Zhe Tian | Ocean Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Zhe Tian | Ocean Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Head of the Department at Ocean University of China, China

Ph.D. Zhe Tian is an accomplished researcher and associate professor at the College of Engineering, Ocean University of China. His extensive academic career spans multiple years, where he has made significant contributions to marine and offshore engineering, focusing on dynamic analysis, modal parameter estimation, and structural health monitoring. With a strong foundation in both education and hands-on professional experience, his research has been published in numerous respected journals. His work often explores innovative methodologies for improving the safety, performance, and reliability of offshore structures, particularly in the context of offshore wind turbines and floating structures. As a result, Ph.D. Tian has earned recognition within the scientific community and beyond.

Professional Profile

Education

Ph.D. Zhe Tian completed his Ph.D. in Marine Engineering from Wuhan University of Technology between 2011 and 2016. Prior to his Ph.D., he earned his Bachelor’s degree in Structural Engineering from the same institution, where he laid the groundwork for his academic pursuit in the fields of marine structures and engineering. His strong educational background, particularly in marine engineering and structural engineering, has provided him with the expertise to tackle complex challenges in offshore structural dynamics, modeling, and health monitoring systems.

Professional Experience

Ph.D. Zhe Tian has a distinguished professional career, highlighted by his role as an Associate Professor at the College of Engineering, Ocean University of China. His tenure at the university began in 2021, following his time as a lecturer at the same institution from 2017 to 2020. Additionally, he had the opportunity to broaden his academic exposure as a Visiting Scholar at the University of Southampton in the UK, where he contributed to research on ocean engineering from 2014 to 2015. His experience at renowned institutions and his progression in academia have enabled him to develop a deep understanding of offshore engineering and related fields.

Research Interests

Ph.D. Zhe Tian’s research interests are centered around the dynamic analysis of offshore structures, modal parameter estimation, model updating, and structural health monitoring systems. His research aims to advance the understanding of offshore structures’ behavior under various conditions, providing solutions for improved design, safety, and durability. He has a particular focus on offshore wind turbines, floating structures, and offshore jacket platforms. Tian’s work also emphasizes the development of innovative methods, such as ensemble deep learning models, variational mode decomposition, and Grey Wolf Optimizer algorithms, for better performance assessment and maintenance of offshore systems.

Research Skills

Ph.D. Tian possesses a diverse set of research skills in the fields of dynamic structural analysis, computational modeling, and artificial intelligence. His expertise includes applying advanced mathematical techniques to assess the dynamic performance of offshore structures, including offshore wind turbines. He is proficient in using optimization algorithms, such as Grey Wolf Optimizer, and signal processing methods, such as variational mode decomposition, to solve complex structural degradation problems. Additionally, Tian is skilled in utilizing machine learning for structural health monitoring, specifically in the context of offshore platforms and marine vessels, showcasing his versatility in both traditional and cutting-edge research methods.

Awards and Honors

Throughout his academic career, Ph.D. Zhe Tian has received recognition for his impactful research contributions to offshore engineering. His work on dynamic performance assessment and structural health monitoring has earned him several prestigious academic honors. While specific awards and honors are not mentioned in the provided profile, his extensive publication record in reputable journals, including Ocean Engineering, and his role as an associate professor attest to his influence and standing in the academic community. These achievements underline his reputation as a leading researcher in the field of marine and offshore engineering.

Conclusion

Ph.D. Zhe Tian is a prominent figure in marine and offshore engineering, demonstrating remarkable expertise in dynamic analysis, structural health monitoring, and the advancement of innovative technologies for offshore structures. His educational background, professional experience, and extensive research output reflect a strong foundation in the field. Tian’s ability to integrate advanced computational methods, machine learning, and optimization algorithms into his work has set him apart as a leading researcher. He continues to make valuable contributions to the scientific community, with significant implications for offshore engineering, particularly in the areas of renewable energy and structural safety. Moving forward, his potential for further innovation and impact in both academic and industry applications remains high.

