Ashu Fekadu | Earth and Planetary Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Ashu Fekadu | Earth and Planetary Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Adama Science and Technology University | Ethiopia

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🌱 Early Academic Pursuits

Mr. Ashu Fekadu’s academic journey began in Shambu Town, Ethiopia, where he attended Mati Boru Elementary and Secondary Schools, excelling in his studies. His passion for earth sciences led him to pursue a Bachelor’s Degree in Applied Geology at Adama Science and Technology University, where he achieved an outstanding academic record. Building upon this foundation, he continued his postgraduate studies at the same university, earning a Master’s Degree in Applied Geology (Engineering Geology) with a remarkable CGPA of 3.89 and an excellent thesis result.

💼 Professional Endeavors

Mr. Fekadu has dedicated two years to academia as an Academic and Research Assistant in the Applied Geology Department at Adama Science and Technology University. His professional experience extends beyond academia, including internships at the Ethiopian Construction Design & Supervision Works Corporation, the Geological Survey of Ethiopia, and the Ministry of Mining and Petroleum. These experiences have enriched his expertise in geological assessments and applied research.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

His research primarily focuses on hydrogeology, engineering geological evaluations, and geospatial analytics. His Master’s thesis, “Engineering Geological Evaluation of Bowa Dayole Dam Site and its Reservoir Area, North Shewa, Oromia, Ethiopia,” was awarded an excellent grade. Additionally, his undergraduate senior project explored groundwater quality and human health risks associated with fluoride-enriched groundwater using GIS-based pollution index modeling. His research is instrumental in addressing water resource challenges and environmental sustainability.

🏆 Accolades and Recognition

Mr. Fekadu has actively contributed to scientific discourse through national and international conferences. He presented his research on groundwater quality at the International Conference on Recent Advances in Water Sciences and Technology (ICRAWST-2021) and participated in the National Workshop on Recent Trends in Geosciences (RTGS-2023). His dedication to continuous learning is evident in his certifications in Data Science, AI, and Project Management from Udemy, IBM, and HP Life Online Courses.

🌍 Impact and Influence

His research publications in esteemed journals, such as RSC Advances and Heliyon, reflect his significant contributions to the scientific community. His paper on groundwater quality and probabilistic human health risks, published in RSC Advances, provides valuable insights into water safety in Ethiopia. Similarly, his work on engineering geological evaluations published in Heliyon contributes to the field of infrastructure development and geotechnical analysis.

🔮 Legacy and Future Contributions

With a strong academic foundation and research experience, Mr. Ashu Fekadu is poised to make lasting contributions to applied geology and environmental sustainability. His expertise in hydrogeology and geospatial analytics will play a vital role in advancing sustainable water resource management and geological engineering. As he continues his academic and professional journey, his research and innovations will undoubtedly shape the future of geosciences.

Publications


📝 Engineering Geological Evaluation of Bowa Dayole Dam Site, North Shewa Zone, Oromia, Ethiopia

Author(s): Fekadu, A., Chemeda, Y.C., Karuppannan, S., Chala, E.T.
Journal: Heliyon
Year: 2025


📝 Appraising Groundwater Quality and Probabilistic Human Health Risks from Fluoride-Enriched Groundwater Using the Pollution Index of Groundwater (PIG) and GIS: A Case Study of Adama Town and Its Vicinities in the Central Main Ethiopian Rift Valley

Author(s): Shube, H., Karuppannan, S., Haji, M., Mechal, A., Fekadu, A.
Journal: RSC Advances
Year: 2024


 

Xuelong Li | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Xuelong Li | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Shandong University of Science and Technology |China

Author Profile

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Early Academic Pursuits 🎓

Mr. Xuelong Li's academic journey reflects a steadfast commitment to safety engineering and geophysical applications. He began his education at Henan Polytechnic University, earning a B.S. in Safety Engineering in 2011. Driven by a passion for advancing knowledge, he pursued an M.S. and subsequently a Ph.D. in Safety Engineering at the China University of Mining and Technology, completing his doctoral studies in 2017. His early academic pursuits laid a strong foundation for his impactful research in geophysical applications and mining safety.

