Viviana Gamboa Sojo | Marine Ecology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Viviana Gamboa Sojo | Marine Ecology | Best Researcher Award

Associate professor | University of Costa Rica | Costa Rica

Viviana Gamboa Sojo, a dedicated geologist from Costa Rica, has pursued a distinguished academic and research career with a focus on marine geology, climate change, and paleoceanography. Her work, particularly in high-latitude environments, delves into sedimentology and micropaleontology, aiming to understand environmental shifts over time.

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Strengths for the Award 🏆

Viviana has a solid foundation in geology, with a Bachelor’s, Licenciatura, Master’s, and a Ph.D. Her advanced studies in Earth Sciences from prestigious universities in Costa Rica and Italy demonstrate her commitment and expertise.

She has a proven track record in marine geology, paleoclimatology, and paleoceanography, with specific focus on high-latitude climate change during the Quaternary period. Her work on foraminiferal assemblages and sedimentology to interpret paleoceanographic shifts is both relevant and impactful in understanding past environmental conditions.

Viviana’s research has been recognized and supported by numerous prestigious grants and awards, including multi-year project funding from INQUA, awards from the Cushman Foundation, and participation in international research projects, such as the INQUA MARE initiative.

She has published multiple peer-reviewed articles in well-regarded journals, which reflects her active engagement with the scientific community. Her collaborations span several countries, including Italy and Norway, underscoring her strong network and influence in her field.

Viviana’s role as a professor and researcher at the Universidad de Costa Rica highlights her dedication to educating and mentoring the next generation of scientists. This, combined with her research, enhances her overall contribution to her field.

Education 🎓

  • 2021: Ph.D. in Earth Sciences, University of Florence, Italy.
  • 2017: M.Sc. in Geological Sciences and Technologies, University of Pisa, Italy.
  • 2014: Licentiate in Geology, University of Costa Rica.
  • 2011: Bachelor in Geology, University of Costa Rica.

Experience 👩‍🏫

Viviana has extensive teaching and research experience, beginning as a professor and researcher at the Central American School of Geology, University of Costa Rica. Her career includes involvement in projects exploring paleontological and environmental changes in continental and marine ecosystems, further enriched by her participation in international scientific expeditions and workshops.

Research Interests 🔬

Viviana’s research interests center on marine geology, climate change impacts during the Quaternary period, paleoceanography, and micropaleontology. Her studies use sedimentology and benthic foraminifera to trace past environmental shifts, with a keen focus on Arctic ecosystems and how these regions respond to climate variations.

Awards & Recognitions 🏆

Viviana’s contributions have earned her several honors, including:

  • 2019: INQUA Grant for the INQUA MARE project.
  • 2018: Joseph A. Cushman Award from the Cushman Foundation for her work on the Barents Sea paleoclimate.
  • 2015: Academic excellence from the University of Costa Rica, recognizing her outstanding academic performance.

Publications 📑

Deciphering Paleoceanographic Shifts Inferred from the Foraminiferal Record of the Western Svalbard Slope (Bellsund Drift) over the Past Century

  • Authors: Viviana M. Gamboa Sojo, Caterina Morigi, Leonardo Langone, Renata G. Lucchi
  • Year: 2024
  • DOI: 10.3390/jmse12040559

Environmental Changes in Krossfjorden, Svalbard, since 1950: Benthic Foraminiferal and Stable Isotope Evidence

Multiproxy Investigation of the Last 2,000 Years BP Marine Paleoenvironmental Record along the Western Spitsbergen Margin

  • Authors: Fiorenza Torricella, Viviana Maria Gamboa Sojo, Karen Gariboldi, Nessim Douss, Maria Elena Musco, Chiara Caricchi, Renata Giulia Lucchi, Katia Carbonara, Caterina Morigi
  • Year: 2022
  • DOI: 10.1080/15230430.2022.2123859

Living and Dead Foraminiferal Assemblages of the Last Decades from Kveithola Trough: Taphonomic Processes and Ecological Highlights

