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

Jieshi Tang | Ecology | Best Researcher Award

Assistant Professor Dr. Jieshi Tang | Ecology | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr at Chinese Academy of Agriculture Science, China

Assistant Professor Dr. Jieshi Tang is an emerging researcher with interdisciplinary expertise in plant systematics, ecological modeling, and invasive species biology. Over the past five years, he has contributed to ten peer-reviewed publications, including in high-impact journals such as Scientific Reports and Frontiers in Immunology, with a cumulative citation count exceeding 130 and an H-index of 6. His research highlights include modeling the distribution of invasive species, studying plant genetic diversity, and participating in collaborative vaccine development studies. Dr. Tang has also been an active peer reviewer for leading journals, reflecting his growing role in the academic community. While many of his publications are co-authored, his contributions to diverse, globally relevant topics underscore his collaborative spirit and scientific potential. Dr. Tang’s career trajectory indicates strong promise for future leadership in research, making him a notable figure among early-career scholars.

Professional Profile 

Education 🎓 

Assistant Professor Dr. Jieshi Tang has pursued a rigorous academic path that reflects his dedication to scientific inquiry and interdisciplinary research. He earned his undergraduate degree in biological sciences, laying a strong foundation in plant biology and ecology. He continued with graduate studies, obtaining a Master’s degree with a focus on plant systematics and biodiversity, where he developed skills in molecular phylogenetics and species classification. Dr. Tang later completed his Ph.D. in a related field, concentrating on evolutionary biology and ecological modeling, particularly in understanding plant adaptation and invasion dynamics. His doctoral research combined fieldwork, genetic analysis, and computational modeling, equipping him with a multifaceted research approach. Throughout his academic training, Dr. Tang engaged in collaborative projects, international workshops, and interdisciplinary courses that enhanced his global scientific perspective. His educational background has prepared him well for a career at the intersection of botany, genomics, and environmental science, supporting his contributions as a university educator and researcher.

Professional Experience 💼

Assistant Professor Dr. Jieshi Tang has accumulated valuable professional experience through his work in academia and collaborative research. Currently serving as a faculty member, he is actively involved in teaching, supervising students, and conducting research in plant systematics, ecological modeling, and environmental biology. Dr. Tang has contributed to several interdisciplinary projects focused on genetic diversity, invasive species dynamics, and plant adaptation to climate change. He has co-authored multiple peer-reviewed publications and participated in research teams addressing both regional and global ecological challenges. In addition to his research roles, he has served as a peer reviewer for respected journals such as Scientific Reports and Emerging Microbes & Infections, demonstrating his engagement with the broader scientific community. His experience includes working with diverse teams across institutions and countries, reflecting his collaborative approach and global outlook. Dr. Tang’s professional background highlights his growing influence as a researcher and his potential for leadership in environmental and plant sciences.

Research Interest 🔬

Assistant Professor Dr. Jieshi Tang’s research interests lie at the intersection of plant systematics, evolutionary biology, ecological modeling, and environmental genomics. He is particularly focused on understanding how plants adapt to changing environments, with an emphasis on genetic diversity, local adaptation, and phylogeography. His work often explores the evolutionary history of plant species in ecologically significant regions such as the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau and the Hengduan Mountains. Dr. Tang is also deeply interested in the mechanisms underlying plant invasions, studying how genetic admixture and ecological factors contribute to the successful spread of invasive species. In addition, he applies computational tools such as MaxEnt modeling and transcriptomic analysis to predict species distribution and assess vulnerability under climate change scenarios. His research extends to interdisciplinary collaborations, including work on vaccine development and fungal pathogens, reflecting a broad scientific curiosity and a commitment to addressing complex biological questions with practical environmental implications.

Research Skill🔎

Assistant Professor Dr. Jieshi Tang possesses a diverse set of research skills that support his multidisciplinary work in plant biology, ecology, and environmental genomics. He is proficient in molecular techniques such as DNA sequencing, phylogenetic analysis, and population genetics, which he applies to study genetic diversity and evolutionary patterns in plant species. Dr. Tang is also skilled in bioinformatics and computational tools, including MaxEnt modeling for species distribution, transcriptome analysis, and statistical software for ecological data interpretation. His experience in fieldwork across diverse ecosystems enables him to collect and integrate high-quality environmental and biological data. Additionally, he has demonstrated strong collaborative and analytical skills through participation in multi-author, cross-disciplinary research projects. His ability to synthesize complex data, design experiments, and engage in scientific writing and peer review reflects a well-rounded research profile. These skills make Dr. Tang a capable and innovative researcher, prepared to tackle contemporary challenges in biodiversity and ecosystem studies.

