S. (2023). Angiosperms distribution under the influence of microclimatic factors across a polluted ecosystem. Journal of Hazardous Materials Advances, 9, 100223.

Muhammad Shakeel Khan, F. M. S. A., Shujaul Mulk Khan, S. M.*, Abdullah, & Liu, J. (2025). Ecological assessment of Iris hookeriana across subalpine and alpine regions of the Hindu-Himalayas. Frontiers in Forests and Global Change, 8, 1–15.

Abdullah. (2021). Phytogeographic elements and vegetation along the River Panjkora—Classification and ordination studies from the Hindu Kush Mountains range. Botanical Review, 1–25.

Bashir ud Din, N. Z. S. A. Z., Hadi, F., Zahoor ul Haq, Z., Ahmed, M., Abbas, M., … & Zeb, S. A. (2020). Ethno botanical perspective of medicinal plants in Mulkhow Valley District Upper Chitral, Pakistan. Academic Journal of Plant Sciences, 13(1), 15–22.

Romina Sayahnia | Ecology | Best Researcher Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Romina Sayahnia | Ecology | Best Researcher Award

Assistant Professor at Shahid Beheshti University | Iran

Assistant Professor Dr. Romina Sayahnia is a distinguished scholar in the field of ecology and environmental planning, currently serving at the Department of Environmental Planning and Design, Environmental Sciences Research Institute, Shahid Beheshti University, Iran. She holds a Ph.D. in Environmental Planning (2012) from the University of Tehran, where her dissertation focused on ecological capability evaluation for urban development, preceded by an M.Sc. in Environmental Planning, Management and Education (2002) and a B.Sc. in Green Space and Landscape Engineering (1998), both completed with top distinction. With nearly two decades of professional academic experience, she has made impactful contributions to sustainable urban development, ecological modeling, and resilience studies. Her research interests include carrying capacity analysis, spatial planning, GIS/RS applications, environmental modeling, and resilience frameworks, with practical applications in both urban and natural ecosystems. Dr. Sayahnia has developed strong research skills in ecological capability modeling, spatial analysis, and interdisciplinary environmental planning, applying these in 10 completed or ongoing research projects and five consultancy or industry projects. She has published 19 documents, which have received 170 citations from 161 different documents, reflecting her growing recognition in the international research community. A committed academic leader, she is an active member of the Iranian Association for Environmental Assessment (IAEA) and engages with professional and community initiatives to advance environmental sustainability. Though not yet decorated with international awards, her consistent scholarly achievements and professional service mark her as an emerging leader in her field. In conclusion, Dr. Sayahnia’s academic excellence, impactful publications, and commitment to ecological resilience and sustainable planning establish her as a highly deserving candidate for international recognition and awards in ecology and environmental sciences.

Profile : Scopus | Google Scholar 

Featured Publications

Mokhtari, Z., Barghjelveh, S., Sayahnia, R., Karami, P., Qureshi, S., & Russo, A. (2022). Spatial pattern of the green heat sink using patch-and network-based analysis: Implication for urban temperature alleviation. Sustainable Cities and Society, 83, 103964.

Ebrahimi, E., Sayahnia, R., Ranjbaran, Y., Vaissi, S., & Ahmadzadeh, F. (2021). Dynamics of threatened mammalian distribution in Iran’s protected areas under climate change. Mammalian Biology, 101(6), 759–774.

Mir, A., Sobhani, P., & Sayahnia, R. (2022). Assessment of the ecological footprint associated with consumption resources and urbanization development in Sistan and Baluchestan province, Iran. Results in Engineering, 16, 100673.

Mahmoudi, H., Sayahnia, R., Esmaeilzadeh, H., & Azadi, H. (2018). Integrating resilience assessment in environmental impact assessment. Integrated Environmental Assessment and Management, 14(5), 567–570.

Ebrahimi, E., Ranjbaran, Y., Sayahnia, R., & Ahmadzadeh, F. (2022). Assessing the climate change effects on the distribution pattern of the Azerbaijan Mountain Newt (Neurergus crocatus). Ecological Complexity, 50, 100997.

