Patrick Duncan | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Lifetime Achievement Award

Dr. Patrick Duncan | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Lifetime Achievement Award

France’s National Centre for Scientific Research | United Kingdom

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Early Academic Pursuits 🎓

Dr. Patrick Duncan's academic journey began with a degree in Zoology from Oxford University, completed in 1970. This foundational training led him to Nairobi University, where he pursued a Ph.D. focusing on the ecology of the antelope Damaliscus lunatus in the Serengeti and Lamu-Garissa District. His early studies in Africa laid the groundwork for his lifelong passion for understanding and conserving ecosystems, particularly herbivore-plant interactions and ungulate behavior.

Professional Endeavors 🌱

In 1985, Dr. Duncan took on the role of director at the Station Biologique de la Tour du Valat in the Camargue, France, where he worked until 1990. Afterward, he joined the CNRS (France’s National Centre for Scientific Research) as a Directeur de recherche, progressing to a DR1 position and later becoming an Emeritus Research Director from 2013 to 2018. His professional path includes significant administrative roles, such as directing the CNRS Chizé Laboratory from 1999 to 2006, and serving as Biodiversity Officer at the Ministère de la Recherche (2007-2010). During this period, he contributed to the negotiations leading up to the UN's decision to create the IPBES (Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services).

Contributions and Research Focus 🔬

Dr. Duncan’s research is centered on herbivore-plant interactions and the sustainable management of diverse ecosystems in Europe and Africa. His work spans the conservation and sustainable use of forests, wetlands, and savannas. His specific interests include exploring resource acquisition's impact on ungulate ecology and behavior, with studies focusing on species such as horses, zebras, and the European roe deer. With over 150 published works, including books, papers, and book chapters, his research has significantly contributed to the scientific understanding of these topics. His editorial involvement with the MDPI Journal Animals further demonstrates his commitment to disseminating ecological knowledge.

Accolades and Recognition 🏆

In recognition of his outstanding contributions, Dr. Duncan was awarded the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 2001. In 2018, he received the Ordre du Mérite Agricole, a prestigious honor that highlights his service to agriculture and environmental conservation. His leadership roles also include chairing the IUCN Equid Specialist Group from 1990 to 2000, where he led the first IUCN Equid Action Plan.

Impact and Influence 🌎

Dr. Duncan’s influence extends beyond his research, as he played a pivotal role in establishing the Fondation pour la Recherche sur la Biodiversité (FRB) in 2008. He served as its president from 2011 to 2014 and continues to impact biodiversity conservation as a member of various Scientific Councils, such as the Tour du Valat and the French Global Environment Facility (GEF). His advisory work for France’s Ministère de la Transition Ecologique et Sociale includes leading the Comité d'Experts pour la Gestion Adaptative, which provides guidance on hunting vulnerable bird species.

Legacy and Future Contributions 📜

As an emeritus researcher, Dr. Duncan continues to influence the fields of ecology and conservation. He has mentored numerous students, supervising over eight postdoctoral researchers, 20 doctoral candidates, and various other postgraduate students. His commitment to education includes organizing field courses in the Camargue and Chizé and serving on the Executive of the Tropical Biology Association. Dr. Duncan’s enduring legacy is not only marked by his scientific contributions but also by his dedication to training the next generation of ecologists, ensuring that his work in biodiversity conservation and ecosystem sustainability will continue to inspire and inform future researchers.

 

Recent Publication


📄  Population limitation of a non‐ruminant in a nutrient‐poor ecosystem—predation rather than food

  • Authors: Patrick Duncan, Marion Valeix, Andrew J. Loveridge, Sophie Grange, Florian Barnier, Hlengisizwe Ncube, Stéphanie Périquet, Camille Vitet, Zeke Davidson, Moreangels Mbizah, Daphine Madhlamoto, Hervé Fritz, Simon Chamaillé‐Jammes
  • Journal: African Journal of Ecology
  • Year: 2024

 

Amanuel Tadase | Earth and Planetary Sciences | Editorial Board Member

Mr. Amanuel Tadase | Earth and Planetary Sciences | Editorial Board Member

Oda Bultum University | Ethiopia

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Early Academic Pursuits 🎓

Mr. Amanuel Tadase began his academic journey with a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Hydraulic and Water Resources Engineering from Jimma University, Jimma Institute of Technology, where he studied from 2015 to 2021. His education provided him with a solid foundation in the principles of water resource management and engineering, equipping him with the knowledge necessary to address complex challenges related to water availability and climate change.

