Christina Ryder | Data Analysis | Research Excellence Award

Dr. Christina Ryder | Data Analysis | Research Excellence Award

 Texas A&M University | United States

Dr. Christina Ryder is a biological anthropologist whose work integrates advanced analytical techniques with archaeological and paleoenvironmental research. She earned her PhD in Biological Anthropology from the University of Colorado Boulder, following an MA in Anthropology from New York University and dual bachelor’s degrees in Biological Anthropology and Biology. Her academic and research experience includes postdoctoral research in North American paleoanthropology and megafaunal studies, as well as extensive teaching at undergraduate and graduate levels in biological and forensic anthropology. Her research focuses on Late Pleistocene paleoecology, human–environment interactions, and the development of non-destructive analytical methods, particularly the application of near-infrared spectroscopy for assessing bone collagen preservation to improve radiocarbon dating and stable isotope analysis. She has led and contributed to externally funded research supported by major foundations and has actively participated in interdisciplinary collaborations bridging archaeology, geochemistry, and evolutionary biology. Dr. Ryder has published 7 scholarly documents, which have received 139 citations from 136 citing documents, resulting in an h-index of 5, indicating growing international impact. Her work has been recognized through competitive fellowships and a university-level teaching excellence award. Overall, her contributions advance methodological innovation in biological anthropology while strengthening the integration of laboratory science, archaeological interpretation, and higher education.

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Featured Publications

Vilma Petkova | Qualitative Research | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Vilma Petkova | Qualitative Research | Best Researcher Award

Institute of Mineralogy and Crystallography “Acad. Ivan Kostov”, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences | Bulgaria

Prof. Vilma Petkova is an eminent chemist-engineer and researcher specializing in inorganic materials science, crystallography, thermal analysis, and environmentally clean technologies. She holds a Ph.D. in Chemical Technology and Metallurgy and has over three decades of academic and research experience, serving in positions ranging from Assistant Professor to full Professor at the Institute of Mineralogy and Crystallography, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, and New Bulgarian University. Her research spans inorganic substances, nanomaterials, cement and construction materials, fertilizers, solid-phase kinetics, thermal and X-ray analysis, spectroscopy, and eco-friendly materials. Prof. Petkova has supervised numerous bachelor, master, and Ph.D. students, actively participated in over 130 national and international conferences, and contributed to more than 193 publications, including 89 indexed in IF/SJR journals, accumulating 904 citations across 744 documents with an h-index of 18. She has led and participated in national and international research projects, served on scientific councils, editorial boards, and accreditation panels, and received recognition for her leadership in thermal analysis and materials science. Her expertise integrates material characterization, environmental chemistry, biotechnology, and sustainable development. Prof. Petkova continues to advance research, mentor emerging scientists, and contribute to global knowledge in material science and chemistry, promoting innovations that balance technological progress with environmental sustainability.

Profiles : Scopus | Orcid | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Petkova, V., Mihaylova, K., Serafimova, E., Titorenkova, R., Tsvetanova, L., & Trikkel, A. (2025). “Impact of High Energy Milling and Mineral Additives on a Carbonate–Quartz–Apatite System for Ecological Applications.” Materials.

Petkova, V., Mihaylova, K., Kaljuvee, T., & Piroeva, I. (2025). “Induced structural changes within a natural apatite-calcite system via short-time mechanochemical activation.” Materials Chemistry and Physics.

Petkova, V., Stoyanov, V., Mihaylova, K., & Kostova, B. (2025). “Impact of pozzolanic and inert powders on the microstructure and thermal chemistry of cement mortars.” Ceramics International.

Stoyanov, V., Petkova, V., Mihaylova, K., & Shopska, M. (2024). “A Study of the Influence of Thermoactivated Natural Zeolite on the Hydration of White Cement Mortars.” Materials.

Serafimova, E., & Petkova, V. (2022). “BTEX exposure in indoor air in schools in Bulgaria.” IOP Conference Series: Materials Science and Engineering.

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.