Nicola Cantasano | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

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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 | Orcid | Research 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

 

Gustavo Darrigran | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Gustavo Darrigran | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Gustavo Darrigran | Research Scientist of the National Scientific and Technical Research Council | Argentina

Dr. Gustavo Darrigran is a distinguished Argentine biologist and malacologist whose career has been centered on the ecology, systematics, and environmental impact of freshwater and marine mollusks. A Doctor in Natural Sciences (Zoology) from the Universidad Nacional de La Plata (UNLP), he has over four decades of academic and research experience at national and international levels. His doctoral thesis, “Aspectos Ecológicos de la Malacofauna Litoral del Río de la Plata”, laid the foundation for his lifelong research on aquatic invertebrates, particularly invasive bivalve species that have transformed South American freshwater ecosystems. Dr. Darrigran is recognized as one of Latin America’s leading experts on aquatic bioinvasions, focusing on invasive mollusks such as Limnoperna fortunei and Corbicula fluminea. His research has advanced understanding of species invasion dynamics, ecological impacts on native biodiversity, and bioindicator applications for environmental monitoring. Through collaborations with international organizations—including the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), the Zoological Society of London, and the Encyclopedia of Life—he has contributed to global conservation initiatives, notably the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species and the Libro Rojo de Moluscos Argentinos (2020–2025), which he coordinated. A prolific educator, Dr. Darrigran has held professorships at UNLP’s Faculties of Natural Sciences and Humanities, teaching zoology, ecology, and conservation biology. He has also been an invited lecturer in postgraduate programs across Argentina, Brazil, and Spain. His mentorship has fostered a generation of scientists dedicated to environmental protection and biodiversity conservation. His scientific contributions and leadership have earned him numerous honors, including the Científico Cultural Award from Prefectura Naval Argentina, the MercoPremio Award (Brazil), and recognition as an Honorary Member of the Félix de Azara Natural History Foundation. Dr. Darrigran’s career exemplifies excellence in research, education, and international cooperation toward the sustainable management of aquatic ecosystems.

Profiles: Orcid

Featured Publications 

De Lucía, M., Darrigran, G., & Gutiérrez Gregoric, D. E. (2023). Diversity of non-marine mollusks in the southernmost Paranaense forest of the world. Anais da Academia Brasileira de Ciências, 95(1), e20220212. https://doi.org/10.1590/0001-3765202320220212

Roche, A., Cetra, N., Nuñez, V., & Darrigran, G. (2023, April 25). Catálogo de las especies de Nudibranchia (Gastropoda: Heterobranchia) de la Colección de Moluscos del Museo de La Plata, Argentina. Acta Zoológica Lilloana, 67(1), e2023-04-13. https://doi.org/10.30550/j.azl/2023.67.1/2023-04-13

Darrigran, G., Agudo-Padrón, I., Baez, P., Belz, C., Cardoso, F., Collado, G. A., Correoso, M., Cuezzo, M. G., Damborenea, C., Fabres, A. A., et al. (2023, March). Species movements within biogeographic regions: Exploring the distribution of transplanted mollusc species in South America. Biological Invasions, 25(3), 1007–1023. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10530-022-02942-z

De Lucía, M., Darrigran, G., & Gutiérrez Gregoric, D. E. (2023, January). The most problematic freshwater invasive species in South America, Limnoperna fortunei (Dunker, 1857), and its status after 30 years of invasion. Aquatic Sciences, 85(1), 7. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00027-022-00907-x

Darrigran, G., Custodio, H., Legarralde, T. I., & Vilches, A. M. (2022, November 30). Colecciones biológicas y virtualidad: Un recurso para la enseñanza de la biodiversidad. Bio-grafía, 16(30), 17823. https://doi.org/10.17227/bio-grafia.vol.16.num30-17823

Miyahira, I. C., Clavijo, C., Callil, C. T., Cuezzo, M. G., Darrigran, G., Gomes, S. R., Lasso, C. A., Mansur, M. C. D., Pena, M. S., Ramírez, R., et al. (2022, September). The conservation of non-marine molluscs in South America: Where we are and how to move forward. Biodiversity and Conservation, 31(11), 2859–2882. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10531-022-02446-1

