Laura Del Valle Villalonga | Planetary Sciences | Women Researcher Award

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Assist. Prof. Dr. Laura Del Valle Villalonga | Planetary Sciences | Women Researcher Award

Assistant Professor Doctorate from University of the Balearic Islands, Spain

Laura Del Valle Villalonga is an accomplished researcher and academic in the field of Geography and Earth Sciences, currently serving as a Substitute Lecturer at the Universitat de les Illes Balears in Spain. With a career built on a foundation of scientific rigor and environmental advocacy, Laura has contributed significantly to coastal geomorphology, luminescence dating, and Pleistocene paleoclimatic research. Her work is deeply rooted in understanding environmental processes through sediment analysis and chronostratigraphy, with a focus on the Balearic Islands and the Mediterranean region. She has held roles across academic institutions and environmental agencies, contributing to both theoretical research and applied ecological strategies, such as species protection and strategic planning. With dual PhDs and a consistent track record of field research and international collaboration, Laura demonstrates an interdisciplinary approach that merges geology, geography, hydrology, and environmental policy. Her ability to engage in public education, participate in regional planning, and publish across multiple platforms reflects her commitment to societal impact and scientific excellence. Fluent in several languages and with a strong foundation in academic teaching, she exemplifies the qualities of a modern researcher—technically proficient, globally connected, and environmentally conscious.

Professional Profile

Education

Laura Del Valle Villalonga has pursued an extensive and multidisciplinary academic journey. She earned a PhD in Geography with European Mention from the Universitat de les Illes Balears in 2016, receiving the highest qualification, “Excellent cum laude.” Additionally, she obtained a second PhD in Earth Sciences from the University of Babes-Bolyai in Romania in 2021, also conferred with “Excellent cum laude.” Her doctoral research focused on Pleistocene deposits, luminescence chronology, and paleoenvironmental reconstruction of the Pityusic Islands. Prior to her doctoral degrees, she completed multiple university-level diplomas and degrees from the Universitat de les Illes Balears. These include a Licenciatura in Geography, diplomas in Physical Geography, Regional Geography, Human Geography, and Geology, all awarded in 2008–2009. Laura also holds postgraduate qualifications such as a Master’s in Coastal Area Management and another in Teacher Education, both completed with honors. She complemented her formal education with professional courses in advanced geoscientific techniques such as ICP-MS, X-ray diffraction, and hydrology from institutions like the Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya and Institut de Ciències de la Terra Jaume Almera. This rich educational background has equipped her with both theoretical insight and applied scientific techniques.

Professional Experience

Laura’s professional trajectory spans academic, research, environmental consultancy, and public service roles. She is currently engaged as a Substitute Lecturer at the Universitat de les Illes Balears, where she also supervises students in practical geographic applications. Her postdoctoral work at Babes-Bolyai University in Romania focused on optically stimulated luminescence and dating methods, reflecting her strong geochronological specialization. Earlier, she worked at the Laboratory of Luminescence Dating and Dosimetry in Cluj-Napoca, contributing to thermoluminescence and ESR-based dating techniques. She also served as an environmental educator at Estudi 6 and developed strategic ecological control plans for the Government of the Balearic Islands. Her roles include work as a scholarship researcher at CAIB-FPI, university assistant, and research analyst for sedimentary studies related to the Menorca Channel and Arena Don Pedro. Beyond research, she has also transcribed academic theses and cataloged historical documents. Across her roles, Laura has continuously merged technical skill with real-world applications, showcasing adaptability and a multidisciplinary approach. Her responsibilities have spanned teaching, fieldwork, laboratory analysis, strategic planning, and public outreach—making her a well-rounded professional with comprehensive experience in academic and applied geography.