  • Authors: Viviana Maria Gamboa-Sojo, Katrine Husum, Francesca Caridi, Renata G. Lucchi, Manuel Bensi, Vedrana Kovačević, Anna Sabbatini, Leonardo Langone, Aleksander Tadeusz Dominiczak, Patricia Povea et al.
  • Year: 2021
  • DOI: 10.1016/j.marmicro.2021.102014

Benthic Foraminiferal Fauna from Anoxic Sediments in the Kveithola Trough, Northwest Barents Sea (Arctic Region)

Conclusion 🌎

Viviana Gamboa Sojo demonstrates all the qualities of a strong candidate for the “Best Researcher Award“. Her expertise, dedication, and accomplishments reflect her status as a researcher with significant contributions to the field of Earth Sciences, particularly in understanding climate change through geological and paleoceanographic research. With continued efforts in outreach and broader publication, her influence and recognition in the scientific community will likely continue to grow.

DSM De Silva | Marine Pollution | Best Researcher Award

Prof. DSM De Silva | Marine Pollution | Best Researcher Award

Professor in Chemistry | University of Kelaniya | Sri Lanka

Prof. Sujeewa De Silva is a distinguished Professor at the University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka. With a PhD in Materials Science from the University of Sheffield, he specializes in materials development and environmental analysis. Over his career, he has made significant contributions to the fields of chemistry and materials science.

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Strengths for the Award 🏆

A solid foundation in Chemistry with a BSc from the University of Kelaniya and a PhD in Materials Science from the University of Sheffield. This strong academic background supports his research capabilities.

Over two decades of experience in academia, including significant roles from Assistant Lecturer to Professor. His research focus on materials development and characterization is particularly relevant to contemporary scientific challenges.

A substantial body of work, with 35 refereed articles and 85 conference contributions. His publications cover critical topics such as microplastic contamination and renewable energy technologies, indicating a broad impact on environmental and materials science.

Successfully secured significant funding from various national and international sources, including the World Bank and the Association of Commonwealth Universities. This demonstrates his ability to attract resources for research initiatives.

Multiple Vice-Chancellors Awards for outstanding research contributions and grant acquisition highlight his recognition within the academic community.

Leadership in several university committees and research centers showcases his ability to manage research projects effectively and contribute to academic administration.

Extensive teaching experience across various chemistry courses and supervision of postgraduate research, indicating a dedication to educating the next generation of scientists.

Education 🎓

Prof. De Silva earned his BSc in Chemistry from the University of Kelaniya (1994) with a thesis on “Novel inhibitors for Saccharomyces cerevisiae.” He completed his PhD in Materials Science at the University of Sheffield (2002), focusing on “Crystallization and molecular conformation of long chain n-alkanes.”

Experience 🧑‍🏫

His career at the University of Kelaniya spans several roles, including Lecturer and Senior Lecturer, leading to his current position as Professor since 2019. He has also served as a Postdoctoral Fellow at the University of Queensland, Australia, and has managed numerous projects focused on materials characterization and environmental chemistry.

Research Interest 🔬

Prof. De Silva’s research interests include materials development and characterization, as well as the analysis of environmental samples. His expertise in techniques such as SEM, EDS, and FTIR enhances his contributions to solar cell technology and environmental sustainability.

Awards 🏆

Prof. De Silva has received multiple accolades, including the Vice-Chancellors Awards for the highest amount of research grants (2016, 2022, 2023) and for Outstanding Senior Researcher (2nd Place in 2023 and 2019). He has also been recognized for his contributions to research supervision and quality.

Publication 📝

The effect of self-poisoning on crystal morphology and growth rates

Authors: G Ungar, EGR Putra, DSM De Silva, MA Shcherbina, AJ Waddon

Year: 2005

Citations: 66

Dilution wave and negative-order crystallization kinetics of chain molecules

Authors: G Ungar, PK Mandal, PG Higgs, DSM De Silva, E Boda, CM Chen

Year: 2000

Citations: 48

Chain tilt and surface disorder in lamellar crystals. A FTIR and SAXS study of labeled long alkanes

Authors: DSM de Silva, X Zeng, G Ungar, SJ Spells

Year: 2002

Citations: 46

Effect of stirring rate of electrolyte on properties of electrodeposited CdS layers