Professional Endeavors 🏢

As an Associate Professor at Shandong University of Science and Technology since 2020, Mr. Li has been a beacon of innovation and leadership in his field. Before this role, he enriched his expertise as a Postdoctoral Research Associate at Chongqing University in 2019. These professional milestones underscore his dedication to bridging theory and practical application in geophysics and tunneling research.

Contributions and Research Focus 🔬

Mr. Li's research interests revolve around the geophysical applications in mining and tunneling, particularly signal analysis of microseismic, acoustic emission, electromagnetic radiation, and surface potential. His work has shed light on the geophysical characteristics preceding coal-rock ruptures, distinguishing between natural mineral earthquakes and blast waves. Recently, he has also explored roadway support systems, emphasizing their importance in mitigating coal and rock dynamic disasters. His groundbreaking studies have advanced warning criteria, contributing significantly to mining safety and efficiency.

Accolades and Recognition 🏆

With a citation count of 2,762 and an H-index of 28, Mr. Li's scholarly contributions have been widely recognized and respected. His publications in esteemed journals, including Environmental Science and Pollution Research and Physics of Fluids, demonstrate his influence and the global relevance of his research. These accolades reflect his standing as a leading figure in his field.

Impact and Influence 🌍

Mr. Li’s research has profound implications for the mining industry, offering innovative solutions to monitor and mitigate dynamic disasters. By improving early warning systems and understanding geophysical signals, his work has not only enhanced mining safety but also fostered sustainable practices in resource extraction. His expertise bridges the gap between engineering and environmental stewardship, setting new benchmarks for industry practices.

Legacy and Future Contributions ✨

Mr. Li’s legacy lies in his unwavering dedication to advancing safety engineering and geophysics. As a mentor and researcher, he continues to inspire the next generation of engineers and scientists. With a focus on innovative methodologies and interdisciplinary collaboration, his future contributions are poised to further revolutionize mining safety and geophysical research. His vision for integrating technology with sustainable practices ensures a lasting impact on the field.

 

Publications


  • 📄 Application of Virtual Reality Technology in Enhancing the Teaching Effectiveness of Coal Mine Disaster Prevention
    Authors: Xuelong Li, Shuaifeng Song, Shumin Liu, Dawei Yin, Rui Wang, Bin Gong
    Journal: Sustainability
    Year: 2024

  • 📄 Comprehensive Investigation of Factors Affecting Acid Fracture Propagation with Natural Fracture
    Authors: Qingdong Zeng, Taixu Li, Long Bo, Xuelong Li, Jun Yao
    Journal: Energies
    Year: 2024

  • 📄 Study on the Partial Paste Backfill Mining Method in a Fully Mechanized Top-Coal Caving Face: Case Study from a Coal Mine, China
    Authors: Zhaowen Du, Deyou Chen, Xuelong Li, Yong Jian, Weizhao Zhang, Dingding Zhang, Yongfeng Tian
    Journal: Sustainability
    Year: 2024

  • 📄 Comprehensive Evaluation of Coal Burst Risk Using Optimized Linear Weighted Model
    Authors: Chunlin Jiang, Xuelong Li, Feng Wang, Rui Wang
    Journal: Physics of Fluids
    Year: 2024

  • 📄 Improving Mining Sustainability and Safety by Monitoring Precursors of Catastrophic Failures in Loaded Granite: An Experimental Study of Acoustic Emission and Electromagnetic Radiation
    Authors: Dongming Wang, Yankun Ma, Xiaofei Liu, Dexing Li, Quanlin Liu, Hengze Yang, Xuelong Li
    Journal: Sustainability
    Year: 2024

 

Zulkifl Ahmed | Engineering | Excellence in Research Award

Assist Prof Dr. Zulkifl Ahmed | Engineering | Excellence in Research Award

Northeastern University, Shenyang | Pakistan

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Early Academic Pursuits 🎓

Dr. Zulkifl Ahmed embarked on his academic journey in civil engineering, laying a solid foundation for his future endeavors. He completed his Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering at the Science Institute of Technology, Lahore, Pakistan, in 2013, achieving an impressive 85.5%. Following this, he pursued a Master's in Building and Architectural Engineering at Bahauddin Zakariya University (BZU), Multan, where he excelled with a score of 79%. His passion for geotechnical engineering led him to Northeastern University in Shenyang, China, where he completed his Ph.D. from 2018 to 2022 and is currently engaged in postdoctoral research from 2023 to 2025.

