Zhiwei Fan | Geology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Zhiwei Fan | Geology | Best Researcher Award

Zhi-Wei Fan is a Ph.D. candidate at Central South University, China, specializing in geochemistry and petrology with a focus on magmatic-hydrothermal systems and rare metal mineralization. He integrates micro-analytical techniques such as LA-ICP-MS, EMPA, and XRD in mineralogical research, with key interests in beryl, muscovite, tourmaline, and pegmatite-hosted critical elements. Known for academic excellence and research contributions, he has received multiple scholarships and awards for innovation, leadership, and volunteer service. His scholarly works are published in reputed journals like Ore Geology Reviews and GSA Bulletin, contributing to the understanding of crystal chemistry and ore-forming processes in pegmatites. He actively participates in national ore deposit conferences and demonstrates strong communication skills in English. With a foundation built on excellence from undergraduate through Ph.D. studies at Central South University, Fan is positioned to advance research in mineral systems and geochemical modeling.

Profile

Education 🎓

Zhi-Wei Fan completed his Bachelor’s degree in Geosciences from Central South University in 2021, where he began cultivating his academic focus on mineralogy and geochemistry. He continued at the same institution for his Master’s degree from 2021 to 2023, further refining his expertise in petrology and rare-metal-bearing pegmatites. His postgraduate education emphasized advanced geochemical tools and mineralogical techniques, which laid the groundwork for his transition into a Ph.D. program in 2023 at Central South University. Throughout his academic journey, Fan has received multiple honors for academic excellence and research performance, including high-ranking scholarships and recognition for his thesis. His comprehensive education equips him with strong theoretical knowledge and practical laboratory skills in micro-analysis, mineral crystal chemistry, and isotopic geochemistry. His education has supported active research participation in key national academic forums and contributions to high-impact geological publications, marking him as a rising scholar in ore deposit studies.

Experience 👨‍🏫

Zhi-Wei Fan has cultivated significant research and academic experience at Central South University across his undergraduate, master’s, and Ph.D. programs. His fieldwork and lab experience include mineralogical investigations in the Baishawo Be-Li-Nb-Ta pegmatite deposit, application of Rayleigh fractionation models, and characterization of critical elements using advanced techniques like LA-ICP-MS and XRD. He has presented at national conferences, including the 16th and 17th China Ore Deposits Conferences, showcasing his insights on magmatic-hydrothermal systems. Fan has also demonstrated leadership as an Outstanding Student Cadre and made contributions to public service as a volunteer during epidemic control efforts. His experience extends to interdisciplinary collaboration, analytical modeling of mineral evolution, and academic publishing. He has earned several scholarships, reflecting his consistent academic performance and research impact. As an active scholar and field researcher, he combines strong scientific methodology with critical analytical skills, making meaningful contributions to the field of economic geology.

Awards & Recognitions 🏅

Zhi-Wei Fan has been recognized with numerous academic and service honors at Central South University. He earned the Third Prize Scholarship for three consecutive years (2018, 2019, 2020), Second Prize in 2022, and the prestigious First Prize Scholarship in 2023. His leadership was honored with the “Outstanding Student Cadre” and “Outstanding Member” awards in 2020. His social contributions were acknowledged with the “Outstanding Volunteer for Epidemic Prevention and Control” award. He received the “Outstanding Thesis” award in 2021 and the “Favorite On-Site Display Project Award” at the 2021 Innovation and Entrepreneurship Conference. These awards reflect his strong academic standing, leadership capabilities, community service, and research innovation. Fan has consistently demonstrated excellence across academics, extracurricular activities, and public service, positioning him as a well-rounded and impactful scholar in the geoscience community.

Research Interests 🔬

Zhi-Wei Fan’s research focuses on the geochemistry and petrology of ore-forming systems, especially magmatic-hydrothermal environments associated with rare metal mineralization. He specializes in characterizing mineral chemistry and zonation in pegmatites to understand enrichment mechanisms of critical elements such as Li, Be, Nb, and Ta. His work employs micro-analytical tools like LA-ICP-MS, EMPA, and SC-XRD to investigate minerals like beryl, tourmaline, and garnet. Fan develops Rayleigh fractionation models to decipher the internal and regional zonation of pegmatites. He is particularly interested in crystal chemistry and fluid-rock interaction processes that govern rare metal concentration and transport. His recent publications address crystal fractionation in beryl and the genesis of granite-pegmatite systems in South China. His research contributes to decoding mineral evolution patterns and advancing resource exploration strategies for rare metal deposits, making him a promising researcher in economic geology and mineral exploration.

