Olivier Munguiko Munyamahoro | Volcanologie | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Olivier Munguiko Munyamahoro | Volcanologie | Best Researcher Award

 Université Clermont Auvergne | France

Dr. Olivier Munguiko Munyamahoro is a volcanology and seismology researcher specializing in geochemical and seismic approaches to understanding magmatic processes and eruption precursors, with a strong focus on volcanic hazard reduction. He is currently pursuing a PhD at Université Clermont Auvergne, France (expected 2026), where his research investigates the spatial and temporal variability of diffuse volcanic degassing in urban environments of the Kivu Rift, East African Rift System, and its links to volcano-tectonic activity and air quality impacts. He holds advanced degrees in physics from the Institut Supérieur Pédagogique de Bukavu, Democratic Republic of Congo. Professionally, he serves as a Junior Researcher at the Goma Volcano Observatory, contributing to the monitoring of Nyiragongo and Nyamulagira volcanoes through seismic data analysis, event location, and interpretation, and has prior experience as a Teaching Assistant in higher education. His research interests include volcanic degassing, seismicity, magma dynamics, eruption forecasting, and environmental impacts of volcanic activity. Dr. Munguiko Munyamahoro has participated in several international training programs and conferences on seismology and volcanology and is a recipient of the IASPEI Early Career 2022 Award from the African Seismological Commission. Through integrated geochemical and seismological monitoring, his work contributes to improved volcanic risk assessment and the protection of vulnerable communities in active rift environments.

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Featured Publications

Lava lake activity at Nyiragongo volcano between the years 2020 and 2021 documented by seismic activity and sulfur dioxide emissions, DRC

Volcanica, 7(2), 607–619, 2024
Munguiko, O.; Maska, S.; Habari, F. S.; Minani, A. S.; Bakole, E.; Mavonga, T.; Ngangu, B.; Sadiki, A. T.; Balezi, G.
Analysis of the seismicity recorded before the May 22, 2021 eruption of Nyiragongo Volcano, Democratic Republic of the Congo

Journal of Volcanology and Seismology, 17(3), 246–257, 2023
Sadiki, A. T.; Kyambikwa, A. M.; Namogo, D. B.; Diomi, L. N.; Munguiko, O. M.; Balezi, G. M.; et al.
DOI: 10.1134/S0742046323700136
General overview of the post-eruptive seismic activity of the Nyiragongo volcano on May 22, 2021, Eastern DR Congo

Maska, S.; Diomi, L.; Munguiko, O.; Mavonga, G., 2023

Full text (PDF)

Transition from spot to long-lived eruptive activity in continental rifting tracked by monitoring soil degassing

Submitted to Journal of Volcanology and Geothermal Research
Munguiko, M. O.; Boudoire, G.; Regis, E.; Valade, S.; et al.
Temporal variations of indoor CO₂ content and radon activity in the city of Goma (DR Congo): volcano-tectonic influences on air quality

In preparation
Munguiko, M. O. et al.

A. A. Bidokhti | Data Analysis | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. A. A. Bidokhti | Data Analysis | Best Researcher Award

University of Tehran | Iran

A.A. Aliakbari Bidokhti is a professor of environmental and geophysical fluid dynamics whose work spans atmospheric and oceanic processes, turbulence, aerosols, climate modeling, and numerical simulation of complex environmental flows. He earned a Ph.D. in Geophysical Fluid Dynamics with specialization in the dynamics of the atmosphere and ocean, followed by postdoctoral research in the United Kingdom at Newcastle and Cambridge. Since 1992, he has served as a faculty member at the Institute of Geophysics, University of Tehran, contributing extensively to research and education in fluid mechanics, environmental physics, oceanography, and atmospheric sciences. His research interests cover turbulence with rotation and stratification, convection, atmospheric pollution, ozone dynamics, ocean currents, mesoscale eddies, and computational fluid dynamics. He is skilled in experimental fluid mechanics, hot-wire anemometry, SODAR studies, and numerical modeling of environmental systems. His publication record includes impactful journal articles and several books, among them Fundamentals of Fluid Dynamics and An Introduction to the Atmospheric Boundary Layer, the latter recognized as a distinguished science book in 2023. As a scientific member of national geophysical and marine societies, he contributes to advancing environmental research. His work continues to support understanding of climate, ocean processes, and atmospheric dynamics.

Profile : Orcid

Featured Publications

Bafandeh, B., Bidokhti, A.A., Lari, K., & Ezam, M. (2022). “Experimental and numerical study of gas to liquid ratio in stratified gas-saturated liquid blowouts’ plumes” in International Journal of Environmental Science and Technology.

Gholami, Z., Lari, K., Aliakbari Bidokhti, A., & Javid, A. (2021). “Revisiting the derivation of bulk longshore sediment transport rates using meta-heuristic algorithms” in Ocean and Coastal Research.

