Michel Mutabaruka | Water Quality | Best Faculty Award

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Mr. Michel Mutabaruka | Water Quality | Best Faculty Award

Assistant Lecturer at Rwanda Polytechnic Kigali College, Rwanda.

Mr. Michel Mutabaruka is an experienced educator and civil engineer with a strong academic background and a dedication to teaching. He holds a Master’s degree in Health, Safety, and Environment Engineering from Chandigarh University (2021-2023) and a Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering from the National University of Rwanda (2006–2010). In addition, he has earned a Post Graduate Diploma in Technical Education from Kenyatta Technical Teachers College and a Certificate of National TVET Trainer from Rwanda TVET Trainer Institute. Currently, Mr. Mutabaruka serves as an Assistant Lecturer at Rwanda Polytechnic Kigali College, where he teaches a range of subjects including Health, Safety, and Environment in Construction, Strength of Materials, and Cost Estimation. He has been with the institution since 2011 and also supervises final-year projects. In addition to his teaching role, he is actively involved in training coordination and entrance exam preparation at Rwanda TVET Trainer Institute. His commitment to education and professional development has made him a significant figure in Rwanda’s educational landscape.

Profile

Education 🎓

Mr. Michel Mutabaruka holds a Master’s degree in Health, Safety, and Environment Engineering from Chandigarh University (2021-2023). He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering from the National University of Rwanda (2006–2010) and further pursued a Post Graduate Diploma in Technical Education in Civil Engineering from Kenyatta Technical Teachers College (2012-2013). Additionally, he obtained a Certificate of National TVET Trainer from Rwanda TVET Trainer Institute in 2016. Earlier, he completed a Certificate in English Language from the National University of Rwanda’s School of Practical Modern Languages in 2005 and a certificate in Biology-Chemistry (A2) from Byimana School of Sciences in Rwanda (2000-2003). His educational background is complemented by a strong foundation in secondary and primary education, having completed his O-Level at Groupe Scolaire St Jean Bosco de Kaduha (1997-2000) and his primary education at Rugogwe Primary School in 1997.

Experience 💼

Mr. Michel Mutabaruka has extensive experience in the field of education, particularly in civil engineering and technical education. Since June 2011, he has served as an Assistant Lecturer at Rwanda Polytechnic Kigali College, where he teaches a variety of courses, including Health, Safety, and Environment in Construction, Strength of Materials, Technical Drawing, and Cost Estimation. In this role, he is responsible for preparing and marking students’ work, as well as supervising their final-year projects. His teaching experience is complemented by his involvement in Rwanda TVET Trainer Institute since 2018, where he prepares and conducts entrance exams, provides course instruction, and coordinates training sessions in various districts of Rwanda. Additionally, he taught at the Institut Secondaire d’Enseignement Technique et Artistique de Runda from June 2010 to June 2011, where he focused on subjects such as Timber and Wood Treatment, Technical Drawing, and Entrepreneurship Education. Mr. Mutabaruka’s diverse teaching roles highlight his deep commitment to educational excellence and his ability to guide students across multiple levels of academic and technical disciplines.

Research Interests 🔬

Mr. Michel Mutabaruka’s research interests are primarily focused on areas related to civil engineering, health and safety in construction, and technical education. With a background in Health, Safety, and Environment Engineering, he is particularly interested in exploring the integration of safety practices in construction environments and the application of sustainable engineering solutions. His academic and teaching experiences have sparked a keen interest in research that improves both the theoretical understanding and practical application of civil engineering concepts, including materials strength, cost estimation, and structural analysis. Additionally, Mr. Mutabaruka is passionate about enhancing technical education and vocational training in Rwanda, particularly through the development of more effective teaching methodologies and curricula for aspiring engineers and construction professionals.

