Xiaoping Ren | Scientific Breakthroughs | Distinguished Scientist Award

Prof. Dr. Xiaoping Ren | Scientific Breakthroughs | Distinguished Scientist Award

Prof. Dr. Xiaoping Ren | Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi University | China

Dr. Xiaoping Ren is an internationally recognized surgeon and scientist known for pioneering breakthroughs in hand transplantation, spinal cord fusion, and head transplantation research. He designed the world’s first clinical hand allotransplantation model, contributed to the United States’ first hand transplant, and discovered key mechanisms such as RPCT and RCI. He led landmark achievements including the first mouse head transplant, the first human head-transplant surgical model, and multiple world-first advances in spinal cord fusion that restored neural continuity in animal studies. His work established him as a global leader in paralysis treatment and regenerative reconstruction. Dr. Ren has earned major international honors, including election to the Russian Academy of Natural Sciences, fellowship of the International College of Surgeons, and leadership roles such as Chief Scientist of the GICUP Alliance, supported by an extensive publication record across microsurgery, neurology, cardiology, and regenerative medicine.

Profiles: Scopus 

Featured Publications

Ren, X., et al. (2025). Establishment of a canine model of vascularized allogeneic spinal cord transplantation and preliminary study on spinal cord continuity reconstruction. Chinese Journal of Reparative and Reconstructive Surgery.

Ren, X., et al. (2024). Recovery of independent ambulation after complete spinal cord transection in the presence of the neuroprotectant polyethylene glycol in monkeys. IBRO Neuroscience Reports.

Ren, X., et al. (2024). A novel strategy for spinal cord reconstruction via vascularized allogeneic spinal cord transplantation combined with spinal cord fusion. CNS Neuroscience and Therapeutics.

Ren, X., et al. (2024). Developing preclinical dog models for reconstructive severed spinal cord continuity via spinal cord fusion technique. IBRO Neuroscience Reports.

Ren, X., et al. (2023). Effect of vascularized lymph node transplantation combined with lymphatico-venous anastomosis in the treatment of lymphedema after breast cancer surgery. Chinese Journal of Plastic Surgery.

Wahad Rahman | Energy Sustainability | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Wahad Rahman | Energy Sustainability | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Wahad Rahman | University of Engineering and Technology Peshawar | Pakistan

A highly skilled engineering professional with extensive experience in mechatronics, renewable energy systems, additive manufacturing, and Internet of Things (IoT) technologies. With a strong academic foundation including advanced research in hybrid energy harvesting systems, this expert has contributed significantly to cutting-edge developments in sustainable power solutions for sensor networks and pipeline monitoring applications. Current work in additive manufacturing and reverse engineering involves leading research and development initiatives, operating advanced 3D printing technologies (FDM, SLA), managing high-precision 3D scanning, and conducting specialized training programs. This blends practical engineering with innovation-driven problem-solving across industrial and applied research environments. Previously, research contributions in sensor and energy harvesting systems included the design and development of micro Kaplan and Crossflow turbines, IoT-based pipeline monitoring solutions, energy-efficient wireless sensor nodes, and experimental setups for testing hybrid energy harvesters. These projects demonstrate strong proficiency in mechanical design, simulation, prototyping, and system integration. With several years of experience in academia, this professional has taught undergraduate theory and laboratory courses in mechanics of materials, fluid mechanics, robotics, and engineering software tools such as MATLAB and SolidWorks. Extensive involvement in STEM capacity-building programs further highlights commitment to engineering education and technology dissemination. Research expertise spans renewable energy, hybrid and flow-based energy harvesting, control systems, self-powered systems, power management circuits, wireless sensors, and IoT technologies. Published work includes multiple journal articles in reputable international outlets focusing on piezoelectric, electromagnetic, and hybrid energy harvesters, turbine modeling, RF energy harvesting, and sensor network applications. Professional development includes specialized training in IoT, Arduino, Raspberry Pi, MATLAB, image processing, robotics, content writing, and digital marketing, demonstrating a broad multidisciplinary skillset. Overall, this profile reflects a dynamic researcher and engineer dedicated to advancing sustainable energy solutions, intelligent monitoring systems, and modern manufacturing technologies.

