Tag: Earth Conservation Award

Stephen Afrifa | Climate Action | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. Stephen Afrifa | Climate Action | Best Researcher Award

Researcher at University of Energy and Natural Resources, Ghana

Dr. Stephen Afrifa is a dedicated scientific researcher with a passion for innovation, climate science, and technology-driven solutions. With extensive experience in artificial intelligence, machine learning, data science, and geospatial techniques, he applies computational methods to address pressing global challenges, including climate change, public health, and cybersecurity. As a lecturer at the University of Energy and Natural Resources (UENR), he mentors students while leading cutting-edge research initiatives. Dr. Afrifa is also actively engaged in software development, project management, and academic publishing. His strong analytical skills, problem-solving abilities, and leadership in research make him a key figure in advancing knowledge in his field. He has contributed significantly to academia through numerous peer-reviewed publications, conference presentations, and collaborations with international researchers. His commitment to climate activism and educational outreach highlights his dedication to using technology for societal good.

Professional Profile

Education

Dr. Afrifa is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Information and Communication Engineering at Tianjin University, China, with a focus on speech enhancement, deep learning, and signal processing. He holds a Master of Science in Engineering (Information and Communication Engineering) from the same institution, where he explored machine learning models for climate change analysis. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Information Technology (First Class Honors) from the University of Energy and Natural Resources (UENR), Ghana. His academic foundation is further strengthened by a background in the sciences from Kumasi High School, where he studied Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Mathematics. Throughout his education, Dr. Afrifa has demonstrated excellence in research, earning prestigious scholarships and academic awards.

Professional Experience

Dr. Afrifa has held various roles in academia and industry. Currently, he is a lecturer at UENR’s Department of Information Technology and Decision Sciences, where he teaches, supervises research, and contributes to faculty projects. Previously, he worked as a senior research assistant in the same department, assisting in student supervision, research design, and data analysis. He has also served as a software application developer and research lead at CY Technologies, where he designed and developed software solutions while leading research initiatives. His experience includes roles in IT support, national service, and research internships, where he contributed to innovative projects such as fire detection systems and AI-driven business solutions. His multidisciplinary expertise spans IT, machine learning, geospatial analysis, and cybersecurity.

Research Interests

Dr. Afrifa’s research focuses on artificial intelligence, machine learning, data science, geospatial analysis, and climate change modeling. He is particularly interested in applying deep learning techniques to areas such as medical imaging, speech recognition, cybersecurity, and environmental monitoring. His work explores the intersection of AI and sustainability, using computational models to assess climate change impacts on groundwater levels and natural disasters. Additionally, he has contributed to studies on public sentiment analysis, network security, and disease detection using AI-driven techniques. His diverse research interests reflect a commitment to leveraging technology for problem-solving and innovation.

Research Skills

Dr. Afrifa is proficient in various programming languages, including Python, R, C/C++, Java, HTML5, JavaScript, and PHP. He has expertise in statistical and AI-based tools such as SPSS, NVIVO, GIS, and GenStat. His skills extend to network security, data analysis, cloud computing, and enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems. He is adept at designing and implementing AI models for predictive analytics, classification, and decision-making. His experience in mentoring students, leading research teams, and publishing in high-impact journals further solidifies his reputation as a skilled researcher. Additionally, his ability to integrate AI, machine learning, and geospatial techniques in real-world applications makes him a valuable contributor to the scientific community.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Afrifa has been recognized for his academic and research excellence. He was awarded the Best Graduating Student in the Department of Computer Science and Informatics at UENR in 2020. He was also a recipient of the Absa Tertiary Scholarship from 2017 to 2020. His research contributions have led to invitations as a peer reviewer for several reputable journals, including those published by Elsevier, Springer, and Emerald. His work has been presented at international conferences, further solidifying his status as a thought leader in his field. His achievements underscore his dedication to advancing knowledge and innovation through rigorous scientific inquiry.

Conclusion

Dr. Stephen Afrifa’s impressive academic and professional journey demonstrates his commitment to research, innovation, and education. His expertise in artificial intelligence, machine learning, climate science, and cybersecurity enables him to address complex global challenges through technology. As a researcher, educator, and mentor, he continues to inspire students and collaborate with international scholars to push the boundaries of scientific discovery. His numerous publications, leadership roles, and industry experience position him as a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His dedication to research excellence, combined with his problem-solving skills and contributions to knowledge, make him a deserving recipient of this recognition.

