Shuo Yang | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Cognitive Scientist Awards

Dr. Shuo Yang | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Shandong Jianzhu University | China

Yang Shuo is an accomplished associate researcher at the School of Municipal and Environmental Engineering, Shandong Jianzhu University, with a strong academic foundation built through degrees in water supply and drainage science, municipal engineering, and environmental science and engineering, culminating in a doctorate in engineering. Her professional journey includes teaching, research, and postdoctoral work at the Shandong Provincial Urban Water Supply and Drainage Quality Monitoring Center, where she has advanced studies in waste treatment and environmental protection. Her research interests span solid waste disposal and resource utilization, water pollution control and resource recovery, biomass carbon preparation and modification technology, and anaerobic digestion of organic waste, with a focus on resistance gene translocation mechanisms. She possesses strong research skills in microbial ecological mechanisms, biochar preparation, anaerobic biological treatment, and contaminated soil remediation. She has led and participated in significant national and provincial projects supported by prestigious foundations, producing impactful results. Her achievements include publishing over twenty high-quality papers, several in SCI-indexed journals with highly cited recognition, contributing to monographs, and securing patents on biochar and solid waste recycling technologies. She has been honored with awards for innovative contributions to mine water treatment and sustainable practices. In conclusion, Yang Shuo’s combination of academic excellence, innovative research, and practical contributions to environmental engineering highlight her as a promising scholar making meaningful advances in sustainable waste and water management.

Profile: ORCID

Featured Publications

Timur Berdimbetov | Climate change | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Cognitive Scientist Awards

Dr. Timur Berdimbetov | Climate change | Best Researcher Award

Nukus State Technical University | Uzbekistan

Dr. Berdimbetov Timur Tleubergenovich, Dean of the Faculty of Computer Science at Nukus State Technical University, is a distinguished academic and researcher whose expertise lies in climate change, remote sensing, GIS technologies, and environmental policy, particularly in the Aral Sea basin and Central Asia. He holds a bachelor’s and master’s degree in information technology from the Nukus Branch of Tashkent University of Information Technologies and a PhD from the Chinese Academy of Sciences, where he specialized in regional climate-environment interactions. His professional journey includes roles as Dean, Head of Departments, Senior Lecturer, and Researcher across leading institutions in Uzbekistan, reflecting a steady rise through academic and leadership positions. His research interests focus on climate modeling, land degradation, water resource variability, and long-term climatic trends in Central Asia, supported by participation in international projects like Erasmus+ MECAS and CAS Strategic Priority Programs. With over ten Scopus-indexed publications and an H-index of 5, Dr. Berdimbetov has contributed valuable insights into climate variability, vegetation dynamics, and hydrological processes. His research skills encompass QGIS, ARCGIS analytics, Google Earth Engine, and RStudio, enabling advanced spatial and statistical analysis. Recognized with the prestigious CAS-TWAS President’s Fellowship, he continues to advance interdisciplinary collaborations. In conclusion, Dr. Berdimbetov’s academic excellence, leadership, and impactful research make him a deserving nominee for the International Cognitive Scientist Awards.

Profile: Google scholar

Featured Publications

Berdimbetov, T., Ilyas, S., Ma, Z., Bilal, M., & Nietullaeva, S. (2021). Climatic change and human activities link to vegetation dynamics in the Aral Sea Basin using NDVI. Earth Systems and Environment, 5(2), 303–318. Citations: 39

Berdimbetov, T., Ma, Z. G., Shelton, S., Ilyas, S., & Nietullaeva, S. (2021). Identifying land degradation and its driving factors in the Aral Sea Basin from 1982 to 2015. Frontiers in Earth Science, 9, 690000. Citations: 26

Berdimbetov, T. T., Ma, Z. G., Liang, C., & Ilyas, S. (2020). Impact of climate factors and human activities on water resources in the Aral Sea Basin. Hydrology, 7(2), 30. Citations: 25

Berdimbetov, T., Shelton, S., Pushpawela, B., Rathnayake, U., Koshim, A. G., … (2024). Use of intensity analysis and transfer matrix to characterize land conversion in the Aral Sea Basin under changing climate. Modeling Earth Systems and Environment, 10(4), 4717–4729. Citations: 8