Profiles: Orcid | LinkedIn | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Rahman, W. U., & Khan, F. U. (2025). A hybrid flow energy harvester to power an IoT-based wireless sensor system for the digitization and monitoring of pipeline networks. Machines, 13(11). https://doi.org/10.3390/machines13111025

Rahman, W. U., & Khan, F. U. (2025). An integrated fluid flow and solar hybrid energy harvester for pipeline monitoring system. AIP Advances. https://doi.org/10.1063/5.0284001

Rahman, W. U., & Khan, F. U. (2025). A survey of flow-based energy harvesters for powering sustainable wireless sensor nodes. Journal of Renewable and Sustainable Energy. https://doi.org/10.1063/5.0237597

Rahman, W. U., & Khan, F. U. (2023). A hybrid flow energy harvester using combined piezoelectric and electromagnetic transductions for pipeline network monitoring. Journal of Intelligent Material Systems and Structures. https://doi.org/10.1177/1045389X221147647

Marwan | AI Advancements | Excellence in Research

Dr. Marwan | AI Advancements | Excellence in Research

Dr. Marwan | King Faisal University | Saudi Arabia

The applicant is an accomplished scholar in Computer Information Systems with specialized expertise in Artificial Intelligence and Data Science, supported by extensive experience in academia, research, and innovation. Over more than a decade of university-level teaching and research, the applicant has contributed significantly to advancing intelligent systems, machine learning applications, IoT security, biomedical imaging, and pattern recognition. Their doctoral work introduced a novel model for Arabic handwritten text recognition, forming the foundation for a strong research career in AI-driven language and image processing technologies. The applicant has authored and co-authored numerous impactful, refereed journal publications in well-recognized international outlets such as Sustainability, IJACSA, Traitement du Signal, and the Journal of Ayub Medical College. Research contributions span cancer therapy enhancement, anomaly detection, cephalometric landmark detection, multiple sclerosis classification, industrial IoT security, biometric iris recognition, palm disease classification, and Arabic word recognition. Several works have been indexed in Scopus and other reputable databases, with active collaborations involving interdisciplinary and multinational research teams. Beyond publications, the applicant has secured competitive research funding, including a grant supporting the development of a weighted-voting IoT security model targeting BASHLITE and Mirai cyberattacks. Ongoing research activities include hybrid deep learning systems for intrusion detection, medical image analysis, human nail disease diagnosis, music-brain interactions, and predicate-logic-based machine translation. The applicant has demonstrated strong academic service through extensive peer-reviewing, participation in scientific councils, and membership in research committees. Their professional development includes participation in conferences, training programs, and workshops focused on e-learning, scientific publishing, and advanced teaching strategies. Recognized for excellence, the applicant has received awards such as the Distinguished Scientific Research Award and the Outstanding International Publishing Award, reflecting sustained research quality and global scholarly impact. Their overall portfolio showcases a balanced blend of innovative research, academic leadership, and contributions to the AI and data science community.

Profiles: Scopus 

Featured Publications

Siddiqi, M. H., Alhwaiti, Y., Elaiwat, S., & Abu-Zanona, M. (2024). Dynamic healing process analysis: Image morphing with warping technique for nose and esophagus studies. The International Arab Journal of Information Technology, 21(3). (Accepted December 26, 2023).

 

Mr. Wenzhuang Liu | Energy Sustainability | Best Researcher Award | 2573

Mr. Wenzhuang Liu | Energy Sustainability | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Wenzhuang Liu | North China University of Science and Technology | China