Awards 🏆

Mr. Michel Mutabaruka has earned recognition for his dedication to education and professional development, particularly in the fields of civil engineering and technical education. Although specific awards are not listed, his extensive teaching experience and contributions to Rwanda Polytechnic Kigali College and the Rwanda TVET Trainer Institute reflect his commitment to excellence in education. His involvement in training future engineers and his leadership in coordinating district-level training programs across Rwanda highlight his impact in the academic community. Additionally, his ongoing pursuit of advanced degrees and certifications underscores his continuous professional growth and dedication to enhancing the quality of education in the engineering field.

Publications 📚

  • Use of EDS/EDX to Evaluate Heavy Metals Pollution in Water Sources
  • Quality Analysis of Groundwater and Surface Water Bodies Around the Selected Brick Kilns in Fatehgarh Sahib and Rupnagar Districts in Punjab, India
    • Journal: Journal of Applied and Natural Science
    • Publication Date: December 20, 2023
    • DOI: 10.31018/jans.v15i4.4754
    • ISSN: 2231-5209, 0974-9411
    • Contributors: Michel Mutabaruka, Aditya Rana, Saubhagya Ranjan Mahapatra, Sawatantar Kumar

Conclusion

Mr. Michel Mutabaruka is highly qualified for the Research for Best Faculty Award, given his academic achievements, extensive professional experience, and contributions to the development of future engineers.

 

Fatemeh Razzaghi | Agricultural Water Management | Best Researcher Award

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Assoc. Prof.  Dr. Fatemeh Razzaghi | Agricultural Water Management | Best Researcher Award 

Faculty member, Shiraz University, Iran.

Fatemeh Razzaghi is an accomplished Associate Professor in the Water Engineering Department at Shiraz University, Iran, and a researcher at the Drought Research Center. With a focus on agricultural water management, she has contributed significantly to understanding the effects of abiotic stress on crop performance. Razzaghi holds a Ph.D. from Aarhus University, where her dissertation explored quinoa acclimatization to salinity and drought. Her extensive research in irrigation efficiency and crop yield optimization has positioned her as a leading expert in her field, particularly in semi-arid regions. Passionate about sustainable agriculture, Razzaghi aims to enhance water use efficiency in farming practices through innovative research and education.

Profile

Scopus

Google Scholar

ORCID

Education 🎓

Fatemeh Razzaghi’s educational journey reflects her dedication to agricultural water management. She earned her Ph.D. in Agricultural Water Management from Aarhus University (2008–2011), focusing on the agronomic performance of quinoa under stress conditions. Her Master’s degree in Agricultural Engineering: Irrigation and Drainage was completed at Shiraz University (2004–2007), where she calibrated evapotranspiration equations for local conditions. Razzaghi also holds a Bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Engineering: Irrigation from Shiraz University (2000–2004). This solid academic foundation has equipped her with the expertise to tackle complex challenges in water management and crop resilience in arid climates.

Experience 💼

Fatemeh Razzaghi’s professional experience spans over a decade in academic and research settings. Currently, she serves as an Associate Professor at Shiraz University, where she teaches courses on water management and irrigation practices. Additionally, her role at the Drought Research Center involves conducting pivotal research on drought mitigation strategies in agriculture. Razzaghi has collaborated with various national and international institutions, contributing her expertise in agricultural water management. Her research has led to significant advancements in understanding crop responses to environmental stresses, particularly in semi-arid regions, and has influenced water management policies in Iran.

Research Interests 🔍

Razzaghi’s research interests center on agricultural water management, focusing on improving crop resilience against abiotic stresses such as drought and salinity. She is particularly interested in the evaluation of irrigation strategies to optimize water use efficiency and enhance crop yields. Her work often involves the integration of modeling tools like AquaCrop to predict crop performance under varying water conditions. Razzaghi also explores the physiological mechanisms of crops like quinoa, faba bean, and sugar beet in response to environmental challenges. By merging theoretical insights with practical applications, she aims to develop sustainable agricultural practices that can be implemented in water-scarce regions.