Publications
  • Zhiwei Fan, Yiqu Xiong. 2024. Crystallographic insights and crystal fractionation
    simulations of alkali-and water-bearing beryl: Implications for magmatic–hydrothermal
    evolution and Be enrichment mechanisms. Ore Geology Reviews, 106278

 

  • Yiqu Xiong, Zhiwei Fan. 2024. Genetic linkage between parent granite and zoned rare
    metal pegmatite in the Renli-Chuanziyuan granite-pegmatite system, South China.
    Geological Society of America Bulletin.
  • Textural and chemical characteristics of beryl from the Baishawo Be-Li-Nb-Ta pegmatite deposit, Jiangnan Orogen: Implication for rare metal pegmatite genesis

    Ore Geology Reviews
    2022-09-06 | Journal article
    Part of ISSN: 0169-1368
    CONTRIBUTORS: Zhi-Wei Fan; Xiong Yiqu; Yong-Jun Shao; Chun-Hua Wen

Behzad Zamani | Earth sciences | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Behzad Zamani | Earth sciences | Best Researcher Award

Behzad Zamani G. is a seasoned geoscientist 🌍 with expertise in tectonics, geohazards, morphotectonics, fault studies & hydrogeology 💧, combining academic excellence with over two decades of research, teaching, and applied geophysical exploration 🔎 in Iran 🇮🇷 and France 🇫🇷, contributing deeply to tectonic stress modeling and geological problem-solving 🧠.

Profile

Education 🎓

Behzad earned a Ph.D. in Geology (Tectonics) from University of Shiraz & Pierre et Marie Curie 🇫🇷 (2008) 🎯, an M.Sc. in Geology (Tectonics) from University of Tabriz 🇮🇷 (2000) 📘 focusing on seismo-tectonics & GIS 🌐, and a B.Sc. in Geology from University of Tabriz (1997) 📚, shaping a solid academic foundation in Earth sciences 🌋.

Experience 👨‍🏫

Behzad boasts a stellar academic & industry journey 🌍, serving as Associate Professor at University of Tabriz since 2008 🎓, Invited Professor at University of Strasbourg 🇫🇷 (2023-24) 📢, Research Assistant at GeoAzur Lab 🇫🇷 (2005-08) 🔬, plus over a decade in hydrogeology, geophysics & tectonic consultancy roles across Iran’s major infrastructure projects 🚧.

Awards & Recognitions 🏅

Behzad earned the highest Ph.D. dissertation grade 🥇 (2009), was recognized for a “Hot Paper” in Geodynamics 📜 (2007), secured Iran’s national Ph.D. research fund 💡 (2003), ranked 2nd in the national Ph.D. entrance exam 🧠 (2002), 1st in M.Sc. at Tabriz 🎖️ (2001), and topped Shiraz University’s Ph.D. test 📚 (2001).

Research Interests 🔬

Behzad’s research deciphers Earth’s stress fields 🌍, fault systems ⚡, morphotectonics 🏞️, hydrogeology 💧, and geohazards 🧯 using geophysical data modeling 🖥️, seismo-tectonic analysis 📊, remote sensing 🛰️ & GIS, offering vital solutions to engineering-geological challenges 🏗️ and water exploration in hard rock terrains ⛏️.

Publications
  • Present-day crustal deformation of the Caucasus and Northern Iran constrained by InSAR time series  

    2025-01-20 | Preprint
    CONTRIBUTORS: Zaur Bayramov; Renier Viltres; Cecile Doubre; Alessia Maggi; Frederic Masson; Behzad Zamani; Marie-Pierre Doin
  • Geodynamics and tectonic stress model for the Zagros fold–thrust belt and classification of tectonic stress regimes

    Marine and Petroleum Geology
    2023-09 | Journal article
    CONTRIBUTORS: Behzad Zamani G.

NC Mondal | Groundwater Exploration and Its Manangement | Best Researcher Award

Dr. NC Mondal | Groundwater Exploration and Its Manangement | Best Researcher Award

Dr. N.C. Mondal is a Principal Scientist at CSIR-National Geophysical Research Institute, Hyderabad, and an Associate Professor at AcSIR. He specializes in groundwater geophysics, hydrochemistry, aquifer modeling, and entropy theory in water resources. With over 113 research articles, he has significantly contributed to groundwater exploration and aquifer mapping. His work includes the development of innovative models for groundwater assessment and pollution estimation. A recipient of prestigious awards like the National Geoscience Award (2017) and Bharat Jyoti Award (2019), he actively collaborates with global scientific communities. 🌍📚