Publications Top Notes

  1. Mathematical and machine learning models for groundwater level changes: a systematic review and bibliographic analysis

    • Authors: S Afrifa, T Zhang, P Appiahene, V Varadarajan
    • Year: 2022
    • Citations: 62

  2. Detection of anemia using conjunctiva images: A smartphone application approach

    • Authors: P Appiahene, EJ Arthur, S Korankye, S Afrifa, JW Asare, ET Donkoh
    • Year: 2023
    • Citations: 32

  3. Ensemble machine learning techniques for accurate and efficient detection of botnet attacks in connected computers

    • Authors: S Afrifa, V Varadarajan, P Appiahene, T Zhang, EA Domfeh
    • Year: 2023
    • Citations: 31

  4. VAR, ARIMAX and ARIMA models for nowcasting unemployment rate in Ghana using Google trends

    • Authors: WK Adu, P Appiahene, S Afrifa
    • Year: 2023
    • Citations: 26

  5. Cyberbullying detection on Twitter using natural language processing and machine learning techniques

    • Authors: S Afrifa, V Varadarajan
    • Year: 2022
    • Citations: 21

  6. Application of ensemble models approach in anemia detection using images of the palpable palm

    • Authors: P Appiahene, SSD Dogbe, EEY Kobina, PS Dartey, S Afrifa, ET Donkoh, …
    • Year: 2023
    • Citations: 13

  7. Analyzing sentiments towards e-levy policy implementation in Ghana using Twitter data

    • Authors: P Appiahene, S Afrifa, EK Akwah, A Choudhry, I Khatri, C Raj, M Prasad
    • Year: 2024
    • Citations: 10

  8. Climate change impact assessment on groundwater level changes: A study of hybrid model techniques

    • Authors: S Afrifa, T Zhang, X Zhao, P Appiahene, MS Yaw
    • Year: 2023
    • Citations: 8

  9. Using Machine Learning to Classify Network Abnormalities into Legitimate or Assault in IoT-based Cyber Physical System

    • Authors: S Afrifa, V Varadarajan, P Appiahene, T Zhang
    • Year: 2023
    • Citations: 5

  10. Experiences of sexual minorities on social media: A study of sentiment analysis and machine learning approaches

  • Authors: P Appiahene, V Varadarajan, T Zhang, S Afrifa
  • Year: 2023
  • Citations: 5

KOBRA SHIRANI | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

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Assist. Prof. Dr. KOBRA SHIRANI | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Assistant Professor at TARBIAT MODARES, Iran

Kobra Shirani is an accomplished toxicologist and academic, currently serving as an Assistant Professor at the Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Iran. With a strong foundation in cellular and molecular biology, she has built her career on advancing the understanding of toxicology, particularly immunotoxicity and its molecular mechanisms. Her research is internationally recognized, as evidenced by her six-month visiting scientist position at Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, where she focused on cutting-edge research involving miRNAs. Her professional journey is marked by her exceptional academic achievements, numerous accolades, and significant contributions to teaching and mentoring. Beyond academia, she actively engages in scientific communities, exemplifying her dedication to advancing toxicological research.

Professional Profile

Education

Kobra Shirani holds a PhD in Toxicology from Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, where she investigated immunotoxicity induced by aflatoxin M1 and its relationship with microRNA 155 expression. Her MSc in Toxicology from the University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, focused on the cytotoxic effects of natural extracts on tumor cells. She also earned a BSc in Cellular and Molecular Biology from Alzahra University, Tehran. Notably, she undertook a six-month sabbatical as a visiting scientist at Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, contributing to advanced research on miRNAs. Her diverse academic background underpins her expertise in toxicology and molecular biology.

Professional Experience

Since 2019, Kobra Shirani has served as an Assistant Professor at Tarbiat Modares University, teaching various toxicology-related courses and mentoring students. She previously undertook a six-month industrial sabbatical at the Water Research Institute, gaining valuable practical experience. Her professional career also includes maternity leave, reflecting her ability to balance family and career. She has contributed significantly to teaching and curriculum development in toxicology, including environmental, forensic, and analytical toxicology. Additionally, she is an active member of international scientific committees, such as the Euro-Mediterranean Conference for Environmental Integration, highlighting her global engagement in toxicological research.