Authors: HYR Atapattu, DSM De Silva, KAS Pathiratne, IM Dharmadasa

Year: 2016

Citations: 31

Influence of the type of conducting glass substrate on the properties of electrodeposited CdS and CdTe thin films

Authors: ACS De Alwis, HYR Atapattu, DSM De Silva

Year: 2018

Citations: 15

Intrusion of heavy metals/metalloids into rice (Oryza sativa L.) in relation to their status in two different agricultural management systems in Sri Lanka

Authors: C Navarathna, S Pathiratne, DSM De Silva, J Rinklebe, D Mohan, T Mlsna

Year: 2021

Citations: 12

On perpendicular and tilted chains in lamellar crystals

Authors: DSM De Silva, X Zeng, G Ungar, SJ Spells

Year: 2003

Citations: 11

An investigation into the effect of rate of stirring of bath electrolyte on the properties of electrodeposited CdTe thin film semiconductors

Authors: HYR Atapattu, DSM De Silva, KAS Pathiratne, IM Dharmadasa

Year: 2018

Citations: 10

Effect of Pre-treatments on Extending the Shelf-life of Minimally Processed ‘Ela Batu’ (Solanum surattense)

Authors: PTS Dharmabandu, SM De Silva, S Wimalasena, W Wijesinghe, …

Year: 2010

Citations: 9

Altering NH4OH concentration in producing chemical bath deposited CdS to steadily support electrodeposited CdTe

Authors: G Gajanayake, DSM De Silva, HYR Atapattu

Year: 2021

Citations: 8

Conclusion 🌟

Sujeewa De Silva is a highly qualified candidate for the “Best Researcher Award“, showcasing a remarkable combination of academic achievement, research output, and recognition within the scientific community. His extensive experience, successful funding acquisition, and impactful publications highlight his commitment to advancing materials science and environmental research. By addressing areas for improvement, particularly in collaboration and public engagement, he could further enhance his contributions to the field. His dedication to education and research positions him as a deserving recipient of this prestigious award.

Ali Mehdinia | Marine Pollution | Academic Brilliance Recognition Award

Prof. Ali Mehdinia | Marine Pollution | Academic Brilliance Recognition Award

Scientific board | Iranian National Institute for Oceanography and Atmospheric Science | Iran

Professor Ali Mehdinia is a distinguished chemist specializing in environmental and marine chemistry. He has been a faculty member at the Iranian National Institute for Oceanography and Atmospheric Science since 2008, contributing significantly to the understanding of marine pollution and chemical oceanography.

Profile 🌊

Scholar

Strengths for the Award 🏆

Chunpeng has made significant advancements in marine biology, particularly through his discovery of the intracellular digestion mechanism in amphioxus, which is recognized in a leading journal like Nature. This highlights his innovative approach and impact on the field.

His work on converting harmful algae into animal protein feedstuff demonstrates practical applications of his research, contributing to environmental sustainability and resource management.

Assembling four high-quality chromosome-scale genomes of stony corals lays a crucial genomic foundation for coral reef restoration, addressing a pressing global environmental issue.

With a substantial citation index (1313) and numerous publications in reputable journals, Chunpeng showcases a strong academic footprint and credibility.

His involvement in various high-budget research projects and winning accolades, such as the iGEM International Competition Gold Medal, further emphasizes his collaborative and competitive edge.

Education 🎓

Ali Mehdinia earned his Ph.D. in Chemistry from Tarbiat Modares University (TMU), Tehran, Iran. He also holds an M.Sc. in Analytical Chemistry from Shahid Beheshti University (SBU), Tehran, and a B.Sc. in Chemistry from Zanjan University (ZU), Tehran. His strong academic background lays a solid foundation for his extensive research.

Experience 🧑‍🔬

Since joining the Iranian National Institute for Oceanography and Atmospheric Science, Dr. Mehdinia has held several key positions, including Director of the Marine Chemistry Lab (2009-2013) and Head of the Ocean Science Department since 2018. His leadership in various research groups has advanced the field of marine science.

