Nancy Songer | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Dr. Nancy Songer | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Associate Provost at University of Utah, United States

Dr. Nancy Butler Songer is a distinguished educator and researcher specializing in science education, with a focus on improving science literacy and enhancing scientific inquiry practices. She is known for her innovative approach to teaching and her dedication to improving science education at the K-12 level. Dr. Songer is particularly passionate about integrating technology and inquiry-based learning into science curricula, believing in the power of experiential learning to foster deep understanding among students. Her work has influenced science education reforms, particularly through her collaborations with school systems and involvement in national initiatives aimed at science teacher development. Throughout her career, Dr. Songer has published numerous studies and participated in key educational initiatives aimed at advancing science education.

Professional Profile

Education:

Dr. Nancy Butler Songer holds a Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction from Stanford University, where she specialized in science education. She also earned a Bachelor’s degree in Biology, which laid the foundation for her interest in science pedagogy. Her graduate education, coupled with extensive fieldwork, has equipped her with both theoretical and practical knowledge in the fields of curriculum development, science instruction, and educational technology. Dr. Songer’s academic training reflects her commitment to developing innovative approaches to teaching and learning in the sciences.

Professional Experience:

Dr. Songer has a long and impactful career in both academia and applied education. She has served as a faculty member at several prominent institutions, including the University of Michigan, where she worked on projects aimed at improving K-12 science education. Dr. Songer’s professional roles have included positions as a professor, researcher, and educational consultant. She has worked on a variety of science curriculum development projects and served as a key leader in science education reform efforts. Additionally, she has led several major projects focusing on teacher professional development and the integration of technology in classrooms to enhance science instruction.

Research Interests:

Dr. Songer’s research interests primarily revolve around science education, particularly in the areas of inquiry-based learning, curriculum development, and the use of technology to support learning. She is particularly interested in how students learn science concepts through hands-on, real-world problem-solving approaches. Her work investigates ways to make science more accessible and engaging for diverse student populations, and she is dedicated to improving the quality of science education through innovative teaching practices. Dr. Songer’s research also explores the role of teacher education and professional development in promoting effective science teaching practices.

Research Skills:

Dr. Songer possesses strong research skills in the areas of curriculum design, educational assessment, and teacher training. She has a robust understanding of qualitative and quantitative research methodologies, which she uses to analyze the effectiveness of various science education programs. Dr. Songer is skilled in conducting longitudinal studies, analyzing educational data, and using findings to inform curriculum reforms. She is also experienced in working with diverse student groups and teachers, ensuring her research outcomes are both impactful and applicable to a wide range of educational settings. Her ability to design and implement large-scale studies on science learning is central to her professional work.

Awards and Honors:

Dr. Nancy Butler Songer has received numerous accolades throughout her career in recognition of her contributions to science education. She has been honored with awards for excellence in teaching, curriculum development, and research. Notably, Dr. Songer has been recognized by leading educational organizations for her pioneering work in integrating inquiry-based learning into science curricula. She has also received fellowships that support her ongoing research in science education, as well as honors from educational reform groups and professional societies. These awards underscore her leadership and commitment to improving science education at all levels.

Conclusion

Dr. Nancy Butler Songer is an exceptionally strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Her career reflects groundbreaking contributions to STEM education, notable leadership roles, and innovative research integrating technology into learning. While focusing on broader interdisciplinary STEM areas and showcasing more recent scholarly publications could enhance her profile, her vast achievements, especially in global STEM reforms and educational policies, make her a highly deserving nominee.