Research Interests

Laura Del Valle Villalonga’s research interests lie at the intersection of physical geography, geochronology, and environmental change. She specializes in coastal geomorphology, sedimentary analysis, and Pleistocene-Holocene stratigraphy. A central focus of her research has been the use of luminescence dating (OSL and TL) and ESR techniques to understand sediment deposition, sea-level fluctuations, and paleoenvironmental conditions in the Balearic Islands. Her work aims to reconstruct past climates and coastal dynamics through the analysis of aeolian and marine sediment archives. Additionally, she investigates the morphogenesis of endokarst landscapes and the correlation of speleothem records with shoreline sedimentation. Her studies are not only geologically significant but also vital for contemporary understanding of climate change impacts on coastal systems. Laura’s academic output supports conservation and sustainable planning, aligning with broader ecological and societal goals. She also contributes to interdisciplinary projects related to tourism pressure, shoreline transformation, and habitat protection. By collaborating with geologists, ecologists, and hydrologists, her research transcends disciplinary boundaries. Ultimately, Laura’s scientific inquiries serve both to advance academic understanding and inform practical environmental policy in sensitive island environments.

Research Skills

Laura possesses a versatile array of research skills across field, laboratory, and academic contexts. In sedimentology and geomorphology, she is skilled in stratigraphic profiling, sediment sampling, and coastal landform analysis. Her technical expertise includes optically stimulated luminescence (OSL), thermoluminescence (TL), and electron spin resonance (ESR) dating, acquired through hands-on experience in Romania and Spain. Laura is proficient in hydrological modeling, aquifer analysis, and geochemical sample preparation, with formal training in ICP-MS and X-ray diffraction techniques. She has experience working with GIS tools and cartographic representation for geographical studies. Her academic writing and communication skills are evidenced by her teaching roles and participation in national and international seminars. Laura is also adept at mentoring undergraduate students during field training and thesis preparation. Additionally, her command over multiple languages (Spanish, Catalan, English, French, and Romanian) supports her participation in international collaborations and literature reviews. Her comprehensive knowledge base and skill set enable her to contribute meaningfully to multidisciplinary research initiatives in geography, earth sciences, and climate change studies.

Awards and Honors

Laura Del Valle Villalonga has earned several academic distinctions throughout her career. Most notably, she has received the distinction of “Excellent cum laude” for both her PhD degrees—one from the Universitat de les Illes Balears and another from Babes-Bolyai University. These dual doctoral achievements underline her exceptional academic dedication and research rigor. Her master’s thesis on sediment contamination in the Bay of Palma also received an “Excellent” rating, highlighting her early contribution to applied coastal research. Additionally, she was awarded research scholarships (CAIB FPI) by the Government of the Balearic Islands for multiple years, allowing her to undertake dedicated geographic and geoscientific research. Her work has also been recognized through active participation in competitive, government-funded research projects such as EMCROTUR and GEOLICA, which support innovative research on climate change and coastal transformation. These recognitions reflect her status as an emerging leader in environmental geosciences. Moreover, her role as a speaker and course leader in university seminars adds to her academic credibility and acknowledgment within the teaching community. Laura’s consistent record of excellence affirms her qualifications for prestigious awards in scientific research.

Conclusion

Laura Del Valle Villalonga exemplifies a model scholar and professional in environmental geography and earth sciences. Her dual doctoral qualifications, extensive academic training, and hands-on field and lab experience position her as an expert in sedimentology, coastal geomorphology, and paleoenvironmental reconstruction. Through her work on luminescence dating, climate archives, and shoreline processes, she contributes significantly to our understanding of long-term environmental changes in sensitive coastal systems. Laura’s commitment to teaching, mentoring, and interdisciplinary collaboration enhances the impact of her research within and beyond the academic community. She effectively bridges theory and practice—linking scientific inquiry with ecological management and educational outreach. Her participation in major R&D projects, her multilingual proficiency, and her experience across European institutions reflect both depth and breadth in her career. Although she could further amplify her scientific impact through lead authorship in international journals and PI roles, her trajectory is already distinguished and impactful. In sum, Laura Del Valle Villalonga is a compelling candidate for recognition in women’s scientific achievement, and her profile meets and exceeds the expectations of a Women Researcher Award nominee.

