Erfan Sadeghi | Earth and Planetary Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Published on 19/06/202519/06/2025 by Book of Award

Dr. Erfan Sadeghi | Earth and Planetary Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Tarbiat Modares University | Iran

Author Profile

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Erfan Sadeghi’s academic path began with a Bachelor’s degree in Pure Geology from Bu Ali Sina University, where he ranked second in his class. Driven by a passion for geoscience, he advanced to earn both his Master’s and PhD in Engineering Geology from Tarbiat Modares University. His postgraduate research explored rock mechanics, lithological properties, and the engineering behavior of carbonate rocks. He continued to refine his expertise through a postdoctoral fellowship focused on stabilizing gypsum loess soils, further cementing his place in applied geological research.

💼 Professional Endeavors

With over a decade of hands-on experience, Dr. Sadeghi has held pivotal roles at leading Iranian institutions, including Sazeh Pardazi Iran (SPI), Zamin Physic Pouya Co. (ZPhP), and the Building and Housing Research Centre. He currently serves as a Senior Engineering Geologist at Iran’s Ministry of Energy. His professional focus spans site inspections, soil and rock mechanics, analytical modeling, and environmental assessments for large-scale infrastructure and energy projects.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Sadeghi’s research encompasses geotechnical engineering, engineering geology, and environmental science. He is recognized for his in-depth studies on:
🪨 Durability and behavior of carbonate rocks
🛠️ Tensile strength evaluation via hydraulic fracturing
🏗️ Geotechnical modeling of infrastructure foundations
🌊 Coastal and maritime geological assessments
He has authored and co-authored numerous peer-reviewed articles in top journals like Engineering Geology, Bulletin of Engineering Geology and the Environment, and Rock Mechanics and Rock Engineering. His work bridges theoretical analysis with practical applications in construction and energy development.

🏆 Accolades and Recognition

Dr. Sadeghi’s academic excellence has been honored through multiple awards, including top student recognitions in both his MSc and PhD programs. He received competitive research funding from the Iran National Science Foundation and was selected for a national elite program in lieu of military service. His postdoctoral research was also funded by the same foundation, demonstrating consistent national recognition of his scholarly impact.

🌐 Impact and Influence

Through his research, technical leadership, and academic mentoring, Dr. Sadeghi has made significant contributions to Iran’s engineering geology sector. His projects have guided the development of breakwaters, tunnels, airports, and energy infrastructure. He has shaped best practices in site investigation and has actively shared insights at national and international conferences. His collaborations have influenced both policy frameworks and on-the-ground engineering solutions.

🧭 Legacy and Future Contributions

Dr. Sadeghi stands as a key figure in Iran’s geotechnical and engineering geology communities. With memberships in prestigious organizations such as the European Association of Geoscientists and Engineers (EAGE), he continues to advocate for research-integrated engineering solutions. Looking ahead, he aims to expand his work in geomechanics and soil stabilization, enhance sustainable construction practices, and support knowledge transfer through academic teaching and mentorship. His legacy is one of scientific rigor, engineering excellence, and national development through geology.

Publications

📄 An experimental study on the characterization and durability of two building low-porous trachyte and gabbro
Authors: Mozafari, Z., Mohamad Khani Haji Khaje Loo, M., Zobeiri, R., Nikudel, M.R., Sadeghi, E.
Journal: Bulletin of Engineering Geology and the Environment
Year: 2025

📄 Evaluating the characteristics of geological structures in karst groundwater inflow, Nowsud Tunnel
Authors: Bayat, N., Sadeghi, E., Nassery, H.R.
Journal: Journal of Mountain Science
Year: 2024

📄 The effect of cyclic loading parameters on the physical, mechanical, and microcracking behavior of granite
Authors: Ghasemi, S., Khamehchiyan, M., Taheri, A., Nikudel, M.R., Zalooli, A., Sadeghi, E.
Journal: Engineering Geology
Year: 2024

📄 The effect of rock carbonate types on fatigue performance of asphalt mixtures in carbonate rocks of the central Alborz zone
Authors: Sadeghi, E., Nikudel, M.R., Khamehchiyan, M., Kavussi, A.
Journal: Iranian Journal of Engineering Geology
Year: 2023

📄 Estimation of unconfined compressive strength (UCS) of Carbonate Rocks by Index mechanical tests and specimen size properties: Central Alborz Zone of Iran
Authors: Sadeghi, E., Nikudel, M.R., Khamehchiyan, M., Kavussi, A.
Journal: Rock Mechanics and Rock Engineering
Year: 2022

Yibo Li | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Published on 08/02/202508/02/2025 by Book of Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yibo Li | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Institute of Geographic Sciences and Natural Resources Research, CAS | China

Author Profile

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🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yibo Li embarked on his academic journey with a deep-rooted interest in civil engineering and environmental sustainability. He pursued a Doctoral degree, demonstrating early promise in structural stability and ecological engineering. His commitment to advancing scientific research led him to complete post-doctoral research, refining his expertise in civil engineering construction and environmental geotechnics.