Professional Endeavors 💼

Dr. Ahmed has accumulated significant professional experience in academia and the engineering industry. He currently serves as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Civil Technology at MCUT University in DG Khan since December 2021. Prior to this, he was a lecturer at Northeastern University in China, where he contributed to various research and teaching activities. His experience also includes working as a design engineer for Taisei Corporation, enhancing his practical understanding of engineering principles. Additionally, he undertook internships on significant projects like the Metro Bus project in Multan.

Contributions and Research Focus 🔍

Dr. Ahmed's research primarily focuses on geotechnical engineering, particularly the application of microbial-induced calcium carbonate (CaCO3) precipitation for reinforcing rock structures. His projects include evaluating the mechanical properties of rock, analyzing slope stability, and innovative designs for sustainable building materials. His work has culminated in numerous research papers and books, reflecting his commitment to advancing knowledge in civil and environmental engineering.

Accolades and Recognition 🏆

Dr. Ahmed's dedication to his field has earned him numerous accolades. He was recognized as an "Excellent Student of the Year" at Northeastern University multiple times, and he received the Punjab Education Endowment Fund Scholarship during his Master's studies. As a testament to his organizational skills, he served as the conference convener and secretary for the 1st International Conference on Civil and Environmental Engineering and Technology (ICCEET 2023). Additionally, he has actively participated as a peer reviewer for multiple international conferences and journals, showcasing his expertise and commitment to academic excellence.

Impact and Influence 🌍

Through his research and professional activities, Dr. Ahmed has significantly influenced the field of civil and environmental engineering. His innovative approaches to slope stability and microbial applications in engineering not only contribute to academic knowledge but also hold potential implications for real-world engineering practices. His participation in international conferences and collaborative projects enhances global research networks, fostering a culture of knowledge sharing and innovation.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🔮

Looking ahead, Dr. Zulkifl Ahmed aims to continue his impactful work in geotechnical engineering, focusing on sustainable practices and innovative solutions to contemporary engineering challenges. His ongoing postdoctoral research and numerous publications are poised to solidify his reputation as a leading expert in his field. Dr. Ahmed's commitment to education and mentorship will inspire future generations of engineers, ensuring a lasting legacy in the realm of civil and environmental engineering.

 

Publications


📄 Application of Microbially Induced CaCO3 on the Reinforcement of Rock Discontinuity
Authors: Simiao Zhang, Shuhong Wang, Zulkifl Ahmed, Fahad Alshawmar
Journal: Applied Sciences
Year: 2024


📄 Spatial distribution and health risks assessment of heavy metals in e-waste dumping sites from Pakistan
Authors: Muhammad Zaffar Hashmi, Sohaib Khan, Yasar N. Kavil, Saeed Saad Alelyani, Abdullah G. Al Sehemi, Ahmad Hasnain, Sidra Shakil, Shuhong Wang, Zulkifl Ahmed
Journal: Environmental Geochemistry and Health
Year: 2024


📄 Determination of Critical Slip Surface in Loose Rock Slope Stability Analysis
Authors: Zulkifl Ahmed, Sumra Yousuf, Mahwish Zahra, Anum Aleha, Abid Latif, Tahir Sultan, Tanveer Ahmad Khan, Muhammad Yousaf Raza Taseer
Journal: Proceedings of the Pakistan Academy of Sciences: A. Physical and Computational Sciences
Year: 2024


📄 An Artificial Neural Network Method for Forecasting the Stability of Soil Slopes
Authors: Zulkifl Ahmed, Sumra Yousuf, Shuhong Wang, Shafiq ur Rehman, Mustabshirha Gul, Muhammad Saqib Hanif
Journal: Proceedings of the Pakistan Academy of Sciences: A. Physical and Computational Sciences
Year: 2024


