Kadriye Elif Maçin | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Kadriye Elif Maçin | Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Istanbul Technical University | Turkey

Dr. Kadriye Elif Maçin is an active environmental engineering researcher whose scholarly contributions focus on solid waste management, life cycle assessment, material flow analysis, zero-waste strategies, and the development of sustainable and circular systems for institutions and urban environments. She has produced impactful research spanning international journals, national publications, book chapters, and numerous conference proceedings. Her work advances techno-economic evaluation of digestate management, MFA-LCA frameworks for zero-waste institutions, campus decarbonization models, circular bioeconomy applications, and comprehensive waste characterization studies. Through extensive analyses of food waste, construction and demolition waste, municipal waste logistics, hospital waste, and biogas enhancement strategies, she contributes evidence-based insights supporting efficient waste minimization and resource recovery. Her publications also address sustainability performance metrics in universities, transportation-related GHG emissions, and environmental impacts of energy and industrial processes. Additionally, her research has been disseminated through more than twenty international symposiums and conferences, where she has presented findings on decarbonization strategies, life cycle impacts of waste-to-energy systems, campus sustainability, zero-waste education, and solid waste systems under changing environmental conditions. Overall, her body of work strengthens scientific understanding of circular economy approaches and supports practical pathways toward sustainable waste management.

Profiles : Scopus | Orcid

Featured Publications

Macin, K. E., & Özbayram, E. G. (2025). Assessing the water footprint of tea: Implications on Türkiye's freshwater ecosystems. Aquatic Research.

Macin, K. E., Özcan, F. K., Acuner-Turet, E., & Kose-Mutlu, B. (2025). Carbon footprint and decarbonization of university buildings: Operational and embodied emissions at Istanbul Technical University. Building and Environment.

Macin, K. E. (2025). Türkiye’nin karbonsuzlaşma politikaları kapsamında Düzce ili katı atık yönetiminin yaşam döngüsü değerlendirmesi. Doğal Afetler ve Çevre Dergisi.

Macin, K. E. (2025). Malzeme ve madde akış analizi ile illerin katı atık yönetiminin döngüselliğinin incelenmesi: Düzce ili örneği. Ömer Halisdemir Üniversitesi Mühendislik Bilimleri Dergisi.

Musluoğlu, A., Dereli, R. K., Arıkan, O. A., Guven, H., & Macin, K. E. (2025). Techno-economic assessment of digestate management for full-scale continuous dry anaerobic digestion plant. Bioresource Technology.

Macin, K. E., Arıkan, O. A., & Damgaard, A. (2024). An MFA–LCA framework for goal-oriented waste management studies: ‘Zero Waste to Landfill’ strategies for institutions. Waste Management and Research.

Macin, K. E. (2024). Circular food waste management in Türkiye to stay within planetary boundaries. E3S Web of Conferences.

Macin, K. E., Arıkan, O. A., Altınbaş, M., & Damgaard, A. (2024). Decarbonizing university campuses: A business model for food waste management at Istanbul Technical University (İTÜ) Ayazağa Campus, Turkey. Environmental Progress & Sustainable Energy.

Macin, K. E., Özçelik, K., Güven, H., & Arıkan, O. A. (2024). Waste characterization and recycling potential in a university campus: ITU Ayazağa Campus zero waste management practices. Journal of Material Cycles and Waste Management.

Macin, K. E. (2018). Kentsel dönüşüm sürecinde İstanbul’da inşaat ve yıkıntı (İY) atıkları yönetimi. Adıyaman Üniversitesi Mühendislik Bilimleri Dergisi.

Verónica Córdoba | Chemical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Verónica Córdoba | Chemical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Universidad Nacional del Centro de la Provincia de Buenos Aires | Argentina

Prof. Dr. Verónica Córdoba is a researcher whose work focuses on bioenergy, anaerobic digestion, biomethane modelling, and environmental sustainability, with a research portfolio that has earned 381 citations, an h-index of 8, and 8 i10-index publications, reflecting a steadily growing scholarly impact. She has contributed extensively to understanding methane production dynamics from diverse biomass sources, including swine wastewater, cheese whey, macroalgae, third-generation biomass, and agricultural residues. Her publications span high-impact journals with studies on mixture design for anaerobic co-digestion, neural-network-based prediction of biomethane production, thermal behavior of biofuel feedstocks, activated carbon production from biomass waste, and long-term methane emission modelling from waste treatment processes. Her involvement in R&D Project 03/E208 (2023–2025) focuses on the valorization of lignocellulosic residues for low-emission energy scenarios, underscoring her commitment to circular bioeconomy strategies. She also contributes to academic development through the supervision of doctoral fellows working on methane modeling and biomass conversion systems. Additional works include analyses of greenhouse gas emissions in waste management, kinetics of methane generation, renewable fuel drying behavior, and theoretical–practical assessments of electricity generation from biogas. Across more than a decade of scientific output, she has advanced sustainable energy research through rigorous modelling, experimental analysis, and interdisciplinary collaboration.