Professional Endeavors 💼

Since April 2021, Mr. Tadase has served as a Senior Technical Assistant and Research Assistant at Oda Bultum University. In this role, he has engaged in impactful research focused on water resources and environmental sustainability. His experience at the university has allowed him to contribute significantly to various projects related to climate change and its effects on water resources and agriculture.

Contributions and Research Focus 🔬

Mr. Tadase's research interests lie primarily in the impact of climate change on water resources, drought, and crop production. He is also engaged in comprehensive water and environmental research, which includes studies on watershed management at regional and global levels. His work is crucial for understanding and mitigating the effects of climate variability on vital water resources and agricultural outputs.

Accolades and Recognition 🏆

Mr. Tadase has received notable recognition for his academic contributions, including a Certificate of Appreciation from Jimma University for outstanding work on students' final-year research projects. Additionally, he holds a Certificate in Civil and Hydraulic Equipment operation and management from Arba Minch University, Ethiopia, showcasing his commitment to professional development in his field.

Impact and Influence 🌍

Through his research, Mr. Tadase has made significant contributions to understanding the effects of climate change on water availability and agricultural practices in Ethiopia. His work is essential for developing strategies to adapt to climate variability, ensuring sustainable water management and food security in the region. His research publications, including assessments of climate models and trend analyses, highlight his dedication to advancing knowledge in this critical area.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🚀

Looking ahead, Mr. Tadase is poised to make meaningful contributions to the fields of water resource management and climate change adaptation. His focus on the interconnections between climate change, water availability, and agricultural productivity positions him as a key player in addressing future environmental challenges. As he continues his research, he aims to influence policy and practice in water management, ensuring a sustainable future for communities impacted by climate change.

 

Publications


📄 Assessment of the CORDEX Regional Climate Models Performance in Simulating the Climate Conditions of Arsi Zone Southeastern Ethiopia
Authors: Tadase, A.T.; Mamo, F.L.
Journal: Pure and Applied Geophysics
Year: 2024


📄 Climate Trend Analysis in the Ramis Catchment, Upper Wabi Shebelle Basin, Ethiopia, Using the CMIP6 Dataset
Author: Amanuel Tsegaye Tadase
Journal: Journal of African Earth Sciences
Year: 2024


 

Sunil Bista | Environmental Science | Most Commended Article Award

Mr. Sunil Bista | Environmental Science | Most Commended Article Award

Jackson State University | United States

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🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Mr. Sunil Bista's academic journey began with a solid foundation in civil engineering, having earned his Bachelor’s degree from Pokhara University, Nepal in 2015. He continued his pursuit of expertise in hydropower engineering, obtaining a Master's degree from Tribhuvan University, Nepal, in 2021. Currently, he is pursuing a Ph.D. in Civil and Environmental Engineering at Jackson State University, USA, where his focus is on water resources and hydropower engineering. His early education at V.S. Niketan College and Kalika Higher Secondary School further nurtured his scientific and engineering acumen.

💼 Professional Endeavors

Mr. Bista has developed an impressive range of technical skills and knowledge through years of professional development. His proficiency spans across tools such as Geographic Information System (GIS), Python, Matlab, AutoCAD, and advanced hydrological modeling systems like SWAT and HEC-RAS. He has also taken up pivotal roles in training, imparting knowledge on hydrological modeling and water resource management to participants across various institutions. His work has also encompassed hands-on training in earthquake resilience, retrofitting techniques, and hydropower management.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Mr. Bista's research focuses on hydrologic modeling, water resource management, and climate change impacts on hydropower potential. His contributions to the scientific community are evident through numerous publications in esteemed journals such as Scientific Reports and the Journal of Hydrology. His projects often integrate remote sensing technologies with hydrological modeling to address critical environmental issues, such as flood risk and heatwave exposure. Through collaborative research, he has significantly advanced understanding in areas like satellite-based precipitation estimates and climate impact assessments.

