Mario Morales-Máximo | Bioenergy | Research Excellence Award

Dr. Mario Morales-Máximo | Bioenergy | Research Excellence Award

University Vasco de Quiiroga | Mexico

Featured Publications

A Prospective Study of the Exploitation of Pelagic Sargassum spp. as a Solid Biofuel Energy Source (2020).
LB López-Sosa, JJ Alvarado-Flores, JC Corral-Huacuz · Applied Sciences 10(23), 8706 · Citations: 71

Exploitation of Wood Waste of Pinus spp for Briquette Production: A Case Study in the Community of San Francisco Pichátaro, Michoacán, Mexico (2020).
M Morales-Máximo, VM Ruíz-García, LB López-Sosa · Applied Sciences 10(8), 2933 · Citations: 56

Briquettes from Pinus spp. Residues: Energy Savings and Emissions Mitigation in the Rural Sector (2022).
M Morales-Máximo, JG Rutiaga-Quiñones, O Masera · Energies 15(9), 3419 · Citations: 35

A new methodology for the development of appropriate technology: A case study for the development of a wood solar dryer (2019).
LB López-Sosa, J Núñez-González, A Beltrán, M Morales-Máximo · Sustainability 11(20), 5620 · Citations: 30

Characterization of Agricultural Residues of Zea mays for Their Application as Solid Biofuel (2022).
CN Morales-Máximo, LB López-Sosa, JG Rutiaga-Quiñones · Energies 15(19), 6870 · Citations: 28

Prof. Dr. Gennaro Trancone | Waste Bioconversion | Best Scholar Award

Prof. Dr. Gennaro Trancone | Waste Bioconversion | Best Scholar Award

Prof. Dr. Gennaro Trancone | Waste Bioconversion | University of Naples Federico II | Italy

Prof. Dr. Gennaro Trancone earned a Ph.D. in Civil Systems Engineering from the University of Naples “Federico II” after earlier studies in Environmental and Land Engineering and Civil & Environmental Engineering. Over his career, Gennaro Trancone has built strong expertise in environmental biotechnology, waste-to-energy systems, wastewater and sludge treatment, waste valorization, and sustainable civil/environmental engineering practices. In his academic role at the University of Naples “Federico II”, he lectures and leads courses in sanitary and environmental engineering, waste management, contaminated-site remediation and soil bioengineering; he also functions as subject expert in environmental engineering at other Italian universities. His research interests include anaerobic digestion and dark fermentation, biofilm reactors, biogas production, construction and demolition waste valorization (e.g. concrete waste treatment), treatment of sewage sludge, phosphorus recovery, marine/coastal environmental monitoring and contaminant mobility, and circular bioeconomy approaches to waste and resource management. Gennaro Trancone is skilled in environmental engineering methodologies such as biological leaching, chemical treatment of waste, adsorption/adsorbent design, biofilm reactor design and operation, waste-to-energy system modelling, sewage-sludge processing and resource recovery, contaminated-site risk assessment, and sediment & marine pollution analysis. Through his publications and collaborations, he has contributed to improving sustainable waste treatment and circular economy practices. In conclusion, Gennaro Trancone combines rigorous academic training, hands-on research in environmental biotechnology and waste management, and a commitment to sustainable engineering making him a capable leader in advancing eco-friendly, circular solutions for waste, resource recovery, and environmental protection.

Professional Profiles: ORCID | Scopus

Selected publications 

  • Trancone, G. (2025). Optimization of NaOH Chemical Treatment Parameters for Biomass-Based Adsorbents in Cationic Dye Removal Processes. Process Research & Development.

  • Achouri, O., Bianco, F., Trancone, G., & Race, M. (2025). A critical review of anaerobic biofilm reactors for the renewable biogas production from food waste. Journal of Environmental Chemical Engineering.

  • Trancone, G., Policastro, G., Spasiano, D., Race, M., Parrino, F., Fratino, U., Fabbricino, M., & Pirozzi, F. (2025). Treatment of concrete waste from construction and demolition activities: Application of organic acids from continuous dark fermentation in moving bed biofilm reactors. Chemical Engineering Journal.

  • Ferraro, A., Marino, E., Trancone, G., Race, M., Mali, M., Pontoni, L., Fabbricino, M., & Spasiano, D. (2023). Assessment of environmental parameters effect on potentially toxic elements mobility in foreshore sediments to support marine-coastal contamination prediction. Marine Pollution Bulletin.

