Zahra (Mahsa) Khodabakhshi-Palandi | Wastewater Treatment | Young Scientist Award

Ms. Zahra (Mahsa) Khodabakhshi-Palandi | Wastewater Treatment | Young Scientist Award

MSc, Babol Noshirvani University of Technology, Iran.

Zahra (Mahsa) Khodabakhshi Palandi holds an MSc in Civil and Environmental Engineering from Babol Noshirvani University of Technology, with a focus on wastewater treatment and advanced oxidation technologies. Her research interests include environmental management, wastewater treatment technologies, microalgae cultivation, and biofuel production. Zahra has published in top-tier journals, such as Environmental Management and Bioresource Technology, with notable contributions on enhancing microalgae-based biofuel production and improving municipal wastewater treatment through the addition of trace elements like iron and zinc. She has also presented at international conferences in Finland, Germany, and Greece. Her technical expertise includes working with laboratory equipment like spectrophotometers and GC-MS, and she has mentored graduate and undergraduate students in her field. Currently a researcher at Babol Noshirvani University, Zahra is dedicated to exploring sustainable solutions for environmental challenges, combining her knowledge of biofuels, bioproducts, and wastewater technologies

Profile:

Education 

Zahra (Mahsa) Khodabakhshi Palandi holds a Master of Science degree in Civil and Environmental Engineering from Babol Noshirvani University of Technology, Iran, completed in 2022. Her master’s thesis focused on “The effect of trace elements on microalgae growth and wastewater treatment from municipal wastewater,” highlighting her expertise in environmental management and wastewater treatment technologies. Prior to this, she earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering from the University of Mazandaran in 2018, where she conducted research on “Mathematical Modeling of Cake Filtration Using Filter Number & Experimental Verification” for her undergraduate thesis. Zahra’s academic journey has been marked by her strong interest in sustainability, biofuels, and advanced oxidation technologies, particularly in the context of environmental engineering solutions. Her education has equipped her with a solid foundation in both theoretical concepts and practical applications, preparing her for a successful career in environmental engineering and research.

Professional Experience

Zahra Khodabakhshi Palandi is an emerging researcher with a strong professional background in civil and environmental engineering. Since June 2022, she has been a researcher at Babol Noshirvani University of Technology, where she focuses on data analysis and project execution related to microalgae-based wastewater treatment. She is also responsible for mentoring graduate and undergraduate students and has contributed to several technical papers. From 2019 to 2022, Zahra worked as a laboratory assistant at the same university, conducting experiments with advanced equipment like spectrophotometers and GC-MS, while also guiding student theses. Earlier in her career, from 2015 to 2018, she gained industry experience during a training program at Tarahan Asar Engineering Co., where she was involved in writing technical reports and collaborating with clients. Zahra’s diverse experience in academia and industry highlights her practical and research skills in environmental management and wastewater treatment technologies

Research Skills

Zahra Khodabakhshi Palandi possesses a diverse and robust set of research skills in civil and environmental engineering, with a specific focus on wastewater treatment and biofuel production. She is adept at conducting advanced experiments involving microalgae cultivation, utilizing techniques such as spectroscopy and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) to analyze wastewater samples. Her expertise extends to mathematical modeling, where she has applied models to optimize filtration processes and improve the efficiency of environmental technologies. Zahra is skilled in writing scientific reports and publishing in high-impact journals, with experience mentoring graduate and undergraduate students in research methodologies. She excels in managing laboratory projects, performing data analysis, and collaborating on interdisciplinary projects. Additionally, her work with trace elements to enhance biofuel production showcases her ability to innovate in sustainable technologies. Zahra’s research skills reflect a strong foundation in both practical experimentation and theoretical analysis, positioning her as a promising researcher in environmental science.