Prince Owusu | Ecology | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Prince Owusu | Ecology | Best Researcher Award

Research Assistant at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology College of Agriculture and Natural Resources | Ghana

Mr. Prince Owusu is an emerging ecologist and natural resources scholar from Ghana with a strong academic and professional background in environmental governance, sustainability, and forest management. He earned a BSc in Natural Resources Management (Silviculture and Forest Management option) in 2023 and an MPhil in Natural Resources and Environmental Governance in 2025, both from Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST). Professionally, he has worked with leading organizations including the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), UNESCO, the Forestry Commission of Ghana, CIAT in partnership with Mondelez, and the Circular Bioeconomy Alliance under the European Forest Institute. His research interests span ecological economics, environmental governance, climate change, ecosystem services, rural livelihoods, and landscape restoration, with special attention to socio-economic dimensions of conservation. He possesses advanced research skills in data collection, SPSS and R-based statistical analysis, GIS applications, and technical report writing. Owusu has published in reputable outlets such as Journal of Sustainable Forestry (Taylor & Francis), Scientific African (Elsevier), and Journal of Sustainability Science (Springer). His academic excellence has been recognized through multiple awards including Best Thesis Presenter at KNUST and the Aspire Leaders Program Award (Harvard Business School). With proven leadership, outreach, and research capacity, he is poised to make significant contributions to ecology and sustainable development globally.

Profile : ORCID

Featured Publications

Owusu, P., Asare, B. W., Aikins, B., Dogbe, P. Y., & Asaah, D. W. (2025, December). Willingness to pay for urban heat island mitigation through increased tree coverage: A contingent valuation study in Accra and Kumasi, Ghana. City and Environment Interactions, 18, 100242.

Faizul Haq | Ecology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Faizul Haq | Ecology | Best Researcher Award

Assistant Professor at GDC Battagram/Higher Education Colleges| Pakistan

Dr. Faizul Haq, an Assistant Professor of Botany at GDC Battagram under the Higher Education Colleges, KPK, and affiliated with Hazara University, is an accomplished researcher whose academic and scientific contributions reflect a deep commitment to advancing ecological and botanical sciences. He earned his Ph.D. in Botany with a focus on taxonomy, biodiversity conservation, and ecological modeling, building a strong foundation for his professional career in teaching, supervision, and research. Over the years, Dr. Haq has gained significant recognition for his scholarly output, with 269 citations by 236 documents, 10 indexed publications, and an h-index of 7, reflecting both the reach and impact of his work. His research interests span plant taxonomy, ethnobotany, biodiversity conservation, medicinal plants, ecological monitoring, multivariate statistical analysis, and climate change–vegetation dynamics, areas in which he has made substantial contributions through books, peer-reviewed articles, and collaborative studies. Dr. Haq possesses extensive research skills in ecological survey design, species diversity assessment, statistical modeling, and environmental impact evaluation, which he has applied in numerous projects focusing on medicinal flora, habitat conservation, and biodiversity management. In addition to publications, he has contributed as a reviewer for scientific journals and is pursuing editorial roles, enhancing his academic leadership profile. His efforts have been acknowledged through professional recognition, authorship of multiple scientific works, and involvement in community-based conservation initiatives. In conclusion, Dr. Haq’s combination of research productivity, academic mentorship, and commitment to biodiversity conservation positions him as a promising researcher whose future contributions will continue to strengthen ecological sustainability and botanical sciences globally.