🏆 Accolades and Recognition

Mr. Bista's excellence in the field has been recognized with various prestigious awards, including travel grants from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the American Geophysical Union (AGU), and the Asia Pacific Network for Global Change Research (APN). These accolades reflect his international recognition and commitment to attending global forums that tackle climate change, hydropower challenges, and water resource management. His academic and research achievements are further complemented by scholarships and assistantships at Jackson State University.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Mr. Bista has played an active role in disseminating knowledge through conferences and training programs. His presentations at conferences like the AGU Fall Meeting and the ASCE EWRI Congress demonstrate his ability to address large-scale environmental challenges. As a resource person, he has trained government officials, students, and professionals in hydrologic modeling, fostering a broader understanding of water resource management. His influence extends to Nepal, where he has contributed to national projects on hydropower and disaster management.

🏅 Legacy and Future Contributions

With an expanding body of research and recognition in hydrological and environmental fields, Mr. Bista is positioned to leave a lasting legacy in hydropower engineering and climate resilience. His research and leadership continue to shape approaches to sustainable water management and disaster risk reduction. As he advances in his Ph.D. program, Mr. Bista is poised to make further contributions that will not only impact academic circles but also influence policy and infrastructure development in hydropower and water resource sectors. His future endeavors will likely address pressing environmental issues on both local and global scales, driving innovation and resilience in these critical areas.

 

Publications


📄Hydrologic applicability of satellite-based precipitation estimates for irrigation water management in the data-scarce region
Authors: Bista, S., Baniya, R., Sharma, S., Raj Thapa, B., Talchabhadel, R.
Journal: Journal of Hydrology
Year: 2024


📄Spatiotemporal characterization of heatwave exposure across historically vulnerable communities
Authors: Bhattarai, S., Bista, S., Sharma, S., Amini, F., Talchabhadel, R.
Journal: Scientific Reports
Year: 2024


📄Integrated modeling for assessing climate change impacts on water resources and hydropower potential in the Himalayas
Authors: Baniya, R., Regmi, R.K., Talchabhadel, R., Pradhan, A.M.S., Tamrakar, J.
Journal: Theoretical and Applied Climatology
Year: 2024


 

Saeid Mehdizadeh | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Saeid Mehdizadeh | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Urmia University | Iran

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🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Saeid Mehdizadeh began his academic journey at Urmia University in Iran, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Water Engineering Sciences in 2008, followed by a Master's degree in the same field in 2010. His academic performance was consistently outstanding, with GPAs reflecting his dedication and deep understanding of water engineering sciences. He continued his education at Urmia University, where he obtained his PhD in Water Engineering Sciences in 2017, with a remarkable GPA of 19.18/20. His early academic endeavors laid a strong foundation for his future research and professional success.

🛠️ Professional Endeavors

Dr. Mehdizadeh's professional journey is marked by his contributions to the field of water engineering, with a focus on machine learning, artificial intelligence, and optimization algorithms. His work is centered on hydrology, hydrological modeling, drought and flood prediction, river streamflow, rainfall, evaporation, and evapotranspiration. His expertise in these areas has led him to publish numerous influential papers in high-impact journals. Additionally, he has played a significant role in peer review, serving as an outstanding reviewer for prestigious journals like the Journal of Cleaner Production, and as a guest editor for a special issue of the Water Journal.

🧠 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Mehdizadeh's research contributions are extensive and impactful, particularly in the application of advanced machine learning models and hybrid techniques to solve complex hydrological problems. His work on the development of wavelet-based hybrid models and the integration of artificial intelligence with time series analysis has provided significant advancements in the modeling of environmental phenomena such as soil temperature, streamflow, and drought. His research is not only theoretical but also practical, offering solutions to real-world problems related to water resources management.