  • Veropalumbo, R., Oreto, C., Viscione, N., Pirozzi, F., Pontoni, L., Trancone, G., Race, M., & Russo, F. (2023). Exploring the effect on the environment of encapsulated micro- and nano-plastics into asphalt mastics for road pavement. Environmental Research.

  • Ferraro, A., Panico, A., Pirasteh-Anosheh, H., Race, M., Spasiano, D., Trancone, G., & Pirozzi, F. (2023). Innovative treatment processes for emerging contaminants removal from sewage sludge. Handbook of Environmental Chemistry.

  • Ferraro, A., de Sario, S., Attanasio, A., …, Spasiano, D., Trancone, G., et al. (2023). Phosphorus recovery as struvite and hydroxyapatite from the liquid fraction of municipal sewage sludge with limited magnesium addition.

Ms. Sara Qwaider | Sustainable | Women Researcher Award

Ms. Sara Qwaider | Sustainable | Women Researcher Award 

Ms. Sara Qwaider | Sustainable | King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals | Saudi Arabia

Ms. Sara Qwaider is an accomplished urbanist, architect, and sustainable city design researcher with a strong academic foundation and research-driven professional journey focused on creating innovative, people-centered, and environmentally responsible urban environments. She holds a Master of Science in Architecture from King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals and a Bachelor of Architecture from Girne American University, where she developed an excellent command of design theories, technical expertise, and scientific methodology. Throughout her professional experience as a Research and Teaching Assistant in the Department of Architecture & City Design, a site manager assistant, a landscape design trainee, and a site engineer assistant, she demonstrated exceptional leadership qualities, team collaboration, design proficiency, and the ability to effectively manage multidisciplinary projects aligned with sustainability goals and Saudi Vision 2030. Her research interests include smart communities, GIS-based urban analytics, social sustainability, vernacular architecture, human behavior in public spaces, and the development of green frameworks that improve quality of life in rapidly growing cities. Ms. Sara Qwaider has contributed to prominent research initiatives such as smart campus development frameworks, green rating systems tailored to regional contexts, logistics urban parks, and social life cycle assessment adaptation to Saudi needs, reflecting her commitment to bridging design, data science, and sustainable development. She excels in research skills including architectural design analysis, urban data interpretation, project-based problem-solving, and the use of advanced digital technologies, supported by strong proficiency in AutoCAD, ArchiCAD, Twinmotion, Lumion, Photoshop, SketchUp, JASP, and Microsoft Office. She has been recognized with multiple honors including first-place wins in smart campus innovation and university research exhibitions, demonstrating her creativity and academic excellence. Her strengths lie in applying sustainability-focused design principles to real-world challenges, mentoring students, and presenting research in competitive academic environments. Areas for continued improvement include expanding international partnerships and increasing her publication volume in high-impact indexed journals to further elevate her research visibility.

Professional Profiles: ORCID

Selected Publications 

  1. Qwaider, S. (2024). GIS-based progress monitoring of SDGs toward achieving smart Saudi cities. 5 citations.

Mr. Ronald Ssembajwe | Climate | Young Researcher Award

Mr. Ronald Ssembajwe | Climate | Young Researcher Award

Mr. Ronald Ssembajwe, Makerere University and National Coffee Research Institute, Uganda

Ronald Ssembajwe is a climate scientist and technologist based in Uganda, specializing in applied meteorology, remote sensing, and climate-smart agriculture. He holds a Master of Science in Applied Meteorology and a Bachelor’s degree in Meteorology from Makerere University, Kampala. Ronald currently serves as a Research Officer at the National Coffee Research Institute (NaCORI/NARO), where he contributes to multiple national and international research projects focused on sustainable coffee production, climate modeling, and pest and disease management. He has led work on the development of digital decision-support tools and mechanistic models for coffee farming under changing climatic conditions. Ronald is also the Co-founder and Director of Agape Innovations Limited, a firm driving climate-smart and tech-based innovations for agriculture. His extensive training includes advanced research methods, remote sensing, programming, and geospatial analysis from institutions across Africa and Europe. A recipient of several prestigious scholarships and grants including USAID, Erasmus+, and the EU Space Programme, Ronald is a member of multiple professional associations such as the Association of Applied Biologists (UK) and the Uganda Meteorological and Allied Professionals Association. His interdisciplinary expertise spans predictive modeling, climate data analysis, and community resilience, making him a key contributor to agricultural research and innovation in East Africa.