Berdimbetov, T., Nietullaeva, S., & Yegizbayeva, A. (2021). Analysis of impact of Aral Sea catastrophe on anomaly climate variables and hydrological processes. International Journal of Geoinformatics, 17(1), 65–74. Citations: 7

Yegizbayeva, A., Ilyas, S., & Berdimbetov, T. (2022). Drought characterisation of Syrdarya River Basin in Central Asia using reconnaissance drought index. IGARSS 2022–2022 IEEE International Geoscience and Remote Sensing Symposium. Citations: 6

Pheladi Molepo | Energy Transition | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Cognitive Scientist Awards

Ms. Pheladi Molepo | Energy Transition | Best Researcher Award

Pheladi Morufa Molepo is a dedicated researcher and PhD candidate at the University of Johannesburg, specializing in engineering management and renewable energy transitions. Her work bridges theoretical knowledge and practical application, focusing on inclusive and sustainable energy systems in South Africa. With a strong foundation in project management, sustainability, and systems thinking, Pheladi has developed frameworks like AKTESP to identify and address complex barriers to renewable energy integration. Passionate about just energy transitions, she actively collaborates with community stakeholders and young professionals to promote climate-smart practices. Her research aims to support national policy and planning with context-specific, data-driven insights. Pheladi’s academic journey is marked by a commitment to social equity, environmental stewardship, and innovation in energy reform. Through her interdisciplinary and impactful work, she contributes to shaping a future where energy systems are not only green and efficient but also socially resilient and inclusive.

Profile

🎓 Education

Pheladi Molepo holds a Master of Philosophy (MPhil) in Engineering Management from the University of Johannesburg, where her thesis investigated the complexity factors influencing the duration of R&D projects. Her academic training emphasizes systems thinking, sustainable development, and technical project oversight. She is currently pursuing a PhD in Engineering Management at the same university, focusing on the integration of renewable energy into South Africa’s national energy framework. Her doctoral research addresses energy transition challenges and aims to develop inclusive, context-sensitive solutions for sustainable energy reform. With an emphasis on real-world applicability and policy relevance, her academic trajectory reflects a passion for resolving systemic and social obstacles in energy governance. Pheladi’s educational background equips her with a rare blend of managerial insight and technical rigor, supporting her contributions to both academia and sustainable development goals, particularly in underrepresented communities facing energy poverty and climate vulnerability.

🧪 Experience

Pheladi Molepo brings a blend of academic insight and real-world relevance to her research in energy transition and sustainable development. As a PhD candidate, she has led and contributed to multiple research efforts focused on energy system reform, including a major project on energy transition barriers using the AKTESP framework. Although her experience primarily lies in academia, she engages extensively with stakeholders across sectors to co-develop policies and frameworks that are contextually grounded. Her applied research efforts have culminated in journal publications and a pending patent, underscoring her commitment to innovation and impact. She also actively mentors younger researchers and professionals on sustainable energy practices. Her experience reflects not only scholarly depth but also strategic thinking and systems-level problem-solving, making her a key contributor to national conversations on renewable energy adoption. Through presentations, collaborative forums, and field engagement, she continues to shape inclusive and resilient energy systems.

🏅 Awards and Honors

Although still in the early stages of her academic career, Pheladi Molepo has already made significant strides in sustainability research. Her impactful contributions in engineering management and renewable energy integration have garnered recognition in academic forums. She has published in Scopus-indexed journals and holds a patent under process, reflecting her commitment to original, problem-solving research. Nominated for the Best Researcher Award by the International Cognitive Scientist Awards, Pheladi’s work is characterized by its interdisciplinary approach and societal relevance. Her frameworks for understanding energy transition barriers are increasingly cited in discussions around equitable climate adaptation strategies. She is frequently invited to collaborate in academic and policy-related discussions on sustainability, and her leadership among young professionals in climate-related research is widely acknowledged. Her achievements demonstrate a trajectory of excellence, innovation, and community engagement, aligning her with global priorities for sustainable energy and earning her recognition as an emerging thought leader in the field.