This researcher has built a strong academic foundation in energy systems and renewable energy integration, focusing on innovative methods to enhance the flexibility, efficiency, and sustainability of modern power grids. With advanced studies in engineering thermophysics and hands-on experience in multiple research projects, the researcher has developed a deep understanding of thermodynamics, energy storage systems, and the challenges associated with large-scale renewable energy integration under contemporary carbon-neutrality goals. A key contribution is the development of an optimized configuration regulation method for energy storage systems (ESS) designed to address peak-shaving pressures arising from the widespread adoption of renewable energy. This method integrates deep peak shaving of thermal power units with coordinated demand-side response strategies, forming a comprehensive source-load-storage interaction model. By accounting for uncertainties in renewable generation and dynamic load variations, the framework enhances system responsiveness and operational flexibility. Simulation studies conducted across multiple scheduling scenarios demonstrate substantial improvements, including reductions in overall operation cost, unit operating cost, and renewable energy input cost. The findings highlight the method’s potential to significantly boost renewable energy utilization while maintaining economic and operational stability in power systems. Beyond this flagship innovation, the researcher has contributed to ongoing projects related to optimizing energy storage configurations for enhanced peak regulation. Their scholarly output includes publications in reputable journals and active engagement in funded research initiatives supported by scientific foundations and industrial laboratories. The researcher has also patented a novel ESS configuration approach centered on deep peak shaving and source-load-storage coordination. Overall, the researcher’s work advances both theoretical and application-oriented dimensions of renewable energy integration. Their contributions support more resilient, responsive, and economically viable power systems, making a meaningful impact on the transition toward low-carbon energy futures and reinforcing their suitability for recognition under research excellence awards.

Profiles: ScopusOrcid 

Featured Publications

Liu, J., Zhang, Z., Xie, Q., & Liu, W. (2024). Dual-phase model: Estimating the temperature and hydrodynamic size of magnetic nanoparticles with protein-corona formation. Applied Physics Letters. https://doi.org/10.1063/5.0199403

Li, L., Yi, W., Cui, X., & Liu, W. (2023). Rapid and high sensitivity temperature measurement based on near-extinction photoelastic modulated magneto-optical Kerr effect of Fe-Gd nanofilm. IEEE Transactions on Instrumentation and Measurement. https://doi.org/10.1109/TIM.2023.3323049

Liu, J., Huang, P., Zhang, Z., Xie, Q., & Liu, W. (2023). The nonlinear dynamics of magnetic nanoparticles: A thermometry in complex magnetic fields. Applied Physics Letters. https://doi.org/10.1063/5.0151058

Cui, X., Li, L., & Liu, W. (2022). A rapid and sensitive magnetic immunoassay of biomolecules based on magnetic nanoparticles. IEEE Transactions on Instrumentation and Measurement. https://doi.org/10.1109/TIM.2022.3216405

Guo, S., Yi, W., & Liu, W. (2022). Biological thermometer based on the temperature sensitivity of magnetic nanoparticle paraSHIFT. Nanotechnology. https://doi.org/10.1088/1361-6528/ac3b81

Peng, H., Cheng, C., Wan, Q., Jia, S., Wang, S., Lv, J., Liang, D., Liu, W., Liu, X., Zheng, H., et al. (2022). Fast multi-parametric imaging in abdomen by B1+ corrected dual-flip angle sequence with interleaved echo acquisition. Magnetic Resonance in Medicine. https://doi.org/10.1002/mrm.29127

Fengzhou Wang | Industry Collaboration | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Fengzhou Wang | Industry Collaboration | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Fengzhou Wang | Zhe Jiang University | China

The nominee is an emerging researcher in the field of industrial engineering, currently engaged in advanced studies with a strong focus on traffic big data analytics, machine learning, and large-scale AI models. Their academic journey began with foundational training in system modeling and optimization algorithms, which laid the groundwork for their present research direction. Through this evolving academic path, the nominee has developed a growing interest in applying computational intelligence to transportation systems, contributing to the interdisciplinary space where engineering, data science, and artificial intelligence converge. Despite being at an early stage of their research career, the nominee has participated in scholarly work that includes publishing in reputable indexed journals. Their contribution to the article on segmented parabolic adjustment of the FAST reflector demonstrates proficiency in programming computation, data visualization, and scientific writing—skills essential for modern research environments. While the nominee has not yet undertaken formal research projects, consultancy assignments, patents, or editorial responsibilities, they remain committed to expanding their expertise and research footprint. The nominee possesses a strong sense of scientific curiosity and expresses an aspiration to contribute meaningfully to their field in the future. They acknowledge current limitations related to resources, knowledge, and experience but emphasize a forward-looking mindset rooted in creativity and innovative thinking. Their research interests reflect an alignment with emerging global priorities, particularly the integration of AI and big data for intelligent transportation systems. Through academic participation and continued skill development, the nominee aims to build a foundation for impactful research and real-world innovation. By engaging with the research community and enhancing technical competencies, they seek to evolve into a contributor capable of influencing advancements in transportation engineering, machine learning applications, and AI-driven solutions.