Ramzi Hadjab | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. Ramzi Hadjab | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Ramzi Hadjab | University of Oum El Bouaghi | Algeria

Dr. Ramzi Hadjab is an accomplished ecologist and environmental researcher currently serving as a Doctor and Research Teacher at the University of Oum El Bouaghi, Algeria. With a Ph.D. in Ecology and Environment (2018), his academic journey reflects a deep commitment to understanding and protecting biodiversity in semi-arid and aquatic ecosystems. As an Associate Professor at the Functional Ecology and Environment Laboratory, Dr. Hadjab specializes in groundwater ecology, biodiversity conservation, and the ecological impacts of anthropogenic pressures. His extensive research, published in leading international journals, spans topics such as freshwater amphipods, water quality assessment, avifauna diversity, and the ecological effects of pollution. A frequent contributor to international conferences, he actively collaborates with multidisciplinary teams across North Africa and Europe. Proficient in statistical analysis, ecological modeling, and scientific illustration, Dr. Hadjab continues to advance the fields of ecology, environmental sustainability, and biodiversity monitoring through both his teaching and research.

Profiles: Orcid | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Bourmada, A., Khammar, H., Hadjab, R., Chaffai, A., Bouchema, N., & Hamida, B. (2024). Integrated assessment of groundwater quality in Algeria’s Souk Ahras region: Implications for sustainable and management water for drinking and irrigation purpose. Desalination and Water Treatment, 320, 100827. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.dwt.2024.100827

Hadjab, R., Ayati, K., & Piscart, C. (2021). A new species of freshwater amphipods Echinogammarus (Amphipoda, Gammaridae) from Algeria. Taxonomy, 1(1), 36–47. https://doi.org/10.3390/taxonomy1010005

Nouidjem, Y., Hadjab, R., Khammar, H., Merouani, S., & Bensaci, E. (2021). Diversity, ecology and therapeutic properties of the medicinal plants in Ziban region (Algeria). Journal of Bioresource Management, 8(1), 4. https://doi.org/10.35691/jbm.1202.0163

Chiheb, L., Bensaci, E., Nouidjem, Y., & Hadjab, R. (2021). Spatio-temporal variation patterns of bird community in the oasis ecosystem of the north of Algerian Sahara. Journal of Bioresource Management, 8(1), 2. https://doi.org/10.35691/jbm.1202.0161

Hadjab, R. (2020). Impact of anthropic pressure on the quality and diversity of groundwater in the region of Sighus Oum-El-Bouaghi and El Rahmounia, Algeria. Journal of Bioresource Management, 7(3), 7.

Redjaimia, L., Hadjab, R., Khammar, H., Merzoug, D., & Saheb, M. (2020). Groundwater quality in two semi-arid areas of Algeria: Impact of water pollution on biodiversity. Journal of Bioresource Management, 7(3), 2. https://doi.org/10.35691/jbm.0202.0137

Xu Boyang | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. Xu Boyang | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Xu Boyang | Zhejiang Financial College | China

Xu Boyang is a dynamic researcher specializing in soundscape ecology, environmental acoustics, and landscape architecture. With a Master’s degree in Landscape Architecture, he has developed a unique interdisciplinary approach integrating noise mitigation with spatial design aesthetics. His research explores how urban green spaces can be optimized to enhance acoustic comfort and psychological restoration. Xu’s recent projects include urban noise governance in Hangzhou and the award-winning Shuile Cave Cultural Heritage Soundscape Design in the West Lake Scenic Area. His studies, published in Scientific Reports, Applied Acoustics, and other journals, highlight the intersection of sound perception, spatial planning, and environmental psychology, earning him early academic recognition with 2 citations from 1 document and an h-index of 1 on Scopus.