Professional Profile:

ORCID

SCOPUS

Summary of Suitability for the Research for Young Researcher Award: Ronald Ssembajwe

Research Focus and Innovation
Ronald Ssembajwe is a dynamic early-career researcher whose work is already making a substantial impact in the fields of applied meteorology, climate-smart agriculture, and bioclimatic modeling. Currently serving as a Research Officer at the National Coffee Research Institute (NaCORI/NARO) in Uganda and pursuing his M.S. in Applied Meteorology at Makerere University, Ssembajwe has demonstrated deep commitment to integrating climate science with agricultural innovation, particularly for sustainable coffee production—a critical sector for Uganda’s economy.

🎓 Education

  • M.S. in Applied Meteorology (Makerere University, 2024)
    Thesis: Assessment of Climate-sensitive Crop Indices over various Phenological Stages for Robusta Coffee in Uganda

  • B.S. in Meteorology (Makerere University, 2017)
    Dissertation: Assessing the Urban-rural Climate Variability in Uganda, A Case Study of Mukono and Kampala

💼 Work Experience

🧪 Research Officer (Jan 2020 – Present)

National Coffee Research Institute (NaCORI/NARO), Uganda

  • Climate modeling, pest/disease monitoring, and yield prediction

  • Leading various national/international coffee-based climate research projects

  • MSc student under USAID-IITA CSA Project

💡 Co-founder, Director & Lead Technovations (Feb 2018 – Present)

Agape Innovations Limited, Kampala, Uganda

  • Business strategy, partnership development, grant writing

🌦️ Research Volunteer (May 2017 – Nov 2019)

Uganda National Meteorological Authority

  • School outreach programs and weather training content creation

🏆 Achievements, Awards & Honors

  • 🎓 USAID MSc Scholarship (2021–2025)

  • 🌍 Erasmus+ Mobility Scholarships

    • Dimitrie Cantemir University, Romania (2023–2024)

    • University of Bucharest, Romania (March–April 2025)

  • 🛰️ RCMRD/GMES & Africa Research Grant (2023)

  • 🌌 KijaniSpace HORIZON-EUSPA Grant (2024–2027, EU Space Programme)

Publication Top Notes:

Dynamics and associations of selected agrometeorological variables in Robusta growing regions of Uganda

 

Prof. Dr. Yuh-Chung Hu | Actuators | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Yuh-Chung Hu | Actuators | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Yuh-Chung Hu, National ILan University, Taiwan

Dr. Yuh-Chung Hu is a distinguished professor in the Department of Mechanical and Electromechanical Engineering at National Ilan University, Taiwan. He has dedicated over two decades to advancing mechanical engineering, specializing in vibrations, acoustics, and smart manufacturing systems. His innovative research integrates machine learning and advanced instrumentation, enhancing industrial applications. With a strong focus on interdisciplinary collaboration, Dr. Hu has authored numerous publications and contributed to various projects in the field. He is committed to fostering the next generation of engineers through mentorship and leadership roles within the academic community. His ongoing research aims to push the boundaries of technology in renewable energy integration, making significant strides in sustainable engineering practices.

Professional Profile

Orcid

Summary of Suitability for the Award

Dr. Yuh-Chung Hu is a distinguished academic and researcher in the field of Mechanical and Electromechanical Engineering at National Ilan University, Taiwan. His extensive educational background, including a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering, provides a solid foundation for his research endeavors. His career trajectory demonstrates a commitment to academic excellence, having held significant leadership positions such as Dean of the Office of Research and Development and Department Head.

🎓 Education

Dr. Yuh-Chung Hu earned his Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from National Taiwan University of Science and Technology in June 1999, with a dissertation on vibration theory for sandwich shells with a viscoelastic core. Prior to that, he obtained his Master of Engineering (M.E.) degree in the same field in June 1993, focusing on the effects of tire treads on vibration transmission in automobiles. His academic journey began with a Bachelor of Engineering (B.E.) in Mechanical Engineering from Chung Yuan Christian University in June 1991. Throughout his educational career, Dr. Hu studied under the guidance of esteemed mentors, including Prof. Shyh-Chin Huang, who played a crucial role in shaping his research interests and academic pursuits.