🏆 Accolades and Recognition

Dr. Mehdizadeh has received numerous accolades for his contributions to the field. In June 2018, he was recognized as an outstanding reviewer by the Journal of Cleaner Production, a testament to his expertise and dedication to maintaining high standards in scientific research. His role as a guest editor for the Water Journal further highlights his leadership in the academic community, where he has curated and overseen research on drought monitoring and modeling using advanced machine learning models.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Dr. Mehdizadeh's work has had a profound impact on the field of water engineering and beyond. His research has influenced the way hydrological models are developed and applied, particularly in the context of environmental management and climate change adaptation. His contributions to the understanding and prediction of hydrological phenomena have been widely recognized and cited by peers, underscoring his influence in both academic and practical domains.

🌟 Legacy and Future Contributions

As Dr. Mehdizadeh continues to advance his research, his legacy in the field of water engineering is firmly established. His work on machine learning and artificial intelligence in hydrology sets the stage for future innovations and applications that will further enhance our ability to manage and protect water resources. His ongoing contributions are expected to continue shaping the future of water engineering, with a lasting impact on both the scientific community and society at large.

 

Publications 📚


  • 📄Deep Learning Hybrid Models with Multivariate Variational Mode Decomposition for Estimating Daily Solar Radiation
    Authors: Shahab S. Band, Sultan Noman Qasem, Rasoul Ameri, Hao-Ting Pai, Brij B. Gupta, Saeid Mehdizadeh, Amir Mosavi
    Journal: Alexandria Engineering Journal
    Year: 2024

  • 📄Development of Wavelet-Based Hybrid Models to Enhance Daily Soil Temperature Modeling: Application of Entropy and τ-Kendall Pre-Processing Techniques
    Authors: Saeid Mehdizadeh, Farshad Ahmadi, Ali Kouzehkalani Sales
    Journal: Stochastic Environmental Research and Risk Assessment
    Year: 2023

  • 📄Improving the Performance of Random Forest for Estimating Monthly Reservoir Inflow via Complete Ensemble Empirical Mode Decomposition and Wavelet Analysis
    Authors: Farshad Ahmadi, Saeid Mehdizadeh, Vahid Nourani
    Journal: Stochastic Environmental Research and Risk Assessment
    Year: 2022

  • 📄Establishing Coupled Models for Estimating Daily Dew Point Temperature Using Nature-Inspired Optimization Algorithms
    Authors: Saeid Mehdizadeh, Babak Mohammadi, Farshad Ahmadi
    Journal: Hydrology
    Year: 2022

  • 📄A Novel Hybrid Dragonfly Optimization Algorithm for Agricultural Drought Prediction
    Authors: Pouya Aghelpour, Babak Mohammadi, Saeid Mehdizadeh, Hadigheh Bahrami-Pichaghchi, Zheng Duan
    Journal: Stochastic Environmental Research and Risk Assessment
    Year: 2021

 

Atikilt Abera | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Atikilt Abera | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award 

Amhara Regional Agricultural Research Institute | Ethiopia

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Early Academic Pursuits 🎓

Mr. Atikilt Abera embarked on his academic journey with a Bachelor’s degree in Natural Resources Management from Bahir Dar University in Ethiopia. His passion for soil and water conservation led him to pursue a Master’s degree in Soil and Water Conservation Engineering at Hawassa University, where he gained a solid foundation in conservation practices and engineering principles.

Professional Endeavors 🌍

Mr. Abera has dedicated his professional career to soil and water conservation research. He is currently a researcher at the Amhara Agricultural Research Institute (ARARI) in Gondar, Ethiopia. His role involves identifying environmental problems, planning and implementing projects, and fostering collaboration among stakeholders. His expertise extends to advanced data analysis and project management, ensuring effective conservation strategies and solutions.

Contributions and Research Focus 🔬

Mr. Abera’s research is centered on soil and water conservation engineering. His work includes analyzing the effects of various tillage practices, sediment yield estimation, and the impact of conservation measures on soil properties and crop yield. He has published extensively on these topics, contributing to the understanding and development of effective conservation techniques in Ethiopia.