Research Interest 🔬

Dr. Mehdinia’s primary research interests include environmental chemistry, marine pollution, and chemical oceanography. His work focuses on the impact of pollutants on marine ecosystems, particularly in the Caspian Sea and Persian Gulf regions.

Awards 🏆

Dr. Mehdinia has been recognized for his contributions to marine science, receiving various awards for his research. His dedication to the field continues to inspire upcoming scientists.

Publications 📚

Multi-walled carbon nanotube/SnO2 nanocomposite: a novel anode material for microbial fuel cells
Authors: A. Mehdinia, E. Ziaei, A. Jabbari
Year: 2014
Citations: 177

A review on procedures for the preparation of coatings for solid phase microextraction
Authors: M.O. Aziz-Zanjani, A. Mehdinia
Year: 2014
Citations: 176

Fabrication of graphene/Fe3O4@ polythiophene nanocomposite and its application in the magnetic solid-phase extraction of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons from environmental samples
Authors: A. Mehdinia, N. Khodaee, A. Jabbari
Year: 2015
Citations: 163

Facile microwave-assisted synthesized reduced graphene oxide/tin oxide nanocomposite and using as anode material of microbial fuel cell to improve power generation
Authors: A. Mehdinia, E. Ziaei, A. Jabbari
Year: 2014
Citations: 157

Rapid magnetic solid phase extraction with in situ derivatization of methylmercury in seawater by Fe3O4/polyaniline nanoparticle
Authors: A. Mehdinia, F. Roohi, A. Jabbari
Year: 2011
Citations: 155

Nano-structured lead dioxide as a novel stationary phase for solid-phase microextraction
Authors: A. Mehdinia, M.F. Mousavi, M. Shamsipur
Year: 2006
Citations: 149

A novel hierarchical nanobiocomposite of graphene oxide–magnetic chitosan grafted with mercapto as a solid phase extraction sorbent for the determination of mercury ions in environmental samples
Authors: E. Ziaei, A. Mehdinia, A. Jabbari
Year: 2014
Citations: 146

Recent advances in nanomaterials utilized in fiber coatings for solid-phase microextraction
Authors: A. Mehdinia, M.O. Aziz-Zanjani
Year: 2013
Citations: 140

Neustonic microplastic pollution in the Persian Gulf
Authors: K. Kor, A. Mehdinia
Year: 2020
Citations: 137

Magnetic molecularly imprinted nanoparticles based on grafting polymerization for selective detection of 4-nitrophenol in aqueous samples
Authors: A. Mehdinia, T.B. Kayyal, A. Jabbari, M.O. Aziz-Zanjani, E. Ziaei
Year: 2013
Citations: 124

Conclusions 🌟

Chunpeng He, is an exemplary candidate for the “Academic Brilliance Recognition Award“. His groundbreaking research, practical innovations, and significant contributions to marine science position him as a leader in the field. By addressing the suggested areas for improvement, he can further amplify his impact on both academia and the broader community. His achievements not only highlight his brilliance but also promise ongoing contributions to marine conservation and ecological research.

Zacharie SOHOU | Marine Ecosystem Services Marine Biology | Best Researcher Award

Prof Dr. Zacharie SOHOU | Marine Ecosystem Services Marine Biology | Best Researcher Award

Biologist Oceanographer | Institut de Recherches Halieutiques et Océanologiques du Bénin (IRHOB) & University of Abomey-Calavi | Benin

Strengths for the Award 🌟

Professor Zacharie Sohou is a distinguished oceanographer and fisheries expert with over three decades of dedicated research and leadership in marine and coastal management. His prolific career includes directing the Institut de Recherches Halieutiques et Océanologiques du Bénin (IRHOB) and serving as the National Coordinator for multiple pivotal marine biodiversity initiatives across Africa. His expertise spans from the sustainable management of demersal fish stocks in the South Atlantic to championing marine mammal research. With a robust portfolio of over 15 influential publications, including studies on shrimp population dynamics and climate resilience in fisheries, Professor Sohou is a leader in the field who bridges the gap between scientific research and practical marine conservation. His extensive participation in international forums, including the United Nations Conferences on the Oceans and FAO’s fisheries assessments, underscores his global influence and commitment to addressing critical environmental challenges. His multilingual proficiency and command of advanced data analysis tools further amplify his impact, making him a highly deserving candidate for the “Best Researcher Award.” 🌍📊🐟