Profiles: ScopusOrcid 

Featured Publications

Wang, F., Kang, Y., & Guo, F. (2024). Segmented parabolic adjustment of the FAST reflector utilizing spatial coordinate rotation transformation. Measurement Science and Technology, 35(10). https://doi.org/10.1088/1361-6501/ad5c93

Uchenna Kingsley Okeke | Research Excellence | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Uchenna Kingsley Okeke | Research Excellence | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Uchenna Kingsley Okeke | University of Johannesburg | South Africa

A dedicated researcher and educator, this academic professional has established a strong interdisciplinary footprint in Physics Education, STEM/STEAM pedagogy, and curriculum innovation. Their work spans instructional strategy design, educational assessment, and the integration of indigenous knowledge systems into science education, with a particular emphasis on decolonizing STEM pedagogy and advancing gender-responsive teaching aligned with Sustainable Development Goal 4. With teaching and research experience across university and secondary school settings, they have contributed significantly to the development of physics education through innovative instructional approaches, classroom engagement research, and psychomotor domain advancement within STEAM frameworks. Their scholarly achievements include numerous peer-reviewed publications, book chapters, and conference proceedings covering topics such as cognitively guided instruction, contextualized physics pedagogy, assessment practices, student mental health, and gender-related barriers in STEM. Their research also explores comparative instructional models, students’ learning difficulties, cognitive development, and the role of science education in fostering social dimensions of scientific understanding. In addition to publishing in respected international journals, they serve as a peer reviewer for several academic outlets, demonstrating commitment to scholarly quality and academic leadership. The candidate’s professional experience includes university-level instruction, curriculum development, supervision of teaching practicums, and management of school-wide academic programmes. They possess expertise in quantitative and qualitative research methods, especially SPSS statistical analysis and thematic interpretation of qualitative data. Their contributions extend to professional development initiatives for educators and community-based engagement focused on social and environmental issues. They have presented research at international conferences and participated in capacity-building programmes and workshops dedicated to gender equity, African studies, and early-career research development. Their academic competencies span instructional design, assessment development, cross-cultural collaboration, and evidence-based teaching practices. As an active member of relevant professional bodies, they continue to contribute to the growth of science education through research, leadership, and transformative educational practice.

Profiles: Scopus | Orcid | LinkedIn| Research Gate

Featured Publications

Okeke, U. K., & Ramaila, S. (2025). Decolonizing secondary school science education through contextualized instruction: An exploration of the nature of science, adaptive expertise, instructional implications and pedagogical frameworks for knowledge integration. Social Sciences & Humanities Open, 11, 101614. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ssaho.2025.101614

Okeke, U. K., & Ramaila, S. (2025). Reimagining the psychomotor domain: Pedagogical implications of STEAM education. Education Sciences, 15(11), 1497. https://doi.org/10.3390/educsci15111497

Okeke, U. K. (2025). Instructional design considerations: Cognitive development and physics comprehension in secondary education. International Journal of Studies in Psychology, 5(2), 1–4.

Okeke, U. K., & Ramaila, S. (2025, June 28). Teachers’ TPACK: Evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of online assessment in K-12 science instruction. In Education and New Developments (END) 2025 Conference Proceedings (pp. 171–174).

Okeke, U. K., & Ramaila, S. (2025, June 28). The emergence of STEAM and its pedagogical implications: A re-evaluation of the psychomotor domain. In Education and New Developments (END) 2025 Conference Proceedings (pp. 151–155).