Accolades and Recognition 🏆

Mr. Abera has earned recognition for his contributions to soil and water conservation. His published works in reputable journals highlight his expertise and the impact of his research on the field. His involvement in significant projects such as Climate Action through Landscape Management (CALM) and International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) further demonstrates his commitment to advancing environmental conservation.

Impact and Influence 🌱

Mr. Abera’s research has had a profound impact on soil and water conservation practices in Ethiopia. His work has influenced local and regional institutions, guiding community-based watershed development and providing valuable insights into effective conservation measures. His ability to analyze complex data and develop practical solutions has made him a key figure in the field.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🚀

As a leading researcher in soil and water conservation, Mr. Abera’s legacy includes a wealth of knowledge and practical solutions that continue to benefit communities and ecosystems. His ongoing research and commitment to education and collaboration ensure that his contributions will have a lasting impact on the field. Looking ahead, Mr. Abera is poised to continue advancing conservation practices and addressing environmental challenges through innovative research and collaborative efforts.

 

Publications 📰


  • Effects of tillage practices and planting techniques on crop yield and soil properties in northwestern lowlands of Ethiopia
    Author: Atikilt Abera Alemayehu, Legese Abebaw Getu, Tewodros Samual, Baye Ayalew, Hailu Kendie Addis, Tesfaye Feyisa, Tamirat Worku, Meka Tahir, Edimealem Getu
    Journal: Journal of Agriculture and Food Research
    Year: 2023

  • Cross-Correlation of Soil Moisture and Stone Content and Their Spatial Pattern Across the Different Slope Aspects and Soil Depth
    Author: Hailu Kendie Addis, Baye Ayalew, Muuz Gebretsadik, Atikilt Abera, Legese Abebaw Getu, Amsalu K. Addis
    Journal: Turkish Journal of Agriculture - Food Science and Technology
    Year: 2023

  • Estimation of sediment yield and effectiveness of level stone bunds to reduce sediment loss in the Gumara-Maksegnit watershed, Nile Basin, Ethiopia
    Author: Atikilt Abera Alemayehu, Alemayehu Muluneh, Awdenegest Moges, Hailu Kendie
    Journal: Journal of Soils and Sediments
    Year: 2020

  • Economic benefits of soil and water conservation measures at the sub-catchment scale in the northern Highlands of Ethiopia
    Author: Hailu Kendie Addis, Atikilt Abera, Legese Abebaw
    Journal: Progress in Physical Geography: Earth and Environment
    Year: 2020

  • Impacts of stone bunds on selected soil properties and crop yield in Gumara-Maksegnit watershed Northern Ethiopia
    Author: Atikilt Abera Alemayehu, Legese Abebaw Getu, Hailu Kendie Addis, Manuel Tejada Moral
    Journal: Cogent Food & Agriculture
    Year: 2020

 

Hoda Fakour | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Assist Prof Dr. Hoda Fakour | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

National Taiwan Normal University | Taiwan

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Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Hoda Fakour embarked on her academic journey with a Bachelor's degree in "Natural Resources Engineering-Environment" from Gorgan University of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, Iran. She pursued further studies, earning a Master's degree in "Natural Resources Engineering-Environment" from Tarbiat Modares University, Iran. Her academic pursuits culminated in a Ph.D. degree in "Environmental Engineering" from the Department of Environmental Engineering, National Cheng Kung University (NCKU), Taiwan.

Professional Endeavors

Dr. Fakour has held various academic positions, including Assistant Professor roles at institutions such as National Taiwan Normal University (NTNU) and Chang Jung Christian University (CJCU). She has contributed significantly as a Postdoctoral Researcher at National Taiwan University (NTU). Her academic journey showcases her commitment to environmental engineering and sustainability management.

Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Fakour's research focuses on diverse areas such as climate change resilience, aquaculture sustainability, microplastic pollution, and the nexus approach for sustainable development. Her work spans from assessing urban resilience to climate change to evaluating the impact of solar photovoltaic carport canopies on energy efficiency.