Publication Top Notes

  • Computer vision-based non-contact structural vibration measurement: Methods, challenges and opportunities
    • Authors: Cheng, Y., Tian, Z., Ning, D., Chauhan, S., Vashishtha, G.
    • Year: 2025
    • Journal: Measurement: Journal of the International Measurement Confederation
  • Global response expansion for dynamic structures based on the evolutionary orthogonal basis
    • Authors: Liu, F., Guo, J., Tian, Z.
    • Year: 2025
    • Journal: Mechanical Systems and Signal Processing
  • Dynamic performance assessment of offshore wind structures based on root morphology model
    • Authors: Tian, Z., Liu, L., Ji, X., Song, H., Chang, S.
    • Year: 2025
    • Journal: Ocean Engineering
  • Structural health monitoring on offshore jacket platforms using a novel ensemble deep learning model
    • Authors: Wang, M., Incecik, A., Tian, Z., Krolczyk, G., Li, Z.
    • Year: 2024
    • Journal: Ocean Engineering
    • Citations: 4
  • FULL-FIELD STRAIN ESTIMATION FROM MEASURED ACCELERATIONS OF OFFSHORE WIND TURBINE SUPPORT STRUCTURES
    • Authors: Guo, J., Li, Y., Wu, X., Tian, Z., Liu, F.
    • Year: 2024
    • Conference: Proceedings of the International Conference on Offshore Mechanics and Arctic Engineering – OMAE
    • Citations: 1
  • Research on collision identification between ships and offshore wind turbines based on neural network
    • Authors: Guo, Z., Tian, Z., Wang, B., Han, L.
    • Year: 2023
    • Conference: 7th IEEE International Conference on Transportation Information and Safety, ICTIS 2023
  • Structural performance degradation identification of offshore wind turbines based on variational mode decomposition with a Grey Wolf Optimizer algorithm
    • Authors: Ji, X., Tian, Z., Song, H., Liu, F.
    • Year: 2022
    • Journal: Ocean Engineering
    • Citations: 14
  • Fatigue life analysis of monopile foundation offshore wind turbine under coupled multiple loadings
    • Authors: Wang, B., Sun, Z., Xu, C., Tian, Z.
    • Year: 2022
    • Conference: Proceedings of the International Offshore and Polar Engineering Conference
  • Numerical simulation of nanofluid convective heat transfer in an oblique cavity with conductive edges equipped with a constant temperature heat source: Entropy production analysis
    • Authors: Tian, Z., Shahsavar, A., Al-Rashed, A.A.A.A., Rostami, S.
    • Year: 2021
    • Journal: Computers and Mathematics with Applications
    • Citations: 11
  • A Laplace-domain method for motion response estimation of floating structures based on a combination of generalised transfer function and partial fraction
    • Authors: Liu, F., Fu, Q., Tian, Z.
    • Year: 2020
    • Journal: Ships and Offshore Structures
    • Citations: 14

 

Marina J. Vergotti | Marine Sciences | Young Scientist Award

Mrs. Marina J. Vergotti | Marine Sciences | Young Scientist Award

Mrs at Freie Universität Berlin, Germany 

Marina J. Vergotti is a passionate Earth Sciences researcher with a particular focus on marine ecosystems and coral ecology. As a Ph.D. candidate at Freie Universität Berlin, she is exploring the effects of environmental change on the temperate coral Cladocora caespitosa. Her academic journey spans multiple prestigious institutions, where she has contributed significantly to understanding the resilience of marine organisms to climate change. Vergotti’s research is deeply connected to the broader themes of marine biodiversity conservation and ecosystem management, particularly regarding coral reefs and marine protected areas. Her ability to merge fieldwork with laboratory research highlights her interdisciplinary approach, integrating marine biology, ecology, and geosciences. She has participated in numerous international collaborations and projects, contributing to the global discourse on climate change’s effects on marine life.