Publications Top Notes

  • Middle to Late Pleistocene dunefields in rocky coast settings at Cala Xuclar (Eivissa, Western Mediterranean): Recognition, architecture and luminescence chronology
    Authors: L. del Valle, L. Gómez-Pujol, J.J. Fornós, A. Timar-Gabor, …
    Journal: Quaternary International, 407, pp. 4–13, 2016
    Citations: 39

  • OSL-dating of the Pleistocene-Holocene climatic transition in loess from China, Europe and North America, and evidence for accretionary pedogenesis
    Authors: D. Constantin, J.A. Mason, D. Veres, U. Hambach, C. Panaiotu, C. Zeeden, A. Timar-Gabor, …
    Journal: Earth-Science Reviews, 221, Article 103769, 2021
    Citations: 29

  • Assessing the maximum limit of SAR-OSL dating using quartz of different grain sizes
    Authors: V. Anechitei-Deacu, A. Timar-Gabor, D. Constantin, O. Trandafir-Antohi, …
    Journal: Geochronometria, 45(1), pp. 146–159, 2018
    Citations: 28

  • Late Pleistocene dune–sourced alluvial fans in coastal settings: Sedimentary facies and related processes (Mallorca, Western Mediterranean)
    Authors: F. Pomar, L. del Valle, J.J. Fornós, L. Gómez-Pujol
    Journal: Sedimentary Geology, 367, pp. 48–68, 2018
    Citations: 22

  • El registre sedimentari eòlic del Plistocè litoral d’Eivissa
    Author: L. del Valle
    Thesis: Doctoral thesis, Universitat de les Illes Balears, 2016
    Citations: 16

  • Registro sedimentario litoral del Pleistoceno en las Islas Baleares (Mediterráneo occidental): implicaciones paleoclimáticas
    Authors: F. Pomar, L. del Valle, J.J. Fornós, L. Gómez-Pujol
    Journal: VIII Jornadas de Geomorfología Litoral, Geotemas 15, pp. 65–68, 2015
    Citations: 14

  • Cartografía de los hábitats marinos de las Islas Baleares: compilación de capas y comunidades bentónicas
    Authors: M. Julià, L. del Valle, M. Bagur, E. Marsinyach, G.X. Pons, D. Carreras
    Publisher: Observatorio Socioambiental de Menorca (Institut Menorquí d’Estudis), 2019
    Citations: 13

  • Millennial-scale climate variability recorded in Late Pleistocene coastal deposits of Formentera Island (Balearic Archipelago, Western Mediterranean)
    Authors: L. del Valle, A. Timar-Gabor, F. Pomar, G.X. Pons, J.J. Fornós
    Journal: Quaternary International, 617, pp. 112–128, 2022
    Citations: 11

  • Aeolian-alluvial interactions at Formentera (Balearic Islands, Western Mediterranean): The Late Pleistocene evolution of a coastal system
    Authors: L. del Valle, J.J. Fornós, F. Pomar, G.X. Pons, A. Timar-Gabor
    Journal: Quaternary International, 566, pp. 271–283, 2020
    Citations: 10

  • El Pleistoceno superior de la zona de Tirant-Fornells (norte de Menorca, Illes Balears): un modelo de interacción eólica y aluvial
    Authors: F. Pomar, J.J. Fornós, L. Gómez-Pujol, L. del Valle
    Journal: Geo-Temas, VII Jornadas de Geomorfología Litoral 14, pp. 123–126, 2013
    Citations: 10

 

Vikram GUPTA | Planetary Sciences | Outstanding Scientist Award

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Prof. Vikram GUPTA | Planetary Sciences | Outstanding Scientist Award

Professor from Sikkim University, India

Dr. Vikram Gupta is a distinguished geoscientist with extensive experience in the fields of Engineering Geology, Applied Geology, Geomorphology, Natural Hazards, and Disaster Management. With over three decades of academic, research, and professional engagement, he has made significant contributions to understanding and mitigating natural hazards, particularly in the Himalayan region. Dr. Gupta’s academic excellence is complemented by international exposure through advanced training and postdoctoral fellowships in Switzerland, Macedonia, South Africa, and Turkey. His work integrates both theoretical and applied aspects of geoscience, contributing to policy and practice in disaster risk reduction. He has authored over 95 research papers, prepared more than 40 technical reports, and has delivered more than 75 invited lectures globally. He has also guided numerous doctoral students and served in various leadership roles, including as Scientist ‘G’ and Technical Secretary to the Director at Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology. Currently, he is a Professor in the Department of Geology at Sikkim University. Recognized as one of the Top 2% Scientists by Stanford University and recipient of multiple national awards, Dr. Gupta exemplifies research excellence, academic leadership, and scientific service. His work continues to inspire new generations of geologists and disaster management professionals.

