Yojana Adhikari | Climate Change Data Analysis | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Yojana Adhikari | Climate Change Data Analysis | Best Researcher Award

Centre of Econics and Ecosystem Managementand, Eberswalde University of Sustainable Development | Germany

Ms. Yojana Adhikari is a dedicated researcher specializing in sustainable forestry, forest microclimate regulation, and climate adaptation strategies. With a strong foundation in forestry and geospatial science, she contributes to advancing ecological forestry practices through interdisciplinary collaborations, integrating field-based measurements with cutting-edge GIS and remote sensing techniques. Her research focuses on understanding how old-growth forests regulate microclimates, buffer against climate extremes, and foster biodiversity resilience. In her professional roles, she manages and analyzes large datasets, develops geospatial tools, and supports applied research to inform sustainable forest management and conservation strategies that align with global climate resilience goals.

Professional Profile

ORCID

Education

Ms. Adhikari holds a Bachelor of Science in Forestry from Nepal and a Master’s degree in Sustainable Tropical Forestry awarded through a joint Erasmus Mundus program at Bangor University, UK, and the Technical University of Dresden, Germany. This multidisciplinary academic background provided her with a strong grounding in forest dynamics, climate adaptation, ecological monitoring, and the application of advanced analytical tools for environmental research. Her academic journey has been marked by a focus on sustainable development principles, with a particular interest in the intersection of forest management, ecosystem services, and climate change adaptation.

Experience

Professionally, Ms. Adhikari serves as a Data Manager and Analyst at the Eberswalde University for Sustainable Development in Germany, where she coordinates data exchange between project partners, manages and maintains measurement data, and oversees (geo)database systems. Her expertise encompasses GIS and remote sensing analyses, statistical data processing, scientific writing, and presentations at international project events. In addition to this role, she contributes as a GIS Analyst at the Econics Institute, where she engages in geospatial analysis and applied research focused on ecological and sustainable forestry. She has been actively involved in key research projects, including the PYROPHOB project, the UNESCO Beech Project, and initiatives on climate adaptation in working landscapes. Her contributions also extend to peer review activities, serving as a reviewer for prestigious journals like Nature Communications.

Research Interests

Ms. Adhikari’s research spans a range of interconnected themes that address urgent environmental challenges. Her areas of interest include forest stand dynamics and silviculture, focusing on self-thinning, size–density relationships, and growth modeling to optimize forest resilience. She investigates forest microclimates and their role in thermal regulation, with particular emphasis on the buffering effects of old-growth forests. Her work in tree growth and functional traits examines dendrometer data, tree ring asymmetry, and crown structure to understand growth patterns under changing climatic conditions. She is highly skilled in GIS and remote sensing, integrating tools such as land surface temperature mapping, NDVI, canopy height modeling, and GEDI–Sentinel data fusion to advance ecosystem-based adaptation and conservation practices. Furthermore, she actively explores the ecological impacts of road networks, habitat connectivity, and biodiversity within the context of sustainable forest management.

Awards and Contributions

While her work primarily focuses on research and applied forestry, Ms. Adhikari’s contributions have been recognized through involvement in leading international projects and publications in highly regarded scientific journals such as Scientific Reports and Ecological Indicators. Her research on the microclimate regulation of old-growth forests and their role in climate resilience has informed policy recommendations and practical strategies for sustainable forestry. By bridging ecological theory and applied geospatial science, she contributes significantly to conservation planning, ecosystem-based management, and the development of green infrastructure in working landscapes. Her professional memberships include affiliations with the Centre for Econics and Ecosystem Management and the Eberswalde University for Sustainable Development, strengthening her role in the academic and applied research community.

Publications

Adhikari, Y., Blumröder, J.S., Meier, C., Ibisch, P.L., et al. (2025). “Beech buffers: Microclimate regulation in temperate old-growth forests, surroundings and forest edge” in Ecological Indicators.

Schmehl, M.-T., Adhikari, Y., Balthasar, C., Binder, A., Clerc, D., Dobkowitz, S., Gerwin, W., Günther, K., Hartong, H., Heinken, T., et al. (2025). “Monitoring abiotic and biotic parameters of forest regrowth under different management regimes on former wildfire sites in northeastern Germany – data from the PYROPHOB project” (Preprint).

Jouy, F., Schüle, M., Adhikari, Y., Binder, A., Clerc, D., Gerwin, W., Heinken, T., Raab, T., Repmann, F., Rönnefarth, S., et al. (2025). “Factors impacting the variability of post‐fire forest regeneration in central European pine plantations” in Restoration Ecology.