Profiles : Scopus | Orcid | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Córdoba, V., & Ottolina, G. (2025). Anaerobic co-digestion of swine wastewater, cheese whey and organic waste: Performance optimization through mixture design. Biomass.

Córdoba, V., Bavio, M., & Acosta, G. (2024). Biomethane production modelling from third-generation biomass. Renewable Energy.

Córdoba, V. E., Mussi, J., De Paula, M., & Acosta, G. G. (2023). Prediction of biomethane production of cheese whey by using artificial neural networks. IEEE Latin America Transactions.

Córdoba, V., Manzur, A., & Santalla, E. (2023). Thermal behaviour and emission characteristics of Arundo donax L. as potential biofuel. BioEnergy Research.

Jerez, F., Ramos, P. B., Córdoba, V. E., Ponce, M. F., Acosta, G. G., & Bavio, M. A. (2023). Yerba mate: From waste to activated carbon for supercapacitors. Journal of Environmental Management.

Córdoba, V. E., & Santalla, E. M. (2022). Estimation of long-term methane emissions from mechanical-biological treatment waste through biomethane potential test. Environmental Technology.

Córdoba, V., Manzur, A., & Santalla, E. (2022). Drying kinetics and mathematical modelling of Arundo donax L. canes, a potential renewable fuel. Research in Agricultural Engineering.

Ibarlucía, D. G., Santalla, E. M., & Córdoba, V. E. (2021). Evaluation of biomethane potential and kinetics modelling of green macroalgae from the South Atlantic Sea: Codium sp. and Ulva sp. Environmental Chemistry.

Córdoba, V., Fernández, M., & Santalla, E. (2018). The effect of substrate/inoculum ratio on the kinetics of methane production in swine wastewater anaerobic digestion. Environmental Science and Pollution Research.

Blanco, G., Santalla, E., Córdoba, V., & Levy, A. (2017). Generación de electricidad a partir de biogás capturado de residuos sólidos urbanos: Un análisis teórico-práctico. Report.

Blanco, G., Córdoba, V., Baldi, R., Fernández, M., & Santalla, E. (2016). Outcomes of the Clean Development Mechanism in Argentina. American Journal of Climate Change.

Córdoba, V., Colavolpe, M. B., Fernández, M., Santalla, E., & Albertó, E. (2016). Potential methane production of spent sawdust used in the cultivation of Gymnopilus pampeanus. Journal of Environmental Chemical Engineering.

Córdoba, V., Fernández, M., & Santalla, E. (2016). The effect of different inoculums on anaerobic digestion of swine wastewater. Journal of Environmental Chemical Engineering.

Santalla, E., Córdoba, V., & Blanco, G. (2013). Greenhouse gas emissions from the waste sector in Argentina in business-as-usual and mitigation scenarios. Journal Article.

Innovator Pramod Stephen | Innovation | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Innovator Pramod Stephen | Innovation | Best Researcher Award

Multi Agro Products | India

Author Profile

Orcid

Early Academic Pursuits

Mr. Innovator Pramod Stephen began his educational journey with a strong foundation, earning his Matriculation Certificate from James Harvey Memorial Higher Secondary School, Nawabganj, Gonda, Uttar Pradesh in 1973. Following this, he obtained his Intermediate Class Certificate from BRA Bihar University, Muzaffarpur. His pursuit of knowledge also led him to the medical field, where he earned a Para Medical Certificate from Gandhi Memorial Leprosy Foundation, Wardha, Maharashtra. These diverse academic credentials laid the groundwork for his future innovations and research in healthcare and grassroots technology.

Professional Endeavors

Throughout his career, Mr. Pramod Stephen has participated in various prestigious hackathons, including Drug Discovery Hackathon, Agri Hackathon, and Road Safety Hackathon, showcasing his passion for tackling real-world challenges. His professional ventures extend across multiple fields, from healthcare to environmental sustainability, where his innovations have made significant contributions to society.

Contributions and Research Focus

Driven by a deep commitment to serving society, Mr. Stephen's seven groundbreaking innovations are a testament to his creativity and problem-solving ability. Some of his notable inventions include:

  1. Low-Cost Animal Feed, making sustainable agriculture more accessible.
  2. Treatment of many diseases by colic acid, a patent registered under No. 834/Kol/2007.
  3. Odor-free Waterless & Infection-free Toilets & Urinals, with design No. 313073-001.
  4. Carbon Control Device, contributing to a cleaner environment.
  5. Head Protective Cap, improving personal safety.
  6. Green Garbage Fully Digesting Gas Plant, with design No. 392178-001, promoting eco-friendly waste management.

He also authored the book "Your Health Is In Your Mouth", published in the USA, offering valuable insights into diabetes and metabolic disorders. A Hindi version titled "Aapka Swasthy Apke Muh Mein" was published by Blueroseone.com.

