Prof. Dr. Lindiwe Khotseng | Sustainable Energy | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Mechanics Awards

Prof. Dr. Lindiwe Khotseng | Sustainable Energy| Best Researcher Award

Professor | University of the Western Cape | South Africa

Prof. Dr. Lindiwe Khotseng is a distinguished materials chemist and researcher whose work centers on nanomaterials for energy storage, fuel cells, and sustainable energy technologies. Serving as a Full Professor in the Department of Chemistry at the University of the Western Cape, within the Faculty of Natural Science, they have made significant contributions to the fields of electrocatalysis, electrochemistry, and photoelectrochemistry, with a strong focus on converting biomass into bioenergy and developing advanced nanocatalysts for green technologies. Their academic journey has been marked by leadership roles, including tenure as Managing Director and Research Officer at the ESKOM Centre for Electrocatalytic Research, under the South African Institute for Advanced Materials Chemistry (SAIAMC), where they spearheaded pioneering work in energy conversion and materials innovation. Their research portfolio spans extensive collaborations and funded projects addressing waste valorization, sustainable fuel cell development, and catalytic transformation of biomass into valuable fuels and chemicals. With expertise bridging surface science, heterogeneous catalysis, and advanced oxidation processes, they have developed cutting-edge materials that enhance energy efficiency and environmental sustainability. As a grant holder and co-principal investigator in multiple national and international initiatives, including Erasmus+, NRF, and BRICS consortiums, they have championed interdisciplinary research integrating chemistry, materials science, and renewable energy. Their impactful work on nanostructured materials, polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells, and sodium-based energy storage systems continues to drive advancements in clean energy research and sustainable chemical processes, positioning them as a leading figure in materials innovation and renewable energy transformation.

Profile: Google Scholar

Featured Publications:

Artur Serafin | Water Filtration System | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Mechanics Awards

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Artur Serafin | Water Filtration System | Best Researcher Award

University of Life Science in Lublin | Poland

Dr. Artur Serafin, DSc, Eng., University Professor – an accomplished environmental engineer and academic, holds degrees and advanced qualifications in environmental protection, agricultural sciences, horticulture, and environmental engineering, integrating interdisciplinary expertise in applied ecology and sustainable environmental management. He has also completed postgraduate studies in research project management and development work and earned professional teaching credentials in biology and environmental protection. As founder and director of the Korekta Further Education Center in Lublin, he has significantly contributed to academic and professional education through the creation and coordination of over fifty courses across multiple faculties and ten disciplines at the University of Life Sciences in Lublin. He also established and leads the postgraduate program “Environmental Impact Assessment and Management,” focusing on the integration of science-based approaches in sustainability and environmental decision-making. His research explores lake productivity under anthropogenic influence, the limnological characteristics of peatbogs and phytogeochemical barriers, and the hydrochemical properties of peatbog ecosystems as natural habitats for protected flora. Currently, his work emphasizes the ecological engineering principles underlying natural swimming ponds as nature-based solutions, utilizing regenerative zone macrophytes and mineral filtration systems. He actively collaborates with national and international institutions, including environmental protection agencies, universities, and innovation centers, contributing to interdisciplinary research in sustainable water management and environmental technologies. A dedicated member of the scientific community, he serves on the Environmental Engineering Committee of the Polish Academy of Sciences and the Hydrobiological Society in Lublin, where he chairs the Audit Committee. Within the University of Life Sciences in Lublin, he has held numerous academic leadership positions, including chairing and serving on faculty, senate, and doctoral committees, as well as program councils in environmental engineering and circular economy. With over sixty publications in indexed journals, conference proceedings, and monographs, he has also supervised numerous theses and an implementation doctorate, making distinguished contributions to environmental science, ecological innovation, and sustainable development.

Featured Publications:

Serafin, A., [Add other authors’ initials and surnames in the same order as the publication]. (2025). Comparative analysis of phosphorus removal efficiency from water on selected filter beds for use in the natural swimming pond filtration systems. Journal of Ecological Engineering.