Heinken, T., Blumröder, J.S., Balthasar, C., Binder, A., Birkhofer, K., Brosinsky, A., Bubner, B., Clerc, D., Djoudi, E.A., Francke, T., et al. (2024). “PYROPHOB – A post-fire ecosystem research project to inform management for resilient forest development” in Tuexenia 44.

Adhikari, Y., Bachstein, N., Gohr, C., Blumröder, J.S., Meier, C., Ibisch, P.L., et al. (2024). “Old-growth beech forests in Germany as cool islands in a warming landscape” in Scientific Reports.

Conclusion

Ms. Yojana Adhikari represents a new generation of forestry researchers dedicated to addressing the complex challenges posed by climate change and biodiversity loss. Through her expertise in forest microclimate studies, data-driven analysis, and interdisciplinary collaboration, she contributes to shaping sustainable forest landscapes that promote resilience and ecological integrity. Her integration of field-based measurements with advanced GIS and remote sensing technologies enhances the understanding of forest ecosystems and their adaptive capacities. With her ongoing involvement in international research projects and her commitment to knowledge dissemination, Ms. Adhikari continues to build bridges between science and practice, fostering sustainable forestry practices that benefit both nature and society.

XiaoQi LI | Qualitative Research | Best Researcher Award

Ms. XiaoQi LI | Qualitative Research | Best Researcher Award

Ms. XiaoQi LI | Qualitative Research – huazhong agriculture university | China

Professional Profile

SCOPUS

Education

Ms. LI XiaoQi is currently pursuing her Ph.D. in Landscape Architecture at Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China, where she focuses on spatial and ecological planning. She previously earned her Master of Landscape Architecture from South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, where she engaged in cultural landscape studies and planning strategies. Her academic journey began with a Bachelor’s degree in Physical Geography from Hengyang Normal University, laying the foundation for her expertise in environmental systems and terrain analysis.

Experience

Ms. Li has actively contributed to multiple national and institutional research projects. Notably, she participated in a project on the spatial planning and organic renewal of rural ecological livability, funded by the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities of China, where she conducted historical image interpretation, rural settlement analysis, and development strategy formulation. She was also involved in a National Natural Science Foundation project focused on the landscape zoning and spatial structure of traditional settlements in the Wuling Mountains. In addition, she has been an invited speaker at national conferences, including the 12th Landscape Architecture Conference in Henan and the Conference on National Parks and Landscape Recreation in Shanghai, presenting on topics related to agricultural landscape change and public health-oriented park design.

Research Interests

Her primary research interests lie in agricultural landscape change assessment, sustainable landscape management, and the ecological dynamics of karst mountainous regions. She specializes in the use of geographic information systems (GIS), remote sensing image analysis, and historical landscape interpretation, integrating both qualitative and quantitative data approaches. Her work seeks to enhance the understanding of land use transitions, rural revitalization, and ecological planning under environmental stressors such as drought.

Awards

Ms. Li has received numerous recognitions for her academic and project excellence. She was honored with the Three Good Graduate Student Award and the Excellent Student Cadre Award at the school level in 2023. During her master’s program, she was a recipient of the First Class Scholarship. Her design and planning capabilities have earned her the Third Prize in the Excellent Urban Planning Competition of Guangdong Province, the Silver Prize in the International Ai Jing Landscape Design Competition, and First Prizes in both the Science and Technology Innovation Competition and the Hunan Urban-Rural Planning Design Competition. Additionally, she was acknowledged as an Excellent Communist Youth League Member during her undergraduate studies.

Publications

Li, X.Q., & Li, C.F. (2024). “Changes in agricultural landscape patterns and their influencing factors in karst mountainous areas under drought stress” in Ecological Indicators (In Revision).
Li, X.Q., & Yang, Q.C. (2024). “Scientometric insights into human settlements in karst landscape areas: Trends, challenges, and future directions” in Journal of Cleaner Production (In Revision).
Li, X.Q., Yang, Q.C., Lyu, X., Ye, Y., & Zhang, B. (2023). “Multidimensional framework for analyzing the distribution patterns of traditional villages in the karst landscape regions of China” in Ecological Informatics, 77, 102184.
Li, X.Q., & Zhao, J.H. (2023). “Study on the revitalization and protection of the Southern Guangdong Ancient Post Road from the perspective of study tourism—Taking the Xijing Ancient Road as an example” in Modern Urban Research, 04, 49–54.
Zhao, J.H., & Li, X.Q. (2022). “Public participation in the construction of Auckland Botanic Garden in New Zealand” in Chinese Landscape Architecture, 38(10), 44–49.