Professional Profile

Education

Dr. Vikram Gupta holds a strong and diverse educational background in geology and related disciplines. He began his academic journey with a B.Sc. (Hons School) in Geology from Panjab University, Chandigarh in 1987, followed by an M.Sc. (Hons School) in Geology from the same university in 1988. Demonstrating early academic excellence, he earned his M.Phil. in Geology in 1989 with distinction. He further pursued a Ph.D. in Geology from HNB Garhwal University in 1998 while working full-time at the Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology, Dehradun. In addition to his core academic qualifications, Dr. Gupta expanded his expertise through international certifications. He completed a Certificate Course in French at the University of Fribourg, Switzerland in 1996. He also earned a PG Diploma in Aseismic Design and Construction from the University of St. Cyril and Methodius, Macedonia in 2004, and a PG Diploma in Disaster Management and Risk Analysis from the University of Geneva, Switzerland in 2005. These diverse qualifications reflect his interdisciplinary knowledge and global perspective, equipping him with the necessary skills to address complex geological and environmental challenges in both academic and applied contexts.

Professional Experience

Dr. Vikram Gupta’s professional journey spans various prestigious institutions across the globe, reflecting his expertise and leadership in geosciences. His early career began as a Geologist at the Nathpa Jakhri Joint Venture in Himachal Pradesh in 1995. He then transitioned to international academia and research, undertaking a postdoctoral fellowship at Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Switzerland from 1996 to 1998. He continued his postdoctoral work at the University of the Western Cape, South Africa, until 2000. From 2000 to 2003, he served as Assistant Professor at Fatih University in Istanbul, Turkey, where he contributed to academic development in geology. Returning to India, Dr. Gupta joined the Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology in 2003, where he steadily rose through the ranks from Scientist ‘C’ to Scientist ‘G’, also serving as the Technical Secretary to the Director. In July 2023, he transitioned to academia full-time and is currently serving as Professor at the Department of Geology, Sikkim University, Gangtok. His career demonstrates a rich blend of research, teaching, and leadership, marked by national and international collaboration and service in key scientific and administrative roles.

Research Interests

Dr. Vikram Gupta’s research interests span a broad spectrum of earth sciences with a particular focus on Engineering Geology, Geomorphology, Applied Geology, and Natural Hazards. His primary area of expertise lies in understanding the geological and geomorphic processes that contribute to natural disasters such as landslides and seismic hazards, particularly in the Himalayan region. He has a strong interest in disaster risk reduction, with an emphasis on integrating geological research with community-based resilience strategies. His interdisciplinary background, reinforced through advanced international training, allows him to bridge geological sciences with engineering practices and policy development in disaster management. Dr. Gupta has actively participated in and led externally funded research projects related to hazard mapping, slope stability analysis, and geoenvironmental risk assessment. He has also collaborated with global institutions to explore geohazard risk in varied terrains, extending his research impact beyond national boundaries. His contributions have supported national planning for infrastructure in hazard-prone regions and have guided local governments in implementing effective mitigation strategies. Through his work, he aims to make scientific knowledge accessible and actionable, thereby playing a critical role in shaping resilient communities and sustainable development initiatives in vulnerable mountainous regions.