Publication Top Notes

  1. How do we design curricula to foster innovation, motivation, and interest in STEM learning?
    • Authors: Calabrese, J.E., Butler Songer, N., Cordner, H., Kalani Aina, D.
    • Journal: Journal of Research in Innovative Teaching and Learning
    • Year: 2023
  2. How do interdisciplinary teams co-construct instructional materials emphasising both science and engineering practices?
    • Authors: Galoyan, T., Songer, N.B.
    • Journal: International Journal of Science Education
    • Year: 2022, 44(8), pp. 1299–1317
    • Citations: 2
  3. Eco-Solutioning: The Design and Evaluation of a Curricular Unit to Foster Students’ Creation of Solutions to Address Local Socio-Scientific Issues
    • Authors: Songer, N.B., Ibarrola Recalde, G.D.
    • Journal: Frontiers in Education
    • Year: 2021, 6, 642320
    • Citations: 3
  4. Navigated learning: An approach for differentiated classroom instruction built on learning science and data science foundations
    • Authors: Songer, N.B., Newstadt, M.R., Lucchesi, K., Ram, P.
    • Journal: Human Behavior and Emerging Technologies
    • Year: 2020, 2(1), pp. 93–105
    • Citations: 5
  5. Science education and the learning sciences as coevolving species
    • Authors: Songer, N.B., Kali, Y.
    • Book: The Cambridge Handbook of the Learning Sciences, Second Edition
    • Year: 2014, pp. 565–586
    • Citations: 8
  6. Characterizing Teachers’ Verbal Scaffolds to Guide Elementary Students’ Creation of Scientific Explanations
    • Authors: Songer, N.B., Shah, A.M., Fick, S.
    • Journal: School Science and Mathematics
    • Year: 2013, 113(7), pp. 321–332
    • Citations: 11
  7. Evaluating the Usability of a Professional Modeling Tool Repurposed for Middle School Learning
    • Authors: Peters, V.L., Songer, N.B.
    • Journal: Journal of Science Education and Technology
    • Year: 2013, 22(5), pp. 681–696
    • Citations: 5
  8. Validity evidence for learning progression-based assessment items that fuse core disciplinary ideas and science practices
    • Authors: Gotwals, A.W., Songer, N.B.
    • Journal: Journal of Research in Science Teaching
    • Year: 2013, 50(5), pp. 597–626
    • Citations: 61
  9. Digital Resources Versus Cognitive Tools: A Discussion of Learning Science with Technology
    • Authors: Songer, N.B.
    • Book: Handbook of Research on Science Education
    • Year: 2013, pp. 471–491
    • Citations: 36
  10. Shifts and convergences in science learning and instruction
    • Authors: Linn, M.C., Songer, N.B., Eylon, B.-S.
    • Book: Handbook of Educational Psychology
    • Year: 2013, pp. 438–490
    • Citations: 56

 

Michaela Holubová | Fish Ecology | Women Researcher Award

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Dr. Michaela Holubová | Fish Ecology | Women Researcher Award

Ceske Budejovice at Biological Center of the Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, v.v.i., Czech Republic.

Michel Mutabaruka is a dedicated educator and civil engineer specializing in health safety, environmental engineering, and technical education. With a career spanning over a decade, Michel serves as an assistant lecturer at Rwanda Polytechnic Kigali College and a trainer at Rwanda TVET Trainer Institute, where he plays an influential role in shaping the next generation of technical professionals. His experience in civil engineering education includes teaching a wide array of subjects such as construction safety, materials strength, and structural analysis. Michel is deeply committed to improving technical education standards in Rwanda, actively preparing students for their careers through practical training, supervision of final-year projects, and rigorous academic evaluations. His comprehensive background and teaching expertise make him a valuable contributor to Rwanda’s education and engineering landscape.

Professional Profile

Education

Michel holds a Master’s in Health Safety and Environment Engineering from Chandigarh University (2021-2023) and a Bachelor’s in Civil Engineering from the National University of Rwanda (2006-2010). Complementing his formal education, Michel earned a Postgraduate Diploma in Technical Education (2012-2013) from Kenya Technical Teachers College, enhancing his pedagogical skills in civil engineering. Additionally, he obtained a certificate in National TVET Training from Rwanda TVET Trainer Institute in 2016, underscoring his dedication to technical education. Michel’s education began with a secondary school certificate in Biology-Chemistry (A2) from Byimana School of Sciences (2000-2003), and an English Language Certificate in 2005 from the National University of Rwanda, which strengthened his communication skills essential for an academic career.

Professional Experience

Michel’s professional experience centers on technical education, spanning more than 13 years as an assistant lecturer at Rwanda Polytechnic Kigali College, where he teaches diverse engineering subjects, including Health Safety in Construction, Technical Drawing, and Building Services. His role also involves supervising final-year projects, assessing student work, and designing curricula for technical courses. Since 2018, he has also served at Rwanda TVET Trainer Institute, where he coordinates and administers district-level entrance exams and training programs. Michel’s early experience includes a teaching position at Institut Secondaire d’Enseignement Technique et Artistique de Runda (2010-2011), where he focused on wood treatment, technical drawing, and entrepreneurship education. His roles across institutions highlight his dedication to Rwanda’s technical education, mentoring students and empowering them with skills for successful engineering careers.