Mogaddam, S.F., Bidokhti, A.A., Givi, F.A., & Ezam, M. (2020). “Evaluation of physical changes (temperature and salinity) in the Persian Gulf waters due to climate change using field data and numerical modeling” in International Journal of Environmental Science and Technology.

Tajfirooz, B., Ezam, M., Bidokhti, A.A., & Lari, K. (2020). “Evaluation of probabilistic and deterministic methods for estimating energy potential of tidal currents in the Khuran Strait, the Persian Gulf” in International Journal of Environmental Science and Technology.

Arghavani, S., Malakooti, H., & Ali Akbari Bidokhti, A.-A. (2020). “Numerical assessment of the urban green space scenarios on urban heat island and thermal comfort level in Tehran Metropolis” in Journal of Cleaner Production.

Lakshmikanthan P | Environmental Data Analysis | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Lakshmikanthan P | Environmental Data Analysis | Best Researcher Award

Council Of Scientific And Industrial Research-fourth Paradigm Institute | India

Dr. P. Lakshmikanthan is a Senior Scientist at CSIR-4PI, Bengaluru (since April 2022), having earlier served as Scientist at NEERI Nagpur (2017–2022), Assistant Professor at Ramaiah University, and a post-doctoral researcher at IISc Bangalore, with prior professional experience in engineering consultancy roles. His research spans greenhouse gas measurement, climate-change assessment and urban health risk modeling, environmental forecasting, sustainability engineering and solid waste management, and ocean modeling. He holds a PhD (IISc, 2015), an M.E. in Environmental Engineering (Anna University, 2010) and a B.E. in Civil Engineering (Anna University, 2006). According to Google Scholar, his work has attracted ~485 citations (Cited by 483) and his h-index is 12. He was awarded the Nawab Bahadur Jung Award for best paper in 2016. Through his publications, modeling and forecasting contributions, and interdisciplinary work on waste, climate, health and environment, he continues to influence research directions in sustainability and risk assessment.

Profiles : Scopus | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Manjunatha, G. S., Lakshmikanthan, P., Chavan, D., Baghel, D. S., Kumar, S., & Kumar, R. (2024). Detection and extinguishment approaches for municipal solid waste landfill fires: A mini review. Waste Management & Research.

Baghel, D. S., Lakshmikanthan, P., & Kumar, S. (2024). Towards sustainable municipal solid waste management in India: Challenges, trends, and innovations. Journal of Waste Management and Disposal.

Sughosh, P., Lakshmikanthan, P., Vibha, S., & Sivakumar Babu, G. L. (2023). Influence of hydraulic conductivity and moisture retention characteristics of waste on the performance of leachate recirculation system. Indian Geotechnical Journal.

Santhosh, L. G., Lakshmikanthan, P., & Shilpa, D. N. (2022). Quantification of gas emissions from municipal solid waste by biochemical methane potential (BMP) assay method using leachate and wastewater sludge as inoculum. In Indian Geotechnical Conference. Singapore: Springer Nature.

Chavan, D., Lakshmikanthan, P., Manjunatha, G. S., Singh, D., Khati, S., Arya, S., & Kumar, R. (2022). Determination of risk of spontaneous waste ignition and leachate quality for open municipal solid waste dumpsite. Waste Management.

Simon William Mkasimongwa | Air Quality | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Simon William Mkasimongwa | Air Quality | Best Researcher Award

The University of Melbourne | Australia

Mr. Simon William Mkasimongwa is a dedicated researcher and climate expert specializing in atmospheric chemistry, climate change, and air quality management. He has developed strong expertise in data analysis, environmental policy evaluation, and sustainable development practices. With a passion for addressing global environmental challenges, he integrates scientific research with community engagement, event coordination, and interdisciplinary collaboration. He has experience in leading environmental projects, delivering academic content, hosting radio programs, and mentoring youth in climate-related initiatives. His professional journey reflects a deep commitment to advancing environmental science and promoting innovative solutions for sustainable futures.

Professional Profile

ORCID

Education

Mr. Mkasimongwa has pursued advanced education in the fields of atmospheric chemistry, sustainable development, and safety and health science. His academic journey includes a doctorate in atmospheric chemistry focusing on air quality monitoring and management in urban regions, a master’s degree with emphasis on climate change adaptation and mitigation, and a bachelor’s degree in sustainable development. Throughout his education, he has gained proficiency in research methodologies, data analysis, and the application of atmospheric modeling tools such as HYSPLIT and AERMOD. His educational background has provided him with a solid foundation to analyze environmental challenges and develop actionable strategies for climate resilience.