Awards 🏆

Fatemeh Razzaghi has received several awards recognizing her contributions to agricultural water management and research. Her dedication to advancing knowledge in her field has been acknowledged through various academic honors, including research grants and invitations to present at international conferences. Razzaghi’s innovative research on crop adaptation strategies has also earned her accolades from peer organizations. These recognitions reflect her commitment to enhancing agricultural practices in Iran and beyond, emphasizing the importance of sustainable water use in farming.

Publications 📚

Razzaghi has a prolific publication record in renowned journals, reflecting her significant contributions to agricultural water management research. Key publications include:

Conclusion

Dr. Fatemeh Razzaghi’s exceptional research contributions, innovative methodologies, and commitment to improving agricultural sustainability in arid regions make her a strong candidate for the Research for Best Researcher Award. Her work not only advances academic knowledge but also addresses critical challenges faced by farmers in water-scarce environments. By recognizing her achievements, we can acknowledge the profound impact of her research on sustainable agriculture and food security.

 

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

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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

 

 

Emmanuel Manzungu | Water Resources Award | Outstanding Scientist Award

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Prof Dr. Emmanuel Manzungu | Water Resources Award | Outstanding Scientist Award

PhD supervisor at University of Zimbabwe, Zimbabwe.

Prof. Dr. Emmanuel Manzungu is a highly accomplished academic and researcher with over 30 years of experience in agricultural and environmental management. He currently holds the position of Full Professor of Agricultural Landscapes, Waterscapes Environmental Management in the Department of Soil Science and Environment at the University of Zimbabwe. Dr. Manzungu has been involved in numerous research projects focusing on water resource management, smallholder agriculture, and environmental sustainability, collaborating with institutions across Africa and beyond. He has published over 100 articles, book chapters, and monographs, and has contributed significantly to curriculum development and academic program reviews. Dr. Manzungu’s expertise and leadership in the field have earned him recognition as a valuable contributor to the advancement of agricultural and environmental sciences in Southern Africa and beyond.

Professional Profiles:

Education:

Prof. Dr. Emmanuel Manzungu is an accomplished academic specializing in agricultural sciences and management. He earned his Diploma in Agriculture from Chibero College, Zimbabwe, in 1984, followed by a BSc Hons in Agriculture (Crop Science) from the University of Zimbabwe in 1987. Dr. Manzungu later completed an MSc in Tropical and Subtropical Horticulture and Crop Science at the University of London, United Kingdom, from 1994 to 1999. He furthered his academic pursuits with a PhD in Irrigation and Water Management from Wageningen University in the Netherlands in 1991. In 2005-2006, Dr. Manzungu obtained an Executive Diploma in General Management from the Zimbabwe Institute of Management, enhancing his skills in organizational leadership and strategic management. His extensive educational background and research expertise have positioned him as a leading authority in agricultural practices, particularly in irrigation, water management, and crop science.

Academic and Professional:

Since 2009, Prof. Dr. Emmanuel Manzungu has served as a Lecturer and Full Professor at the University of Zimbabwe, Zimbabwe, where he has contributed significantly to the academic and research landscape. Prior to this, from 2002 to 2008, he held the position of Research Associate at the same institution, further deepening his expertise in agricultural sciences and management. In 2001, Dr. Manzungu embarked on a Postdoctoral Research Fellowship at Wageningen University in the Netherlands, where he continued to explore his passion for irrigation and water management. His dedication to research and academia is evident from his role as Project Coordinator at the University of Zimbabwe from 1998 to 2000, where he played a pivotal role in coordinating research activities. Dr. Manzungu’s academic journey began as a PhD Research Fellow at Wageningen University from 1994 to 1999, during which he conducted groundbreaking research in his field. Prior to his doctoral studies, he worked as a Research Officer at the Ministry of Agriculture in Zimbabwe from 1988 to 1993, gaining valuable insights and experience in agricultural practices and policies.