Adeduyigbe, A. M., Ukoh, E. E., & Okeke, U. K. (2025). Influence of gender on secondary school physics students’ learning difficulties in electricity. Physics Education, 60, 025017. https://doi.org/10.1088/1361-6552/adab5d

Decheng Li | Research Excellence | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Decheng Li | Research Excellence | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Decheng Li | Lanzhou University of Technology | China

Dr. Decheng Li, a distinguished scholar at the School of Automation and Electrical Engineering, Lanzhou University of Technology, has made substantial contributions to intelligent control systems, robotics, optimization algorithms, and renewable energy integration. His research consistently bridges theoretical innovation with real-world engineering needs, and his recent work on high-precision optical measurement systems exemplifies this commitment to impactful technological advancement. In the 2025 journal article “Robust hybrid decentralized controller design for Voice Coil Actuator–Fast Steering Mirror (VCA–FSM) system in high-precision optical measurements”, co-authored by Jiabin Liu and Hui Chen and published in Measurement, Dr. Li presents a novel control solution for improving accuracy and stability in fast optical beam steering applications. VCA–FSM systems are critical components in laser communication, adaptive optics, precision imaging, and spaceborne measurement instruments, where rapid response and minimal error are essential. However, these systems often encounter challenges such as parameter uncertainties, external disturbances, nonlinear coupling between axes, and stringent precision requirements. The study introduces a hybrid decentralized control strategy that integrates robust control principles with intelligent algorithmic tuning. This decentralized architecture allows each axis of the FSM to be controlled independently while mitigating cross-axis interference. The hybrid approach combines model-based design with adaptive mechanisms to enhance disturbance rejection and maintain system stability under uncertain conditions. Simulation and experimental results demonstrate that the proposed controller significantly improves tracking accuracy, dynamic response, and robustness compared to conventional centralized or purely model-based controllers. Dr. Li’s contribution not only advances the performance of VCA–FSM platforms but also offers a generalizable framework for other high-precision mechatronic systems. His ongoing work continues to strengthen the integration of automation, intelligent control, and advanced signal processing to achieve next-generation smart engineering solutions.

Profile: Orcid

Featured Publication

Liu, J., Li, D., & Chen, H. (2025). “Robust hybrid decentralized controller design for Voice Coil Actuator-Fast Steering Mirror system in high-precision optical measurements.

Kenju Otsuka | Research Excellence | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Kenju Otsuka | Research Excellence | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Kenju Otsuka | TS3L Research | Japan

The nomination highlights an accomplished researcher whose work spans laser physics, quantum electronics, self-mixing laser metrology, and nonlinear optical dynamics. Their academic background reflects decades of contributions to the development of advanced solid-state laser systems and the fundamental understanding of dynamic behavior in optical environments. The researcher has completed significant investigations, including the invention of stoichiometric laser crystals enabling highly efficient microchip lasers, as well as pioneering methods for controlling transverse laser modes through pump-beam modulation. Their studies on nonlinear dynamics—such as antiphase behavior, clustering phenomena, and chaotic itinerancy—have shaped theoretical and experimental approaches in optical complex systems. Current research focuses on advancing self-mixing metrology using thin-slice solid-state lasers with ultra-high sensitivity for measuring non-cooperative objects. This includes groundbreaking progress on laser-diode-pumped ruby lasers designed for extreme-precision sensing applications. The researcher has led several major projects in this domain, including development of thin-slice Cr:Al₂O₃ lasers aimed at pushing the limits of metrological sensitivity. Their scholarly output is extensive, with thousands of citations, numerous indexed journal publications, authored book chapters, and a monograph on nonlinear optical dynamics. They also hold multiple patents related to laser technologies, reflecting a strong innovation portfolio. The researcher has maintained active collaborations with leading scientists and institutions, contributing significantly to the global optics and photonics community. In addition to research achievements, they have served in editorial roles and hold prestigious fellowships in internationally recognized scientific societies, acknowledging their influence in laser science, photonic device engineering, and nonlinear dynamics. Their contributions to self-mixing laser metrology, laser mode manipulation, and the exploration of complex optical behaviors continue to advance precision measurement and optical system design.