Research Interest

Zahra (Mahsa) Khodabakhshi Palandi’s research interests center around environmental sustainability, focusing on advanced wastewater treatment technologies and renewable energy production. Her work explores innovative methods for treating municipal wastewater using microalgae, with an emphasis on improving wastewater bioremediation efficiency through the addition of trace elements such as iron and zinc. Zahra is also deeply involved in studying the cultivation of microalgae for biofuel production, aiming to optimize biomass yield and develop high-value bioproducts. Additionally, she is interested in the broader applications of environmental management practices, particularly those that integrate biological and chemical approaches to improve ecological outcomes. Her research holds potential to significantly advance sustainable energy solutions by combining wastewater treatment with biofuel generation, addressing key environmental challenges while contributing to the development of eco-friendly technologies for resource recovery and pollution reduction.

Awards and Honors

Zahra (Mahsa) Khodabakhshi Palandi has garnered recognition for her impactful contributions in the field of civil and environmental engineering. Her research on advanced wastewater treatment and biofuel production has earned her numerous accolades. Zahra has published in prestigious Q1-ranked journals, including Journal of Environmental Management and Bioresource Technology, showcasing her innovative work on microalgae cultivation and wastewater remediation. She has been invited to present her findings at renowned international conferences, such as the International Congress on Science, Engineering & New Technologies, held in Hamburg, and the International Congress on Civil Engineering in Helsinki. Zahra’s expertise in microalgae-based biofuels and environmental management has not only advanced the field but also demonstrated her leadership and dedication to solving pressing environmental challenges. Her academic achievements and commitment to sustainability make her a rising talent in environmental engineering, recognized by both academic peers and international research communities.

Conclusion

Zahra Khodabakhshi Palandi is a highly promising young researcher with significant achievements in environmental engineering, particularly in wastewater treatment and biofuel production. Her strong publication record, technical skills, and innovative research place her in a competitive position for the Research for Young Scientist Award. While gaining more international exposure and applying her work on a larger scale could enhance her profile, her current accomplishments reflect her potential to make impactful contributions to environmental sustainability.

Publication Top Notes

  1. Title: Insight into the roles of hematite iron oxide nanoparticles on microalgae growth, urban wastewater treatment and bioproducts generation: Gompertz simulation, nutrient mass transfer, and techno-economic analysis
    Authors: S Akbari, S Zabihollahi, P Yaqoubnejad, Z Khodabakhshi Palandi, …
    Journal: Bioresource Technology
    Year: 2024
    Volume: 394
    Article: 130300
    Citations: 3
  2. Title: Adding micronutrient of FeCl2 and ZnCl2 to culture medium in order to enhance high-value bioproduct extraction from microalgae
    Authors: Z Khodabakhshi, B Nazari, M Taghavijeloudar
    Conference: 13th International Conference on New Solutions in Engineering, Information Technology & Chemistry
    Year: 2022
    Citations: 1
  3. Title: Enhancing microalgae-based biofuels production, wastewater treatment and bio-products generation by synergistic effect of iron and zinc addition to real municipal wastewater
    Authors: ZK Palandi, M Taghavijeloudar
    Journal: Journal of Environmental Management
    Year: 2024
    Volume: 370
    Article: 122350
  4. Title: Effect of α-Fe2O3 nanoparticle supplementation on Chlorella Sorokiniana performance: wastewater bioremediation capability and gene expression
    Authors: M Safaei, M Taghavijeloudar, S Zabihollahi, P Yaqoubnejad, …
    Conference: 2nd International Congress on Science, Engineering & New Technologies
    Year: 2024
  5. Title: Heavy metal removal from low permeable contaminated soils using ZVI permeable reactive barrier combined electrokinetics system
    Authors: ZK Palandi, M Taghavijeloudar
    Conference: The Third International Congress of Civil Engineering, Architecture & Urban Infrastructure
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 0 (since it is a 2024 publication)
  6. Title: Improvement of microalgal-based biological treatment of municipal wastewater by adding ZnCl2 and FeCl2 as trace elements
    Authors: ZK Palandi, M Taghavijeloudar
    Conference: The First International Congress of Science, Engineering, and New Technologies
    Year: 2022
  7. Title: استفاده از عناصر کمیاب روی و آهن به منظور افزایش رشد گونه جدید ریزجلبک Chlorella Sorokiniana‎ (Using rare elements of zinc and iron to enhance the growth of a new species of microalgae Chlorella Sorokiniana)
    Authors: ZM Khodabakhshi-Palandi, H Amini-Rad
    Conference: 13th National Congress of Civil Engineering
    Year: 2022

 

 

Santosh Kumar | Sustainable wastewater | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Santosh Kumar | Sustainable wastewater | Best Researcher Award

Research Scholar at Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur, India.

