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.

Jeewan Kumar Bastola – Data analysis – Best Researcher Award 

Mr Jeewan Kumar Bastola - Data analysis - Best Researcher Award 

Sherubtse college - Bhutan

Author Profile 

Early Academic Pursuits

Jeewan Kumar Bastola embarked on his academic journey with primary schooling at Salami Primary School in Bhutan, from Class PP to VI. He continued his education at Damphu Lower Secondary School for Class VII and VIII, and later pursued middle and higher schooling at Damphu Central School for Class X and Class XII, where he specialized in IT and Arts, respectively. His commitment to education and consistent academic progress laid the foundation for his future endeavors.

Jeewan's passion for learning led him to Sherubtse College, Royal University of Bhutan, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Economics and Geography in 2021. This academic achievement marked a significant milestone in his educational journey.

Building on his bachelor's degree, Jeewan pursued an MSC in Ecology and Environment Studies at Nalanda University in 2023, further honing his expertise in environmental sciences.

Professional Endeavors

Jeewan Kumar Bastola's professional journey is marked by his dedication to ecological studies, particularly focusing on renewable energy and environmental sustainability. His dissertation, "Biogas and Biohydrogen for Net Zero Transition in Bhutan," showcases his commitment to addressing environmental challenges and contributing to sustainable development.

With a solid foundation in GIS and remote sensing, SPSS, Python, and SimaPro software, Jeewan demonstrated his proficiency in various analytical tools essential for environmental research and data analysis. His experience with NVivo further enriched his skills in qualitative data analysis.

Contributions and Research Focus

Jeewan's research focus revolves around Bhutan's transition to a net-zero future using biogas and biohydrogen. His study at the district level provides a comprehensive assessment of crop residue and animal manure-based bioenergy potential, offering valuable insights for sustainable development. By integrating statistical and mathematical modeling with Geographical Information System, Jeewan addressed the hindrance of lacking precise biomass data in Bhutan.

His published work, "Biogas and Biohydrogen for Net Zero Cooking and Transportation in Bhutan," underscores the practical applications of his research, contributing to the ongoing discourse on renewable energy.

Accolades and Recognition

Jeewan Kumar Bastola's academic excellence earned him the prestigious Nalanda University Scholarship, a testament to his commitment to advanced studies. His active participation in extracurricular activities, including sports and volunteer work, garnered recognition, such as being a runner-up in football and receiving certificates for blood donation and volunteerism.

His consistent contributions to various clubs and organizations, such as the Sherubtse UN Club, Bhutan Kidney Foundation, and GNH Club, reflect his dedication to social and environmental causes.

Impact and Influence

Through his academic pursuits and research endeavors, Jeewan has made a positive impact on environmental studies and renewable energy in Bhutan. His work on biogas and biohydrogen presents viable solutions for achieving Bhutan's ambitious targets of net-zero emissions by 2030 and 100% renewable energy by 2050.

Jeewan's involvement in social and volunteer activities, coupled with his leadership roles, showcases his commitment to community service and holistic development.

Legacy and Future Contributions

Jeewan Kumar Bastola's legacy lies in his pioneering work in sustainable energy and environmental studies, particularly in the context of Bhutan. His research serves as a foundation for future initiatives aimed at achieving environmental sustainability and fostering a net-zero future.

As he moves forward in his career, Jeewan is poised to make further contributions to the field of renewable energy, climate change mitigation, and sustainable development. His multidisciplinary skills and passion for environmental conservation position him as a potential leader in shaping Bhutan's eco-friendly future.