Vaishali Sahu | Environmental Engineering | Women Researcher Award

Dr. Vaishali Sahu | Environmental Engineering | Women Researcher Award

The NorthCap University, India

👨‍🎓Profiles

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Vaishali Sahu embarked on her academic journey with a Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering from SGSITS, Indore, laying the foundation for her expertise in engineering. She further specialized in Environmental Engineering by obtaining a Master’s degree from IIT Roorkee, one of India’s premier institutions. Her commitment to academic excellence culminated in a Ph.D. from The NorthCap University, Gurgaon, where she delved deeper into sustainable waste management and environmental engineering.

💼 Professional Endeavors

With over 16 years of experience, Dr. Sahu has established herself as a leader in academics, research, and administration. She currently holds the position of Associate Head and Associate Professor in the Department of Multidisciplinary Engineering at The NorthCap University, Gurgaon, Haryana. Additionally, she plays a crucial role as the Deputy Director of the Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC), ensuring academic and research excellence at the university.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Sahu’s research interests span across solid and liquid waste management, sustainable waste management, water and wastewater treatment, pollution control, and environmental geotechnology. Her research and teaching contributions have significantly influenced advancements in waste recycling, resource management, and environmental sustainability.

She has:
✔️ Published over 42 research articles in renowned national and international journals.
✔️ Authored 2 books in the field of environmental engineering.
✔️ Presented 22+ research papers at prestigious conferences worldwide.
✔️ Supervised 4 Ph.D. theses, 20 M.Tech dissertations, and 20+ B.Tech projects focused on sustainable environmental solutions.
✔️ Currently guiding 10 Ph.D. scholars at The NorthCap University.

📊 Impact and Influence

Dr. Sahu’s contributions extend beyond academia into policy and practical applications of waste and water management. Her expertise has been recognized through research funding, including:
✅ DST-funded project (₹25.41 lakhs) – “Experimental and Numerical Study of Single Pile Capacity Adjacent to Existing Buried Pipe System” (Completed in 2020).
✅ Two international projects ($15,900) – Funded by Cintana Education in collaboration with universities from Mexico, Peru, and Egypt.

Her role as a reviewer for reputed international journals further highlights her influence in shaping research trends in environmental sustainability.

📚 Academic Citations and Recognition

Dr. Sahu’s work has garnered significant academic citations due to its impact in the domain of environmental engineering and sustainability. Her research findings have been referenced in multiple studies, contributing to policy frameworks, industrial applications, and further innovations in waste management and pollution control.

🛠️ Technical Skills

Dr. Sahu is proficient in:
✔️ Solid and Liquid Waste Management Techniques
✔️ Water and Wastewater Treatment Processes
✔️ Environmental Geotechnology
✔️ Air Pollution Control Strategies
✔️ Sustainable Infrastructure Planning

🎓 Teaching Experience

As an educator, Dr. Sahu has been instrumental in mentoring students and fostering research-driven learning. Her teaching experience includes:
📌 Guiding students in sustainable waste management and environmental conservation projects.
📌 Providing hands-on training in resource recycling and water purification technologies.
📌 Encouraging multidisciplinary approaches in civil and environmental engineering.

🌎 Legacy and Future Contributions

Beyond academia, Dr. Sahu is deeply committed to social and community development. She strongly advocates for volunteering and community engagement, emphasizing the importance of environmental awareness. Through her initiatives at NCU, she is shaping a community of responsible and environmentally conscious individuals.

Her future contributions are poised to drive:
🌍 Sustainable urban development through innovative waste management solutions.
🔬 Cutting-edge research in water treatment and pollution mitigation.
📘 Policy recommendations for improving environmental regulations.
👩‍🎓 Student-led research projects with real-world environmental impact.