📄 Comprehensive human health risk assessment of heavy metal contamination in urban soils: insights from selected metropolitan zones
Authors: Harris Ayaz, Rab Nawaz, Iqra Nasim, Muhammad Atif Irshad, Ali Irfan, Iram Khurshid, Mohammad K. Okla, Gezahign Fentahun Wondmie, Zulkifl Ahmed, Mohammed Bourhia
Journal: Frontiers in Environmental Science
Year: 2023


 

Trufat Hailemariam Gugsa | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Trufat Hailemariam Gugsa | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Addis Ababa University | Ethiopia

Author Profile

Scopus

Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Trufat Hailemariam Gugsa's academic journey began with a Bachelor of Science degree in Geology and Geophysics from Addis Ababa University in 1995. He furthered his education by obtaining a Master of Science degree in the same field from the same institution in 2001. His thesis focused on the "Geotechnical investigation of Sibilu dam site, reservoir, and catchment area." Dr. Gugsa earned his PhD in Civil Engineering and Natural Hazard from the University of Natural Resources and Applied Life Sciences (BOKU), Vienna, Austria, in 2009. His dissertation, titled "Slope Rock Mass Characterization in Tekeze Hydropower Reservoir: Implication to GIS and Satellite Imagery-Based Slope Stability and Reservoir Impounding Induced Hazard Analyses," laid the foundation for his future research endeavors.

Professional Endeavors

Dr. Gugsa has held various academic and professional positions throughout his career. From 1995 to 2005, he served as a lecturer and researcher at Mekelle University, Ethiopia, where he taught courses in engineering geology, soil and rock mechanics, and geomorphology. In 2006, he joined Addis Ababa University as an Associate Professor in the School of Earth Sciences, a position he holds to date. Additionally, he worked as a senior geotechnical engineer at Saba Engineering PLC from 2010 to 2013, contributing to standards, manuals, and procedural developments for foundation investigations.

Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Gugsa's research has primarily focused on slope stability, geotechnical investigations, and geohazard analysis. He has been involved in numerous projects, including landslide hazard zonation and mapping, road slope cut stability assessment, and hydropower reservoir rim slope stability analysis. His expertise extends to GIS-based landslide risk zonation, construction material quality assessment, and dam foundation seepage evaluations. Dr. Gugsa has also contributed to the development of flexible geodatabases for catchment-based projects and geohazard assessments.

Accolades and Recognition

Dr. Gugsa has received several awards and recognition for his contributions to the field. Notably, he was awarded the AEG Best Publication Award in 2024 for his paper on internal erosion and ground fissures around Lake Ziway, Ethiopia. His research has been published in prestigious journals and presented at international conferences, highlighting his significant impact on geotechnical engineering and geohazard analysis.

Impact and Influence

Dr. Gugsa's work has had a profound impact on the field of geotechnical engineering, particularly in Ethiopia. His research has provided valuable insights into slope stability, landslide risk evaluation, and geohazard mitigation, influencing both academic and practical approaches to geotechnical challenges. He has advised over 40 postgraduate research theses, mentoring the next generation of geotechnical engineers and researchers.

Legacy and Future Contributions

Dr. Gugsa's legacy is marked by his extensive contributions to geotechnical research and education. His work has improved the understanding of geotechnical hazards and their mitigation, benefiting infrastructure development and disaster risk management in Ethiopia and beyond. As he continues his career, Dr. Gugsa is poised to make further significant contributions to the field, advancing knowledge and practice in geotechnical engineering and geohazard analysis.

 

Notable Publications

GIS-based statistical analysis for landslide susceptibility evaluation and zonation mapping: A case from Blue Nile Gorge, Gohatsion-Dejen road corridor, Central Ethiopia 2024

Assessment of rock slope stability using slope stability probability classification (SSPC) system, around AlemKetema, North Shoa, Ethiopia 2021 (10)

Possible Role of Internal Erosion in the Development of Ground Fissures around Lake Ziway, Ethiopia 2024

Ultra - low head hydro power resource assessment and management – A solution for rural electrification 2020