Profiles:  Orcid | Google Scholar | LinkedIn | Research Gate

Featured Publications

Otsuka, K., & Sudo, S. (2025). Harmonics-assisted 50-fold optical phase amplification with a self-mixing thin-slice Nd:GdVO₄ laser with wide-aperture laser-diode pumping. Photonics, 12(11), Article 1098. https://doi.org/10.3390/photonics12111098

Sudo, S., & Otsuka, K. (2025). Evaluation of thermal expansion of elastomer using self-mixing vibrometry with thin-slice solid laser. Journal of Applied Physics, 138(4), Article 0281888. https://doi.org/10.1063/5.0281888

Sudo, S., & Otsuka, K. (2024). Self-mixing thinly sliced ruby laser for laser Doppler velocimetry with high optical sensitivity. Optics Continuum, 3(11), Article 532807. https://doi.org/10.1364/OPTCON.532807

Otsuka, K., & Sudo, S. (2023). Spiking ruby revisited: Self-induced periodic spiking oscillations leading to chaotic state in a Cr:Al₂O₃ laser with cw 532-nm pumping. Optics Continuum, 2(9), Article 497640. https://doi.org/10.1364/OPTCON.497640

Otsuka, K., & Sudo, S. (2023). Erratum: Nonlinear dynamics of a self-mixing thin-slice solid-state laser subjected to Doppler-shifted optical feedback [Phys. Rev. E, 104, 044203 (2021)]. Physical Review E, 108(3), 039901. https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevE.108.039901

Otsuka, K., & Sudo, S. (2022). Self-mixing interference in a thin-slice solid-state laser with few feedback photons per observation period. Physical Review A, 106(5), 053504. https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevA.106.053504

Dr. Nuno Almeida | Research Excellence | Best Researcher Award | 2598

Dr. Nuno Almeida | Research Excellence | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Nuno Almeida | Universidade do Algarve | Portugal

Dr. Nuno Miguel Forra Almeida is an academic and professional psychologist specializing in Work, Social, and Organizational Psychology. He serves as an Assistant Guest Lecturer at the Faculty of Human and Social Sciences of the University of Algarve (FCHS-UAlg) and holds specialist recognition from the Portuguese Psychologists Association (OPP) as well as EuroPsy qualification from the European Federation of Psychologists’ Associations (EFPA). He is also affiliated with FAROTESTE – Psychological Assessment.Currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Psychology at the University of Algarve, his research focuses on electoral abstention among young people, integrating psychological, behavioral, political, and communicational dimensions. He is actively involved as a Collaborating Researcher in two research centers: the Center for Research in Psychology (CIP) at Universidade Autónoma de Lisboa and the University Center for Psychological Research (CUIP) at the University of Algarve. In addition, he contributes to the OPP’s pool of psychologists for crisis and catastrophe intervention. Dr. Almeida has a robust academic background, holding a Master’s degree in Social and Organizational Psychology and a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of Algarve. His professional development includes extensive specialized training across diverse domains such as ergonomics, psychological evaluation, neuro-linguistic programming, information security, artificial intelligence workflows, and intervention with vulnerable populations including refugees and LGBTQ individuals. His teaching and research are complemented by practical involvement in supervision of academic and professional internships, psychometric testing, and consultancy in work and organizational settings. Through his academic and professional trajectory, he demonstrates a strong commitment to evidence-based practice, innovation in psychological assessment, and the integration of digital tools in psychological research and education. His scholarly and professional interests converge on understanding human behavior in social and organizational contexts, promoting psychological well-being in workplaces, and exploring the psychological underpinnings of civic engagement and political participation among youth.

Profiles: Scopus | Orcid | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Almeida, N., & Giger, J.-C. (2025). Unraveling the heterogeneity of electoral abstention: Profiles, motivations, and paths to a more inclusive democracy in Portugal. Social Sciences, 14(10), 601.

Giger, J.-C., Piçarra, N., Pochwatko, G., Almeida, N., & Almeida, A. S. (2025). Intention to work with social robots: The role of perceived robot use self-efficacy, attitudes towards robots, and beliefs in human nature uniqueness. Multimodal Technologies and Interaction, 9(2), 9.

Giger, J.-C., Piçarra, N., Pochwatko, G., Almeida, N., Almeida, A. S., Costa, N., & Duradoni, M. (2024). Development of the Beliefs in Human Nature Uniqueness Scale and its associations with perception of social robots. Human Behavior and Emerging Technologies, Article ID 5569587.