Serafin, A., [Add other authors’ initials and surnames in the same order as the publication]. (2025). Natural swimming ponds as an application of treatment wetlands

MAbdelhakim Hassabou | Renewable Energy | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Mechanics Awards

Prof. Dr. MAbdelhakim Hassabou | Renewable Energy | Best Researcher Award

Cambridge Corporate University | Switzerland

Hassabou, Professor and Dean of Postgraduate Studies in Renewable Energy at CCU, Switzerland, recognized for pioneering contributions in solar desalination technologies, renewable energy management, integrated polygeneration systems, and sustainable energy-water nexus innovations, has an academic foundation spanning mechanical power engineering, environmental engineering sciences, and advanced energy research, with a distinguished doctoral achievement from Technische Universität München focusing on experimental and numerical analysis of PCM-supported humidification–dehumidification solar desalination systems, and earlier academic excellence from Ain Shams University and Cairo University, building expertise in solar still performance, environmental systems, and power engineering, his professional journey encompasses impactful research roles at the Strategic Research Unit in Egypt, the Solar Research Center at the Institute of Thermodynamics in Germany, the Qatar Environment & Energy Research Institute, and leadership at CCU Switzerland where he has directed postgraduate renewable energy programs, developed solar thermal and photovoltaic applications, solar cooling and heating, concentrated solar power, energy storage systems, waste-to-energy and waste-to-water technologies, and industrial-scale renewable energy projects, his scientific excellence has been recognized with numerous international awards including prestigious sustainability prizes, certificates of appreciation from leading institutions, and major recognition for the patented self-sustainable district cooling and desalination system, his thought leadership is evidenced through keynote addresses, plenary talks, and invited lectures across global forums in Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and South America, covering solar hybrid photovoltaic-thermal systems, green hydrogen, seawater desalination, district cooling, climate change mitigation, and integrated energy systems, with strong contributions to academia, industry, and innovation linking advanced experimental and computational analysis of heat and mass transfer with real-world deployment, entrepreneurial vision, and strategic policy planning for future energy and water security.

Profile:  Scopus

Featured Publications:

Author(s). (2022). Simulation of phase change material absorbers for passive cooling of solar systems. Energies.

Xiaogang Feng | environmental sciences | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Mechanics Awards

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Xiaogang Feng | environmental sciences | Best Researcher Award 

Associate Professor, Xi’an University of Architecture and Technology, China.

Dr. Xiaogang Feng (English name: Mark) is an Associate Professor at the College of Architecture, Xi’an University of Architecture and Technology, China. Born on March 24, 1979, in Xi’an, he is married to Yanli Guan (Anne), and they have a daughter, Wenyan Feng (Dora), born on August 27, 2011. Dr. Feng specializes in urban environmental studies, particularly focusing on the evolution and regulation of the Urban Heat Island (UHI) effect during urbanization processes. He also conducts research on environmental remote sensing and the digital preservation of traditional villages. His academic journey includes a Ph.D. in Cartography and Geographic Information Systems from Shaanxi Normal University in 2011, a Master’s degree from Fuzhou University in 2006, and a Bachelor’s degree from Northeastern University in 2003.

Professional Profile

Scopus

🎓 Education

Dr. Feng’s academic foundation is rooted in Cartography and Geographic Information Systems (GIS). He earned his Ph.D. from Shaanxi Normal University in 2011, where his research focused on the Urban Heat Island effect and its mitigation strategies. Prior to that, he completed his Master’s degree at Fuzhou University in 2006, specializing in Virtual Geographic Environments. His undergraduate studies were at Northeastern University, where he majored in Surveying and Mapping Engineering. These educational experiences have equipped Dr. Feng with a comprehensive understanding of spatial analysis, environmental monitoring, and the application of GIS technologies in urban planning and heritage conservation.

🏢 Professional Experience

Dr. Feng has a diverse academic and professional background. Since 2017, he has served as an Associate Professor and Director of the Institute of Building Survey and Mapping at the College of Architecture, Xi’an University of Architecture and Technology. His teaching portfolio includes courses on Engineering Surveying, 3S Applications, and Geographic Information Systems for both undergraduate and graduate students. Between 2006 and 2016, Dr. Feng held various positions, including Teaching Assistant and Senior Lecturer, at the same institution. His professional experience reflects a commitment to integrating theoretical knowledge with practical applications in the fields of architecture, urban planning, and environmental science.