📖Notable Publications

Stabilization of fly ash and lime sludge composites: Assessment of its performance as base course material

Authors: V Sahu, A Srivastava, AK Misra, AK Sharma

Journal: Archives of Civil and Mechanical Engineering

Year: 2017

A comparative study on the removal of heavy metals by adsorption using fly ash and sludge: A review

Authors: G Varma, RK Singh, V Sahu

Journal: International Journal of Application or Innovation in Engineering and …

Year: 2013

Development of geopolymer cement concrete for highway infrastructure applications

Authors: N Dave, V Sahu, AK Misra

Journal: Journal of Engineering, Design and Technology

Year: 2020

The use of fly ash and lime sludge as partial replacement of cement in mortar

Authors: V Sahu, V Gayathri

Journal: International Journal of Engineering and Technology Innovation

Year: 2014

Identification of watershed preference management areas under water quality and scarcity constraints: Case of Jhajjar district watershed, India

Authors: R Gupta, AK Misra, V Sahu

Journal: Applied Water Science

Year: 2019

Sustainability assessment of EPS-geofoam in road construction: A case study

Authors: DK Srivastava, A Srivastava, AK Misra, V Sahu

Journal: International Journal of Sustainable Engineering

Year: 2019

Emmanuel Kwaku Manu | Environmental Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

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

 

 

Kedir Derbie Mekonnen | Chemical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Kedir Derbie Mekonnen | Chemical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Wollo University, Ethiopia

👨‍🎓Profiles

🌱 Early Academic Pursuits

Kedir Derbie Mekonnen embarked on his academic journey with a strong foundation in chemical engineering. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering (2011-2016) from Wollo University, Kombolcha Institute of Technology, Ethiopia, completing a project on bio-ethanol production from corn cob. His academic endeavors culminated in a Master of Science in Chemical Engineering (Process Engineering) from Bahir Dar University in 2020. His thesis, Synthesis and Characterization of Biodiesel from Desert Date (Balanites Aegyptiaca) Seed Kernel Oil, reflects his dedication to renewable energy and sustainable chemical processes.

👨‍🏫 Professional Endeavors

Kedir’s professional career began in December 2016 as a Production Chemist at Kombolcha Tannery PLC. Here, he gained hands-on experience in leather production, waste management, and chemical formulation. Transitioning to academia in 2017, he served as an Assistant Lecturer at Wollo University, later advancing to the position of Lecturer in 2020. His role includes teaching, mentoring students, conducting research, and leading laboratory sessions.

📚 Contributions and Research Focus

Kedir’s research focuses on biodiesel production, catalysis, and renewable energy. His Master's thesis demonstrates innovative approaches to utilizing desert date seed kernel oil for biodiesel synthesis, addressing global energy challenges. As a lecturer, he actively reviews and conducts research, contributing to Ethiopia’s knowledge base in process engineering.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Through his work in academia and industry, Kedir has impacted the fields of chemical engineering and renewable energy. His efforts in biodiesel production and waste management have practical implications for sustainable development in Ethiopia. He has also played a vital role in shaping future engineers through his teaching and mentorship at Wollo University.

📖 Academic Cites

Kedir’s academic contributions are recognized in scholarly circles, with publications and research work cited by peers. His focus on biodiesel production and environmental sustainability has garnered attention in the field of chemical engineering.

💻 Technical Skills

Kedir possesses a robust set of technical skills, including proficiency in Microsoft Office, SPSS, Design Expert, E-Draw Max, LINGO, Aspen Plus, COMSOL, and MATLAB. These tools empower him to conduct sophisticated simulations, data analyses, and process designs, enhancing his research and teaching capabilities.

🎓 Teaching Experience

As a lecturer at Wollo University, Kedir has enriched the learning experiences of countless students. His responsibilities include preparing and delivering lectures, designing laboratory sessions, advising on student projects, and crafting curriculum materials. His Higher Diploma in Higher Education Teaching further underscores his commitment to educational excellence.

🏆 Legacy and Future Contributions

Kedir envisions a future where renewable energy and sustainable chemical processes play a pivotal role in Ethiopia’s development. His work in biodiesel research and education aims to inspire innovation in chemical engineering. By mentoring students and contributing to groundbreaking research, he is leaving a lasting legacy that will shape the next generation of engineers and scientists.

🌟 Key Highlights

  • Innovative Research: Focus on renewable energy through biodiesel production.
  • Industrial Experience: Expertise in leather production and waste management as a Production Chemist.
  • Teaching Excellence: Significant contributions to student learning and mentorship.
  • Technical Proficiency: Advanced knowledge of industry-standard software and tools.
  • Sustainability Advocate: Dedication to environmental sustainability through research and practice.