Research Skills

Dr. Vikram Gupta possesses a robust suite of research skills that align with his interdisciplinary interests in geosciences and disaster management. He is adept at field-based geological investigations, remote sensing, and GIS-based hazard mapping, which are essential for understanding and managing geological risks. His technical capabilities include slope stability analysis, site characterization for infrastructure planning, and seismic microzonation. With extensive experience in preparing technical reports and research proposals, Dr. Gupta also excels in scientific writing and project management. His involvement in over 40 technical reports and nearly 100 research publications attests to his command over data analysis, modeling, and interpretation of complex geological phenomena. In addition, he has guided 10 awarded Ph.D. students and currently supervises four others, demonstrating his mentoring skills and dedication to research training. His international education and collaboration experience further enhance his research capabilities in cross-cultural and interdisciplinary settings. Dr. Gupta’s ability to translate scientific insights into policy and practical guidelines makes him a valuable contributor to national and international disaster management frameworks. His skills not only lie in generating new knowledge but also in applying it meaningfully to reduce vulnerabilities and enhance resilience in hazard-prone areas.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Vikram Gupta has received several prestigious awards and recognitions that underscore his excellence and contributions in geosciences. He has been recognized among the Top 2% Scientists in the world by Stanford University, a testament to the global impact of his research. In 2022, he was honored with the National Geoscience Award, one of the highest recognitions for geoscientists in India, awarded by the Ministry of Mines, Government of India. In the same year, he also received the GSI Sesquicentennial Commemorative Award, which celebrates significant contributions to the Geological Survey of India’s mission and objectives. These accolades reflect his standing in the scientific community and validate the depth and relevance of his research work. In addition to these awards, Dr. Gupta has been actively involved in important national and international committees, further contributing to policy-making and scientific governance. His invited lectures—over 75 in number—have been delivered at prestigious forums, reflecting his role as a thought leader and expert in his field. These honors not only acknowledge his past achievements but also affirm his continuing influence on geoscientific research and disaster management practices both nationally and globally.

Conclusion

Dr. Vikram Gupta exemplifies the qualities of a dedicated, accomplished, and impactful geoscientist whose career is marked by academic excellence, professional leadership, and meaningful contributions to societal challenges. His extensive background in geology, enriched by international education and interdisciplinary training, positions him uniquely to address complex environmental and geohazard issues. Through his research, he has advanced the understanding of landslides, seismic risks, and geomorphic processes, particularly in the vulnerable Himalayan region. His leadership roles at premier research institutions and current position as a professor underscore his commitment to education and mentoring. Recognized globally, including by Stanford University and national science bodies, Dr. Gupta continues to influence scientific discourse, policy frameworks, and community resilience strategies. His record of publications, technical reports, lectures, and project leadership illustrates a sustained and impactful career. While further expansion of global research collaborations and authorship of major academic texts could enhance his profile, his existing accomplishments already place him among the top-tier scientists in his field. In conclusion, Dr. Vikram Gupta is a highly deserving candidate for the Outstanding Scientist Award in Research, demonstrating a rare blend of scientific acumen, practical relevance, and institutional service.

Publications Top Notes

  1. Title: Spatial distribution of landslides in response to the geomorphometric constraints in Darma Valley, Kumaun Himalaya
    Authors: M. Shawez, Vikram V. Gupta, Anand Kumar A.K. Gupta, Gautam S. G.S. Rawat
    Year: 2025

  2. Title: Spatial Inter-relationship Between Geomorphic Indices and Climatic Proxies with Landslides in the Bhagirathi Valley, NW Himalaya
    Authors: Meenakshi M. Devi, Vikram V. Gupta, B. K. B.K. Ram
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 2

  3. Title: Landslide susceptibility zonation using integrated supervised and unsupervised machine learning techniques in the Bhagirathi Eco-Sensitive Zone (BESZ), Uttarakhand, Himalaya, India
    Authors: Meenakshi M. Devi, Vikram V. Gupta, Kripamoy K. Sarkar
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 2

  4. Title: Landslide susceptibility mapping and sensitivity analysis using various machine learning models: a case study of Beas valley, Indian Himalaya
    Authors: Ramandeep R. Kaur, Vikram V. Gupta, Bhagwan Singh B.S. Chaudhary
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 6

  5. Title: Geotechnical Characterization and PS-InSAR for Risk Analysis of Solang Landslide in Beas Valley, NW Himalaya: A Wake-Up Call!
    Authors: Ramandeep R. Kaur, Vikram V. Gupta, Kapil Kumar K.K. Malik, Bhagwan Singh B.S. Chaudhary
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 2

  6. Title: Physico-mechanical characterization of Higher Himalayan granite under the thermal treatments of different heating–cooling conditions
    Authors: B. K. B.K. Ram, Vikram V. Gupta
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 8

  7. Title: Evaluating failure regime of an active landslide using instability and rockfall simulation, NW Himalaya
    Authors: Imlirenla I. Jamir, Vipin V. Kumar, Arun Kumar A.K. Ojha, Tapas Ranjan T.R. Martha, D. V. D.V. Griffiths
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 2