🔬 Research Focus

Pheladi Molepo’s research focuses on advancing inclusive, sustainable energy systems by identifying and overcoming barriers to renewable energy integration in South Africa. Her PhD work utilizes a multidisciplinary methodology that combines engineering management principles, social science analysis, and stakeholder engagement to address the technical, institutional, and socio-political dimensions of energy transitions. Central to her work is the AKTESP framework, a tool she developed for systematically assessing the factors that hinder energy reform. Her research goes beyond theoretical modeling by applying grounded analysis and participatory approaches to ensure that energy policies are just, contextually relevant, and implementable. She is particularly concerned with the impact of energy transitions on vulnerable and underserved communities, ensuring their voices are integrated into the national planning process. Her work contributes significantly to the growing field of climate-smart development and supports the creation of resilient, inclusive energy systems aligned with global sustainable development goals.

✅ Conclusion

Pheladi Molepo exemplifies a new generation of cognitive scientists and engineering researchers whose interdisciplinary, socially engaged work drives inclusive and sustainable energy transitions, making her a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award in recognition of her practical innovations, academic contributions, and commitment to climate resilience.

Publications

  • Analysis of Barriers to South Africa’s Energy Transition: Perspectives from industry experts

    Energy for Sustainable Development
    2025-10 | Journal article
    DOI: 10.1016/j.esd.2025.101777
    Part ofISSN: 0973-0826
    CONTRIBUTORS: Pheladi Morufa Molepo; Khaled Aboalez; Tebello Ntsiki Don Mathaba

  • Complexity factors affecting research and development projects duration

    IEEE Technology & Engineering Management Conference (TEMSCON)
    2019-06-01 | Conference paper

  • Solar Power Plant Transformer Loss Computation under Harmonic Currents using Finite Element Method

    9th CIGRE Southern Africa Regional Conference
    2019-06-01 | Conference paper

Do Gun Kim | Environmental Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Cognitive Scientist Awards

Prof Dr. Do Gun Kim | Environmental Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Associate Professor | Sunchon National University, South korea

Dr. Do Gun Kim is an accomplished environmental engineer and Associate Professor at Sunchon National University, Republic of Korea. With over two decades of academic, research, and industry experience, his expertise spans advanced water, wastewater, and groundwater treatment technologies. Dr. Kim began his career in the private sector with Kavotech and Ssangyong Engineering before transitioning to academia, holding key positions at JEI University and Kyung Hee University. He earned his B.S. from the University of Seoul and both his M.S. and Ph.D. from KAIST in Environmental Engineering. Dr. Kim has published extensively, with over 80 peer-reviewed articles and multiple patents to his name. His research emphasizes physico-chemical treatment processes, innovative materials for pollution remediation, and non-point source pollution management. He is recognized for blending theoretical knowledge with practical applications to address environmental challenges in water quality and sustainable engineering.

Profile

🎓 Education

Dr. Kim holds a Ph.D. in Environmental Engineering from Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), completed in August 2010, where his research focused on advanced water treatment technologies. Prior to his doctorate, he earned a Master of Science degree in Environmental Engineering from KAIST in February 1996, where he developed his foundation in physico-chemical treatment processes. His academic journey began with a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Engineering from the University of Seoul, which he completed in February 1993. Throughout his educational career, Dr. Kim has demonstrated a consistent commitment to addressing complex environmental challenges, particularly in the areas of pollution control and sustainable resource management. His academic background is further strengthened by two national engineering licenses in water pollution control and noise and vibration mitigation, awarded by the Human Resources Development Service of Korea. These qualifications support his applied and interdisciplinary approach to environmental research and teaching.

🧪 Experience

Dr. Do Gun Kim is currently an Associate Professor in the Department of Environmental Engineering at Sunchon National University since July 2020. Before this, he served as a Research Professor and Postdoctoral Researcher at Kyung Hee University (2010–2020), contributing to advanced civil and environmental engineering research. He also briefly worked as an Assistant Professor at JEI University in 2016, teaching environment and health courses. Dr. Kim’s professional experience includes significant time in the private sector with companies like SIB Co., Ltd. (2009–2010), Kavotech Co., Ltd. (2003–2008), and Ssangyong Engineering & Construction Co., Ltd. (until 2002), where he worked in R&D on environmental technologies. His well-rounded background bridges both academia and industry, providing him with practical insight into environmental systems, engineering design, and pollution control. These roles have shaped his approach to research, integrating laboratory innovation with real-world environmental problem-solving.