Rana Khayat – Animal Ecology – Best Researcher Award 

Dr. Rana Khayat - Animal Ecology - Best Researcher Award 

Umm Al- Qura University - Saudi Arabia

Author Profile

Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Rana O. Khayat's academic journey began with a strong foundation in the biological sciences. Graduating with a Bachelor of Science and education in Biology from the College of Applied Science, she demonstrated an early passion for understanding the complexities of the natural world. This initial educational phase provided her with essential knowledge and skills, laying the groundwork for her future endeavors in academia and research.

Her academic pursuits continued with a Master of Animal Behavior from Manchester Metropolitan University in 2016. During this time, Dr. Khayat delved deeper into the intricacies of animal behavior, honing her analytical abilities and developing a keen understanding of ecological systems. This period of study marked a crucial step in her academic evolution, fueling her curiosity and paving the way for her doctoral studies.

In 2019, Dr. Khayat attained her Doctorate in Animal Ecology and Behavior, also from Manchester Metropolitan University. This significant achievement represented the culmination of years of dedication and scholarly pursuit. Her doctoral research focused on elucidating the behavioral dynamics of animal populations, contributing valuable insights to the field of ecology. Armed with a diverse academic background and a wealth of research experience, Dr. Khayat embarked on a career dedicated to advancing scientific knowledge and promoting conservation efforts.

Professional Endeavors

Following the completion of her doctoral studies, Dr. Khayat transitioned into the realm of academia, assuming the role of Assistant Professor in Animal Ecology and Behavior at the Biology Department of Umm Al-Qura University. Her appointment as Head of the Biology Department underscored her expertise and leadership qualities, allowing her to shape the academic curriculum and mentor future generations of scientists.

Throughout her professional journey, Dr. Khayat has remained committed to conducting innovative research aimed at addressing pressing environmental and conservation challenges. Her interdisciplinary approach combines elements of ecology, behavior, and conservation biology, reflecting her holistic understanding of ecological systems. By leveraging her expertise, Dr. Khayat has made significant contributions to the scientific community, advancing our understanding of complex ecological phenomena and informing conservation strategies.

Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Khayat's research portfolio encompasses a diverse array of topics, ranging from the behavioral dynamics of leaf-cutter ants to the conservation implications of precipitation seasonality on hyena populations in Saudi Arabia. Her multifaceted approach underscores her versatility as a researcher and her ability to tackle complex scientific questions from various angles.

One notable area of focus is Dr. Khayat's investigation into the effects of environmental factors on animal behavior and population dynamics. Her work on precipitation seasonality and its impact on hyena distribution highlights the interconnectedness between environmental variables and species ecology. By elucidating these relationships, Dr. Khayat's research provides valuable insights for conservation planning and ecosystem management in arid environments.

Additionally, Dr. Khayat has explored the therapeutic potential of natural compounds in mitigating neurodegenerative disorders, shedding light on novel treatment modalities for Parkinson's disease. Her interdisciplinary approach bridges the gap between basic and applied research, offering promising avenues for translational medicine and drug discovery.

Accolades and Recognition

Dr. Khayat's contributions to the field of ecology and conservation have earned her widespread recognition and acclaim within the scientific community. Her research publications in esteemed journals such as the Journal for Nature Conservation and Metabolic Brain Disease attest to the significance and impact of her work. Additionally, her role as Head of the Biology Department at Umm Al-Qura University reflects her leadership prowess and academic distinction.

In recognition of her scholarly achievements, Dr. Khayat has received numerous accolades and awards, including research grants and fellowships. These honors underscore her dedication to excellence and her unwavering commitment to advancing scientific knowledge for the betterment of society.

Impact and Influence

Dr. Khayat's research has had a tangible impact on both academia and conservation practice. By unraveling the complexities of animal behavior and ecological systems, she has contributed to a deeper understanding of the natural world and the interconnectedness of species and their environments. Her findings have informed conservation strategies and policy decisions, guiding efforts to protect biodiversity and preserve fragile ecosystems.

Furthermore, Dr. Khayat's mentorship of students and early-career researchers has fostered the next generation of scientific leaders, empowering them to tackle pressing environmental challenges with creativity and rigor. Through her mentorship and collaboration, she has cultivated a vibrant scientific community dedicated to advancing knowledge and fostering stewardship of the natural world.

Legacy and Future Contributions

As Dr. Khayat continues to pursue her research endeavors, her legacy as a pioneering scientist and advocate for conservation will endure. Her interdisciplinary approach and unwavering commitment to excellence serve as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring researchers, encouraging them to push the boundaries of scientific inquiry and embrace innovation in their work.