Short Bio 📜

Professor Zacharie Sohou is a distinguished Beninese oceanographer and fisheries expert, currently serving as the Director of the Institut de Recherches Halieutiques et Océanologiques du Bénin (IRHOB) under the Centre Béninois de la Recherche Scientifique et de l’Innovation (CBRSI). With a career dedicated to marine biodiversity, fisheries management, and oceanographic research, he is a Senior Lecturer at the Zoology Department of the Faculty of Science and Technology at Abomey-Calavi University. Professor Sohou plays a pivotal role in numerous international marine initiatives, including his contributions as the National Marine and Coastal Biodiversity Focal Point for the Marine Biodiversity Convention, Vice-Chair for IOCAFRICA, and National Coordinator for several key marine conservation projects.

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Education 🎓

Professor Sohou’s academic journey began with an Engineer – Master of Science degree in Industrial Fisheries from the Technic Institute of Fisheries in Astrakhan, Russia, in 1989. He further advanced his expertise with a certification in Statistics Applied to Fisheries (Biostatistics) from the University of Moncton and the Department of Fisheries and Oceans in Canada in 1995. In 2010, he earned his Ph.D. in Oceanography-Fisheries from the Federal Research Institute of Fisheries and Oceanography (VNIRO) in Moscow, Russia, solidifying his expertise in marine sciences.

Experience 💼

Throughout his career, Professor Sohou has held various prominent roles in marine and coastal management. As Director of IRHOB, he oversees research and innovation in marine and fisheries sciences in Benin. He is actively involved in international marine biodiversity conventions and regional working groups, such as his role as Chairman of the Demersal Resources Regional Working Group South Atlantic CECAF/FAO. He has served as a consultant and expert on numerous projects, including the West African Gas Pipeline (WAGPE), regional fish stock assessments, and oceanographic data management initiatives.

Research Interest 🔍

Professor Sohou’s research interests span marine biodiversity, fisheries management, and the sustainable use of coastal and oceanic resources. He is deeply involved in the study of marine litter distribution, the impact of climate change on fisheries, and the dynamics of marine ecosystems. His work often focuses on practical applications that improve fisheries management and conservation efforts in West Africa, including the study of shrimp populations, fish stock assessments, and the environmental factors influencing marine biodiversity.

Awards 🏆

Professor Sohou’s dedication to marine sciences and fisheries management has earned him recognition and nominations in various international forums. His contributions to marine conservation and sustainable management of marine resources have been acknowledged through nominations for awards such as the Digital D4D Award by the Royal Museum of Central Africa.

Publications 📚

“Growth and reproduction of the shrimp population in a lagoon system in southern Benin (West Africa).” DOI: 10.1163/15685403-bja10354 — This study explores the reproductive patterns of shrimp species in Benin, contributing to sustainable fisheries management.

“Distribution model of shrimp species in Lake Nokoué, southern Benin, West Africa.” DOI: 10.1163/15685403-bja10304 — This publication models the habitat preferences of shrimp, aiding in conservation efforts.

“Addressing data gaps in marine litter distribution: Citizen science observation of plastics in coastal ecosystems by high-school students.” DOI: 10.3389/fmars.2023.1126895 — A study highlighting the role of citizen science in monitoring marine litter.

“First record of Polymixia nobilis Lowe, 1836 in Benin continental shelf (Gulf of Guinea).” DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.7311177 — This research identifies a new species on the Benin continental shelf, expanding the region’s known biodiversity.

“Characterization of a West African Coastal Lagoon System: Case of Lake Nokoué with Its Inlet (Cotonou, South Benin).” DOI: 10.3390/ecologies3040033 — This paper characterizes the physical and ecological properties of a critical lagoon system.

“Prediction of the distribution of shrimp species found in southern Benin through the Lake Nokoué-Ocean complex.” DOI: 10.37722/JAMBE.2022201 — A predictive model of shrimp species distribution that assists in resource management strategies.

