Obinna Chigoziem Akakuru | Environmental Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Analytical Chemistry

Assist. Prof. Dr. Obinna Chigoziem Akakuru | Environmental Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Federal University of Technology – Owerri, Nigeria

👨‍🎓Profiles

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Assist. Prof. Dr. Obinna Chigoziem Akakuru began his academic journey with a strong foundation in the geosciences, focusing on hydrogeology and hydrology during his formative years. His early academic success was marked by securing the prestigious TETFund Full Ph.D. Scholarship in 2014, enabling him to pursue advanced research in groundwater systems and environmental studies. His commitment to academic excellence was further reinforced through the Engr. Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu Grant for Ph.D. studies (2015), which supported his doctoral research in hydrogeochemistry and water resource management.

🧑‍💼 Professional Endeavors

Currently serving as an Assistant Professor at the Federal University of Technology – Owerri, Nigeria, Dr. Akakuru has established himself as a key figure in the geosciences community. His role involves conducting cutting-edge research, mentoring students, and contributing to the advancement of knowledge in water resources and environmental sustainability. His professional career is also marked by collaborations on national and international projects, emphasizing hydrogeological modeling, pollution assessment, and the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) in solving complex environmental problems.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Akakuru’s research portfolio is interdisciplinary, bridging hydrogeology, hydrology, hydrogeochemistry, and pollution modeling with emerging technologies like artificial intelligence and machine learning. His work addresses pressing issues such as sustainable groundwater management, environmental contamination, and geostatistical modeling for optimal resource utilization. He is particularly renowned for his contributions to groundwater exploitation and management in southeastern Nigeria, a project that secured him a $63,000 grant from the TETFund National Research Fund (2023).

🌍 Impact and Influence

Dr. Akakuru’s research has far-reaching impacts, particularly in regions facing water scarcity and environmental degradation. His models for pollution control and petroleum geology have informed both academic discussions and policy-making decisions. By integrating AI and machine learning techniques into geoscience applications, he has introduced innovative methodologies for groundwater modeling, water quality prediction, and environmental risk assessment, positioning himself as a forward-thinking scholar in the global geoscience community.

📚 Academic Citations

With numerous peer-reviewed publications, Dr. Akakuru’s research is widely cited in hydrogeology, environmental science, and geoinformatics literature. His work is contributing to the growing body of knowledge on sustainable water resource management and pollution modeling, making significant academic contributions to both theoretical and applied research domains.

🛠️ Technical Skills

Dr. Akakuru possesses a diverse technical skill set, including hydrogeological mapping, geostatistical analysis, AI/ML-based environmental modeling, and pollution risk assessment. His expertise extends to the application of software tools for spatial analysis and modeling, such as GIS platforms, statistical software, and machine learning frameworks, enabling data-driven insights into environmental processes.

👨‍🏫 Teaching Experience

As an Assistant Professor, Dr. Akakuru is actively involved in teaching and mentoring undergraduate and postgraduate students in areas such as hydrogeology, water resources management, geostatistics, and environmental science. His pedagogical approach emphasizes critical thinking, research-based learning, and the practical application of geoscientific principles. Many of his students have gone on to make notable contributions in academia and the water resources industry.

🏆 Awards and Recognitions

Dr. Akakuru’s dedication to research excellence has earned him prestigious awards and funding, including the NCIPC Grant (2024) valued at $125,000 annually for five years, for his role in the Fairfield Heritage Prevention Coalition. These recognitions underscore his commitment to community-centered research and public health initiatives.

🚀 Legacy and Future Contributions

Looking ahead, Dr. Akakuru aims to expand his research on climate-resilient groundwater management, AI-powered hydrogeological modeling, and environmental pollution mitigation strategies. He aspires to influence water policy formulation and environmental sustainability practices both in Nigeria and globally. Through his academic and professional journey, Dr. Akakuru continues to inspire the next generation of scientists while driving forward innovative solutions to environmental challenges.

📖Notable Publications

Publication: Hydrogeochemical facies and pollution status of groundwater resources of Owerri and environs, Southeastern Nigeria
Authors: OC Akakuru, B Akudinobi, AI Opara, SO Onyekuru, OU Akakuru
Journal: Environmental Monitoring and Assessment 193, 1-26
Year: 2021

Publication: The chemistry of chitin and chitosan justifying their nanomedical utilities
Authors: OU Akakuru, H Louis, PI Amos, OC Akakuru, EI Nosike, EF Ogulewe
Journal: Biochem Pharmacol (Los Angel) 7 (241), 2167-0501.1000241
Year: 2018