Research Experience:

Prof. Dr. Emmanuel Manzungu has led and participated in several impactful research projects focusing on water resource management and agricultural development in Africa. These projects include the “Smallholder farming families Adapt African Alluvial Aquifers to Strengthen Their Own Resilience (A4 Store)” from 2023 to 2027, involving 14 institutions from six countries. He was also involved in projects such as “Flows and Practices: The Politics of Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM) in Africa” from 2013 to 2016 and the development of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Water Research Agenda in 2015. In addition, Dr. Manzungu has contributed to projects like “Limpopo Water Governance” from 2011 to 2013, focusing on water governance in South Africa and Zimbabwe, and the “Challenge of integrated water resource management for improved livelihoods” from 2004 to 2008, addressing water scarcity in the Limpopo Basin. His research has had a significant impact on water resource management policies and practices in Southern Africa.

Academic and Research Contributions:

Prof. Dr. Emmanuel Manzungu’s academic and research metrics reflect his extensive contributions to the field of agricultural and environmental management. He has authored a total of 123 publications, including 58 referred journal articles, 32 referred book chapters, 13 referred monographs, and 6 published reports. Additionally, he has contributed to 14 workshop/conference papers and abstracts. Dr. Manzungu is actively involved in academic reviewing and editorial work. He serves as a member of the Editorial Board of one journal and has reviewed articles for 10 referred journals. His expertise is also recognized in the assessment of professorial promotions, having assessed promotions for Associate Professor and Full Professor positions on multiple occasions. In terms of PhD supervision and examination, Dr. Manzungu has supervised 4 PhD students and served as an examiner for doctoral theses. His commitment to academic excellence and research advancement is evident through his diverse contributions and leadership in the academic community.

 Publications:

  1. Are ‘second generation’ water regulators the catalyst for sustainable water outcomes and an integrated water sector in sub-Saharan Africa? Insights from Zimbabwe
    • Author: E. Manzungu
    • Year: 2024
  2. Re-inventing the underprivileged irrigation tenant? A socio-historical perspective on irrigation rights in Zimbabwe as defined by the 2021 Irrigable Areas (Control) regulations
    • Author: E. Manzungu
    • Year: 2023
  3. Characteristics of herbaceous vegetation on abandoned fallow fields in south central Zimbabwe
    • Authors: L. Mtali-Chafadza, P.H. Mugabe, E. Manzungu
    • Year: 2022
  4. Unpacking the narrative of agricultural innovations as the sine qua non of sustainable rural livelihoods in Southern Africa
    • Authors: E.P. Mutsvangwa-Sammie, E. Manzungu
    • Year: 2021
  5. Universities’ partnership: the role of academic institutions in water cooperation and diplomacy
    • Authors: A. Barua, R. ter Horst, J. Sehring, E. Manzungu, A. Nicol
    • Year: 2021
  6. Soil fertility status of abandoned fields in smallholder agriculture in South Central Zimbabwe
    • Authors: L. Mtali-Chafadza, E. Manzungu, P.H. Mugabe
    • Year: 2020
  7. Efforts to improve Zimbabwe communal grazing areas: a review
    • Authors: B. Tavirimirwa, E. Manzungu, S. Washaya, C. Mudzengi, R. Mwembe
    • Year: 2019
  8. Key attributes of agricultural innovations in semi-arid smallholder farming systems in south-west Zimbabwe
    • Authors: E.P. Mutsvangwa-Sammie, E. Manzungu, S. Siziba
    • Year: 2018
  9. Profiles of innovators in a semi-arid smallholder agricultural environment in south west Zimbabwe
    • Authors: E.P. Mutsvangwa-Sammie, E. Manzungu, S. Siziba
    • Year: 2017
  10. Towards sustainable agricultural water management
    • Authors: E. Manzungu, A. Senzanje, J. Mutiro
    • Year: 2017