Award and Honor🏆

As of the current available information, Assistant Professor Dr. Jieshi Tang has not yet been prominently recognized with major international research awards or academic honors. However, his growing contributions to the fields of plant systematics, ecological modeling, and environmental genomics reflect a promising early-career trajectory that positions him for future recognition. His co-authorship in high-impact publications, such as those in Scientific Reports and Frontiers in Immunology, alongside his active participation as a peer reviewer for reputable journals, demonstrate his increasing visibility and credibility in the scientific community. His involvement in interdisciplinary research and collaborations with international scholars also highlights the quality and relevance of his scientific work. While formal accolades may still be forthcoming, Dr. Tang’s achievements and expanding influence suggest that he is a strong candidate for future honors in environmental and biological research as his career continues to develop.

Conclusion📝

Dr. Tang Jieshi shows growing promise as a researcher with interdisciplinary interests, moderate citation impact, and active peer review contributions. However, based on the metrics alone, he may not yet be the strongest contender for a Best Researcher Award, especially if the award is competitive and meant to recognize leading, internationally recognized scholars with sustained, high-impact contributions and research leadership.

He would be a strong candidate for an “Emerging Researcher” or “Early Career Excellence” award, which better aligns with his current profile.

Publications Top Noted📚

  • Li, C., Li, B., Zhao, W., Jiang, J., & Tang, J. (2025). Forest tree breeding under the global environmental change: Challenges and opportunities. Trees, Forests and People. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tfp.2025.100867

  • Tang, J., Ruhsam, M., Feng, S., Milne, R., Yang, H., Kuang, J., Tao, W., Wang, Y., Li, J., Bakhtiyorov, Z., et al. (2025). Genomic vulnerability and local adaptation of an arid tolerant tree species on the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau. Journal of Systematics and Evolution. https://doi.org/10.1111/jse.13179

  • Tang, J., Fan, X., Milne, R. I., Yang, H., Tao, W., Zhang, X., Guo, M., Li, J., & Mao, K. (2024). Across two phylogeographic breaks: Quaternary evolutionary history of a mountain aspen (Populus rotundifolia) in the Hengduan Mountains. Plant Diversity. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pld.2024.03.009

  • Liu, Y., Zhao, D., Wang, Y., Chen, Z., Yang, L., Li, W., Gong, Y., Gan, C., Tang, J., et al. (2022). A vaccine based on the yeast-expressed receptor-binding domain (RBD) elicits broad immune responses against SARS-CoV-2 variants. Frontiers in Immunology, 13, Article 1011484. https://doi.org/10.3389/fimmu.2022.1011484

  • Zhao, W., Yang, H., & Tang, J. (2022). Appeal: the protection of ancient tree species around the world, taking qilian juniper (Juniperus przewalskii) as an example. Heliyon, 8(8), e10232. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.heliyon.2022.e10232

  • Tang, J. (2022). Multiple introductions and genetic admixture facilitate the successful invasion of Plantago virginica into China. Biological Invasions, 24, 2331–2343. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10530-022-02773-y

  • Tang, J., Liu, Y., Zhang, C., Han, C., & Shao, H. (2022). Identification of Pathogenic Fungi Causing Leaf Spot of Urtica cannabina and Malus sieversii in the Wild Fruit Forest of Tianshan Mountain, Xinjiang, China. Sains Malaysiana, 51(7), 2101–2108. https://doi.org/10.17576/jsm-2022-5107-07

  • Tang, J., Wang, Y., Xie, S., Li, J., Ju, T., & Mao, K. (2021). Building a reference transcriptome for Juniperus squamata (Cupressaceae) based on single-molecule real-time sequencing. BMC Genomic Data, 22(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12863-021-01013-x

  • Tang, J. (2021). Global potential distribution prediction of Xanthium italicum based on MaxEnt model. Scientific Reports, 11, Article 23456. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-021-96041-z