Experience

Professionally, Mr. Mkasimongwa has served as an air lab manager and teaching assistant at a leading university, where he contributed to climate change adaptation courses, urban air quality studies, and student mentorship. His responsibilities included assisting in research projects, managing laboratory operations, and supporting data collection and analysis for air quality monitoring programs. He has volunteered extensively with international organizations focused on environmental conservation, serving as a youth leader, event coordinator, and radio presenter for environmental awareness programs. His experience spans research assistance, administrative roles, and public engagement, reflecting a multifaceted career in academia, research, and community advocacy.

Research Interest

His research interests encompass climate change, air quality management, extreme meteorological events, and environmental policy evaluation. He is particularly focused on monitoring and managing air pollution in urban environments, utilizing advanced tools such as GIS, SPSS, BenMAP-CE, and other atmospheric modeling systems. His work also explores the impacts of climate-related disasters on urban resilience and community adaptation. Through interdisciplinary approaches, he aims to develop strategies that enhance environmental sustainability and mitigate the effects of climate change on vulnerable populations.

Awards

Mr. Mkasimongwa has been recognized with numerous honors for his academic and community contributions. His accolades include prestigious prizes from international organizations for outstanding leadership in environmental initiatives, multiple academic achievement awards for excellence in research and coursework, and full scholarships for both undergraduate and postgraduate studies. Additionally, he has received recognition for his contributions to youth climate leadership programs, model UN conferences, and community-based environmental conservation efforts. These awards highlight his consistent dedication to both academic excellence and societal impact.

Publications

Mkasimongwa, S. W., Fakour, H., Hassani, H. J., Sultan, B. A., & Lai, H.-C. (2024). “Assessment of Dar es Salaam’s resilience to climate change disasters using the Climate Disaster Resilience Index (CDRI)” in Singapore Journal of Tropical Geography.

Lai, H.-C., Dai, Y.-T., Mkasimongwa, S. W., Hsiao, M.-C., & Lai, L.-W. (2023). “The Impact of Atmospheric Synoptic Weather Condition and Long-Range Transportation of Air Mass on Extreme PM₁₀ Concentration Events” in Atmosphere.

Conclusion

Through his academic, professional, and voluntary engagements, Mr. Simon William Mkasimongwa exemplifies a strong commitment to advancing the field of atmospheric science and climate change mitigation. His ability to integrate research with community outreach and education demonstrates his holistic approach to environmental challenges. With expertise in climate modeling, air quality management, and policy development, he continues to contribute to sustainable development goals and inspire future generations toward responsible environmental stewardship.

Emuobosa Orijemie – Environmental Data Analysis – Best Researcher Award 

Dr. Emuobosa Orijemie - Environmental Data Analysis - Best Researcher Award 

University of Ibadan - Nigeria

Author Profile

Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Emuobosa Akpo Orijemie began his academic journey at the University of Ibadan, Nigeria, where he earned his BSc (Hons) in Botany in 2001. His interest in environmental archaeology led him to pursue an MSc in the same field at the University of Ibadan, which he completed in 2005. He continued to deepen his expertise by obtaining a PhD in Environmental Archaeology from the same institution in 2013. His education laid a strong foundation for his future research endeavors in palynology, archaeobotany, and palaeoenvironments, particularly focusing on the tropics.

Professional Endeavors

Dr. Orijemie’s professional career is marked by a series of esteemed positions and fellowships. He began as a Lecturer in the Department of Archaeology and Anthropology at the University of Ibadan in 2010, where he was promoted to Senior Lecturer in 2019. His international experience includes a Newton International Postdoctoral Research Fellowship at the McDonald Institute for Archaeological Research, University of Cambridge, UK (2016-2017). He has also been a Visiting Researcher and Scholar at prestigious institutions such as the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and the University of Witwatersrand, South Africa.

In 2022, Orijemie expanded his teaching influence as a Visiting Lecturer in the Department of Pure and Applied Botany at the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Nigeria. Currently, he is an Alexander von Humboldt Research Fellow at the Max Planck Institute for Geoanthropology, Jena, Germany, further enhancing his research capabilities and international collaborations.

Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Orijemie specializes in palynology and archaeobotany, with a keen focus on studying preserved pollen, spores, phytoliths, and dinocysts to reconstruct ancient environments and human-landscape interactions. His work is pivotal in deciphering the cultural dynamics and environmental conditions of the tropics, particularly in Africa. He employs archaeobotanical evidence to investigate food pathways, addressing food security and insecurity in African rainforests.

His research integrates palaeo-science with human-ecology data, aiming to provide a comprehensive understanding of human-landscape interactions within environmental contexts. Orijemie’s interdisciplinary approach has led to significant insights into the relationship between ancient human activities and environmental changes, contributing valuable knowledge to the fields of environmental archaeology and anthropology.