Looking ahead, Dr. Khayat's future contributions are poised to make a lasting impact on the fields of ecology, conservation biology, and environmental science. By harnessing cutting-edge research methodologies and forging interdisciplinary collaborations, she aims to address emerging challenges and develop sustainable solutions for a rapidly changing world. Through her continued efforts, Dr. Khayat will undoubtedly leave an indelible mark on the scientific landscape, shaping our understanding of the natural world and informing conservation efforts for generations to come.

Notable Publication

 

Jemal Ali Mohammed – climate science Award – Editorial Board member

Mr. Jemal Ali Mohammed - climate science Award - Editorial Board member

Department of Forestry, Tulu Awlia Campus, Mekdela Amba University, Tulu Awlia - Ethiopia

Author Profile

Early Academic Pursuits

Mr. Jemal Ali Mohammed embarked on his academic journey with an inherent passion for environmental studies and climate change. His undergraduate years at Wollo University, Dessie, Ethiopia, laid the foundation for his expertise in forestry, covering a broad spectrum of subjects from general ecology to land use planning. This period not only honed his theoretical understanding but also instilled practical skills vital for sustainable ecosystem management.

Professional Endeavors

His commitment to environmental stewardship propelled him into roles where he could effect real change. As a Graduate Assistant at the Department of Forestry, College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Mekdela Amba University, he actively contributed to shaping the next generation of environmental leaders. Through his tenure as a Lecturer, Jemal endeavored to produce graduates equipped not only with knowledge but also the practical skills necessary to address contemporary environmental challenges.

Contributions and Research Focus On climate science Award

Mr. Jemal's academic pursuits are deeply intertwined with his research interests, focusing on hydrology, climate change modeling, and sustainable ecosystem management. His Master of Sciences in Environment and Climate Change from Bahir Dar University equipped him with advanced skills in GIS and remote sensing applications, essential for monitoring environmental changes. Noteworthy contributions include his thesis on observed rainfall and temperature extremes in the Upper Blue Nile Basin, shedding light on climate variability in the region.

Accolades and Recognition

Mr. Jemal's dedication to advancing environmental science has not gone unnoticed. His publications in reputable journals such as Environmental Challenges and SN Applied Sciences underscore his contributions to the field. Additionally, his role as principal investigator in the Climate Action through Model Watershed Development Program showcases his leadership and commitment to practical solutions for environmental sustainability.

Impact and Influence

Beyond academia, Jemal's influence extends to practical applications of his research findings. His expertise in geospatial data analysis and climate modeling has been instrumental in informing policymakers and stakeholders about climate change impacts and adaptation strategies. By bridging the gap between research and action, he is actively shaping policies for sustainable resource management in Ethiopia and beyond.

Legacy and Future Contributions

Looking ahead, Jemal envisions a future where his research contributes significantly to global efforts in climate change mitigation and adaptation. His legacy lies in nurturing a new generation of environmental scientists equipped with the interdisciplinary skills needed to tackle complex environmental challenges. With a steadfast commitment to excellence and innovation, Jemal continues to inspire positive change in environmental conservation and sustainable development.

In summary, Jemal Ali Mohammed's academic journey, professional endeavors, and contributions to environmental research underscore his dedication to addressing pressing global challenges. His legacy serves as a beacon of inspiration for future generations of environmental scientists, emphasizing the transformative power of interdisciplinary collaboration and innovative research methodologies.

Notable Publication

Erone Ghizoni Santos – Ecology – Best Researcher Award 

Mr. Erone Ghizoni Santos - Ecology - Best Researcher Award 

University of Helsinki  - Finland

Author Profile

Early Academic Pursuits

Mr. Erone Ghizoni dos Santos began his academic journey with a strong foundation in Forest Engineering, graduating from the University State of Santa Catarina in Brazil in 2014. During this time, he also pursued vocational and technical education in business, showcasing his early interest in interdisciplinary knowledge. This educational background laid the groundwork for his future endeavors in environmental sciences and forestry management.

Endeavors and Contributions

Following his graduation, Erone delved deeper into his field through various internships and short-term courses, gaining practical experience and expanding his skill set. Notably, his internship at Esteio Engenharia e Aerolevantamentos SA provided hands-on exposure to forestry consultancy, further shaping his understanding of the industry's practical aspects.

His pursuit of knowledge extended beyond traditional academics, as evidenced by his involvement in projects such as evaluating the growth and commercial production of Pinus taeda and using organic waste for composting techniques in building vegetable gardens. These experiences underscore his holistic approach to forestry, incorporating aspects of sustainability and environmental management into his skill set.