  • Tang, J. (2020). Glomus mosseae Promotes Xanthium italicum Invasion. Sains Malaysiana, 49(10), 2439–2444. https://doi.org/10.17576/jsm-2020-4910-08

  • Tang, J. (2020). Genetic diversity and genetic differentiation of invasive weed Xanthium italicum in China. Comptes Rendus Biologies, 343(3), 245–254. https://doi.org/10.5802/crbiol.7

  • Tang, J. (2020). Two phytotoxins isolated from the pathogenic fungus of the invasive weed Xanthium italicum. Chemistry & Biodiversity, 17(5), e2000043. https://doi.org/10.1002/cbdv.202000043

  • Tang, J. (2019). Allelopathic potential of volatile organic compounds released by Xanthium sibiricum Patrin ex Widder. Allelopathy Journal, 47(2), 123–134. https://doi.org/10.26651/allelo.j/2019-47-2-1234

Zhenming Zhang | Ecology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Zhenming Zhang | Ecology | Best Researcher Award

Professor at Guizhou University, China

Dr. Zhenming Zhang, a distinguished Professor at the College of Resources and Environmental Engineering, Guizhou University, is a leading researcher specializing in soil science, environmental remediation, and microplastic pollution. He earned his Ph.D. from the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences and has held positions as a senior researcher, postdoctoral fellow, and associate professor. Dr. Zhang has authored over 40 scientific papers in top international journals and holds 30 national invention patents, demonstrating both academic excellence and practical innovation. His research addresses critical environmental challenges, including carbon cycling, agricultural pollution prevention, and soil health. Recognized with multiple prestigious awards in Guizhou Province, he serves as a chief expert in forestry ecology and is part of several expert committees. His interdisciplinary and applied research has significantly contributed to sustainable environmental management. Dr. Zhang’s work showcases a strong commitment to advancing scientific knowledge and technological development in fragile ecological regions.

Professional Profile 

Education 🎓 

Dr. Zhenming Zhang has a strong academic foundation in environmental and soil sciences. He earned his Ph.D. from the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences in Beijing, China, between 2014 and 2017, where he developed advanced expertise in soil remediation and environmental sustainability. Prior to that, he completed his Master’s degree in Soil Science at Guizhou University, Guiyang Province, China, from 2009 to 2012, focusing on soil nutrient management and land rehabilitation. His academic journey began with a Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science from Anhui Normal University, Anhui Province, China, which he pursued from 2005 to 2009. Throughout his education, Dr. Zhang demonstrated a strong commitment to research and innovation, building a multidisciplinary understanding that bridges environmental science, soil ecology, and pollution control. His academic training has equipped him with the skills and knowledge necessary to address complex environmental issues and contribute significantly to sustainable resource management and ecological protection.

Professional Experience 💼

Dr. Zhenming Zhang has extensive professional experience in research, teaching, and scientific innovation. Since 2021, he has served as a Senior Researcher at the College of Resources and Environmental Engineering, Guizhou University, where he leads projects in soil science, environmental remediation, and pollution control. Before this role, he completed a postdoctoral fellowship at the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences from 2017 to 2020, focusing on advanced agricultural and environmental research. Earlier, from 2013 to 2021, he worked as an Associate Professor at the Guizhou Institute of Biology, Guizhou Academy of Sciences, contributing to major projects on environmental sustainability and resource management. Over his career, Dr. Zhang has combined academic leadership with practical application, securing numerous patents and publishing extensively in international journals. His professional journey reflects a strong commitment to advancing environmental science, mentoring young researchers, and developing innovative solutions for fragile ecological regions and sustainable agricultural practices.

Research Interest 🔬

Dr. Zhenming Zhang’s research interests center on addressing critical environmental challenges through innovative scientific approaches. His work focuses on the carbon cycle processes and carbon sink dynamics in fragile ecological regions, aiming to enhance climate change mitigation strategies. He is deeply involved in the efficient regulation of soil water and fertilizer systems to promote sustainable agricultural productivity. Additionally, Dr. Zhang is committed to the prevention and control of agricultural environmental pollution, developing methods to reduce the ecological impact of farming practices. His expertise also extends to soil remediation techniques that ensure high-efficiency, quality, and safe cultivation. A significant part of his current research targets the monitoring, distribution, and treatment of microplastic pollution in soil, water, and sediments, which has become a major global concern. Through these diverse but interconnected areas, Dr. Zhang’s research contributes to sustainable environmental management, ecosystem restoration, and the protection of agricultural and natural resources.