Accolades and Recognition

Dr. Orijemie has been the recipient of numerous grants and awards, underscoring his contributions to his field. Notable among these are the Newton Postdoctoral Research Fellowship Funds (£99,000.00) and the McDonald Institute for Archaeological Research Fieldwork Grants (£8,500.00). His travel grants from INQUA, PALSEA, and various other institutions have facilitated his participation in international conferences and workshops, fostering global scholarly exchange.

He has also received substantial support for his research, including the MacArthur Doctoral Research Grant from the University of Ibadan (USD 2,300) and various conference travel funds from prestigious institutions such as the University of Kiel, Germany, and the International Quaternary Association (INQUA).

Impact and Influence

Dr. Orijemie’s research has had a profound impact on the understanding of palaeoenvironmental changes and human-environment interactions. His work on Holocene vegetation and climatic changes in Nigeria, published in journals like Quaternary Science Advances, provides critical insights into the historical climatic patterns and their implications for contemporary environmental issues. His interdisciplinary studies, combining palynology with archaeobotany, have advanced the knowledge of ancient agricultural practices and their environmental consequences.

His findings on the ecological consequences of iron smelting in Nigeria and the archaeobotanical legacy of agroforestry in African rainforests have been instrumental in understanding the long-term sustainability of agricultural practices. Orijemie’s research also extends to the forensic use of palynology, demonstrating its applicability in modern scientific investigations.

Legacy and Future Contributions

Dr. Orijemie’s legacy is one of pioneering research and significant academic contributions to environmental archaeology. His work continues to shape the understanding of ancient human activities and their environmental impacts, providing valuable lessons for addressing current environmental and food security challenges. As an Alexander von Humboldt Research Fellow, he is poised to further his research on human-environment interactions, potentially leading to new discoveries and methodologies.

Looking ahead, Orijemie aims to expand his interdisciplinary research, integrating more advanced technologies and collaborative approaches to further unravel the complexities of past human-environment interactions. His future contributions will likely continue to influence the fields of archaeology, anthropology, and environmental science, cementing his position as a leading figure in these disciplines.

Citations

A total of 269 citations for his publications, demonstrating the impact and recognition of her research within the academic community.

Bouthaina Hasnaoui – Environmental Data Analysis – Young Scientist Award 

Dr. Bouthaina Hasnaoui - Environmental Data Analysis - Young Scientist Award 

Aix-Marseille Université - France 

Author Profile

Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Bouthaina Hasnaoui's academic journey commenced with a strong foundation in biology and health sciences. Pursuing a Master's degree in Biologie Santé, Maladies Infectieuses et Microbiote at Aix-Marseille Université, France, she delved into the intricacies of infectious diseases and microbiota. This period laid the groundwork for her subsequent doctoral studies, where she specialized in Maladies Infectieuses et Microbiote, graduating with distinction in 2023.

Professional Endeavors

Her professional trajectory reflects a commitment to bridging research and practical application. As a Referent du Laboratoire de Biologie Moléculaire at the Institut Hospitalo-Universitaire Marseille, she not only supervised daily operations but also spearheaded research initiatives resulting in notable contributions to publications. Furthermore, her tenure as an Assistant de Recherche at IHU-VITROME showcased her adeptness in protocol development and experimental procedures, particularly in insect rearing and entomology. She also shared her expertise as a Formateur, nurturing the skills of budding researchers in molecular biology.

Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Hasnaoui's research focus spans the realm of infectious diseases, with a particular emphasis on microbiology and metagenomics. Her doctoral work elucidated crucial insights into the interplay between pathogens and the host microbiota, shedding light on mechanisms of pathogenesis and potential therapeutic interventions. Moreover, her investigations into insect-borne diseases during her missions with IHU-INELP underscored her interdisciplinary approach, integrating entomological studies with infectious disease research.

Accolades and Recognition

Throughout her academic and professional journey, Hasnaoui has garnered recognition for her exemplary contributions. Her meticulous approach to research, coupled with her leadership in laboratory settings, has earned her praise from peers and mentors alike. Notably, her role as a Formateur at IHU-France showcased her ability to impart knowledge effectively, garnering appreciation from the research community.

Impact and Influence

Dr. Hasnaoui's research has the potential to catalyze advancements in the field of infectious diseases. By elucidating the complex interactions between pathogens and the host microbiota, her work lays the groundwork for the development of targeted therapeutic strategies. Furthermore, her expertise in entomology contributes to our understanding of vector-borne diseases, offering insights into disease transmission dynamics and control measures.

Legacy and Future Contributions

As she continues her academic journey, Hasnaoui's legacy is poised to endure through her groundbreaking research and mentorship initiatives. By nurturing the next generation of researchers and continuing to push the boundaries of scientific inquiry, she ensures a lasting impact on the field of infectious diseases. Her commitment to excellence and innovation serves as a beacon for aspiring researchers, inspiring them to push the boundaries of knowledge and make meaningful contributions to public health.

Notable Publication