🏅 Awards and Honors

Dr. Do Gun Kim’s academic and research excellence is reflected in his extensive publication record, with 67 international and 14 domestic journal articles, alongside 7 Korean patents and 1 PCT international patent. His innovative work in environmental engineering has contributed significantly to the advancement of water treatment technologies and pollution reduction strategies. He holds two national-level professional engineering certifications—one in water pollution technology and another in noise and vibration—issued by the Human Resources Development Service of Korea. These certifications validate his technical expertise and professional contributions to environmental management. While specific named awards are not listed, Dr. Kim’s sustained funding, prolific publications, and patents underscore his recognition and impact in the field. His roles at top Korean institutions such as KAIST, Kyung Hee University, and Sunchon National University reflect the esteem in which he is held by academic and professional communities.

🔬 Research Focus

Dr. Kim’s research is centered on advanced physico-chemical processes for water, wastewater, and groundwater treatment. He focuses on key mechanisms like adsorption, catalysis, coagulation, filtration, and advanced oxidation processes to enhance contaminant removal efficiency. His work places strong emphasis on innovative materials, including carbon-based adsorbents, nano-metallic particles, and hybrid composites tailored for environmental remediation. Additionally, Dr. Kim actively investigates methods for reducing non-point source pollution, which poses significant challenges in urban and agricultural runoff management. His integrated approach combines theoretical modeling, lab-scale experimentation, and pilot-scale application. Through interdisciplinary collaboration, he aims to develop sustainable, cost-effective, and scalable solutions for improving water quality and environmental health. His projects often explore synergies between material science, environmental chemistry, and civil engineering, thereby pushing the boundaries of traditional water treatment paradigms. This multi-dimensional focus enhances resilience and sustainability in water resource management systems.

✅ Conclusion

Dr. Do Gun Kim is a dedicated environmental engineer whose multifaceted career integrates academic research, industry experience, and innovative water treatment solutions, making him a leading figure in sustainable environmental technologies.

Publications

Nabiha NAILI | Renewable energies | Excellence in Research

Published on by Cognitive Scientist Awards

Dr. Nabiha NAILI | Renewable energies | Excellence in Research

Dr. Nabiha Naili 🇹🇳, born on 20 Jan 1974, is an Assistant Professor at the Research and Technology Center of Energy (CRTEn), Tunisia 🔬. With expertise in thermal systems and renewable energy 🌞, she contributes to sustainable solutions in heating/cooling applications. Her prolific research on ground source heat pumps and solar energy 🌍 has earned recognition both locally and internationally 🌐. She actively mentors young researchers and engineers 🧑‍🎓, participates in scientific committees 📋, and serves as a reviewer for top-tier journals 📚. Dr. Naili is known for combining simulation with experimental validation 🔧🧪, aiming to promote clean energy and climate-resilient technologies. She balances academic excellence with strong scientific leadership and international collaboration 🤝. Fluent in science and solutions, she is a pillar of innovation at CRTEn 🏛️

Profile

Education 🎓

Dr. Naili’s academic journey began with a Master in Physics in 1999 🧲, followed by an Advanced Studies Diploma in 2001 📘. Her deep dive into renewable energy and thermodynamics culminated in a Ph.D. in 2015 🎓. Her doctoral research integrated experimental methods with simulation modeling, focusing on ground source heat pump systems in Tunisia 🌍. This educational foundation empowered her to lead pioneering work in solar-assisted geothermal systems and energy-efficient technologies ☀️🌡️. She blends classical physics knowledge with applied engineering solutions 🛠️. Throughout her academic career, she has been committed to continuous learning and applying theoretical concepts to real-world energy challenges 🔬. Her education has laid the groundwork for her exceptional research and teaching activities within the fields of sustainable energy and thermal systems ♻️📖.