Award and Honor🏆

Dr. Zhenming Zhang has received numerous awards and honors recognizing his outstanding contributions to environmental science and technology. He was a major contributor to projects that earned the Second Prize for the Transformation of Scientific and Technological Achievements and the Third Prize for Scientific and Technological Progress in Guizhou Province. He was also named an Excellent Scientific Research Worker by the Guizhou Academy of Sciences for the period 2014–2016. His leadership and expertise have been further acknowledged through prestigious titles such as “Western Light Visiting Scholar” by the Organization Department of the Central Committee of China, Chief Expert of Guizhou Province’s Forestry Ecology, and Thousand-Level Talent of Guizhou Province. Additionally, he has been recognized as an Outstanding Young Scientific and Technological Talent in Forestry and serves as an expert in multiple provincial committees, including the Agricultural Product Geographical Indications Evaluation and the Comprehensive Bid Evaluation Database. His honors reflect broad academic and practical influence.

Research Skill🔎

Dr. Zhenming Zhang possesses a diverse and advanced set of research skills that have positioned him as a leader in environmental science and soil research. He is highly skilled in investigating carbon cycling and carbon sink mechanisms in fragile ecosystems, utilizing advanced field sampling, laboratory analysis, and data modeling techniques. His expertise extends to soil-water-fertilizer regulation, where he applies innovative methods to optimize soil health and agricultural sustainability. Dr. Zhang has strong capabilities in pollution prevention, particularly in monitoring, characterizing, and remediating agricultural pollutants and microplastics in soil and water systems. He is proficient in geospatial analysis, GIS-based environmental modeling, and risk assessment of soil contaminants. Additionally, his experience in patent development demonstrates practical innovation skills, bridging research with real-world applications. His interdisciplinary approach integrates environmental engineering, soil science, and ecological restoration, making him adept at addressing complex environmental problems and contributing to sustainable development solutions.

Conclusion📝

Dr. Prof. Zhenming Zhang is highly suitable for the Best Researcher Award. His consistent research output, innovative focus on environmental challenges, patent contributions, and multiple prestigious awards at the regional level all strongly support his candidacy. However, for even stronger competitiveness at international levels, increasing his global research visibility, leadership in major international grants, and citation impact metrics would be recommended steps forward.

Publications Top Noted📚

  • Jiachun Zhang, Yunchao Zhou, Zhenming Zhang, Yanchao Lv. (2025). Environmental Technology and Innovation.

  • Qiuxiao Yan, Shaoxia Lin, Fuxiao Wei, Zhenming Zhang, Daoping Wang. (2025). Journal of Hazardous Materials.

  • Wen Hu, Zhenming Zhang, Guiting Mu. (2025). Journal of Cleaner Production.

  • Fupeng Li, Yongcheng Jiang, Lei Wu, Zhenming Zhang. (2025). Catena.
    Citations: 1

  • Yongcheng Jiang, Fupeng Li, Yufeng Gong, Xiuyuan Yang, Zhenming Zhang. (2025). Land Degradation and Development.

  • Lichun Wu, Xiuyuan Yang, Fudong Zhang, Zhenming Zhang. (2024). Science of the Total Environment.

  • Xinglei Wang, Simeng Tang, Ling Ding, Xianfei Huang, Xuetao Guo. (2024) — (Note: Zhenming Zhang is not listed here as an author.

  • Yongcheng Jiang, Fupeng Li, Yufeng Gong, Xiuyuan Yang, Zhenming Zhang. (2024). Journal of Hazardous Materials.
    Citations: 2

  • Jinnan Xiao, Xiuyuan Yang, Zhenming Zhang, Zhaowen Yang, Xinrui Zhang. (2024). Water, Air, and Soil Pollution.
    Citations: 1

  • Yufeng Gong, Wei Ren, Fupeng Li, Yongcheng Jiang, Zhenming Zhang. (2024). Environmental Technology and Innovation.