Fotis Rigas | Chemical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Fotis Rigas | Chemical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

School of Chemical Engineering, National Technical University of Athens, Greece

👨‍🎓Profiles

👨‍🎓 Early Academic Foundation

Prof. Dr. Fotis Rigas was born in Athens, Greece, where he pursued his early education before enrolling at the National Technical University of Athens (NTUA) to complete his MSc in Chemical Engineering. His academic curiosity and passion for science led him to further achieve a Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering from the same institution. To enhance his interdisciplinary knowledge, he also obtained a Master’s degree in Sanitary Engineering from the National School of Public Health (Greece).

🧪 Professional Trajectory and Industry Expertise

Dr. Rigas began his career as a Production and R&D Engineer at the Greek Powder Company, an ammunition and explosives manufacturer. He expanded his knowledge globally through specialized training in slurry explosives in the United States under the guidance of Prof. Melvin Cook of Utah University. Over the decades, he contributed as a consultant to several engineering and industrial firms in Greece, addressing challenges in pollution control, water chemistry, and gas enterprises. These roles solidified his expertise in chemical engineering applications within high-risk and regulated industries.

🎓 Academic Career and Teaching Excellence

Prof. Rigas held a long and distinguished academic tenure at the Department of Chemical Engineering, NTUA, rising through the ranks from Lecturer to Associate Professor. He also served as a Visiting Professor at esteemed institutions such as the Greek Fire Brigade Academy, the National School of Public Health (Greece and France), and the National Autonomous University of Mexico. His teaching portfolio is vast, covering subjects like Organic Chemical Technology, Science and Technology of Explosives, Environmental Science and Technology, Occupational Health and Safety, Polymer Science, Remediation of Contaminated Sites, and Quantitative Risk Analysis. His international experience in education enriched the learning experience for students across disciplines and continents.

🔬 Research Interests and Scientific Focus

Currently active as an independent author and researcher, Prof. Rigas continues to contribute to high-impact areas in environmental and chemical engineering. His research focuses on:

  1. Process safety and loss prevention – ensuring safer chemical processing systems.

  2. Fungal bioremediation – using fungi to clean contaminated environmental sites.

  3. Bacterial remediation of stone monuments – protecting cultural heritage using microbiological methods.

🌍 Multilingual and Multidisciplinary

Fluent in Greek (native), English, and French, Dr. Rigas has effectively communicated his research and teachings across borders, supporting international academic and industrial collaboration. His ability to work in diverse linguistic and cultural environments has strengthened his role as a global educator and innovator.

🏛️ Legacy and Continued Influence

Now retired from NTUA, Prof. Dr. Fotis Rigas remains active as an independent author, sharing his extensive knowledge through publications, collaborations, and mentoring. His career spans decades of academic leadership, scientific innovation, and industrial consultation. A pioneer in the fields of explosive safety, environmental remediation, and occupational health, his contributions continue to influence chemical engineering education and sustainable environmental practices worldwide.

📖Notable Publications

Adsorption of humic acid on acid-activated Greek bentonite
Authors: D Doulia, C Leodopoulos, K Gimouhopoulos, F Rigas
Journal: Journal of Colloid and Interface Science, Volume 340 (2), Pages 131–141
Citations: 250
Year: 2009

Hazards, safety and knowledge gaps on hydrogen transmission via natural gas grid: A critical review
Authors: Z Labidine Messaoudani, F Rigas, M.D.B. Hamid, C.R.C. Hassan
Journal: International Journal of Hydrogen Energy, Volume 41 (39), Pages 17511–17525
Citations: 214
Year: 2016

Validation of turbulence models in heavy gas dispersion over obstacles
Authors: S Sklavounos, F Rigas
Journal: Journal of Hazardous Materials, Volume 108 (1–2), Pages 9–20
Citations: 209
Year: 2004

Estimation of safety distances in the vicinity of fuel gas pipelines
Authors: S Sklavounos, F Rigas
Journal: Journal of Loss Prevention in the Process Industries, Volume 19 (1), Pages 24–31
Citations: 207
Year: 2006

Evaluation of hazards associated with hydrogen storage facilities
Authors: F Rigas, S Sklavounos
Journal: International Journal of Hydrogen Energy, Volume 30 (13–14), Pages 1501–1510
Citations: 175
Year: 2005

Erika Alves Tavares Marques | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Erika Alves Tavares Marques | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Federal University of Pernambuco, Brazil

👨‍🎓Profiles

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Érika Alves Tavares Marques began her academic journey with a strong foundation in biology and environmental management. Her advanced studies led her to specialize in Environmental Management and Control, followed by a master’s degree in Environmental Technology. Pursuing her passion for interdisciplinary research, she earned her doctorate in Development and Environment (PRODEMA), focusing on innovative approaches to environmental sustainability.