Experience 👨‍🏫

Since 2002, Dr. Naili has taught physics at various academic levels, eventually becoming an Assistant Professor at CRTEn 🎓. Her experience spans over two decades, involving classroom instruction, laboratory supervision, and student mentoring . She has guided 7 technician projects, 3 engineer theses, 2 master’s, and 2 Ph.D. dissertations 📘. She has reviewed papers for prestigious journals like Applied Energy and Renewable Energy 📚. A member of CRTEn’s scientific council, she also contributes to international conference committees 🌐. Her work integrates simulation tools like TRNSYS with experimental installations, enhancing national energy efficiency programs 💡. She actively participates in R&D projects involving heat exchangers, geothermal systems, and hybrid solar applications 🔧🌞. Her blend of academic insight and applied engineering makes her a key player in Tunisia’s energy innovation ecosystem 🔋.

Awards & Recognitions 🏅

While formal awards are not explicitly listed, Dr. Naili’s career is adorned with prestigious roles and peer recognition 🌟. She has been an invited speaker at ANSOLE Days 2017 🎤, reflecting her regional leadership in geothermal and solar energy. She is an elected member of CRTEn’s Scientific Council 🏛️ and has served as a Technical Program Committee member at key conferences like ICSESS 2018 and IREC 🌍. Her role as a reviewer for high-impact journals like Energy Conversion and Management and Applied Thermal Engineering is a testament to her research quality 📖. Her research articles are frequently cited, and her work has contributed to national development in renewable energy ⚡. She is celebrated for promoting clean technology and education across Tunisia and beyond 🏅.

Research Interests 🔬

Dr. Naili’s research centers on renewable energy systems, especially solar-assisted ground source heat pumps and hybrid solar technologies 🌞❄️. She has conducted experimental and simulation-based analyses on geothermal heat exchangers, passive solar heating, and building energy efficiency in North African climates 🏠🌍. Her focus lies in optimizing thermal systems for domestic and industrial applications through tools like TRNSYS and CFD modeling 🧪🧠. Her published work spans Geothermics, Applied Thermal Engineering, and Energy Conversion and Management 📚. She emphasizes economic viability, energy conservation, and exergy analysis in her projects 💸🔧. Collaborating with engineers and policymakers, she aims to integrate clean energy into Tunisia’s infrastructure sustainably ♻️. Her innovation-driven approach aligns research with climate goals, making her a key contributor to environmental resilience and green development 🌱🔬.

Publications

  • Energy and exergy analyses of a helicoidal water to air geothermal heat exchanger for arid regions

    Energy Sources, Part A: Recovery, Utilization, and Environmental Effects
    2025-12-31 | Journal article
    DOI: 10.1080/15567036.2021.1970859
    CONTRIBUTORS: Abdessamia Hadjadj; Abdelmalek Atia; Boubaker Ben haoua; Müslüm Arıcı; Nabiha Naili; Abdelmadjid Kaddour

  • Optimization and behavior result analysis of a solar assisted ground source heat pump system using TRNSYS simulation tool

    Geothermics
    2025-09 | Journal article
    DOI: 10.1016/j.geothermics.2025.103353
    CONTRIBUTORS: Nabiha Naili; Omeima Nouicer; Issam Attar; Ghofrane Mgadmi

  • Design and economic viability of a hybrid solar/gas pasteurization system for developing countries

    Case Studies in Thermal Engineering
    2025-01 | Journal article
    DOI: 10.1016/j.csite.2024.105611
    Part ofISSN: 2214-157X
    CONTRIBUTORS: Oumaima Guizani; Nabiha Naili; Bourhan Tashtoush; Sami Kooli

 

Iqra qaisar | Environmental sciences | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Cognitive Scientist Awards

Ms. Iqra qaisar | Environmental sciences | Best Researcher Award

Iqra Qaiser, from Rawalpindi, Pakistan, is a dedicated and ambitious professional with a passion for environmental sciences and education 🌱📘. Known for her structured approach and growth mindset, she continuously seeks to improve herself both personally and professionally. Her teaching journey spans across coaching institutions and schools, where she has inspired students in Biology and Chemistry for grades 9-10 🧪🧬. Iqra believes in lifelong learning and has engaged with global organizations such as WHO and WWF 🌍💡. She thrives in dynamic environments, embraces constructive feedback, and is always ready to contribute positively to her team. Iqra’s commitment to excellence and sustainability, along with her multilingual skills and leadership training, makes her a versatile and forward-thinking individual with a vision to create impactful change. 🚀🌟