📖Notable Publications

 

Premnath Kumar | Electrocatalyst | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Premnath Kumar | Electrocatalyst | Best Researcher Award

Chulalongkorn University, Thailand

👨‍🎓Profiles

🧑‍🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Premnath Kumar's academic journey began with a strong foundation in chemistry, earning a B.Sc. and an M.Sc. from Thiruvalluvar University, Tamil Nadu. His postgraduate research involved the synthesis and characterization of BiOCl/α-Fe2O3 photocatalysts, marking his early interest in materials for energy applications. His academic excellence culminated in a Ph.D. in Chemistry from the same university, focusing on cost-effective, platinum-free electrocatalysts for hydrogen evolution reactions.

🧑‍🔬 Professional Endeavors

He expanded his expertise as an International Postdoctoral Research Fellow at Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand, from 2022 to 2024. Collaborating with leading scientists, including his mentor, Dr. Piyasan Praserthdam, he contributed to cutting-edge advancements in electrocatalysis and nanomaterials for energy conversion.

🧪 Research Focus and Contributions

His research emphasizes sustainable energy solutions through nanomaterials, electrocatalytic processes, and supercapacitor technology. Key contributions include:

  • Development of platinum-free catalysts for hydrogen production.
  • Investigations into nanomaterials for enhanced energy storage and conversion.
  • Promoting photocatalysis for green energy applications.

🌍 Impact and Influence

His work directly supports global sustainability goals by advancing affordable and efficient green energy technologies. His research findings have gained recognition for their potential to revolutionize hydrogen production and energy storage systems, with implications across academia and industry.

📚 Academic Citations and Recognition

Dr. Kumar's publications have been cited extensively, reflecting the academic and practical value of his contributions to chemistry and renewable energy.

🛠️ Technical Expertise

His proficiency spans analytical and electrochemical techniques, including:

  • XRD, SEM, EDX, FT-IR, UV-Vis, PL, and XPS for material characterization.
  • Advanced electrochemical methodologies like cyclic voltammetry, impedance spectroscopy, and HER/OER analysis.

👨‍🏫 Teaching and Mentorship

He has played an instrumental role in mentoring students and junior researchers, sharing his knowledge in electrocatalysis and nanotechnology to inspire the next generation of chemists.

🌟 Legacy and Future Contributions

He aims to further his impact in renewable energy technologies by exploring innovative materials and processes. His dedication to green energy solutions positions him as a thought leader in chemistry and sustainable development.

📖Notable Publications

A comprehensive review and perspective of recent research developments, and accomplishments on structural-based catalysts; 1D, 2D, and 3D nanostructured electrocatalysts for hydrogen energy production

  • Authors: Kumar, P., García, A., Praserthdam, S., Praserthdam, P.
  • Journal: International Journal of Hydrogen Energy
  • Year: 2024

Nonylphenol polybenzoxazines-derived nitrogen-rich porous carbon (NRPC)-supported g-C3N4/Fe3O4 nanocomposite for efficient high-performance supercapacitor application

  • Authors: Selvaraj, K., Yu, B., Spontón, M.E., Sayed, S.R.M., Kannaiyan, D.
  • Journal: Soft Matter
  • Year: 2024

Renovated FeCoP-NC nanospheres wrapped by CoP-NC nanopetals: As a tremendously effectual and robust MOF-assisted electrocatalyst for hydrogen energy production

  • Authors: Kumar, P., Maia, G., Praserthdam, S., Praserthdam, P.
  • Journal: Environmental Research
  • Year: 2024

Double role of CTAB as a surfactant and carbon source in Ni-Mo2C/GA composite: As a highly active electrocatalyst for hydrogen evolution reaction

  • Authors: Kumar, P., Arumugam, M., Maia, G., Praserthdam, S., Praserthdam, P.
  • Journal: Electrochimica Acta
  • Year: 2023

Reduced nickel on cobalt sulphide with carbon supported (Ni-CoS/C) composite material as a low-cost and efficient electrocatalyst for hydrogen evolution reaction

  • Authors: Kumar, P., Arumugam, M., Jagannathan, M., Praserthdam, S., Praserthdam, P.
  • Journal: Electrochimica Acta
  • Year: 2022

Carbon supported nickel phosphide as efficient electrocatalyst for hydrogen and oxygen evolution reactions

  • Authors: Kumar, P., Murthy, A.P., Bezerra, L.S., Maia, G., Madhavan, J.
  • Journal: International Journal of Hydrogen Energy
  • Year: 2021