Publication: Hydrogeochemical evolution, water quality indices, irrigation suitability and pollution index of groundwater (PIG) around Eastern Niger Delta, Nigeria
Authors: OC Akakuru, CU Eze, OC Okeke, AI Opara, AO Usman, O Iheme, …
Journal: International Journal of Energy and Water Resources, 1-23
Year: 2022

Publication: Hydrochemical characterization of abandoned quarry and mine water for domestic and irrigation uses in Abakaliki, southeast Nigeria
Authors: MO Eyankware, PN Obasi, OO Omo-Irabor, OC Akakuru
Journal: Modeling Earth Systems and Environment 6, 2465-2485
Year: 2020

Publication: Appraisal of groundwater to risk contamination near an abandoned limestone quarry pit in Nkalagu, Nigeria, using enrichment factor and statistical approaches
Authors: MO Eyankware, OC Akakuru
Journal: International Journal of Energy and Water Resources 7 (4), 603-621
Year: 2023

Zhongchuang Liu | Environmental Chemistry | Chemical Environmental Award

Published on by Analytical Chemistry

Dr. Zhongchuang Liu | Environmental Chemistry | Chemical Environmental Award

Chongqing Electric Power College, China

👨‍🎓Profiles

🎓 Academic Background

Dr. Zhongchuang Liu is a distinguished environmental scientist specializing in ecological restoration, environmental quality assessment, and biological resource utilization. He holds a Ph.D. in Environmental Science and Engineering and is currently based at the Department of Environmental Engineering Technology, College of Power Engineering, Chongqing Electric Power College, China. His research focuses on developing sustainable solutions for environmental remediation and resource management, contributing to cleaner ecosystems and improved environmental policies.

🌱 Research Areas and Expertise

Dr. Liu’s expertise encompasses several critical areas in environmental science. His work in ecological restoration involves the phytoremediation of heavy metal-contaminated soil and polluted water bodies, utilizing plants to naturally cleanse ecosystems. His research in environmental quality assessment includes regional water and soil monitoring, investigating soil microenvironment changes, and assessing the ecological impact and risks of environmental pollutants. Additionally, his studies in biological resource utilization focus on the preparation and application of plant biomass charcoal and the sustainable disposal of vegetable and fruit waste, promoting a circular economy and reducing environmental pollution.

🎤 Conference Leadership and Contributions

Dr. Liu plays a key role in the international scientific community by leading discussions on environmental remediation and waste management. As the Chair of the International Symposium on Environmental Remediation and Sustainable Development (ERSD 2023), he guided expert discussions on innovative strategies for environmental sustainability. He has also served on the committee for the 6th International Conference on Recycling and Waste Management (2023), contributing his expertise in sustainable waste treatment and recycling technologies. His leadership in these conferences has facilitated the exchange of knowledge and advancements in environmental protection.

📝 Editorial Roles in Scientific Journals

In addition to his research contributions, Dr. Liu holds significant editorial positions in scientific publishing, ensuring the dissemination of high-quality research in environmental science. He serves as an Editorial Board Member for Plos One, a Lead Guest Editor for Environmental Science and Pollution Research, a Primary Guest Editor for JoVE – Journal of Visualized Experiments, and a Section Editor for Special Issues in Letters in Organic Chemistry. Through his editorial work, he supports the publication of innovative research in ecological restoration, pollution control, and sustainable development, fostering scientific progress in these fields.

🌍 Impact and Future Contributions

Dr. Liu’s research has a profound impact on environmental sustainability, bridging scientific innovation with practical solutions for ecosystem restoration and resource management. His work has contributed to the development of effective phytoremediation techniques, improved ecological risk assessment methodologies, and promoted sustainable waste management strategies. Looking ahead, he aims to enhance the efficiency of phytoremediation technologies, develop advanced environmental monitoring systems, and promote sustainable practices in waste management to further contribute to global environmental conservation efforts.

📖Notable Publications

Co-hydrothermal carbonization of styrofoam and sawdust: fuel properties evaluation and effect of water recirculation on hydrochar properties

Authors: N. Sultana, Nasrin; M. Atikul Islam, Md; Z.C. Liu, Zhong Chuang; B.H. Hameed, Bassim H.; M.A. Islam, Md Azharul

Journal: Biomass Conversion and Biorefinery

Year: 2025

Role of metal and non-metal dopants in modulating g-C3N4 for photocatalytic applications

Authors: R. Muhammad, Rizwan; A. Zada, Amir; S. Azizi, Shohreh; Z.C. Liu, Zhong Chuang; M.H. Eisa, M. H.