Research Interests

Kobra Shirani’s research interests center on toxicology and its intersections with molecular biology and environmental health. She focuses on immunotoxicity, environmental pollutants, natural toxins, and analytical toxicology. Her work on the molecular mechanisms of aflatoxin-induced toxicity and miRNA regulation underscores her commitment to addressing pressing health challenges. Additionally, she is interested in environmental toxicology, particularly the impacts of pollutants and toxins on human health and ecosystems. Her multidisciplinary approach combines laboratory experimentation, risk assessment, and statistical analysis, aligning her research with global environmental and health priorities.

Research Skills

Kobra Shirani possesses extensive research skills, including expertise in cell and molecular biology techniques such as cell culture, DNA/RNA isolation, PCR, qPCR, and Western blotting. She is proficient in immunotoxicity assays, animal handling, and the operation of advanced laboratory instruments, including HPLC, GC, and AAS. Her technical capabilities extend to statistical analysis using software like SPSS and GraphPad Prism. She is adept at risk assessment and environmental toxicology research, leveraging her broad skill set to tackle complex toxicological challenges. Her commitment to continuous learning and adaptability in various research environments underscores her scientific expertise.

Awards and Honors

Kobra Shirani has been recognized with numerous awards for her academic excellence and research contributions. She ranked among the top 1% in Iran’s National University Entrance Exam and secured the 5th rank in the MSc entrance exam and 1st rank in the PhD Comprehensive Examination. She received the Sabbatical Award Scholarship from Mashhad University of Medical Sciences for her research abroad and was honored as a Top Talent by Iran’s National Elites Foundation in 2017. Her accolades highlight her dedication to academic and research excellence, further solidifying her reputation as a leader in her field.

Conclusion 🏆

Kobra Shirani has a commendable academic and professional track record, demonstrating excellence in toxicology research, teaching, and skills development. Her technical expertise, awards, and contributions to the scientific community make her a strong contender for the Best Researcher

Publication Top Notes

  1. The protective effects of Allium ampeloprasum Subsp. Iranicum on cyclophosphamide-induced immunosuppression in NMRI Mice: A promising natural immunomodulator
    Authors: Abedi, F., Yousefsani, B.S., Shirani, K.
    Year: 2024
  2. Title: Uncovering the neuroprotective powers of Allium sativum: Exploring its potential to alleviate malathion-associated Parkinson’s-like behavioral symptoms in a rat model
    Authors: Yousefsani, B.S., Ghobadi, A., Shirani, K.
    Year: 2024
  3. Title: Anticancer Activity of Allium jesdianum Extract: A Potential Therapeutic Approach for Melanoma
    Authors: Shirani, M., Aghazadeh, E., Yousefsani, B.S., Shirani, K.
    Year: 2024
  4. Title: Investigating the role of food pollutants in autism spectrum disorder: A comprehensive analysis of heavy metals, pesticides, and mycotoxins
    Authors: Nehzomi, Z.S., Shirani, K.
    Year: 2024 (In Press)
  5. Title: Epicatechin as a promising agent against arsenic-induced neurobehavioral toxicity in NMRI mice: Behavioral and biochemical alterations
    Authors: Shariati, S., Khodayar, M.J., Azadnasab, R., Shirani, K., Shirani, M.
    Year: 2024 (In Press)
    Citations: 1
  6. Title: Castor Oil: A Natural Remedy with Promising Potential for Parkinson’s Disease Prevention
    Authors: Yousefsani, B.S., Ghobadi, A., Dadmehr, M., Shirani, K.
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 1
  7. Title: Protective effect of a standardized Allium jesdianum extract in an Alzheimer’s disease-induced rat model
    Authors: Kamranfar, F., Jaktaji, R.P., Shirani, K., Faizi, M., Pourahmad, J.
    Year: 2023
    Citations: 3
  8. Title: The Selective Cytotoxicity of Quercus Brantii Lindl. Galls on A375 and SK-MEL-3 Human Malignant Melanoma Cell Lines
    Authors: Yousefsani, B.S., Mohajer, K., Qobadi, A., Shirani, K., Pourahmad, J.
    Year: 2023
    Citations: 1
  9. Title: The hematopoietic potential of methanolic and aqueous extracts of Portulaca oleracea in a phenylhydrazine model of anemia
    Authors: Shirani, K., Riahi-Zanjani, B., Omidkhoda, S.N., Barangi, S., Karimi, G.
    Year: 2023
    Citations: 2
  10. Title: Evaluation of immune responses induced by hydroalcoholic extract of Allium ampeloprasum L. Subsp. Iranicum in mice
    Authors: Shiekhzadeh, F., Vakili, P., Shirani, K.
    Year: 2022
    Citations: 2

 

 

 

Hung-Yi Chuang | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

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Prof Dr. Hung-Yi Chuang | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Professor at Kaohsiung Medical University, Taiwan.