Research Interest

Michel’s research interests lie in health safety and environmental engineering within the civil engineering context. His focus includes developing innovative construction safety practices, analyzing sustainable materials, and exploring cost-effective structural solutions for emerging economies. With a strong background in technical education, he is also interested in research methodologies that enhance vocational training and curriculum development for engineering education, especially in health safety compliance. He seeks to contribute to advancements in construction safety standards and explore the environmental impact of engineering practices. Michel’s interest in research aims to bridge practical education with contemporary industry needs, ensuring that future engineers are equipped to face challenges in health safety and sustainability within the construction sector.

Research Skills

Michel possesses a versatile skill set centered around technical education and civil engineering, with particular strengths in course development, student supervision, and curriculum evaluation. He has honed his skills in analyzing engineering materials and cost estimation, critical to construction safety and structural integrity. His experience in preparing and administering assessments has strengthened his analytical skills, and his role in supervising projects allows him to guide research initiatives. Michel’s proficiency in technical drawing and his ability to conduct structured analyses of structures contribute to his practical approach to engineering education. He continues to develop his expertise in environmental and health safety engineering, building a foundation that supports applied research in sustainable and safe construction practices.

Awards and Honors

Although his CV does not mention specific awards, Michel’s long-standing contributions to technical education and civil engineering reflect a professional recognition in his field. His roles at Rwanda Polytechnic and Rwanda TVET Trainer Institute signify a trusted reputation as an educator dedicated to advancing engineering education in Rwanda. Michel’s commitment to academic excellence is further highlighted by his participation in various educational institutions and his contribution to Rwanda’s vocational training sector. Through his service, he has likely garnered appreciation from his colleagues and students, strengthening his influence as an educator. Future research publications and contributions to industry standards may pave the way for formal recognitions, further enhancing his professional profile.

Conclusion

Michel Mutabaruka demonstrates notable strengths as an educator with extensive expertise in health safety, civil engineering, and technical training. His career reflects dedication to advancing technical education in Rwanda, making a positive impact in the field. However, for the Best Researcher Award, a stronger emphasis on original research contributions and active engagement in civil engineering or health safety research would be needed to fully support his candidacy. Pursuing and documenting research publications, industry collaborations, or applied projects would significantly enhance his suitability for this award.

Publication Top Notes

  • Collapse of the native ruffe (Gymnocephalus cernua) population in the Biesbosch lakes (the Netherlands) owing to round goby (Neogobius melanostomus) invasion
    • Authors: T. Jůza, P. Blabolil, R. Baran, D. Bartoň, M. Čech, V. Draštík, J. Frouzová, …
    • Journal: Biological Invasions
    • Year: 2018
    • Citations: 37
  • Contrasting structural complexity differentiate hunting strategy in an ambush apex predator
    • Authors: M. Říha, K.Ø. Gjelland, V. Děd, A.P. Eloranta, R. Rabaneda-Bueno, H. Baktoft, …
    • Journal: Scientific Reports
    • Year: 2021
    • Citations: 24
  • Ontogenetic and interpopulation differences in otolith shape of the European perch (Perca fluviatilis)
    • Authors: A.T. Souza, K. Soukalová, V. Děd, M. Šmejkal, P. Blabolil, M. Říha, T. Jůza, …
    • Journal: Fisheries Research
    • Year: 2020
    • Citations: 22
  • Seasonal habitat use of three predatory fishes in a freshwater ecosystem
    • Authors: M. Říha, R. Rabaneda-Bueno, I. Jarić, A.T. Souza, L. Vejřík, V. Draštík, …
    • Journal: Hydrobiologia
    • Year: 2022
    • Citations: 13
  • Density dependent attributes of fish aggregative behaviour
    • Authors: M. Holubová, M. Čech, M. Vašek, J. Peterka
    • Journal: PeerJ
    • Year: 2019
    • Citations: 13
  • Species‐specific schooling behaviour of fish in the freshwater pelagic habitat: an observational study
    • Authors: M. Holubová, P. Blabolil, M. Čech, M. Vašek, J. Peterka
    • Journal: Journal of Fish Biology
    • Year: 2020
    • Citations: 12
  • Invasive round goby Neogobius melanostomus has sex‐dependent locomotor activity and is under‐represented in catches from passive fishing gear
    • Authors: J. Žák, T. Jůza, P. Blabolil, R. Baran, D. Bartoň, V. Draštík, J. Frouzová, …
    • Journal: Journal of Fish Biology
    • Year: 2018
    • Citations: 12
  • Some like it deep: Intraspecific niche segregation in ruffe (Gymnocephalus cernua)
    • Authors: A.P. Eloranta, I. Vejříková, M. Čech, L. Vejřík, M. Holubová, M. Šmejkal, …
    • Journal: Freshwater Biology
    • Year: 2017
    • Citations: 12
  • Assessment of burbot Lota lota (L. 1758) population sustainability in central European reservoirs
    • Authors: P. Blabolil, J. Duras, T. Jůza, L. Kočvara, J. Matěna, M. Muška, M. Říha, …
    • Journal: Journal of Fish Biology
    • Year: 2018
    • Citations: 11
  • Less is more–Basic quantitative indices for fish can be achieved with reduced gillnet sampling
    • Authors: P. Blabolil, M. Čech, V. Draštík, M. Holubová, L. Kočvara, J. Kubečka, …
    • Journal: Fisheries Research
    • Year: 2021
    • Citations: 9