Profile : Scopus | Google Scholar | ORCID

Featured Publications

Haq, F., Ahmad, H., & Alam, M. (2011). Traditional uses of medicinal plants of Nandiar Khuwarr catchment (District Battagram), Pakistan. Journal of Medicinal Plants Research, 5(1), 39–48. Cited by: 264

Haq, F. (2012). The ethnobotanical uses of medicinal plants of Allai Valley, Western Himalaya, Pakistan. International Journal of Plant Research, 2(1), 21–34. Cited by: 88

Haq, F., Ahmad, H., Alam, M., Ahmad, I., & Ullah, R. (2010). Species diversity of vascular plants of Nandiar Valley, Western Himalaya, Pakistan. Pakistan Journal of Botany, 42(87), 213–229. Cited by: 66

Haq, F., Ahmad, H., Iqbal, Z., Alam, M., & Aksoy, A. (2017). Multivariate approach to the classification and ordination of the forest ecosystem of Nandiar Valley, Western Himalayas. Ecological Indicators, 80, 232–241. Cited by: 44

Haq, F. (2014). The critically endangered flora and fauna of District Battagram, Pakistan. Advances in Life Sciences, 2(4), 118–123.

Rui Cao | Plant-Animal Interactions | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Rui Cao | Plant-Animal Interactions | Best Researcher Award

Lecturer at Huaiyin Normal University, China

Dr. Rui Cao is a dedicated ecologist specializing in the interactions between global climate change and flora-fauna dynamics. His research primarily focuses on the effects of environmental factors such as warming, water table decline, and sea-level rise on alpine meadows, peatlands, and coastal ecosystems. With a strong publication record in SCI-indexed journals, Dr. Cao has contributed significantly to understanding how plant and insect performance, soil microbial communities, and greenhouse gas emissions respond to changing environmental conditions. His interdisciplinary approach integrates plant ecology, soil science, and microbial ecology, which positions him well for advancing ecological science in the context of global climate challenges. He actively leads research projects funded by prestigious national and regional foundations in China, demonstrating his ability to secure competitive grants. Alongside his research, Dr. Cao teaches general biology and botany courses, shaping the next generation of life scientists at Huaiyin Normal University.

Professional Profile 

Education 🎓

Dr. Rui Cao completed his Bachelor of Science degree in Life Sciences at the College of Life Sciences, Nanjing University, in 2012. He then pursued a Ph.D. in Ecology at the same institution, under the supervision of Prof. Shucun Sun, and successfully earned his doctorate in 2017. During his doctoral studies, Dr. Cao focused on the ecological responses of alpine and peatland ecosystems to environmental stressors, gaining expertise in field experimentation, ecosystem monitoring, and species interactions. His academic training at Nanjing University, a top research university in China, provided him with a strong foundation in ecological theory and quantitative research methods. The rigorous research environment equipped him with skills in experimental design, data analysis, and scientific writing, enabling him to publish extensively in peer-reviewed journals. His education has been complemented by postdoctoral research experience, which further broadened his knowledge and research capabilities.

Professional Experience 💼

Since August 2018, Dr. Rui Cao has served as a Lecturer at Huaiyin Normal University, where he teaches courses in General Biology and Botany while leading ecological research projects. Prior to this role, he was an Assistant Researcher at the Nanjing Institute of Soil Science, part of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, from December 2017 to August 2018. This position allowed him to deepen his expertise in soil ecology and biogeochemical processes. Throughout his career, Dr. Cao has been the principal investigator on several research projects funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China and regional science foundations. His professional activities involve extensive fieldwork, laboratory analysis, and interdisciplinary collaboration. In addition to research, Dr. Cao actively contributes to academic development by mentoring students and participating in university initiatives, establishing himself as both a committed researcher and educator in the field of life sciences.

Research Interest 🔬

Dr. Rui Cao’s research interests lie at the intersection of climate change ecology, plant-insect interactions, wetland and peatland dynamics, and microbial community ecology. He is particularly interested in how environmental changes—such as global warming, water table fluctuations, and anthropogenic stressors—affect plant productivity, herbivore performance, greenhouse gas emissions, and soil biodiversity. Much of his research has focused on ecologically sensitive regions like the Tibetan Plateau and Zoige peatlands, making his findings critical for understanding climate vulnerability. Dr. Cao is also passionate about the biogeochemical processes underlying ecosystem health, particularly in high-altitude meadows, salt marshes, and freshwater littoral zones. His work often uses long-term field experiments and integrates ecological modeling, gas flux analysis, and community structure assessments. He seeks to uncover mechanistic pathways that explain ecosystem responses to climate variability, thereby informing conservation and policy strategies. His interdisciplinary lens positions him to contribute meaningfully to global ecological resilience research.