Santosh Kumar is a research scholar at the Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur, focusing on wastewater treatment and bioenergy production. His doctoral research explores the use of photosynthetic microbial fuel cells for wastewater treatment, bioelectricity generation, and biomass recovery. He holds an M.Tech. in Agricultural Biotechnology and a B.Tech. in Biotechnology from IIT Kharagpur and IIT Roorkee, respectively. His research interests lie in advancing bioenergy technologies, carbon sequestration, and environmental remediation. Santosh has published extensively in peer-reviewed journals and contributed to book chapters on bioenergy and wastewater management. His notable work includes innovative approaches using coal-based materials and engineered nanomaterials for improved environmental performance. Santosh has presented his research at international conferences, earning awards for his contributions. His skills encompass advanced research techniques, data analysis, and effective scientific communication. He continues to contribute significantly to the fields of environmental engineering and bioenergy.

Profile

Education🎓

Santosh Kumar’s educational journey began with a Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech.) in Biotechnology from the Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee (IIT Roorkee), graduating in 2017 with a 60.7% score. During his undergraduate studies, he worked on projects related to the characterization of genes encoding for the Ap4 complex of Guar and the comparative analysis of metabolites in Ocimum sanctum. Following his B.Tech., he pursued a Master of Technology (M.Tech.) in Agricultural Biotechnology at IIT Kharagpur from 2017 to 2019, achieving a CGPA of 7.92. His thesis focused on the outdoor cultivation of Tetradesmus lagerheimii for biodiesel production. Currently, he is a research scholar at the Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur, working on a thesis titled “Application of Photosynthetic Microbial Fuel Cell for Wastewater Treatment with Concomitant Bioelectricity Production and Recovery of Value-Added Biomass,” under the supervision of Prof. Makarand M. Ghangrekar.

Professional Experience 🏢

Santosh Kumar has gained valuable professional experience in the field of bioenergy and wastewater treatment. Since 2020, he has been a research scholar at the Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur (IIT Kharagpur) in the P.K. Sinha Center for Bioenergy and Renewables. His research focuses on the application of photosynthetic microbial fuel cells for wastewater treatment, bioelectricity production, and recovery of value-added biomass. Under the supervision of Prof. Makarand M. Ghangrekar, he has worked on innovative solutions to enhance the efficiency of bioenergy systems. Prior to his current role, Santosh completed his M.Tech. in Agricultural Biotechnology at IIT Kharagpur, where he conducted research on biodiesel production from Tetradesmus lagerheimii. His early career also includes a B.Tech. in Biotechnology from IIT Roorkee, where he gained hands-on experience through various projects and summer internships related to biotechnology and environmental engineering.

Research Interests 🔬

Santosh Kumar’s research interests are centered around advanced bioenergy technologies and environmental sustainability. His primary focus is on wastewater treatment using microbial fuel cells, aiming to simultaneously produce bioelectricity and recover valuable biomass. He explores the application of photosynthetic microbial fuel cells for enhanced wastewater treatment and bioenergy production. Additionally, Santosh investigates the use of engineered nanomaterials for carbon capture and bioenergy production in microbial electrochemical technologies. His work also encompasses the development of algae-based bioenergy solutions, including biodiesel production from microalgae. Santosh is interested in integrating biological and non-biological technologies to address carbon sequestration and wastewater management challenges. His research seeks to innovate and improve the efficiency of bioenergy systems and contribute to sustainable environmental practices.

 Award and Honors

Santosh Kumar has been recognized for his contributions in the field of environmental science and bioenergy. He received the Best Paper Presentation Award at the 3rd International Scientific Conference on Environmental Research, highlighting his research excellence and innovative approach to environmental challenges. Additionally, he earned a Certificate of Achievement with 3rd place in the poster presentation at the Indian Chamber of Commerce (ICC) Water and Wastewater Innovation Workshop, showcasing his impactful work in wastewater management and bioenergy recovery. These accolades reflect his commitment to advancing sustainable technologies and his active engagement in scientific and academic communities.