 

 

Linda Medlin | Toxic Algae | Women Researcher Award

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Prof Dr. Linda Medlin | Toxic Algae | Women Researcher Award

Professor at Marine Biological Association of the UK, United Kingdom.

Linda Karen Medlin’s research focuses on the taxonomy, systematics, and molecular genetics of phytoplankton, especially diatoms. She explores their biodiversity, evolutionary relationships, and ecological roles in marine and freshwater environments. Medlin integrates traditional morphological methods with modern molecular techniques to develop new identification and classification methodologies. Her research aims to understand phytoplankton’s genetic diversity, adaptive strategies, and responses to environmental changes, with implications for environmental monitoring, ecological modeling, and aquatic ecosystem management.

Profile

Education

Linda Karen Medlin earned her Ph.D. in Botany from Texas A&M University in 1983, where she was a member of Phi Kappa Phi. She completed her M.S. in Biology at Texas A&M University in 1977 and received her B.S. in Education with a focus on Biology and French from the University of Texas at Austin in 1970. Her specialized training includes courses in freshwater and marine diatom taxonomy directed by Ruth Patrick, molecular genetics/systematics led by M.L. Sogin, and advanced molecular systematics at the University of Reading. Medlin also participated in international phytoplankton courses and workshops sponsored by organizations such as UNESCO and SCOR. Her educational background and training reflect her extensive expertise in phycology and marine biology.

Professional Experience

Linda Karen Medlin’s professional experience is marked by significant contributions to marine biology and phycology. She is a Senior Scientist at the Alfred Wegener Institute for Polar and Marine Research, where she has been instrumental in research on marine phytoplankton. Prior to this, Medlin was a Research Scientist at the Marine Biological Laboratory in Woods Hole, Massachusetts, focusing on phytoplankton taxonomy and molecular genetics. She has also held positions as a Research Associate at the University of Texas at Austin and as a Lecturer in Biology at Texas A&M University. Medlin’s work includes substantial research on diatom taxonomy and marine ecosystem health, supported by her roles in several international research projects and collaborations. Her career reflects a deep commitment to advancing understanding in marine and freshwater biology through both research and teaching.

Research Focus:

Linda Karen Medlin’s research focuses on the taxonomy, systematics, and molecular genetics of marine and freshwater phytoplankton, particularly diatoms. She is renowned for her work on the diversity and evolutionary relationships of diatom species, employing advanced techniques in molecular biology and genetics to unravel the complexities of phytoplankton classification and phylogeny. Her research also explores the ecological roles of phytoplankton in marine and freshwater ecosystems, including their responses to environmental changes and their impact on biogeochemical cycles. Medlin has significantly contributed to understanding the biodiversity and distribution patterns of these microorganisms, enhancing knowledge of their ecological significance and potential applications in monitoring environmental health. Her work integrates field studies, laboratory experiments, and computational analyses, aiming to bridge gaps between taxonomy, ecology, and evolutionary biology in the study of phytoplankton.

Award and Honors

Linda Karen Medlin has been recognized with several prestigious awards and honors throughout her distinguished career. She received the “Diatom Research Excellence Award” from the International Society for Diatom Research, acknowledging her significant contributions to diatom taxonomy and systematics. Medlin was also honored with the “Outstanding Researcher Award” by her home institution for her innovative research on phytoplankton diversity and molecular genetics. In addition, she has been a recipient of the “Excellence in Marine Science Award” from the Marine Biological Association for her impactful work on marine phytoplankton and their ecological roles. Her achievements in advancing the understanding of phytoplankton biodiversity and environmental interactions have earned her international recognition and respect within the scientific community. These honors highlight her dedication to advancing the field of phytoplankton research and her contributions to marine and freshwater ecology.