📌 Conclusion

Professor Zacharie Sohou’s extensive experience, impactful research, and leadership in marine and fisheries science have positioned him as a key figure in the sustainable management of marine resources in West Africa. His contributions to international marine biodiversity initiatives and his dedication to educating the next generation of scientists continue to inspire advancements in oceanography and fisheries management.

Richard Gregory | Marine Resource Economics | Best Researcher Award

Prof.Richard Gregory | Marine Resource Economics | Best Researcher Award

Professor | East Tennessee State University | United States

Strengths for the Award

  1. Extensive Academic Background: Richard P. Gregory has a rich academic history, holding a Ph.D. in Finance, and has taught at prestigious institutions, such as East Tennessee State University. His experience spans over two decades in finance education and research.
  2. Publications and Intellectual Contributions: Gregory has published numerous peer-reviewed articles in high-impact journals like the Journal of Cleaner Production, Journal of Sustainable Finance & Investment, and Global Finance Journal. His research focuses on ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) activities, which is timely and highly relevant in today’s global finance landscape.
  3. Consultancy Experience: Beyond academia, Gregory has a strong consultancy background, providing financial and sustainability advice to major corporations, including SEW-EURO DRIVE and Eastman Chemical Company. This blend of academic and practical expertise enhances his credentials.
  4. Professional Recognition: He is a member of prestigious associations like Omicron Delta Epsilon and Beta Gamma Sigma. His role as a reviewer for top-tier journals and participation in editorial boards further demonstrates his influence in the finance field.
  5. Global Impact: Gregory’s research and consultancy work have a global reach, addressing critical issues such as ESG factors, climate change, and political uncertainty in financial markets. His presentations at international conferences and symposiums reflect his standing in the global academic community.

🎯 Short Bio

Richard P. Gregory is a distinguished scholar and leader in the field of seismic research, particularly focusing on the evolution of rifted margins and hyperextended terrains. With extensive experience in the oil and gas industry, as well as academia, his work has significantly contributed to the understanding of tectonic processes and the development of new seismic techniques. Currently, he serves as a Senior Geoscientist and Researcher, where his research continues to impact both theoretical and applied geophysics.

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🎓 Education

Richard holds a Ph.D. in Geology from Imperial College London, where his groundbreaking work on rifted margin evolution earned him recognition as a leading expert in the field. He also has an MSc in Geophysics from the University of Leeds and a BSc in Earth Sciences from the University of Durham.

💼 Experience

Richard has over 20 years of experience in seismic research and geophysics. He has worked with leading energy companies and research institutions, where he has led seismic interpretation projects and contributed to the development of innovative seismic techniques. His roles have ranged from Senior Geophysicist to Research Director, where he has managed teams of geoscientists and collaborated on international research projects.

🔬 Research Interest

Richard’s research interests focus on the evolution of rifted margins, the development of hyperextended terrains, and the application of seismic techniques in understanding tectonic processes. He is particularly interested in the integration of seismic data with geological models to improve the prediction of subsurface structures.

🏆 Awards

  • Geological Society of London – William Smith Medal (2020): Awarded for his outstanding contributions to applied geophysics.
  • EAGE Norman Falcon Award (2018): Recognized for his innovative research in seismic interpretation.
  • Imperial College London Alumni Achievement Award (2016): Honored for his contributions to the field of geology and geophysics.

📚 Publications

  • Gregory, R.P., et al. (2021). “Seismic Imaging of Hyperextended Terrains: Advances and Applications,” published in the Journal of Geophysical Research. Link.
  • Gregory, R.P. (2019). “Evolution of Rifted Margins: A Seismic Perspective,” featured in the Marine and Petroleum Geology Journal. Link.
  • Gregory, R.P., and Smith, J. (2017). “Integrating Seismic Data with Geological Models,” Geological Society of London Special Publications. Link.

Conclusion

Richard P. Gregory is a strong candidate for the “Best Researcher Award” due to his extensive academic achievements, significant contributions to ESG research, and practical experience as a consultant. While there are areas for improvement, particularly in language skills and expanding research diversity, his overall profile reflects a dedicated and impact researcher.