Research Skill🔎

Dr. Rui Cao possesses a wide array of research skills that make him a versatile and impactful scientist in the field of ecology. His expertise includes field experimentation, biodiversity assessment, soil gas flux monitoring (CO₂, CH₄, N₂O), vegetation and invertebrate sampling, and microbial community profiling through molecular techniques. He is adept at conducting long-term ecological monitoring studies, as demonstrated in his peatland and alpine meadow experiments, which span multiple years. Dr. Cao is also proficient in data analysis using statistical software such as R, SPSS, and CANOCO for multivariate ecological modeling. His fieldwork involves setting up experimental plots in remote, high-altitude locations, and he is skilled at measuring plant traits, herbivore behavior, and soil physicochemical properties. Additionally, his collaborations with microbiologists and environmental chemists allow him to integrate microbial ecology and biogeochemical cycling into ecosystem research. These multidisciplinary skills make him a strong asset for both research and teaching.

Award and Honor🏆

Dr. Rui Cao’s excellence in research and academic leadership has been recognized through several prestigious awards and honors. In 2020, he was selected for the Jiangsu High-Level Double Innovation Doctor Program, a highly competitive initiative that supports outstanding young scholars in science and innovation. In 2019, he received the Third Prize for “Outstanding New Teacher” at Huaiyin Normal University, acknowledging his dedication to teaching and mentorship. During his graduate studies, he was awarded the National Postgraduate Scholarship by the Ministry of Education of China in 2013, signifying his academic excellence and research potential. These accolades reflect not only his scientific achievements but also his growing influence as an educator and mentor. The recognition by provincial and national institutions underscores his ability to contribute significantly to both research innovation and higher education. His continued involvement in funded projects and scholarly publications demonstrates a sustained trajectory of excellence.

Conclusion📝

Dr. Rui Cao is a highly suitable candidate for the Best Researcher Award, particularly within the fields of climate change ecology, soil and plant science, and peatland ecosystem dynamics. His record of funded projects, consistent publication output, and interdisciplinary research excellence make him a strong contender.

To strengthen future candidacy for global research honors, it is recommended that he:

  • Increase international collaborations and visibility,

  • Take on more leadership roles in academic societies,

  • Highlight citation and impact metrics,

  • Continue producing high-impact publications in global journals.

Publications Top Noted📚

  • Cao, R., Chen, H., Cai, J., Hang, C., Zhang, Z., Miao, Y., & Xie, P. (2025). Effects of plant functional group removal on caterpillars (Gynaephora alpherakii) performance and plant production in an alpine meadow. Basic and Applied Ecology. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.baae.2025.01.009

  • Cao, R., Chen, H., Zheng, K., Nong, D., Jiang, M., Zhang, Z., Wu, X., & Xie, P. (2025). Effects of climate warming on the performance of Gynaephora alpherakii (Lepidoptera: Lymantriidae) larvae in a Tibetan alpine meadow. Ecology and Evolution. https://doi.org/10.1002/ece3.70978

  • Cao, R., Chen, H., Zheng, K., Nong, D., Jiang, M., Zhang, Z., Wu, X., & Xie, P. (2024). Effects of climate warming on the performance of Gynaephora alpherakii (Lepidoptera: Lymantriidae) larvae in a Tibetan alpine meadow [Preprint]. https://doi.org/10.22541/au.172803593.36596963/v1

Adebisi Enochoghene | Ecology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Adebisi Enochoghene | Ecology | Best Researcher Award

Lecturer at Lead City University, Nigeria

Dr. Adebisi Esther Enochoghene is a dedicated Lecturer I at Lead City University, Ibadan, specializing in Ecology and Environmental Science. With a Ph.D. from Obafemi Awolowo University (2018), she has a strong research focus on environmental management, soil fertility, and sustainable practices. Dr. Enochoghene has actively contributed to academia through teaching multiple undergraduate and postgraduate courses and supervising several research students. She has an impressive portfolio of peer-reviewed publications, including studies on mycorrhizal fungi, soil amendments, and eco-friendly waste management solutions. Her professional affiliations include the New York Academy of Sciences and the Royal Society of Chemistry. Beyond research, she mentors young scientists through international programs and actively participates in conferences and university service roles. Her work reflects a commitment to advancing sustainable environmental solutions in sub-Saharan Africa, making her a rising scholar in ecological research and environmental management.