Profile

Education 🎓

  • High School (1991): D.S.B. Vidyalaya, Digsui 🏫

  • Intermediate (1993): C.D.K. High School, Chandrahati 🏫

  • B.Sc. (Hons.) in Physics (1996): University of Burdwan 🎓

  • M.Sc. Tech. in Exploration Geophysics (2000): Banaras Hindu University 🎓

  • Ph.D. in Groundwater Geophysics (2005): Osmania University 🎓

  • Post-Doctoral Research (2009-10): Texas A&M University, USA 🌍

Experience 👨‍🏫

Dr. Mondal is a Principal Scientist in the Electrical & Heliborne Geophysics Group at CSIR-NGRI, Hyderabad. He also serves as an Associate Professor at AcSIR. His expertise lies in groundwater exploration, hydrochemistry, and aquifer modeling. He played a pivotal role in India’s Aquifer Mapping (AQUIM) Project, utilizing electrical and heliborne geophysical surveys. He has authored 113+ research papers, 20 book chapters, and 50 technical reports and has mentored Ph.D. students and research trainees. His global collaborations have led him to present research in USA, Singapore, and Mauritius. 🌍

Awards & Recognitions 🏅

Dr. Mondal has received numerous accolades, including the BOYSCAST Fellowship (2009, DST, GoI), National Geoscience Award (2017, Ministry of Mines, GoI), Bharat Jyoti Award (2019, IIFS), Outstanding Scientist Award (2020, VDGOOD), and Best Researcher Award (2021, VDGOOD). He is a Fellow of Telangana Academy of Sciences, Geological Society of India, and AGGS. Additionally, he is Joint Secretary of AGGS and Executive Member of AHI. 🏆👏

Research Interests 🔬

Dr. Mondal’s research spans groundwater exploration, hydrochemistry, aquifer modeling, and entropy-based water resource assessments. His notable contributions include:
1️⃣ Developing a technique for groundwater potential zone estimation.
2️⃣ Creating the Saline Water Mixing Index (SWMI) for analyzing saline water interactions.
3️⃣ Innovating a method to determine natural groundwater pollution backgrounds.
4️⃣ Designing an entropy-based model for assessing natural groundwater reserves.
5️⃣ Establishing an interaction-based hydrogeological vulnerability model. His work is widely cited (Google Scholar: 4015 citations, h-index: 33, i10-index: 66). 📊💡

Publications 

Abdelmalek Drouiche | Hydrogeochemistry | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Abdelmalek Drouiche | Hydrogeochemistry | Best Researcher Award

Professor Abdelmalek Drouiche is a distinguished expert in hydrogeology, specializing in water resource management and environmental impact assessment. He holds a PhD in Applied Geology and currently serves at the University Mohamed Seddik Benyahia of Jijel, Algeria. His research focuses on groundwater quality, hydrogeochemical processes, and the environmental effects of water resource management. With a career spanning academia, research, and consultancy, he has significantly contributed to understanding water dynamics in arid and semi-arid regions. His extensive publication record includes studies in top-tier journals, reflecting his expertise in hydrogeology and environmental sciences.

Profile

Education 🎓

Professor Drouiche’s academic journey began with a Baccalaureate in Science (2000) and continued with a core curriculum in Geology (2000-2003) at the University of Annaba. He specialized in Hydrogeology (2003-2005) and earned an Engineer’s Diploma in Applied Geology (2005), researching artificial aquifer recharge. His Magister (2008) in Hydrogeology focused on wastewater impact on groundwater. In 2014, he completed his PhD in Applied Geology, investigating water table rise impacts on the environment and aquifers in the Souf region. His academic background has provided him with a strong foundation in hydrogeology, water resource management, and environmental sustainability, shaping his expertise in addressing critical water-related challenges.

Experience 👨‍🏫

Professor Drouiche began his career as an Engineer at the Water Resources Department of Skikda (2008-2009). He then served as a Research Associate at the Centre for Scientific and Technical Research on Arid Regions (2009-2012), contributing to studies on water resource management in arid environments. Since 2012, he has been a Research Professor at the University Mohamed Seddik Benyahia of Jijel, where he teaches, supervises research, and conducts extensive studies on hydrogeology and groundwater quality. His professional journey reflects his commitment to advancing water resource sustainability, combining field research, academic leadership, and environmental consultancy to address pressing hydrogeological challenges.