Dr. Hung-Yi Chuang is a distinguished Professor and Consultant Physician at Kaohsiung Medical University, specializing in occupational and environmental medicine. With over two decades of research experience, his work primarily focuses on the impact of metal exposure, particularly lead, on chronic diseases such as kidney disease, cardiovascular disorders, and cognitive impairment. Dr. Chuang has led significant studies on gene-environment interactions, exploring how genetic factors influence susceptibility to metal toxicity. He has published over 50 papers, with more than 40 in SCI journals as the first or corresponding author. His research contributes to public health by informing preventive measures for workers exposed to hazardous metals. Dr. Chuang’s work also includes interdisciplinary collaborations in precision environmental medicine, incorporating artificial intelligence to identify risk factors for chronic diseases linked to environmental pollutants. His contributions have had a profound impact on both scientific research and public health policies.

Profile
Education

Dr. Hung-Yi Chuang has an extensive educational background in public health and medicine. He earned his Doctor of Science (Sc.D.) in Occupational Health from the prestigious Harvard School of Public Health in 1999. Prior to that, he completed his Master of Public Health (M.P.H.) at National Taiwan University in 1992, which equipped him with a strong foundation in epidemiology and public health practices. His journey in medicine began with a Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) degree from Kaohsiung Medical University in 1990, where he gained in-depth medical knowledge and clinical skills. Dr. Chuang’s educational experiences have shaped his expertise in environmental and occupational medicine, particularly in the areas of toxicology, epidemiology, and chronic disease prevention. His academic pursuits have significantly contributed to his research on the health impacts of environmental metal exposure and genetic interactions, making him a highly regarded expert in his field.

Professional Experience

Dr. Hung-Yi Chuang is a distinguished Professor and Consultant Physician at Kaohsiung Medical University in Taiwan, specializing in Occupational and Environmental Medicine. Since joining the university in July 1999, he has significantly contributed to the field, particularly through his leadership in the Taiwan Lead Worker Cohort study. With over two decades of dedicated research on lead exposure and its impact on health, Dr. Chuang has become a leading expert in examining the associations between metal biomarkers, oxidative stress, and chronic diseases. His work extends to investigating gene-environment interactions, focusing on how genetic factors modify the effects of metal exposure on health outcomes. In addition to his academic role, Dr. Chuang is the founder and director of the Bone Lead Laboratory at Kaohsiung Medical University, where he oversees research projects and guides the next generation of scientists in occupational health and toxicology. His expertise and contributions have made him a key figure in the field.

Research Interest

Dr. Hung-Yi Chuang’s research interests focus on the intricate relationship between environmental metal exposure, particularly lead (Pb), and its effects on chronic diseases. His work delves into the biomarkers of metal toxicity and oxidative stress, examining how they contribute to conditions such as kidney disease, cardiovascular disease, metabolic syndrome, and cognitive decline. Dr. Chuang also investigates gene-environment interactions, aiming to discover novel genes that influence susceptibility to metal toxicity. His studies extend to precision environmental and occupational medicine, where he compares exposed cohorts with non-exposed populations to identify genetic and environmental risk factors. Additionally, Dr. Chuang’s research includes the application of artificial intelligence to assess the association between environmental pollutants, chronic diseases, and genomic data. His findings have profound implications for public health interventions, particularly in high-risk occupations like metalwork, and contribute to advancing the field of environmental and occupational medicine.