💼 Experience

Since February 2010, Dr. Hu has served as a professor at National Ilan University, where he has significantly influenced the field of mechanical and electromechanical engineering. He held leadership positions, including Dean of the Office of Research and Development from August 2015 to July 2016 and Department Head from August 2011 to July 2015. Prior to his tenure at National Ilan University, he served in various capacities at Huafan University, where he was involved in establishing and enhancing the Mechatronic Engineering department. Dr. Hu’s extensive experience encompasses a post-doctoral research role at the Institute of Applied Mechanics at National Taiwan University, allowing him to deepen his expertise in applied mechanics. His multifaceted career reflects a commitment to research, teaching, and institutional development.

🏅Awards and Honors

Dr. Yuh-Chung Hu has received numerous accolades throughout his academic career, recognizing his contributions to mechanical engineering and research. His achievements include prestigious awards from both national and international organizations, reflecting his influence in the engineering community. Notably, his innovative research has earned him recognition in multiple conferences and journals, highlighting his role in advancing knowledge in vibrations, machine learning, and renewable energy integration. His commitment to excellence in research and teaching has established him as a respected figure in his field, inspiring students and colleagues alike. Dr. Hu’s work not only contributes to academic advancement but also impacts industry practices through his applied research initiatives.

🌍 Research Focus

Dr. Hu’s research interests lie at the intersection of mechanical engineering and emerging technologies. His focus includes industrial instruments, smart machinery, machine learning applications, and micro-electro-mechanical systems (MEMS). He is particularly interested in developing thermal dispersion flowmeters and Coriolis mass flowmeters, which play crucial roles in various industrial processes. Additionally, his research delves into vibrations and acoustics, aiming to enhance the performance of mechanical systems. Through interdisciplinary collaborations, Dr. Hu explores innovative solutions to current challenges in engineering, with a dedicated emphasis on renewable energy integration, promoting sustainable practices in engineering applications. His work continues to pave the way for advancements in smart manufacturing and instrumentation.

📖 Publication Top Notes

Title: Computational Intelligence in Cancer Diagnostics: A Contemporary Review of Smart Phone Apps, Current Problems, and Future Research Potentials
Title: Leveraging Computational Intelligence Techniques for Diagnosing Degenerative Nerve Diseases: A Comprehensive Review, Open Challenges, and Future Research Directions
Title: AI-Powered Blockchain Technology for Public Health: A Contemporary Review, Open Challenges, and Future Research Directions
Title: A Systematic Review on Machine Learning and Deep Learning Models for Electronic Information Security in Mobile Networks
Title: A Contemporary Review on Utilizing Semantic Web Technologies in Healthcare, Virtual Communities, and Ontology-Based Information Processing Systems

Assoc Prof Dr. Jiahao Wang | Adaptation Award | Best Researcher Award

Assoc Prof Dr. Jiahao Wang | Adaptation Award | Best Researcher Award 

Assoc Prof Dr. Jiahao Wang, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, China

Dr. Jiahao Wang is an Associate Professor at the School of Information and Software Engineering, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China (UESTC) in Chengdu. He holds a Ph.D. in Computer Engineering, a Master’s in Computer System Architecture, and a Bachelor’s in Computer Science and Engineering, all from UESTC. He is a member of IEEE, the China Computer Federation (CCF), and several expert committees including the Chengdu Big Data Industry Alliance and Sichuan Health Information Society. Dr. Wang’s work experience includes postdoctoral research at the E-Business Technology Institute, University of Hong Kong, and a visiting scholarship at the Illinois Institute of Technology, USA. He has also served as Deputy Secretary General of Ya’an City and Deputy Director of the Ya’an Economic Development Zone, and currently, he is the Dean of Suining Digital Economy Research Institute.

Professional Profile:

Education Background:

  • 2003/9 – 2007/6: Ph.D. in Computer Engineering, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China (UESTC), Chengdu, P.R. China.
  • 2001/9 – 2004/3: Master’s in Computer System Architecture, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China (UESTC), Chengdu, P.R. China.
  • 1997/9 – 2001/7: Bachelor’s in Computer Science and Engineering, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China (UESTC), Chengdu, P.R. China.

Work Experience:

  • 2007.7 – 2010.7: Lecturer, School of Computer Science and Engineering, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China (UESTC), Chengdu, China.
  • 2007.10 – 2009.10: Postdoctoral Associate Researcher, E-Business Technology Institute, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong.
  • 2013.12 – 2014.12: Visiting Scholar, Department of Computer Science, Illinois Institute of Technology, USA.
  • 2015.8 – 2016.3: Researcher, China Cybersecurity Review Technology and Certification Center.
  • 2018.8 – 2019.8: Deputy Secretary General of Ya’an Government and Deputy Director of Ya’an Economic Development Zone.
  • 2010.8 – Present: Associate Professor, School of Information and Software Engineering, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China (UESTC), Chengdu, China.
  • 2022.1 – Present: Dean, Suining Digital Economy Research Institute, Suining, China.