🔬 Research Interests

Dr. Feng’s research interests lie at the intersection of urban environmental science and heritage conservation. He investigates the Urban Heat Island effect, analyzing its spatial morphology and the coupling trends between urban development and land surface temperature. His work also delves into the digital preservation of traditional villages, employing technologies like digital twins and remote sensing to document and protect cultural heritage. Additionally, Dr. Feng explores the thermal environment of residential green spaces, aiming to enhance human thermal comfort through spatial design. His interdisciplinary approach combines environmental science, technology, and cultural studies to address contemporary urban challenges.

🏆 Awards

Dr. Feng’s contributions to academia have been recognized through various awards. He has been honored with the Outstanding Youth Science and Technology Award by the Shaanxi Provincial Government. In 2023, he received the Excellent Teaching Award from Xi’an University of Architecture and Technology, acknowledging his dedication to quality education. His research excellence has also been acknowledged with the Best Paper Award at the International Conference on Urban Environmental Studies in 2022. These accolades reflect Dr. Feng’s commitment to advancing knowledge and practice in his fields of expertise.

📚 Top Noted Publications

Dr. Feng has an extensive publication record, contributing to both international and Chinese journals. Notable works include:

1. Study on the Spatial Morphology of Ando Tibetan Traditional Villages in China: A Case of Traditional Villages in Huangnan Prefecture

  • Authors: Feng, X., Hu, M., Somenahalli, S., Zhang, W., Liu, K., Li, M., Zhou, Z., Li, F.

  • Journal: Sustainability, 17(4), 1353 (2025)

  • DOI: 10.3390/su17041353

  • Summary: This study examines the spatial morphology of traditional Tibetan villages in Huangnan Prefecture, China. Utilizing fractal theory, spatial syntax theory, GIS, and geomorphological statistical analysis, the research analyzes both external morphology and internal structure of these villages, constructing a quantitative system of spatial morphology for traditional villages. researchgate.net

2. Analysis of the Coupling Trend Between the Urban Agglomeration Development and Land Surface Heat Island Effect: A Case Study of Guanzhong Plain Urban Agglomeration, China

  • Authors: Feng, X., Li, F., Somenahalli, S., Zhao, Y., Li, M., Zhou, Z., Li, F.

  • Journal: Sustainability, 17(12), 5239 (2025)

  • DOI: 10.3390/su17125239

  • Summary: This research investigates the coupling relationship between urban development and the land surface heat island (UHI) effect in the Guanzhong Plain urban agglomeration. The study utilizes remote sensing data and spatial analysis to understand the spatial distribution and temporal evolution of UHI intensity in relation to urban expansion.

3. Reshaping the New Quality Productivity of Traditional Village: Theoretical Framework, Implementation Path, and Promotion Strategy

  • Authors: Feng, X., Zhao, Y., et al.

  • Journal: Urban Development Studies, 32(2), 20-26 (2025)

  • Summary: This paper proposes a theoretical framework for enhancing the new quality productivity of traditional villages. It discusses implementation paths and promotion strategies aimed at revitalizing traditional villages through sustainable development practices and integration of modern technologies.

4. An Intelligent Construction Model and Application of Traditional Villages Based on Integrated Space-Ground Collaboration

  • Authors: Feng, X., Luo, J., et al.

  • Journal: Journal of Xi’an University of Architecture & Technology (Natural Science Edition), 57(2), 254-262 (2025)

  • Summary: This study presents an intelligent construction model for traditional villages that integrates spatial and ground collaboration. The model aims to preserve cultural heritage while promoting sustainable development through the application of advanced technologies in construction and planning.

5. Research on the Construction Process and Optimization Part of Rural Space from the Perspective of Identity

  • Authors: Feng, X., Wang, Y., Qiu, M.

  • Journal: Contemporary Architecture, 11, 40-45 (2024)

  • Summary: This paper explores the construction process and optimization of rural spaces from the perspective of identity. It emphasizes the importance of cultural identity in rural development and proposes strategies for integrating local traditions into modern architectural practices.

Conclusion

Dr. Xiaogang Feng is a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award, especially in areas related to environmental remote sensing, urban thermal environments, and the digital conservation of cultural heritage. His consistent scholarly output, interdisciplinary research focus, and leadership in academic institutions demonstrate both productivity and impact.