Research Skills

Dr. Hung-Yi Chuang possesses extensive research skills in the fields of occupational and environmental medicine, with a specific focus on the impacts of heavy metal exposure, such as lead, cadmium, and arsenic, on chronic diseases. His expertise spans epidemiological studies, biomarker analysis, and gene-environment interactions. Dr. Chuang’s research skills include designing and conducting large-scale cohort studies, utilizing advanced statistical methods, and integrating machine learning and artificial intelligence to assess the health effects of environmental pollutants. He has a strong background in molecular epidemiology and toxicology, applying these skills to study the genetic and epigenetic mechanisms underlying disease susceptibility. Dr. Chuang is also adept at interdisciplinary collaboration, working with experts across various fields to address complex public health challenges. His ability to translate research findings into actionable public health interventions highlights his commitment to improving occupational health and safety standards globally.

Awards and Recognition

Dr. Chuang has been recognized for his contributions to environmental and occupational medicine through various awards and honors. His leadership in establishing the Bone Lead Laboratory at Kaohsiung Medical University and his role as a principal investigator on numerous research projects further highlight his expertise and influence in the field. His extensive publication record and frequent role as a corresponding author also reflect the high regard in which he is held by his peers.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Dr. Hung-Yi Chuang’s extensive research contributions, geographic impact, collaborative efforts, and applied research make him a strong candidate for the Research for Best Researcher Award. His work in environmental health, particularly in understanding the toxic effects of metals and their interaction with genetic factors, has had a profound impact on public health policies and practices. His ongoing commitment to advancing knowledge in this field, coupled with his leadership in cross-disciplinary research, positions him as a leading researcher deserving of this recognition.

Publications Top Notes

  1. The validation of Chinese version of workplace PERMA-profiler and the association between workplace well-being and fatigue
    • Authors: Yang, C., Chen, H.-T., Luo, K.-H., Kuo, C.-H., Kawakami, N.
    • Year: 2024
  2. Mediation analysis for TNF-α as a mediator between multiple metal exposure and kidney function
    • Authors: Luo, K.-H., Tu, H.-P., Chang, H.-C., Yang, C.-H., Chuang, H.-Y.
    • Year: 2024
  3. Association Between Osteoporosis and Adiposity Index Reveals Nonlinearity Among Postmenopausal Women and Linearity Among Men Aged over 50 Years
    • Authors: Chen, P.-J., Lu, Y.-C., Lu, S.-N., Liang, F.-W., Chuang, H.-Y.
    • Year: 2024
  4. Physical frailty identification using machine learning to explore the 5-item FRAIL scale, Cardiovascular Health Study index, and Study of Osteoporotic Fractures index
    • Authors: Yang, C.-C., Chen, P.-H., Yang, C.-H., Chuang, H.-Y., Kuo, C.-H.
    • Year: 2024
  5. Performance of nonalcoholic fatty liver fibrosis score in estimating atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease risk
    • Authors: Huang, Y.-C., Huang, J.-C., Chien, H.-H., Wang, C.-L., Dai, C.-Y.
    • Year: 2023
    • Citations: 2
  6. Do patient characteristics affect EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor treatment outcomes? A network meta-analysis of real-world survival outcomes of East Asian patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer treated with first-line EGFR-TKIs
    • Authors: Chang, H.-C., Wang, C.-C., Tseng, C.-C., Lin, M.-C., Chuang, H.-Y.
    • Year: 2023
  7. Survival outcomes of East Asian patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer treated with first-line EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors: A network meta-analysis of real-world evidence
    • Authors: Chang, H.-C., Huang, K.-T., Tseng, C.-C., Chuang, H.-Y., Wang, C.-C.
    • Year: 2023
    • Citations: 1
  8. Exploring the association of metal mixture in blood to the kidney function and tumor necrosis factor alpha using machine learning methods
    • Authors: Luo, K.-H., Wu, C.-H., Yang, C.-C., Yang, C.-H., Chuang, H.-Y.
    • Year: 2023
    • Citations: 2
  9. Temporal transition trends of cord blood lead levels in various human development index countries and in the Taipei metropolitan area
    • Authors: Hwang, Y.-H., Wu, H.-C., Shyu, M.-K., Wu, T.-H., Chen, Y.-T.
    • Year: 2023
    • Citations: 1
  10. Prediction and potential risk factors for electronic cigarette use behaviors among adolescents: a pilot study in Chiayi, Taiwan
    • Authors: Liu, P.-I., Lin, M.-N., Ho, P.-S., Wu, K.-F., Chuang, H.-Y.
    • Year: 2023
    • Citations: 2

 

 

Belén Fernández | Environmental Science | Women Researcher Award

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Dr. Belén Fernández | Environmental Science | Women Researcher Award

Researcher of IRTA, Spain .