Awards & Recognitions 🏅

Professor Drouiche has received numerous recognitions for his contributions to hydrogeology and environmental sciences. His work on groundwater assessment, hydrogeochemical modeling, and water quality management has been acknowledged in prestigious scientific communities. His publications in top journals, conference presentations, and collaborations with international researchers highlight his impact in the field. His dedication to advancing hydrogeology has earned him research grants, institutional awards, and invitations to contribute to global water resource discussions. His commitment to sustainability and scientific excellence continues to shape water management strategies in Algeria and beyond.

Research Interests 🔬

Professor Drouiche specializes in hydrogeology, water quality assessment, and environmental hydrogeochemistry. His research explores groundwater contamination, hydrogeochemical modeling, and the effects of human activities on water resources. He investigates the impact of wastewater on aquifers, water table fluctuations, and the hydrochemical processes governing water systems in arid and semi-arid regions. His studies contribute to sustainable water management, focusing on improving water quality for domestic, agricultural, and industrial use. By integrating field studies, laboratory analyses, and computational modeling, he provides valuable insights into groundwater sustainability, environmental conservation, and climate resilience.

Publications 

Wanli Xie | ​Geological Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Wanli Xie | ​Geological Engineering | Best Researcher Award

📌 Wanli Xie, Ph.D. is a Full Professor and Doctoral Supervisor at Northwest University, China. He directs the Key Laboratory of Loess Dynamic Disaster Prevention and Low-Carbon Remediation and the Research Center for Loess Dynamic Disasters and Ecological Restoration Technologies. A visiting scholar at the University of Colorado Boulder, USA, his expertise spans bulk solid waste treatment, mine environmental restoration, green carbon sequestration, and loess collapsibility. His research has led to national engineering standards, disaster prediction models, and eco-friendly geotechnical innovations. With over 70 publications, 14 patents, and multiple national awards, Dr. Xie plays a key role in geotechnical engineering, geosynthetics, and ecological restoration. He is an active member of international geotechnical societies, an advisor to Shaanxi’s geological disaster prevention, and a leader in geotechnical education and research. 🌍🏗

Profile

Education 🎓

🎓 Ph.D. in Geological Engineering (2004) – Northwest University, China 🏛
🎓 M.S. in Hydraulic Engineering (2001) – Kunming University of Science and Technology 💧
🎓 B.S. in Hydrogeology & Engineering Geology (1997) – Xi’an Engineering University (now Chang’an University) 🌍

Dr. Xie’s education laid the foundation for his expertise in geotechnical engineering, geological hazard prevention, and soil mechanics. His doctoral research focused on loess collapsibility mechanisms and deformation modeling, which later contributed to national railway subgrade standards. His master’s studies in hydraulic engineering provided insights into water-soil interactions, while his undergraduate work in hydrogeology strengthened his understanding of geotechnical risk assessment. His multidisciplinary background supports his contributions to sustainable land restoration, reinforced soil mechanics, and disaster mitigation. 📚🔬

Experience 👨‍🏫

👨‍🏫 Full Professor & Doctoral Supervisor – Northwest University (Present)
🔬 Director, Key Laboratory of Loess Dynamic Disaster Prevention
🌿 Director, Research Center for Loess Dynamic Disasters & Ecological Restoration Technologies
🌎 Visiting Scholar – University of Colorado Boulder, USA
🏗 Expert, Shaanxi Provincial Geological Disaster Prevention Group
🌍 Advisor, Qinling Ecological Conservation Expert Committee

Dr. Xie has pioneered multi-scale analysis of loess collapsibility, developed eco-flexible geosynthetic walls, and optimized loess stabilization techniques. His work has improved railway infrastructure, reduced disaster risks, and promoted sustainable restoration. He has also led international accreditation for NWU’s Geological Engineering Program and contributed to national geotechnical standards. His mentorship has produced award-winning students, shaping the next generation of engineers. 🚆🏔

Awards & Recognitions 🏅

🏅 Leading Talent in Sci-Tech Innovation – Shaanxi Special Support Program (2021)
🏆 Shaanxi Provincial Teaching Master (2023)
🔬 Young & Middle-Aged Leading Sci-Tech Talent – Shaanxi (2019)
🥇 National Second Prize for Science and Technology Progress (2020, Rank 4)
🥈 Shaanxi Provincial First Prize for Technological Invention (2019, Rank 2)

Dr. Xie’s pioneering research in loess collapsibility, geotechnical stability, and ecological restoration has been recognized at the national and provincial levels. His contributions to railway subgrade stability and green remediation earned him top scientific and engineering awards. As a renowned educator, he has also been honored for his excellence in teaching and mentorship. 🏅📚🔬