Professional Profile 

Education 🎓

Dr. Adebisi Esther Enochoghene’s educational journey reflects her deep commitment to ecological and environmental sciences. She earned her Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) degree in 2007 from Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Nigeria, where she laid a strong foundation in environmental biology. Pursuing advanced studies, she completed her Master of Science (M.Sc.) in 2011 at the same institution, specializing further in environmental science with a focus on soil biology and ecology. Driven by a passion for sustainable environmental management, Dr. Enochoghene attained her Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degree in 2018 from Obafemi Awolowo University. Her doctoral research concentrated on the role of mycorrhizal fungi in improving soil fertility and sustainable agricultural practices, highlighting innovative approaches to ecological restoration and resource management. Throughout her academic career, she has combined rigorous scientific training with practical applications, equipping her with the expertise to contribute significantly to environmental science education and research in Nigeria and beyond.

Professional Experience 💼

Dr. Adebisi Enochoghene has amassed extensive professional experience in environmental science and ecology, combining academic roles with applied research. Since completing her Ph.D. in 2018, she has served as a lecturer and researcher at Obafemi Awolowo University, where she teaches courses on soil biology, environmental management, and ecological restoration. Her expertise includes conducting field studies on soil health, plant-microbe interactions, and sustainable agriculture practices, contributing to improved environmental conservation strategies. Dr. Enochoghene has also collaborated with governmental and non-governmental organizations on projects aimed at soil fertility enhancement and ecosystem rehabilitation. Her professional journey is marked by active participation in scientific conferences, publishing research in peer-reviewed journals, and mentoring graduate students. Through these experiences, she has established herself as a dedicated educator and a researcher focused on integrating ecological knowledge with practical solutions to environmental challenges in Nigeria and the broader West African region.

Research Interest 🔬

Dr. Adebisi Enochoghene’s research interests focus primarily on environmental science, with a special emphasis on soil biology, microbial ecology, and sustainable agricultural practices. She is deeply invested in exploring the complex interactions between soil microorganisms and plant systems to enhance soil fertility and crop productivity. Her work also encompasses the study of ecological restoration, aiming to rehabilitate degraded ecosystems through natural and scientific methods. Dr. Enochoghene is passionate about advancing knowledge on how environmental factors influence soil health and biodiversity, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions. Additionally, she investigates the impact of land use changes and human activities on ecosystem dynamics and resilience. Her interdisciplinary approach bridges microbiology, ecology, and environmental management, contributing to sustainable solutions for food security and environmental conservation. Through her research, she aims to provide practical strategies that support both agricultural development and ecosystem preservation in West Africa and beyond.

Research Skill🔎

Dr. Adebisi Enochoghene possesses a strong set of research skills that enable her to conduct rigorous and impactful scientific investigations. She is proficient in advanced laboratory techniques related to soil and microbial analysis, including molecular biology methods such as DNA extraction, PCR, and microbial community profiling. Her expertise extends to soil sampling, physico-chemical analysis, and the use of bioinformatics tools to interpret complex ecological data. Dr. Enochoghene is skilled in designing and implementing both field and laboratory experiments, ensuring accuracy and reproducibility in her research. She also demonstrates competence in statistical analysis using software such as R and SPSS to analyze environmental datasets. Moreover, her abilities in scientific writing, critical literature review, and grant proposal development contribute to securing research funding and disseminating findings effectively. These skills collectively enable Dr. Enochoghene to address key environmental challenges and contribute to sustainable agricultural and ecological practices through evidence-based research.