Research Focus and Accolades On Ecology

Mr. Erone's academic journey took a significant leap forward with his Master's in Remote Sensing from the National Institute for Space Research (INPE) in Brazil. His thesis on forest biomass estimation in the Amazon biome using multi-stage approaches demonstrated his proficiency in utilizing advanced technologies like LiDAR and orbital image data for ecological research.

His contributions to mapping and monitoring forest degradation using remote sensing data, supported by FAPESP, showcased his commitment to addressing pressing environmental issues. Additionally, his research on dendrochronology, climate variation, and historical use of Araucaria angustifolia highlighted his interdisciplinary approach, bridging forestry with climatology and historical ecology.

Impact and Influence

Mr. Erone's work has left a lasting impact on the field of geosciences, particularly in understanding the effects of selective logging on tropical forest microclimates. His publications in peer-reviewed journals and presentations at international conferences have contributed valuable insights into forest ecology, microclimate dynamics, and carbon estimation methodologies. By combining fieldwork, remote sensing techniques, and innovative research methodologies, he has advanced our understanding of tropical ecosystems' resilience and vulnerability to anthropogenic disturbances.

Legacy and Future Contributions

As Erone continues his PhD research at the University of Helsinki, his legacy is marked by a dedication to interdisciplinary research, technological innovation, and environmental stewardship. His future contributions hold promise for furthering our knowledge of forest ecosystems and their responses to global environmental changes. With his expertise in LiDAR, forest microclimate, and biomass estimation, Erone is poised to make significant strides in sustainable forest management, climate change mitigation, and biodiversity conservation, leaving a lasting legacy for generations to come.

Notable Publication

 

Valerio Matozzo | Environmental sciences | Best Researcher Award

Prof Valerio Matozzo - University of Padova  -Environmental sciences

Prof Valerio Matozzo : Environmental sciences

Professional profile:

Early Academic Pursuits:

Prof. Valerio Matozzo began his academic journey by earning a degree in Biological Sciences from the University of Padova (Italy) in 1998. Following this, he pursued postgraduate research, receiving a European Union grant in 2000.

In 2003, he completed his PhD in Evolutionary Biology at the University of Padova, focusing on the physiological responses of bivalves to pollutants.

Professional Endeavors:

From 2002 to 2005, Prof. Matozzo held a postdoctoral position at the University of Padova. During this period, he contributed significantly to the field, earning the "Sebastiano Geraci" Award in 2004 for the best paper written by a young researcher and published in an international journal.

He became a permanent Researcher in Ecology at the Department of Biology, University of Padova, from January 2006 to August 2017. Currently, he holds a permanent position as an Associate Professor of Ecology at the University of Padova.

Contributions and Research Focus:

Prof. Matozzo's primary scientific interest lies in the use of marine invertebrates, particularly bivalves and crustaceans, as bioindicators in both laboratory and field conditions. His research focuses on studying the effects of various contaminants on aquatic invertebrates, with a particular emphasis on immunotoxic effects of emerging contaminants such as nanoparticles, pharmaceuticals, and herbicides. He also investigates the interaction of these contaminants with other environmental factors like temperature and pH.

He oversees the Laboratory of Ecophysiology and Ecotoxicology of Marine Invertebrates and has participated in several national and international research projects.

Accolades and Recognition:

In 2014, Prof. Matozzo received the Certificate of Excellence in Reviewing from Elsevier and the journal Marine Environmental Research, recognizing his outstanding contribution to the quality of the journal.

He has been actively involved in academic committees, serving as the President of the Degree Course in Natural Science and the Degree Course in Science of Nature at the University of Padova.

Impact and Influence:

Prof. Matozzo has left a significant impact on the field of marine biology and ecotoxicology. He has authored or coauthored 121 papers published in peer-reviewed journals and contributed to a book chapter. His research has contributed valuable insights into the understanding of the effects of contaminants on marine invertebrates.

Legacy and Future Contributions:

Prof. Matozzo's legacy includes his extensive body of research, leadership roles in academic programs, and contributions to the scientific community. As President of academic degree courses and a faculty member of the PhD program in Biosciences, he continues to shape the future of aspiring scientists. His commitment to research and education ensures a lasting impact on the field of marine biology and ecotoxicology. Future contributions from Prof. Matozzo are anticipated as he maintains collaborations with national and international institutions and continues his involvement in editorial boards and research projects.

Notable Publications:

Citations:

A total of  5828 citations for his publications, demonstrating the impact and recognition of his research within the academic community.

  • Citations     5828
  • h-index        45
  • i10-index     97