Dr. Mª Belén Fernández García, a Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering from the University of Santiago de Compostela (2004), is a dedicated researcher in environmental sciences, biotechnology, and chemical engineering. She specializes in organic waste valorization, focusing on processes like anaerobic digestion and fermentative bioreactors. With an h-index of 20, Dr. Fernández García has led numerous research projects and supervised doctoral theses, contributing significantly to the field of sustainability and renewable energy. Her expertise extends to pretreatment techniques for enhancing biological degradation of organic wastes and developing innovative solutions for renewable energy production and emissions mitigation. Dr. Fernández García’s current research emphasizes agroindustrial waste valorization for renewable energy, nutrient recovery, and emissions reduction. She is actively involved in several ongoing research projects aimed at promoting sustainability in agriculture and waste management. Her work underscores a commitment to scientific excellence and interdisciplinary collaboration in addressing environmental challenges.

Professional Profiles:

Education

Dr. Mª Belén Fernández García earned her PhD in Chemical Engineering from the University of Santiago de Compostela in 2004. Since 2012, she has been a dedicated researcher in the Sustainability in Biosystems Program at IRTA. Her research spans environmental sciences, biotechnology, and chemical engineering, focusing on organic waste valorization processes. Dr. Fernández García has extensive experience in developing and demonstrating waste valorization methods at laboratory and pilot scales, specializing in anaerobic digestion, fermentative bioreactors, and microbial activity assessments. She has led numerous EU and national research projects, supervised doctoral theses, and contributed to innovative initiatives for renewable energy production and emissions mitigation in agroindustrial settings. Currently, she is actively involved in projects promoting sustainability in olive cultivation and optimizing resource use in agriculture. Her work exemplifies a commitment to advancing sustainable solutions for environmental challenges.

Professional Experience

Dr. Mª Belén Fernández García, a Chemical Engineering PhD from the University of Santiago de Compostela (2004) and researcher at IRTA since 2012, specializes in environmental sciences and biotechnology. With expertise in organic waste valorization, anaerobic digestion, and bioreactor technologies, she leads innovative projects in renewable energy and emissions reduction. Dr. Fernández García has contributed to numerous EU and national research initiatives, supervising doctoral theses and master’s projects. Her current focus involves agroindustrial waste valorization for energy and nutrient recovery, alongside emissions reduction strategies in farm-scale settings. Committed to sustainable practices, she champions novel solutions in environmental engineering and biotechnology, aligning her work with global efforts toward a greener future.

Research Interest

Dr. Mª Belén Fernández García, with a PhD in Chemical Engineering from the University of Santiago de Compostela, is a dedicated researcher focusing on environmental sciences, biotechnology, and chemical engineering. Her expertise lies in the valorization of organic waste through innovative processes, such as anaerobic digestion and fermentative bioreactors, to produce renewable energy sources like biogas and biohydrogen. Dr. Fernández García is well-versed in pretreatment methods for optimizing organic waste degradation and nutrient recovery from agroindustrial residues. She has an extensive track record in both EU and national projects, with a strong commitment to sustainability and emissions reduction in agri-food systems. Currently, her research explores novel approaches to waste valorization, nutrient recovery, and emissions mitigation, contributing significantly to the field of environmental engineering and biotechnology.

Award and Honors

Dr. Mª Belén Fernández García is a distinguished researcher specializing in environmental sciences, biotechnology, and chemical engineering. She obtained her PhD in Chemical Engineering from the University of Santiago de Compostela in 2004 and currently holds an impressive h-index of 20. Dr. Fernández García is renowned for her expertise in organic waste valorization processes, with extensive experience in anaerobic digestion, fermentative bioreactors, and pretreatment techniques to enhance biological degradation. Throughout her career, Dr. Fernández García has actively contributed to 23 EU and national public projects and 93 private R&D&i contracts. She has supervised 8 completed doctoral theses and continues to mentor 2 ongoing doctoral candidates, along with overseeing 15 master’s final projects and 28 internships for professional and university degree students. Her research focuses on sustainable energy production, nutrient recovery from waste, and innovative emissions mitigation strategies, making significant strides in environmental engineering and sustainability.