 Research Skills

Santosh Kumar possesses a diverse skill set essential for advanced research in environmental science and bioenergy. He is proficient in wastewater treatment technologies, including the use of microbial fuel cells and bioelectrochemical systems. His expertise extends to carbon sequestration and biomass recovery, employing cutting-edge techniques and engineered nanomaterials. Santosh is skilled in laboratory techniques, including the preparation and analysis of bioelectrochemical systems and the characterization of materials for environmental applications. He has demonstrated strong abilities in data analysis and interpretation, utilizing advanced software tools for statistical and graphical analysis. His research also involves fieldwork, where he applies his knowledge to real-world problems in wastewater treatment and bioenergy production. Additionally, Santosh is experienced in technical writing and communication, having published research findings in peer-reviewed journals and presented at national and international conferences.

Publications Top Notes 📚

  1. Coal-based material as 3-D electrodes in continuous up-flow constructed wetland-microbial fuel cells
    • Authors: Kumar, S., Shinde, A., Ghangrekar, M. M.
    • Year: 2024
    • Journal: Journal of Sustainable Energy Technologies and Assessments
  2. Screening recombinant and wildtype solventogenic Clostridium species for in vivo transformation of methylglyoxal and acetol to 1,2-propanediol
    • Authors: Agyeman-Duah, E., Kumar, S., Ujor, V. C.
    • Year: 2024
    • Journal: Process Biochemistry
  3. Heavy metals removal by algae and usage of activated metal-enriched biomass as cathode catalyst for improving performance of photosynthetic microbial fuel cell
    • Authors: Das, S., Kumar, S., Kumar Mehta, A., Ghangrekar, M. M.
    • Year: 2024
    • Journal: Bioresource Technology
  4. Electromethanogenic reactor for biogas production using agricultural and livestock waste and its comparative analysis with biogas plant: A mini-review
    • Authors: Tripathi, A., Kumar, S., Jadhav, G. S., Jadhav, Dipak A., Ghangrekar, M. M., Surampalli, R. Y.
    • Year: 2024
    • Journal: Biomass and Bioenergy
  5. Changes in Soil Zinc Fractions Upon Inoculation of Zinc Solubilizing Bacteria (ZnSB) Under Rice Rhizospheric Soil
    • Authors: Chanchal, A. K., Singh, M., Pradhan, A. K., Beura, K., Singh, P.
    • Year: 2024
    • Journal: Communications in Soil Science and Plant Analysis
  6. Nitrogen dose dependant changes in grain morphology parameters are correlated with grain protein and yield traits in field-grown diverse rice genotypes
    • Authors: Padhan, B. K., Sathee, L., Kumar, S., Gupta, N. C., Kumar, A.
    • Year: 2023
    • Journal: Plant Physiology Reports
  7. Engineered nanomaterials for carbon capture and bioenergy production in microbial electrochemical technologies: A review
    • Authors: Kumar, S., Tripathi, A., Chakraborty, I., Ghangrekar, M. M.
    • Year: 2023
    • Journal: Bioresource Technology
  8. Microbial Seed Priming Enhances Chickpea Performance and Yield Potential Under Subtropical Conditions of India
    • Authors: Saha, P., Bohra, J. S., Nayak, H., Kumar, S., Kumar, S.
    • Year: 2023
    • Journal: National Academy Science Letters
  9. Disentangling the Roles of Plant Water Status and Stem Carbohydrate Remobilization on Rice Harvest Index Under Drought
    • Authors: Dwivedi, S. K., Kumar, S., Natividad, M. A., Chinnusamy, V., Henry, A.
    • Year: 2023
    • Journal: Rice
  10. Effect of stage-specific and multi-stage drought on grain nutrient quality in rice
    • Authors: Basu, S., Shekhar, S., Kumar, A., Prasad, R., Kumar, G.
    • Year: 2023
    • Journal: Plant Growth Regulation