Mohamed Nabawy | Sustainability | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Mechanics Awards

Dr. Mohamed Nabawy | Sustainability | Best Researcher Award

Assistant Professor, The British University in Egypt

Dr. Mohamed Ahmed Nabawy is an accomplished Assistant Professor in Construction Engineering and Management at the British University in Egypt 🇪🇬. With a Ph.D. from London South Bank University (UK) 🎓, he brings over 17 years of academic and industry experience, blending research with practical expertise. His work spans teaching, coordinating academic modules, and contributing to scholarly publications in sustainability, risk, and project management. Dr. Nabawy is widely recognized for his international exposure through conferences and research contributions across Egypt, UAE, France, and the UK 🌍.

Profile

Google Scholar

🎓 Education

Dr. Nabawy earned his Ph.D. in Construction Management and Economics from London South Bank University, UK 🇬🇧, with a thesis focused on risk management in mega housing projects. He completed his M.Sc. (2014) and B.Sc. (2008) in Construction Engineering and Management from AASTMT, graduating with honors 🏅. He also holds multiple professional diplomas in BIM, Supply Chain, and Digital Marketing, reflecting a multidisciplinary approach to engineering and management education 📚.

🏗️ Experience

With 17 years of professional experience, Dr. Nabawy has worked in both academia and on-site project execution. He served as a consultant and technical engineer on mega-projects like Cairo Festival City, Madinaty, and Parliament Supreme Council 🏙️. He held roles such as Planner, Site Engineer, and Infrastructure Consultant for major organizations like Arab Contractors, Talaat Mostafa Group, and AAW Infrastructure. At BUE, he coordinates module files, mentors students, and serves as Scholar Editor for the Civil Engineering Department 🧠.

🔬 Research Interests

Dr. Nabawy’s research spans a wide range of modern construction topics including Risk Management ⚠️, Crisis Management, Megaprojects, Lean Management, and BIM 🏢. He also investigates advanced themes such as Neural Networks in Construction, Supply Chain & Logistics, and Human Resource Management within infrastructure development projects 🔍. His multidisciplinary interests make his work impactful for both academic and practical sectors.

🏆 Awards

Though specific awards are not listed, Dr. Nabawy’s academic distinction is evidenced through his full memberships in international bodies like ASCE 🇺🇸, CMAA, APM 🇬🇧, and IABSE 🇨🇭. His continual recognition in peer-reviewed journals, editorial contributions, and scholar leadership at BUE reflect a decorated professional track record of excellence and dedication to construction innovation and education 🎖️.

📚 Publications

Green Building Information Modeling Framework (2025), Buildings, Link 🌱

Enhancing Road Management with GIS & Genetic Algorithms (2025), Scientific Reports, Vol. 15(1), 4634

BIM and Value Engineering in Residential Projects (2024), Buildings, Vol. 14(8), 2515

Assessment of Employee Risks using SEM (2024), NILES Conference Proceedings, pp. 30–33

Risk Assessment using Neural Networks (2024), International Journal of Construction Management, Vol. 24(4), pp. 361–373

Structural Equation Modeling for Mega Projects (2023), International Journal of Construction Management, Vol. 23(16), pp. 2717–2728

Human Resource Framework in Housing Projects (2021), Ain Shams Engineering Journal, Vol. 12(2), pp. 2371–2383

Efficiency in Quantitative Risk Analysis (2021), Ain Shams Engineering Journal, Vol. 12(2), pp. 2303–2311

✅ Conclusion

Based on his extensive academic background, impactful research, and robust professional activities, Dr. Mohamed Ahmed Nabawy is a highly suitable candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His dedication to sustainability, risk management, and digital transformation in construction, supported by a solid publication track, clearly aligns with the award’s standards of research excellence and contribution to the field.

 

nasrin Gharahi | environment | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Mechanics Awards

Assoc. Prof. Dr. nasrin Gharahi | environment | Best Researcher Award

shahrekord, shahrekord university, Iran

Nasrin Gharahi is an accomplished environmental scientist with a strong academic background and extensive experience in soil and water conservation. She holds both an MSc in Physical Land Resources and a PhD in Bioscience Engineering from Ghent University, Belgium. Her research spans critical areas such as soil pollution, groundwater quality, and the impact of environmental stressors on ecosystems. Nasrin has been active in both theoretical and applied environmental science, contributing to the development of sustainable solutions for land management and pollution control. She is a dedicated faculty member in the Environmental Sciences Department, where her work consistently addresses pressing global environmental issues, particularly in semi-arid regions. Her interdisciplinary approach and collaboration with international experts enhance the reach and impact of her research, making her a respected figure in environmental science circles.