Gonçalves, G., Sousa, C., Fernandes, M. J., Almeida, N., & Sousa, A. (2023). Restorative effects of biophilic workplace and nature exposure during working time: A systematic review. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 20(21), 6986.

Almeida, N., & Giger, J.-C. (2025, January 23). The absent vote: Unraveling social representations of electoral abstention among students and non-student voters. In X Jornadas Internacionais de Iniciação à Investigação Científica em Psicologia (J3ICP).

 

Nicola Cantasano | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Nicola Cantasano | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Nicola Cantasano | National Research Council of Italy | Italy

Dr. Nicola Cantasano’s research integrates marine biology, astrobiology, and freshwater ecosystem monitoring, focusing on developing innovative methodologies to measure, map, and interpret complex ecological systems on Earth and beyond. His work spans both marine and planetary environments, uniting biological and geological perspectives to enhance understanding of life’s signatures in diverse contexts. In marine science, he has made significant contributions to the taxonomy of seaweeds, monitoring of Posidonia oceanica meadows, and the management of beach-cast seagrasses, which are vital for Mediterranean coastal stability and biodiversity. His studies have also explored the surveillance of invasive algal species such as Caulerpa racemosa, contributing to regional environmental management and conservation strategies. Through the development of water mapping and ecological assessment methods, including the Indice di Funzionalità Fluviale (I.F.F.), he has advanced tools for evaluating the ecological status of fluvial systems, particularly within the Calabrian region. Dr. Cantasano’s research extends into astrobiology, where he investigates potential biosignatures on Mars by analyzing digital imagery from NASA missions. He explores analogies between terrestrial stromatolites—layered microbial structures formed by cyanobacteria—and Martian organosedimentary formations, proposing biogenic interpretations of textures observed in Martian rocks. This work contributes to the broader understanding of planetary habitability and the possible existence of ancient microbial life on Mars. His extensive publications cover topics such as marine and freshwater ecosystem management, coastal zone conservation, nutrient dynamics, and biogeochemical assessments. He has published in leading journals including Ocean & Coastal Management, International Journal of Astrobiology, Plant Biosystems, and Rendiconti Lincei. By bridging marine ecology and planetary science, his research provides innovative frameworks for sustainable ecosystem management on Earth and supports the scientific quest for life beyond it.

Profiles: Scopus | OrcidResearch Gate

Featured Publications 

Cantasano, N. (2025). Ecological and fluvial corridor of the Verri Stream as a connecting step in the Natura 2000 network along the Calabria coastal region, Italy. Environments, 12(11), 426. https://doi.org/10.3390/environments12110426

Cantasano, N., Di Martino, V., & Pellicone, G. (2024). The invasion of Caulerpa cylindracea Sonder 1845 in the Calabria coastal seas. Coasts, 4(1), 3. https://doi.org/10.3390/coasts4010003

Ietto, F., Pellicone, G., & Cantasano, N. (2023). Silting process and loss of Posidonia oceanica meadows in the Tyrrhenian waters of Calabria (Southern Italy). Sustainability, 15(17), 13102. https://doi.org/10.3390/su151713102

Ietto, F., Pellicone, G., & Cantasano, N. (2023, May 25). Silting process and loss of Posidonia oceanica meadows in the Tyrrhenian Calabria waters (Southern Italy). Preprints. https://doi.org/10.20944/preprints202305.1751.v1

Cantasano, N. (2022). Marine pollution by microplastics in the Mediterranean Sea. Journal of Marine Science and Engineering, 10(7), 858. https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse10070858

Bentaallah, M. E. A., Taibi, N. E., & Cantasano, N. (2021). Additional new records of Caulerpa cylindracea Sonder 1845 along the West Algerian coasts. Indian Journal of Geo-Marine Sciences, 50(1), 97–103.*

Cantasano, N., Caloiero, T., Pellicone, G., Aristodemo, F., De Marco, A., & Tagarelli, G. (2021). Can ICZM contribute to the mitigation of erosion and of human activities threatening the natural and cultural heritage of the coastal landscape of Calabria? Sustainability, 13(3), 1122. https://doi.org/10.3390/su13031122