Professional Profile

Education

Vergotti holds an MSc in Oceanography and Marine Management from the University of Barcelona and a BSc in Biology (Biodiversity and Ecology) from the same institution. She further honed her skills through specialized courses in stable isotopes, oceanography, and marine management. Her educational background is complemented by various advanced training in ecological conservation methods for marine species, including sharks and cetaceans. These educational experiences laid a solid foundation for her current research on temperate coral reefs and climate change resilience.

Professional Experience

Vergotti’s professional experience includes her current position as a lecturer at Freie Universität Berlin, where she teaches graduate students in reef evolution and ecology. She has worked as a research assistant at various institutions, such as the University of Barcelona and the Smithsonian Institution, where she contributed to projects focused on coral ecology, marine biodiversity, and climate change. She has also gained practical experience through several field campaigns, collaborating with international research teams in Spain, Chile, and Germany. Her work has involved extensive field research, laboratory analysis, and supervision of undergraduate theses, establishing her as a versatile and highly skilled researcher.

Research Interests

Vergotti’s primary research interest revolves around the response of temperate corals, particularly Cladocora caespitosa, to environmental stressors like warming and acidification. She focuses on studying the variability in pH regulation, biomineralization, and the long-term effects of thermal stress on coral reefs. Her research also delves into sclerochronology, using coral skeletons to reconstruct past environmental conditions and assess coral health. Vergotti is deeply invested in understanding how climate change impacts marine ecosystems and the resilience mechanisms that may allow corals to survive under changing oceanic conditions. Her work aims to contribute to conservation efforts and sustainable management of marine resources.

Research Skills

Vergotti’s research skills are diverse and include proficiency in sclerochronological techniques, statistical analysis, and marine fieldwork. She is skilled in using Coral-XDS software for X-ray analyses, which allows her to study coral growth and calcification rates. She has a solid background in ecological modeling and statistical tools, with experience in R Studio, ImageJ, and Excel for data analysis. Vergotti’s fieldwork expertise includes scuba diving, marine sampling, and underwater observation, having participated in numerous field campaigns. Her ability to merge laboratory-based research with real-world fieldwork is one of her standout skills, allowing her to gather valuable data that informs her studies on coral resilience to environmental change.

Awards and Honors

Vergotti’s academic excellence has been recognized through her involvement in several prestigious research projects, such as the European Union Horizon 2020 project MaCoBioS, which focuses on coastal ecosystems in a changing world. She has contributed to various collaborative projects, including the UndResCoral project, which investigates the biotic and abiotic factors affecting coral resilience. Although not explicitly listed with specific awards, Vergotti’s research contributions to marine science and climate change resilience have garnered significant recognition in the scientific community. Her participation in international conferences and workshops further underscores her commitment to advancing the field of marine ecology and conservation.

Conclusion

Marina J. Vergotti demonstrates exceptional research capabilities and leadership in her field, particularly in understanding the effects of climate change on marine ecosystems. Her publications, contributions to major research projects, and teaching roles highlight her expertise and dedication. With some focus on public outreach and expanding the geographic scope of her research, Marina is poised to make an even greater impact in the field of marine conservation. Based on her academic and professional achievements, she is a highly deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

Publication Top Notes

  1. Weather and trade-offs between growth and reproduction regulate fruit production in European forests
    • Authors: MJ Vergotti, M Fernández-Martínez, SC Kefauver, IA Janssens, …
    • Journal: Agricultural and Forest Meteorology
    • Year: 2019
    • Citations: 36
    • DOI: 107711
  2. The endangered coral Cladocora caespitosa in the Menorca Biosphere Reserve: Distribution, demographic traits and threats
    • Authors: DK Kersting, ME Cefalì, J Movilla, MJ Vergotti, C Linares
    • Journal: Ocean & Coastal Management
    • Year: 2023
    • Citations: 7
    • DOI: 106626

 

Belén Fernández | Environmental Science | Women Researcher Award

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