💼 Professional Endeavors

Currently a Postdoctoral Researcher at the Federal University of Pernambuco in Brazil, She contributes to significant advancements in environmental science and technology. Her expertise spans water quality, solid waste management, and sustainable environmental practices. She also holds a position on the editorial boards of numerous international journals, solidifying her influence in the field.

🌍 Contributions and Research Focus

Her research emphasizes integrated environmental management systems, particularly in the semi-arid regions of Brazil. Her projects have tackled pressing issues like adaptive governance and water security under the climate emergency, showcasing her dedication to bridging the gap between research and practical environmental solutions.

🌟 Impact and Influence

She has spearheaded multiple groundbreaking projects, including the development of decision support systems for environmental management and integrated water management models under climate change scenarios. These efforts have not only addressed critical regional challenges but also set benchmarks for global environmental governance.

📖 Academic Citations

With an extensive research portfolio, Her contributions are well-recognized in the academic community. Her citation index reflects the widespread impact of her work on sustainable environmental practices and water resource management.

💻 Technical Skills

She possesses advanced expertise in environmental monitoring, data analysis, and ecosystem modeling. Her skills enable her to develop innovative tools and methodologies for assessing and addressing ecological challenges.

🎓 Teaching Experience

Beyond research, She is dedicated to mentoring and teaching. She has contributed to developing future environmental leaders by guiding students and participating in educational programs that promote awareness of sustainable practices.

🏆 Legacy and Future Contributions

Her legacy is defined by her commitment to sustainability and innovation. She continues to focus on adaptive governance strategies, particularly in managing water resources amidst climate challenges. Her ongoing research into the female presence in the food-water-energy nexus within the Caatinga biome underscores her dedication to inclusive and impactful environmental solutions.

📚 Publications and Editorial Roles

She has authored influential works, such as Piscicultura e Sistema de Wetland Construída no Semiárido (2018), and serves on the editorial boards of esteemed journals like the International Journal of Hydrology. Her prolific contributions have shaped discussions on environmental management and sustainability globally.

🤝 Professional Memberships

As a member of the CRBio 5 (Regional Biology Council 5th Region), She actively participates in advancing the biology and environmental science professions. Her collaborations with journals and organizations further emphasize her leadership and influence.

🚀 Vision for the Future

With a strong foundation in environmental research and practical applications, She aims to enhance global sustainability practices. Her focus on adaptive and integrated management systems will continue to drive meaningful change, ensuring a resilient and equitable future for ecosystems and communities worldwide.

📖Notable Publications

Application of Building Information Modelling in Construction and Demolition Waste Management: Systematic Review and Future Trends Supported by a Conceptual Framework

Authors: Lins, E.J.M.; Palha, R.P.; Sobral, M.D.C.M.; Araújo, A.G.D.; Marques, É.A.T.

Journal: Sustainability (Switzerland)

Year: 2024

Spatial-temporal evaluation of water quality in Brazilian semiarid reservoirs

Authors: Rossiter, K.W.L.; Marques, E.A.T.; Ricardo De, C.; Elena Matta, O.; Morais, M.M.

Journal: Water Practice and Technology

Year: 2020

Master plans in articulation of water resource management with land use around reservoirs

Authors: Calado, T.O.; Cardoso, A.S.; Marques, É.A.T.; Sobral, M.D.C.

Journal: Revista Brasileira de Geografia Fisica

Year: 2020

Management of tropical river basins and reservoirs under water stress: Experiences from northeast Brazil

Authors: Marques, É.T.; Gunkel, G.; Sobral, M.C.

Journal: Environments - MDPI

Year: 2019

Assessing the negative impact of an aquaculture farm on effluent water quality in Itacuruba, Pernambuco, Brazilian semiarid region

Authors: Marques, E.A.T.; Da Silva, G.M.N.; De Oliveira, C.R.; Cunha, M.C.C.; Do Carmo Sobral, M.

Journal: Water Science and Technology

Year: 2018