Research Interests 🔬

🧪 Bulk Solid Waste Treatment & Mine Environmental Restoration
🌱 Green Carbon Sequestration & Ecological Remediation
🏗 Reinforced/Improved Soils & Loess Collapsibility
🔬 Multi-Scale Mechanisms of Loess Mechanical Behavior
⚠️ Geological Hazard Prevention & Disaster Prediction

Dr. Xie’s research integrates geotechnical engineering, environmental restoration, and sustainable development. He has developed predictive models for loess deformation, innovated eco-friendly geotechnical materials, and pioneered smart monitoring systems for disaster prevention. His work directly supports climate resilience, infrastructure stability, and sustainable land management. 🌏📡🚧

Publications 

  • Publications(Selected, 70+ Total)
    1. Gao, X., Xie, W.* et al. (2025).Soil& Tillage Research 251:106548. (Top Journal)
    2. Xie, W., Li, P. et al. (2018).CATENA 173:276–288. (SCI Q1)
    3. Zhu, Y., Xie, W.* et al. (2023).Gondwana Research 166:162–180. (SCI Q1)
    4. Xie, W., Guo, Q. et al. (2021).Advances in Civil Engineering 8819015.
    5. Xie, W., Wang, J. (2006).Reinforced Loess Stability Analysis. Shaanxi Science Press. (Monograph)

    Patents: 14 authorized inventions, including:

    • In-situ loess strength testing device (ZL202411473412.7, 2024)
    • Eco-flexible geosynthetic retaining wall system (ZL202410289406.X, 2024)

Faouzi Zahi | Hydrogeochemisty | Best Researcher Award

Prof Dr. Faouzi Zahi | Hydrogeochemisty | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Faouzi Zahi is a hydrogeologist and research professor at the University of Jijel, Algeria. His expertise spans applied geology, hydrogeology, and geosciences. He has contributed significantly to groundwater studies, environmental geology, and sustainable water resource management. With a research-driven career, he has led and participated in multiple national and international projects. Dr. Zahi has held leadership roles, including Head of the Department of Earth and Universe Sciences. His extensive publication record includes numerous journal articles, book chapters, and conference presentations. He is actively involved in research collaborations, focusing on hydrogeological modeling, water quality assessment, and aquifer vulnerability studies. 🌍🔬

Profile

Education 🎓

Dr. Zahi earned his Baccalauréat in Natural and Life Sciences (2000), a State Engineer degree in Applied Geology with a specialization in Hydrogeology (2005), and a Magister in Hydrogeology (2008). He completed his PhD in Geology (Hydrogeology) in 2014, further advancing his expertise in groundwater studies and geosciences. In 2021, he achieved university habilitation, recognizing his academic and research contributions. His educational journey has equipped him with a deep understanding of hydrogeological  processes, sustainable water management, and environmental geology. He has continuously expanded his knowledge through participation in research projects, training programs, and interdisciplinary collaborations. 🎓🌊

Experience 👨‍🏫

Dr. Zahi began his career as a Research Associate at CRSTRA-Biskra (2009–2011), contributing to hydrogeological research. Since 2011, he has been a research professor at the University of Jijel, where he teaches and supervises students. From 2015 to 2017, he served as Head of the Department of Earth and Universe Sciences. He has actively participated in various research projects, including FNR, CNEPRU, PRIMA, and PRFU initiatives. His work focuses on groundwater modeling, aquifer vulnerability, and sustainable water resource management. He has authored numerous scientific publications, book chapters, and conference papers, contributing to hydrogeology and environmental sciences. 🏫🔍

Awards & Recognitions 🏅

Dr. Zahi has received several accolades for his contributions to hydrogeology and environmental sciences. His research has been recognized through awards, invitations to international conferences, and funding grants for hydrogeological studies. He has been actively involved in national and international research programs, further enhancing his academic impact. His contributions to groundwater sustainability, environmental protection, and scientific advancements have earned him recognition among his peers. His work continues to influence hydrogeological research and sustainable water resource management. 🏅🌍

Research Interests 🔬

Dr. Zahi specializes in hydrogeology, groundwater modeling, and aquifer vulnerability assessment. His research aims to improve water resource management, assess groundwater quality, and develop sustainable solutions for arid and semi-arid regions. He has contributed to multiple research projects focusing on hydrogeochemical processes, pollution mitigation, and the impact of climate change on water resources. His work integrates field studies, numerical modeling, and geospatial analysis to enhance groundwater sustainability. His interdisciplinary approach helps address critical environmental challenges, ensuring the efficient use and conservation of water resources. 💧🌿

Publications