Profile: Scopus

Featured Publications

Zhang, X., Li, Y., Chen, M., Wang, L., & Xu, B. (2025). Are natural soundscapes always beneficial? Evaluating the restorative qualities and influencing mechanisms of natural water soundscapes. Applied Acoustics. https://doi.org/xxxx

Jie Shen | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Jie Shen | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Jie Shen | Institute of Plasma Physics, HFIPS, Chinese Academy of Sciences (ASIPP) | China

Dr. Jie Shen, Associate Researcher at the Institute of Plasma Physics, HFIPS, Chinese Academy of Sciences, specializes in plasma energy applications for environmental and biotechnological innovations. His work focuses on plasma-induced biological effects, microalgae carbon sequestration, antibiotic strain enhancement, and waterborne organic compound degradation. With over 25 SCI publications (h-index 20) and 1,084 citations, he has led multiple national and industrial projects, secured patents, and collaborated internationally. His research has advanced low-temperature plasma technology as a sustainable tool for microbial breeding, environmental remediation, and high-value biochemical production.

Academic Profile 

Orcid

Education

Dr. Jie Shen earned his PhD in Nuclear Science and Engineering from the prestigious Chinese Academy of Sciences, where he developed expertise in plasma physics and its applications in environmental and biological systems. His doctoral research laid the foundation for his later contributions in plasma-induced mutagenesis, biological effects of reactive species, and environmental remediation technologies. The rigorous academic training combined with extensive laboratory work equipped him with deep theoretical knowledge and strong experimental skills, enabling him to integrate interdisciplinary approaches in solving complex scientific challenges.

Experience

Currently serving as an Associate Researcher at the Institute of Plasma Physics, HFIPS, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Dr. Shen leads a research team focused on advancing plasma energy applications for environmental sustainability and microbial biotechnology. His professional journey includes leading multiple high-impact national and industry-linked projects, notably in selective plasma mutagenesis for microalgae and antibiotic-producing strains. He has collaborated extensively with both academic and industrial partners, published in leading SCI journals, and contributed to technological innovations through patents and specialized devices. As a peer reviewer for numerous high-impact journals, he plays an active role in advancing the global scientific discourse on plasma technology.

Research Interests

Dr. Shen’s research centers on low-temperature plasma and its multifaceted applications in environmental and biological systems. He investigates plasma-induced liquid-phase reactive species, their biological interaction mechanisms, and their role in microbial breeding. His work extends to developing plasma technologies for enhancing carbon sequestration in microalgae, improving antibiotic strain productivity, sterilizing harmful microorganisms, and degrading organic pollutants in water. By combining plasma physics with biotechnology, his research aims to create sustainable solutions for environmental challenges while boosting industrial productivity in microbial and biochemical sectors.

Awards

Dr. Shen’s academic and research excellence has been recognized through multiple distinctions, including leadership roles in nationally funded projects and significant contributions to collaborative industrial innovations. His patents on plasma sterilization and therapy devices have demonstrated practical value in both healthcare and environmental applications. The impact of his work is reflected in his strong citation record, invitations for research collaborations, and his role as a reviewer for prominent scientific journals, marking him as a leading contributor in the field of applied plasma science.

Publications

Recent progress of atmospheric and room‐temperature plasma as a new and promising mutagenesis technology

Author: Dongao Li; Jie Shen; Qiang Ding; Jinyong Wu; Xiangsong Chen
Journal: Cell Biochemistry and Function
Year: 2024

Principles and Characteristics of Cold Plasma at Gas Phase and Gas-Liquid Phase

Author: jie shen
Journal: Applications Of Cold Plasma In Food
Year: 2022

Applications of atmospheric pressure plasma in microbial inactivation and cancer therapy: a brief review

Author: jie shen
Journal: Plasma Science and Technology
Year: 2020

Preferential production of reactive species and bactericidal efficacy of gas-liquid plasma discharge

Author: jie shen
Journal: Chemical Engineering Journal
Year: 2019

Conclusion

Dr. Jie Shen exemplifies the qualities of a world-class environmental scientist whose research blends innovation, impact, and practical application. His contributions to low-temperature plasma technology have advanced both scientific understanding and industrial practice, delivering measurable environmental and economic benefits. With a strong record of publications, patents, and successful collaborations, he stands as a model of scientific leadership and is highly deserving of the Best Researcher Award in Environmental Science.

Akshay Kale | Environmental Science | Young Scientist Award

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Mr. Akshay Kale | Environmental Science | Young Scientist Award

Mr. Akshay Kale | Department of Chemistry, Savitribai Phule Pune University | India

Akshay Somnath Kale is a Ph.D. researcher in Chemistry at Savitribai Phule Pune University, specializing in bioaerosols, air quality, inhalation toxicology, and eco-friendly nanocomposites. With multiple fellowships, national eligibility qualifications, and award recognitions, he has contributed to peer-reviewed publications and presented at leading conferences. His expertise spans aerosol characterization, health risk assessment, and advanced analytical techniques, supported by strong technical, data analysis, and teaching skills.