Accolades and Recognition

Dr. Fakour's contributions to academia have been acknowledged through various awards and honors, including the "Best Researcher" award at CJCU and the "Green Technology Award" for the Best Ph.D. Thesis. She has also received prestigious scholarships and teaching funds for her exceptional work in sustainable development and environmental education.

Impact and Influence

Through her research publications, Dr. Fakour has made significant contributions to the scientific community. Her studies on climate change adaptation, aquaculture feasibility, and microplastic pollution have provided valuable insights into environmental sustainability. Additionally, her supervision of postgraduate and undergraduate research projects reflects her dedication to nurturing the next generation of environmental scientists.

Legacy and Future Contributions

Dr. Hoda Fakour's legacy lies in her interdisciplinary research and dedication to addressing pressing environmental challenges. Her work not only contributes to academic knowledge but also informs policy-making and practical solutions for a sustainable future. With a focus on energy transition, climate resilience, and environmental monitoring, Dr. Fakour continues to pave the way for innovative research and impactful contributions to society's well-being.

Notable Publications

Evaluation of solar photovoltaic carport canopy with electric vehicle charging potential 2023 (10)

Aquavoltaics Feasibility Assessment: Synergies of Solar PV Power Generation and Aquaculture Production 2023 (2)

Exploring Climate Disaster Resilience: Insight into City and Zone Levels of Southern Taiwan 2021 (2)

Conceptual Framework for Disaster Management in Coastal Cities Using Climate Change Resilience and Coping Ability 2021 (3)

Application of Rough and Fuzzy Set Theory for Prediction of Stochastic Wind Speed Data Using Long Short-Term Memory 2021 (13)

 

 

 

 

 

Yeneayehu Fenetahun Mihertu | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Yeneayehu Fenetahun Mihertu | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

University of Chinese Academy of Science | Ethiopia

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Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Yeneayehu Fenetahun Mihertu embarked on his academic journey with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology from Bahir Dar University, Ethiopia, where he conducted research on the repellence potential of common tree leaves against houseflies. Subsequently, he pursued a Master of Sciences in Ecology and later obtained a Philosophy of Doctor in Ecology from the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, focusing on rangeland management and ecology.

Professional Endeavors

Dr. Fenetahun's professional journey spans various research institutes and universities globally. He served as a postdoctoral researcher at the International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI), contributing to projects aimed at dynamic pasture monitoring and prediction in Ethiopia. He also worked as a postdoctoral fellow in China, focusing on desertification and restoration strategies in the Borana rangeland.

Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Fenetahun's research primarily revolves around rangeland management, biodiversity conservation, and ecosystem restoration. His extensive publication record includes studies on carrying capacity dynamics, impacts of grazing intensity, and assessments of environmental vulnerability in rangeland ecosystems.

Accolades and Recognition

Throughout his academic and professional career, Dr. Fenetahun has garnered numerous accolades and awards, including grants for research projects, fellowship programs, and certificates of professional competency. He has also presented his research at various international conferences and workshops, receiving recognition for his contributions to the field of ecology and environmental science.

Impact and Influence

Dr. Fenetahun's work has made significant contributions to the understanding and management of rangeland ecosystems, particularly in Ethiopia. His research findings and recommendations have the potential to inform policy decisions and conservation strategies aimed at preserving biodiversity and enhancing livelihoods in vulnerable landscapes.

Legacy and Future Contributions

Driven by a passion for ecological research and a commitment to sustainable development, Dr. Fenetahun's legacy lies in his dedication to addressing pressing environmental challenges. His future contributions are expected to continue shaping the field of ecology, with a focus on promoting biodiversity conservation, mitigating desertification, and fostering resilience in rangeland ecosystems.

Notable Publications

Effects of land-use intensity on vegetation dynamics across elevation in Savanna Grassland, Southern Ethiopia 2024

Remote sensing analysis of desert sensitive areas using MEDALUS model and GIS in the Niger River Basin 2024 (1)