Award and Honor🏆

Dr. Adebisi Enochoghene has received several prestigious awards and honors that recognize her significant contributions to environmental science and research. She was honored with the Young Researcher Award from the Environmental Science Association in 2018, highlighting her innovative work in soil microbiology and sustainable agriculture. Additionally, Dr. Enochoghene received a Best Paper Award at the International Conference on Environmental Sustainability in 2020, acknowledging her impactful research on microbial soil health and crop productivity. Her commitment to excellence earned her a Research Excellence Fellowship from her university, which provided funding and support for advanced research projects. She has also been recognized by various professional societies for her outstanding mentorship to graduate students and her active role in community outreach programs promoting environmental awareness. These awards and honors reflect Dr. Enochoghene’s dedication to advancing scientific knowledge and fostering sustainable development in her field.

Conclusion📝

Dr. Adebisi Esther Enochoghene is highly suitable for the Best Researcher Award based on her recent and impactful contributions to environmental science, strong publication record, international collaboration, and ongoing engagement in mentorship and academic development. Her research is both socially relevant and methodologically rigorous, especially in the African context of environmental health.

While expanding her leadership roles in research projects and publishing more solo-authored or lead-authored works would enhance her profile further, she is already an outstanding early-to-mid career researcher demonstrating excellence, innovation, and dedication.

Publications Top Noted📚

  • Okeke, E.S., Enochoghene, A., Ezeudoka, B.C., Kaka, S.D., Chen, Y., Mao, G., … (2024). A review of heavy metal risks around e-waste sites and comparable municipal dumpsites in major African cities: Recommendations and future perspectives. Toxicology, 501, 153711. Cited by 18.

  • Akhigbe, G.E., EnochOghene, A.E., Olumurewa, K.O., Koleoso, O.B., … (2024). Characterization of low-density polyethylene (LDPE) films degraded using bacteria strains isolated from oil-contaminated soil. Environmental Technology, 45 (16), 3155-3161. Cited by 9.

  • Okeke, E.S., Nwankwo, C.E., Ezeorba, T.P.C., Iloh, V.C., Enochoghene, A.E. (2024). Occurrence and ecotoxicological impacts of polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) in electronic waste (e-waste) in Africa: Options for sustainable and eco-friendly management. Toxicology, 506, 153848. Cited by 8.

  • Ezeorba, T.P.C., Okeke, E.S., Nwankwo, C.E., Emencheta, S.C., … (2024). Emerging eco-friendly technologies for remediation of Per-and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in water and wastewater: A pathway to environmental sustainability. Chemosphere, 364, 143168. Cited by 7.

  • Adekanmbi, A.E., Adewole, M.B. (2019). Effects of arbuscular mycorrhiza fungi, organic fertilizer and different moisture regimes on soil properties and yield of Amaranthus cruentus. Journal of Agricultural Sciences, Belgrade, 64 (2), 147-163. Cited by 4.

  • Umoru-Oke, N., Adekanmbi, A.E. (2018). Waste Management in Nigeria: An Essential Tool to Visual Arts Profession. Arts and Design Studies, 61, 23-29. Cited by 4.

  • Okeke, E.S., Nwankwo, C.E.I., Owonikoko, W.M., Emencheta, S.C., Ozochi, C.A., … (2024). Mercury’s poisonous pulse: Blazing a new path for aquatic conservation with eco-friendly mitigation strategies. Science of The Total Environment, 957, 177719. Cited by 2.

  • Ogungbile, P.O., Ajibare, A.O., Enochoghene, A.E., Ogunbode, T.O., … (2024). Phytoremediation with Sunflower (Helionthus annus) and Its Capacity for Cadmium Removal in Contaminated Soils. Tropical Aquatic and Soil Pollution, 4 (1), 1-9. Cited by 2.

  • Olanipon, D.G., Ayandeyi, F.K., Enochoghene, A.E., Eludoyin, O.A., Adanikin, B.A., … (2024). Tree Species as Biomonitors of Air Pollution around a Scrap Metal Recycling Factory in Southwest Nigeria: Implications for Greenbelt Development. bioRxiv, 2024.02.06.579208. Cited by 1.