Academic Profile 

Google Scholar

Education

Akshay Somnath Kale has built a strong academic foundation in chemistry, beginning with a Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry from VPASC College, affiliated with Savitribai Phule Pune University, followed by a Master’s degree in Physical Chemistry from the Department of Chemistry at the same university. He further enhanced his technical expertise by completing a Post-Graduate Diploma in Chromatographic Techniques for Designing Forensic and Industrial Applications from the Design Innovation Center. Currently, he is pursuing a Ph.D. in Chemistry at Savitribai Phule Pune University under the supervision of Prof. P.G. Satsangi, focusing on advanced research in bioaerosols, air quality, and nanocomposites.

Experience

Akshay has significant research and academic experience, starting as a Junior Research Fellow at Savitribai Phule Pune University where he worked extensively on projects involving bioaerosol monitoring, toxicological profiling, and size-segregated analysis. He has also contributed to analytical chemistry projects involving purity and impurity analysis of pharmaceutical compounds using HPLC, LCMS, and GCMS. His doctoral research involves aerosol characterization, health risk assessment, and nanocomposite synthesis for bioaerosol mitigation. In addition to research, he has been actively engaged in practical laboratory teaching and guiding students in experimental techniques.

Research Interests

His research interests are multidisciplinary, integrating environmental chemistry, toxicology, and nanotechnology. He focuses on bioaerosol and air quality assessment, aerosol characterization, and health risk evaluation through inhalation toxicology studies. His work also includes the development of eco-friendly nanocomposites for aerosol mitigation, real-time monitoring of size-segregated bioaerosols, and advanced physicochemical analysis of particulate matter. Additionally, he applies statistical and computational tools, such as R programming and GIS mapping, to environmental data interpretation.

Awards 

Akshay has been recognized with multiple prestigious fellowships, including those awarded by national funding agencies for both his doctoral and earlier research work. He has qualified competitive national-level examinations such as CSIR-UGC NET, State Eligibility Test, GATE, and Joint Admission Test for Masters. His research excellence has been acknowledged through awards such as the Best Theme Paper Award in the field of indoor environmental quality. His contributions to scientific literature and participation in prominent national and international conferences further reflect his academic achievements and recognition in the field.

Publications

Physicochemical characteristics of atmospheric particles in south western (Pune) region of India: Elemental size distribution, source analysis and risk assessment

Authors: H Rohra, A Kale, S Nehul, AS Pipal, A Taneja, PG Satsangi
Journal: Atmospheric Pollution Research
Year: 2023

Variability of Fine Particulate Matter (PM1.0 and PM2.5) and its Oxidative Potential at Different Locations in the Northern Part of India

Authors: T Tripathi, A Kale, M Anand, PG Satsangi, A Taneja
Journal: Aerosol Science and Engineering
Year: 2024

Investigating Age-Specific Respiratory Deposition Doses of Traffic-Related Particles at Urban Intersections in Pune, India

Authors: A Kale, PG Satsangi
Journal: Aerosol Science and Engineering
Year: 2024

Age-specific deposition of indoor particulate matter in the human respiratory tract

Authors: A Kale, R Roy, PG Satsangi
Journal: Asian Conference on Indoor Environmental Quality
Year: 2023

Impact of primary aerosol particles on size specific oxidative potential and its relationship with air quality and hazard index

Authors: AS Pipal, SD Ghude, PG Satsangi, MY Bhatkar, A Kale, SS Nivdange, …
Journal: [Journal not specified in the provided text]
Year: [Year not specified in the provided text]

Conclusion

Akshay Somnath Kale’s dedication to advancing environmental science through rigorous research, innovative methodologies, and impactful publications makes him a strong contender for the Best Researcher Award. His expertise in bioaerosols, air quality assessment, and eco-friendly solutions, combined with recognized academic achievements and professional excellence, clearly demonstrates his capability to contribute meaningfully to both science and society.