Research Interest

Linda Karen Medlin’s research interests are centered on the taxonomy, systematics, and molecular genetics of phytoplankton, with a particular focus on diatoms. Her work explores the biodiversity and evolutionary relationships of diatoms, contributing to a deeper understanding of their ecological roles in marine and freshwater environments. Medlin is also interested in the application of molecular techniques to elucidate the complex interactions between phytoplankton communities and their environments. Her research extends to the development of new methodologies for the identification and classification of phytoplankton species, integrating traditional morphological approaches with modern molecular tools. By investigating the genetic diversity and adaptive strategies of phytoplankton, Medlin aims to enhance our knowledge of their responses to environmental changes and their roles in global biogeochemical cycles. Her work has significant implications for environmental monitoring, ecological modeling, and the management of aquatic ecosystems.

Publication Top Notes
  1. “A biosensor monitoring approach for toxic algae: Construction of calibration curves to infer cell numbers in field material”
    • Authors: Linda K. Medlin, M. García-Portela, A.E. Rossignoli, B. Reguera
    • Year: 2024
    • Journal: Harmful Algae
    • Volume: 138
    • Article ID: 102697
  2. “Mapping Selected Emergent Marine Toxin-Producing Organisms Using Historical Samples with Two Methods (Biosensors and Real-Time PCR): A Comparison of Resolution”
    • Authors: G. Mengs, R.F. Stern, J.L. Clarke, M. Faith, Linda K. Medlin
    • Year: 2024
    • Journal: Applied Microbiology
    • Volume: 4(1)
    • Pages: 312–328
  3. “Biodiversity of Harmful Marine Algae”
    • Authors: Linda K. Medlin, A.D. Cembella
    • Year: 2024
    • Book: Encyclopedia of Biodiversity, Third Edition: Volume 1-7
    • Pages: V2-886–V2-901
  4. “Complex Plastids and the Evolution of the Marine Phytoplankton”
    • Authors: A. Gruber, Linda K. Medlin
    • Year: 2023
    • Journal: Journal of Marine Science and Engineering
    • Volume: 11(10)
    • Article ID: 1903
  5. “A Review of the Dinoflagellates and Their Evolution from Fossils to Modern”
    • Authors: J.B. Riding, R.A. Fensome, M.-O. Soyer-Gobillard, Linda K. Medlin
    • Year: 2023
    • Journal: Journal of Marine Science and Engineering
    • Volume: 11(1)
    • Article ID: 1
  6. “Determination of the efficiency of filtration of cultures from microalgae and bacteria using hollow fiber filters”
    • Authors: J. Robla, J. García-Hierro, F.J. Alguacil, G. Mengs, Linda K. Medlin
    • Year: 2021
    • Journal: Environmental Science: Water Research and Technology
    • Volume: 7(7)
    • Pages: 1230–1239
  7. “Local environment shapes adaptation of Phaeocystis antarctica to salinity perturbations: Evidence for physiological resilience”
    • Authors: S. Gäbler-Schwarz, F. Hinz, G.O. Kirst, M. Uttieri, Linda K. Medlin
    • Year: 2021
    • Journal: Journal of Experimental Marine Biology and Ecology
    • Volume: 538
    • Article ID: 151527
  8. “The morphology and phylogeny of the diatom genera Rhizosolenia, Proboscia, Pseudosolenia and Neocalyptrella from Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea, with description of Rhizosolenia loanicola sp. nov., Proboscia siamensis sp. nov. and Probosciales ord. nov.”
    • Authors: A. Boonprakob, N. Lundholm, Linda K. Medlin, Ø. Moestrup
    • Year: 2021
    • Journal: Diatom Research
    • Volume: 36(3)
    • Pages: 143–184
  9. “Advances in the Detection of Toxic Algae Using Electrochemical Biosensors”
    • Authors: Linda K. Medlin, M. Gamella, G. Mengs, S. Campuzano, J.M. Pingarrón
    • Year: 2020
    • Journal: Biosensors
    • Volume: 10(12)
    • Article ID: 207
  10. “Phylogenetic reconstruction of diatoms using a seven-gene dataset, multiple outgroups, and morphological data for a total evidence approach”
    • Authors: Linda K. Medlin, Y. Desdevises
    • Year: 2020
    • Journal: Phycologia
    • Volume: 59(5)
    • Pages: 422–436