Publication top Notes:

Meta-learning Based on Multi-objective Optimization

Transfer Learning for Indoor Localization Algorithm Based on Deep Domain Adaptation

 

Mr. Giancarlo Marulli | Mitigation Award | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Giancarlo Marulli | Mitigation Award | Best Researcher Award 

Mr. Giancarlo Marulli, Faculdade de Engenharia da Universidade do Porto (FEUP), Portugal

Giancarlo Badini Marulli is currently pursuing a Doctorate in Civil Engineering at the Faculdade de Engenharia da Universidade do Porto (FEUP), where he has been a student since 2023. He began his academic journey in Agricultural Engineering at the Faculdade de Ciências Agronômicas, Universidade Estadual Paulista “Júlio de Mesquita Filho” (UNESP) in Botucatu, Brazil, in 2016. During his time at UNESP, he developed skills in AutoCAD, Microsoft Excel, and the R programming language. From 2017 to 2018, he conducted undergraduate research in Statistical Modeling under the guidance of Dr. Luzia Aparecida Trinca, supported by a PIBIC scholarship from CNPq.

Professional Profile:

Summary of Suitability for Best Researcher Award

Giancarlo Badini Marulli appears to be a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award based on his extensive background in Civil Engineering and his active involvement in research and development. His academic journey, which began with a focus on Agricultural Engineering and transitioned into Civil Engineering, demonstrates a deep commitment to interdisciplinary knowledge and technical expertise.

Education:

  1. Faculdade de Engenharia, Universidade do Porto
    • Doctoral Program in Civil Engineering
    • Dates: September 11, 2023 – Present
    • Degree: Doutoramento em Engenharia Civil
  2. Faculdade de Engenharia, Universidade do Porto
    • Master’s in Civil Engineering
    • Dates: October 4, 2021 – July 28, 2023
    • Degree: Mestrado em Engenharia Civil
    • Dissertation Area: Structural Dynamics (Tunned Liquid Mass Damping Systems – TLD)
  3. Faculdade de Engenharia, Universidade do Porto
    • Bachelor’s in Engineering Sciences, specialization in Civil Engineering
    • Dates: September 17, 2018 – July 2, 2021
    • Degree: Licenciatura Ciências de Engenharia, orientação em Engenharia Civil
  4. Faculdade de Ciências Agronômicas (FCA), Universidade Estadual Paulista “Júlio de Mesquita Filho” (UNESP), Botucatu, SP, Brazil
    • Agricultural Engineering Course
    • Dates: 2016
    • During this period, he became familiar with AutoCAD, Microsoft Excel, and the R programming language. He also conducted an undergraduate research project in Statistics and Probability (Statistical Modeling) under the guidance of Professor Dr. Luzia Aparecida Trinca, funded by a PIBIC scholarship from CNPq (August 2017 – July 2018).

Work Experience:

  1. Institute of Research and Development in Structures and Construction (CONSTRUCT), Laboratory of Vibrations and Structural Monitoring (ViBest), Porto, Portugal
    • Position: Research Collaborator (Investigador Colaborador)
    • Dates: October 1, 2023 – June 30, 2024
    • Area: Control and Monitoring of Structures
  2. Núcleo de Tecnologias de Informação na Engenharia Civil (NTIEC), Faculdade de Engenharia, Universidade do Porto
    • Role: Research and Development Activities
    • Dates: 2020
    • Focus: Practical models for teaching Mechanics, MATLAB, Revit, LabVIEW, and 3D printing
  3. Faculdade de Engenharia, Universidade do Porto
    • Role: Extracurricular Activities with Prof. Dr. Carlos Manuel Ramos Moutinho
    • Dates: 2019
    • Focus: Development of practical models to aid in teaching Mechanics

Publication top Notes:

Experimental Testing on Tuned Liquid Dampers for Implementation in Industrial Chimneys

Experimental testing on Tuned Liquid Dampers (TLDs) aiming its implementation on industrial chimneys

Modelo para ensino da interação entre polias

Modelo para ensino de equilíbrio de um nó flutuante

Modelo para ensino do efeito de arco