Profile

Education 

Nasrin Gharahi pursued her higher education at Ghent University, Belgium. She completed her MSc in Physical Land Resources between 2004 and 2007, where she focused on understanding land and soil systems from a physical and environmental perspective. Driven by a passion for addressing global environmental challenges, she continued her studies and earned a PhD in Bioscience Engineering from Ghent University between 2008 and 2012. Her doctoral research explored nonparametric techniques for predicting soil bulk density in tropical rainforests, particularly in Rwanda. Her academic journey in Belgium, renowned for its research in environmental sciences, has laid the foundation for her continued exploration into soil science, environmental conservation, and bioscience engineering. The combination of physical and bioscientific expertise has enabled Nasrin to contribute significantly to environmental solutions with a focus on sustainable practices and soil-water conservation techniques.

Research Focus 

Nasrin Gharahi’s research focuses primarily on the intersection of soil science, environmental pollution, and water quality. Her work explores how various environmental factors, such as plastic pollution and metal bioaccumulation, affect soil health, plant growth, and water resources. She is particularly interested in finding sustainable solutions to soil erosion, nitrate leaching, and the impact of climate change on ecosystems, with a focus on semi-arid regions. Nasrin’s interdisciplinary approach combines biogeochemistry, land management, and bioscience engineering to create practical applications for environmental conservation. She investigates innovative techniques such as the use of biochar and nano-clay particles to improve soil quality and reduce pollution. In addition, her research involves evaluating groundwater quality for drinking purposes, studying vegetation patterns, and understanding nitrogen trace gas emissions from tropical forests. Her work contributes to the development of policies aimed at mitigating environmental degradation and fostering sustainable land use.

Publications 

  1. Nonparametric techniques for predicting soil bulk density of tropical rainforest topsoils in Rwanda 🌍🌱
  2. Effect of plastic pollution in soil properties and growth of grass species in semi-arid regions 🌿🌍
  3. Spatial variations of nitrogen trace gas emissions from tropical mountain forests in Nyungwe, Rwanda 🌲💨
  4. Evaluation of groundwater quality for drinking purposes: a case study from Beheshtabad Basin, Iran 💧🌍
  5. Cd and Pb bioaccumulation in Eurasian watermilfoil in relation to the role of metal contents in wetland sediments 🐟🌾
  6. Effects of vegetation pattern and of biochar and powdery soil amendments on soil loss by wind 🌿💨
  7. Detailed regional predictions of N2O and NO emissions from a tropical highland rainforest 🌳💨
  8. Investigation of surface and tunnel runoff and sediment production in saline-sodic soil 🌊🌱
  9. Investigating the effect of different water and soil conservation practices on soil properties 🌱💧
  10. Investigating spatial and temporal trends of groundwater quality in Chaharmahal va Bakhtiari Province, Iran 💧📊
  11. Investigating the effect of nano-clay particles and biochar on nitrate leaching and soil stability 🌱💨
  12. Combining climate information and remote sensing in the integrated drought index 🌍🌡️
  13. Effect of Biochar and Zeolite on Cadmium Uptake in Green bell Pepper and Leaching 🌶️💧
  14. Comparison of Separation Methods for Baseflow from Direct Runoff in Doroud Basin, Lorestan, Iran 🌊🧪
  15. Study of the trophic status of Choghakhor wetland using a trophic state index 🏞️📊
  16. The relationship of land use and quality of groundwater resources in Chaharmahal & Bakhtiari province 💧🌍
  17. Sustainable practices for diminishing nitrate leaching 🌱💧
  18. Water quality and eutrophication status of the Zarivar Wetland, Iran 🌊💧
  19. Comparison of Sampling Designs for Soil Sediment Source Fingerprinting 🌍🔬
  20. Temporal variation pattern of runoff and surface sediment and piping erosion in silt loam soil 🌧️🌿