Profile

Education 🎓

🎓 2020-2024: Bachelor’s in Environmental Sciences from Fatima Jinnah Women University – secured an A grade.
📚 2018-2020: F.Sc. Pre-Medical from Army Public School & College, Rawalpindi – 79%.
📘 2018: Matriculation in Sciences – scored 84%.
📜 Throughout her academic career, Iqra has remained committed to excellence, combining strong academic performance with active participation in extracurriculars and research-based events.
🧾 She earned multiple certifications in leadership, environmental awareness, communication, and global health issues from prestigious platforms like WHO, UNICEF, and Udemy.
💬 Fluent in communication and trained in risk assessment and infodemic management, she demonstrates academic versatility and a strong work ethic.
💻 Iqra’s dedication to environmental change and scientific advancement is further reflected in her participation in seminars, boot camps, and digital courses, building a well-rounded educational foundation. 🌿🌎

Experience 👨‍🏫

👩‍🏫 4 years part-time teaching Biology & Chemistry to Grades 9–10 in various coaching centers.
🏫 6 months full-time as a Biology teacher at Future Foundation School, Rawalpindi.
👩‍⚕️ 6 months as a Weekend Carer at Shifa Medical Complex, Rawalpindi – providing care & compassion.
🌍 Internship at the National Cleaner Production Centre – gaining hands-on environmental field experience.
🧠 Iqra’s teaching journey showcases her strong subject command, classroom management skills, and ability to simplify complex concepts.
👥 She brings empathy and attention to detail from her caregiver experience into education and teamwork settings.
🛠️ Equipped with Microsoft Office skills and strong time management, she’s effective both independently and collaboratively.
🌐 Frequent engagements with WHO and WWF officials have enhanced her communication, professionalism, and confidence on global platforms.
🧑‍🔬 Her diverse roles reflect her adaptability, care-driven mindset, and commitment to both education and sustainable health practices.

Awards & Recognitions 🏅

🏅 Awards & Honors (150 words):
🌟 Certificate of Appreciation – 2nd International Multidisciplinary Conference, Mehran University (2021).
🎨 WWF Poster Competition – World Pangolin Day 2023.
🗳️ Voter Education & Mass Awareness Program (2022).
🌐 WHO: COVID-19 Infodemic Management + Mass Gathering Risk Assessment (2021).
🧪 Seminar Contribution: Advancements in Biochemistry – FJWU.
👩‍💻 Participant – “Pakistani Girls Code” Workshop by Lincoln Corners, 2022.
🧠 Udemy: Leadership, ChatGPT for Work, and more (2023–2024).
🎓 UNICEF E-course – “I am in a Changing Environment” (2024).
📞 “Speak English Professionally” by Georgia Institute of Technology (2024).
🔬 Mars Multiomics Research Bootcamp – 20-day E-course (2024).
🏅 These awards highlight Iqra’s proactive learning style and engagement with global and national organizations.
📚 Her certifications reflect a balanced profile of science, leadership, digital tools, and civic participation, making her a dynamic learner.
🌿 A trailblazer with a purpose!

Research Interests 🔬

🌍 Iqra’s research interest lies at the intersection of environmental sustainability, biology, and public health.
🧫 She is especially passionate about environmental conservation, waste management, biodiversity, and climate change awareness.
🧪 Her academic background in environmental sciences enables her to explore eco-solutions through scientific analysis and hands-on projects.
💉 Participation in WHO’s public health initiatives sparked her interest in communicable diseases and community health resilience.
📊 Her involvement in digital training programs and boot camps supports her focus on data-driven environmental research.
🧬 Iqra aspires to contribute to sustainable development goals by linking fieldwork and scientific literacy in educational settings.
🌿 She’s also intrigued by the impact of biochemistry and ecology in pollution control and human wellness.
📈 Iqra is driven to bridge the gap between science education and environmental activism through meaningful, research-based community interventions.
🧠 A future researcher with purpose and potential!

Publications 

  • Impact of Air Pollution and Smog on Human Health in Pakistan: A Systematic Review

    Environments
    2025-02-03 | Journal article
    DOI: 10.3390/environments12020046
    Part of ISSN: 2076-3298
    CONTRIBUTORS: Shazia Iram; Iqra Qaisar; Dr. Rabia Shabbir; Pomee, M.S.; Matthias Schmidt; Elke Herti