💼 Professional Endeavors

Dr. Yibo Li has made significant contributions across multiple institutions, showcasing his leadership and research capabilities. He currently serves as a Special Research Assistant at the Institute of Geographic Sciences and Natural Resources Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, where he focuses on geographic sciences and resource management. Additionally, he holds key positions such as Deputy Secretary-General of the Heilongjiang Provincial Institute of Civil Engineering and Architecture and is recognized as a leading talent in professional and technical fields within Heilongjiang Province. His expertise is also sought in ideological and political education as an Expert at the Beijing Zhongtang Institute.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Yibo Li's research primarily focuses on bioengineered slope stability, root system mechanics, and ecological slope engineering. His studies explore how root traits and their mechanical properties influence soil stability, providing valuable insights into environmental engineering solutions. His patent contributions further highlight his innovative mindset, with five authorized invention patents and three utility model patents, showcasing advancements in civil engineering materials and methods.

🏆 Accolades and Recognition

Dr. Yibo Li is a recognized expert in civil engineering and ecological sustainability, earning him a place in the Heilongjiang Provincial Professional and Technical Leading Talent Echelon. His patents and publications have positioned him as a thought leader in his field. His research is widely cited, reflecting the impact of his findings on global environmental engineering discussions.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Dr. Li’s research significantly contributes to the fields of civil engineering, environmental sustainability, and ecological restoration. His expertise in bioengineered slope stability is crucial for developing resilient infrastructure, mitigating landslides, and enhancing ecological sustainability. Through his roles in academic institutions and professional organizations, he actively mentors young researchers and shapes policies that bridge engineering and environmental sciences.

🚀 Legacy and Future Contributions

With a strong foundation in civil and environmental engineering, Dr. Yibo Li is set to continue his influential research in geotechnical innovations, ecological stability, and sustainable infrastructure. His patents and studies pave the way for new methodologies in slope engineering and soil reinforcement, offering practical solutions to global challenges. As a pioneer in integrating ecological principles with engineering, Dr. Li’s legacy will inspire future researchers and engineers, ensuring that infrastructure development remains sustainable, resilient, and environmentally conscious.

Publications

📄 Effects of Nitrogen Addition on Soil Aggregate Stability and Mycorrhizal Morphological Characteristics: Differential Responses of Arbuscular Mycorrhizal and Ectomycorrhizal Fungi

Authors: Mingxin Zhou, Yibo Li
Journal: Forests
Year: 2025

📄 Root Biomass and Root Morphological Traits of Three Shrub Species: Implications for the Soil Anti-scouring Resistance of the Ecological Slope

Authors: Mingxin Zhou, Guoyong Yan, Yibo Li, Di Chen, Chao Yan, Nan Wang, Chao Jia, Qinggui Wang, Yajuan Xing
Journal: PLOS ONE
Year: 2023

📄 Root System Traits and Mechanical Properties of Three Shrub Species: Implications for the Structural Stability of the Ecological Slope

Authors: Yibo Li
Journal: International Journal of Engineering
Year: 2022

📄 Root Traits and Mechanical Properties of Three Shrubland Species: Implications for Bioengineered Slope Stability

Authors: Yibo Li, Mingxin Zhou, Hongliang Zuo, Qinggui Wang, Yajuan Xing, Guoyong Yan
Journal: Environmental Engineering Science
Year: 2021

Ashu Fekadu | Earth and Planetary Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Published on 30/01/202530/01/2025 by Book of Award

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

Adama Science and Technology University | Ethiopia

Author Profile

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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

Trufat Hailemariam Gugsa | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Published on 28/06/202428/06/2024 by Book of 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

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

Deepesh Bansal | Engineering | Excellence in Environmental Sustainability Research

Published on 02/05/202404/05/2024 by Book of Award

Dr. Deepesh Bansal | Engineering | Excellence in Environmental Sustainability Research

Indian Institute of Technology Delhi | India

Author Profile

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Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Deepesh Bansal's academic journey began with a Bachelor's in Civil Engineering from Deenbandhu Chhotu Ram University of Science & Technology, Murthal. He further pursued a Master's and a Ph.D. in Geotechnical Engineering from prestigious Indian Institutes of Technology (IIT), Roorkee, and Delhi, respectively.

Professional Endeavors

Dr. Bansal's professional career encompasses a diverse range of roles, from working as an Engineer at Larsen and Toubro Ltd. to serving as an Assistant Professor at various institutions. Currently, he is a Research Associate at the Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi, where he focuses on sustainable geotechnical solutions.

Contributions and Research Focus

His research primarily revolves around utilizing waste materials, such as incineration bottom ash, in civil engineering applications. He has extensively studied the physicochemical and geoenvironmental characteristics of incineration bottom ash, aiming to assess its potential for reuse in flexible pavements, embankments, and reinforced soil structures.

Accolades and Recognition

Dr. Bansal has received numerous awards and accolades for his exemplary research contributions. These include Research Scholar Travel Award, ISSMGE Foundation Award, and Research Excellence Travel Award, showcasing his recognition in the academic community.

Impact and Influence

Through his research publications in esteemed journals and presentations at international conferences, Dr. Bansal has significantly contributed to the field of geotechnical engineering. His work not only addresses crucial environmental challenges but also offers sustainable solutions for infrastructure development.

Legacy and Future Contributions

Dr. Bansal's legacy lies in his dedication to sustainable engineering practices and his commitment to nurturing future talents in the field. With his expertise in geotechnical engineering and waste valorization, he aims to continue making impactful contributions towards building a more sustainable future for the construction industry.

Notable Publications

Optimizing MSW incineration bottom ash reuse: A study on treated wastewater washing and leaching control 2024

Waste to Resource: Enviro-Mechanical Suitability of MSW Incineration Bottom Ash in Flexible Pavements and Embankments 2024

Environmentally responsible disposal and reuse of MSW incineration bottom ash: assessment from two Indian plants 2023