Research Skills

Dr. Mª Belén Fernández García possesses a diverse and advanced skill set in research methodologies and techniques, particularly in environmental sciences, biotechnology, and chemical engineering. Her research spans the development and demonstration of organic waste valorization processes at laboratory and pilot scales, with expertise in anaerobic digestion, fermentative bioreactors, and microbial activity assessments. She specializes in employing pretreatment techniques such as high-pressure/temperature treatment, hydrothermal carbonization, and ultrasonic treatment to enhance the biological degradation of organic wastes. Dr. Fernández García has extensive experience managing EU and national research projects, private R&D&i contracts, and supervising doctoral and master’s theses. Her collaborative approach and innovative solutions contribute significantly to the field of sustainability and renewable energy. With a focus on agroindustrial waste valorization, she is dedicated to developing solutions for renewable energy production, nutrient recovery, and emissions mitigation. Her research skills underscore her commitment to addressing environmental challenges through scientific excellence and interdisciplinary collaboration.

Publications

  1. Publication Title: “Effectiveness of precision feeding in reducing N excretion in dairy cattle”
    • Authors: Morey, L.; Bach, A.; Sabrià, D.; Fernández, B.; Terré, M.
    • Journal: Animal Feed Science and Technology, 2023, 304, 115722
    • Citations: 0
  2. Publication Title: “Acidification and solar drying of manure-based digestate to produce improved fertilizing products”
    • Authors: Morey, L.; Fernández, B.; Tey, L.; Cots, M.; Riau, V.
    • Journal: Journal of Environmental Management, 2023, 336, 117664
    • Citations: 7
  3. Publication Title: “Near infrared spectroscopy for fast characterization of animal by products feedstocks for biogas production: Calibration of a handheld device”
    • Authors: Otero, A.; Segura, C.; Tey, L.; Comaposada, J.; Fernández, B.
    • Journal: Biomass and Bioenergy, 2023, 169, 106691
    • Citations: 1
  4. Publication Title: “Use of wood and cork in biofilters for the simultaneous removal of nitrates and pesticides from groundwater”
    • Authors: Escolà Casas, M.; Guivernau, M.; Viñas, M.; Biel, C.; Matamoros, V.
    • Journal: Chemosphere, 2023, 313, 137502
    • Citations: 4
  5. Publication Title: “Assessment of a novel microalgae-cork based technology for removing antibiotics, pesticides and nitrates from groundwater”
    • Authors: Rambaldo, L.; Ávila, H.; Escolà Casas, M.; Bayona, J.M.; Matamoros, V.
    • Journal: Chemosphere, 2022, 301, 134777
    • Citations: 14
  6. Publication Title: “Influence of pH and temperature on struvite purity and recovery from anaerobic digestate”
    • Authors: González-Morales, C.; Fernández, B.; Molina, F.J.; Matamoros-Veloza, A.; Camargo-Valero, M.A.
    • Journal: Sustainability (Switzerland), 2021, 13(19), 10730
    • Citations: 26
  7. Publication Title: “Biogas production from slaughterhouse waste: Effect of blood content and fat saponification”
    • Authors: Otero, A.; Mendoza, M.; Carreras, R.; Fernández, B.
    • Journal: Waste Management, 2021, 133, pp. 119–126
    • Citations: 9
  8. Publication Title: “The determination of fertilizer quality of the formed struvite from a WWTP”
    • Authors: González, C.; Fernández, B.; Molina, F.; Camargo-Valero, M.A.; Peláez, C.
    • Journal: Water Science and Technology, 2021, 83(12), pp. 3041–3053
    • Citations: 6
  9. Publication Title: “Combined acidification and solar drying of pig slurries for nutrient recovery and controlled atmospheric emissions”
    • Authors: Prenafeta-Boldú, F.X.; Fernández, B.; Viñas, M.; Soler, J.; Illa, J.
    • Journal: Agronomy, 2021, 11(2), 222
    • Citations: 3
  10. Publication Title: “Solar drying in the vineyard: A sustainable technology for the recovery of nutrients from winery organic waste”
    • Authors: Prenafeta-Boldú, F.X.; Burgos, L.; Noguerol, J.; Mercader, M.; Soler, J.
    • Journal: Water Science and Technology, 2020, 82(1), pp. 27–38
    • Citations: 2