Journal: International Journal of Hydrogen Energy

Year: 2025

Control strategies for microplastic pollution in groundwater

Authors: Z.C. Liu, Zhong Chuang; A.U.R. Bacha, Aziz Ur Rahim; L. Yang, Lei

Journal: Environmental Pollution

Year: 2023

Emmanuel Kwaku Manu | Environmental Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Analytical Chemistry

Dr. Emmanuel Kwaku Manu | Environmental Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

University of New England, Australia

👨‍🎓Profiles

Early Academic Pursuits 🎓

Emmanuel Kwaku Manu embarked on his academic journey with a solid foundation in Economics and Entrepreneurship Development Studies at the University for Development Studies, Ghana, where he earned his B.A. in 2012. His quest for knowledge led him to further his studies at the Lobachevsky State University of Nizhny Novgorod, Russia, where he earned his MHons in 2018. His academic pursuits culminated in 2024 when he completed his Ph.D. in Economics at the University of New England, Australia, showcasing his dedication to the field of economics and research.

Professional Endeavors 💼

Emmanuel has gained diverse teaching and professional experience, with his academic career spanning multiple countries and institutions. He has been a Casual Lecturer at the University of New England, Australia, where he taught various courses in Business Analytics, Macroeconomics, and Analytics for Business Research. Additionally, he has worked in several professional roles, including research internships with organizations like Action Aid Ghana and monitoring roles with the International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI). His work in these organizations demonstrates a broad interest in economic development, social issues, and policy implementation.

Contributions and Research Focus 🔬

Emmanuel’s research interests are rooted in applied microeconomics, macroeconomics, econometrics, and health economics. He also explores energy economics, financial economics, and entrepreneurship. His research has contributed to understanding key economic trends and is instrumental in examining the effects of energy policies on economic growth. Emmanuel's work has practical implications for the management and entrepreneurship sectors, particularly in emerging economies. His broad research focus is aligned with his career goal of driving socio-economic change through impactful economic strategies.

Impact and Influence 🌍

Emmanuel has made significant strides in his field, presenting at international conferences such as the People Events-Climate Change and Sustainability conference in Italy in 2023. His work, particularly in health economics and energy economics, continues to influence both academic and policy-making circles. Through his roles in conferences and research, Emmanuel has contributed to the growing dialogue around sustainable energy policies and economic development, especially in the African context.

Academic Cites 📚

Although Emmanuel has recently completed his Ph.D., his academic journey has already earned recognition within the academic community. His research has not only been presented at global conferences but is also cited in discussions around economic modeling, sustainable energy economics, and entrepreneurship. His work is expected to generate more citations as his contributions to the field continue to grow and evolve.

Technical Skills 💻

Emmanuel is proficient in several analytical software tools, which are essential for data analysis and economic modeling. These tools include SPSS, STATA, E-VIEWS, and R-programming software, which he has applied in his research and teaching. Additionally, his proficiency in Microsoft Office tools such as Word, Excel, and PowerPoint highlights his ability to present complex data and research in an accessible format to diverse audiences.

Teaching Experience 📖

Emmanuel has been an educator at various levels, with a notable role as a Casual Lecturer at the University of New England. His courses, such as Introduction to Business Analytics, Macroeconomics, and Business Research Analytics, reflect his ability to bridge theoretical knowledge with practical applications in economics. His teaching experience also spans multiple countries, with roles as a Teaching Assistant in China and Ghana, providing him with a broad, international perspective on education.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🔮

Looking ahead, Emmanuel is committed to continuing his academic and professional journey. With a strong foundation in economics and a growing body of work, his future contributions are poised to influence economic policy, particularly in the areas of health, energy, and entrepreneurship. As he moves forward, Emmanuel is dedicated to mentoring students and driving the development of innovative economic strategies that will help address pressing global challenges. Through his ongoing research and teaching, Emmanuel aims to leave a lasting legacy in the fields of economics and sustainable development.

📖Notable Publications

Achieving environmental sustainability in Africa: The role of financial institutions development on carbon emissions

Authors: Chen, G.S.; Manu, E.K.; Asante, D.

Journal: Sustainable Development

Year: 2023

Examining Finance-Growth Nexus: Empirical Evidence From the Sub-Regional Economies of Africa

Authors: Haibo, C.; Manu, E.K.; Somuah, M.

Journal: SAGE Open

Year: 2023

Economic Growth and Environmental Quality: Analysis of Government Expenditure and the Causal Effect

Authors: Donkor, M.; Kong, Y.; Manu, E.K.; Ntarmah, A.H.; Appiah-Twum, F.

Journal: International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health

Year: 2022

The impact of banks’ financial performance on environmental performance in Africa

Authors: Haibo, C.; Manu, E.K.

Journal: Environmental Science and Pollution Research

Year: 2022

Regional heterogeneities in the absorptive capacity of renewable energy deployment in Africa

Authors: Manu, E.K.; Chen, G.S.; Asante, D.

Journal: Renewable Energy

Year: 2022