Accolades and Recognition

Mr. Pramod Stephen has been honored with numerous prestigious awards, reflecting his innovative spirit and contribution to society:

  • SRISTI Samman
  • Champaran Ratan
  • Rotary Club Samman
  • Sandhi Bhumi Samman

These accolades underscore his impact across various domains, from grassroots innovation to public health and safety.

Impact and Influence

The influence of Mr. Stephen’s work extends beyond his direct innovations. His designs, particularly in areas such as sanitation (waterless and infection-free toilets) and environmental sustainability (carbon control device), have the potential to address global challenges. His holistic approach, blending science with humanitarian goals, reflects his vision to create solutions that benefit people from all walks of life, particularly in underprivileged communities.

Legacy and Future Contributions

Mr. Stephen’s legacy lies not only in the practical applications of his inventions but also in his ability to inspire future generations of innovators. His book "Your Health Is In Your Mouth" serves as a tool to empower individuals to take control of their health, particularly those with diabetes and other metabolic disorders. With a track record of impactful solutions, Mr. Pramod Stephen is poised to continue contributing to society, potentially ushering in more innovations that bridge the gap between technology and human well-being.

 

Publications


Aap Ka Swasth Aap Ke Muh Me
Author: Innovator Pramod Stephen
Journal/Source: BlueRoseOne.com
Year: 2023-06-15
Type: Book


Metabolic Disorders Solve Program
Author: Innovator Pramod Stephen
Journal/Source: Lulu.com
Year: 2022-03-05
Type: Book


Your Health Is In Your Mouth
Author: Innovator Pramod Stephen
Journal/Source: Amazon
Year: 2021-01-09
Type: Book | Conceptualization


 

Noorfidza Yub Harun | Chemical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Noorfidza Yub Harun | Chemical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Universiti Teknologi Petronas | Malaysia

Author Profile

Scopus

Google Scholar

Early Academic Pursuits 🎓

Dr. Noorfidza Yub Harun's academic journey is marked by a strong foundation in both chemical and mechanical engineering. She earned her PhD in Mechanical Engineering from the University of New Brunswick, where she also obtained a Diploma in University Teaching. Her earlier academic qualifications include an MSc in Forest Engineering, another MSc in Environmental Energy Engineering from the University of Sheffield, and a BEng in Chemical and Process Engineering from the National University of Malaysia. These diverse academic experiences have provided her with a broad and deep understanding of engineering principles, particularly in the fields of environmental and mechanical engineering.

Professional Endeavors 💼

As a Senior Lecturer at Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS, Dr. Noorfidza has made significant contributions to the field of chemical engineering through her teaching and research. Her professional endeavors include leading numerous research projects, such as the synthesis of mechanical characteristics and ash fusion temperature of krafts-based pellet fuel and the development of biochar-based adsorbents for heavy metals remediation. These projects not only highlight her expertise but also her commitment to advancing sustainable and environmentally friendly engineering solutions.

Contributions and Research Focus 🔬

Dr. Noorfidza's research primarily focuses on the intersection of environmental sustainability and engineering. Her work on ash fusion behavior, biochar development, and the incorporation of glycerol as a compatibilizer in biopolymer matrices are particularly noteworthy. These projects demonstrate her ability to address complex environmental challenges through innovative engineering solutions. Her research has significant implications for the fields of energy production, waste management, and environmental remediation, making her a key contributor to sustainable engineering practices.

Accolades and Recognition 🏅

Throughout her career, Dr. Noorfidza has been recognized for her contributions to academia and research. Her role as the principal investigator in several high-impact research projects is a testament to her leadership and expertise. Her work has garnered attention within the academic community, particularly for its focus on sustainable engineering solutions. While specific awards and accolades are not detailed here, her ongoing research projects and the respect she commands in her field suggest a scholar of high repute.

Impact and Influence 🌍

Dr. Noorfidza's impact extends beyond her immediate academic environment. Through her research, she has contributed to the development of sustainable engineering practices that have the potential to address global environmental challenges. Her work on biochar-based adsorbents and renewable energy sources like biomass and sludge-derived fuels has influenced both the academic community and industry practices. Additionally, her teaching has shaped the next generation of engineers, instilling in them the importance of environmental sustainability in engineering.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🌟

As Dr. Noorfidza continues her work at Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS, her legacy is likely to be one of innovation and dedication to sustainable engineering. Her ongoing research and teaching efforts ensure that she will continue to contribute significantly to the field. Her work not only addresses current environmental challenges but also lays the groundwork for future advancements in chemical and environmental engineering. Dr. Noorfidza's career thus far suggests that her future contributions will continue to impact the field positively, making her a worthy candidate for recognition as an outstanding scholar.

 

Publications  📚


📄 Title: Response Surface Methodology and Artificial Neural Network Modelling of Palm Oil Decanter Cake and Alum Sludge Co-Gasification for Syngas (CO+H2) Production
Authors: Kunmi Joshua Abioye, Noorfidza Yub Harun, Ushtar Arshad, Suriati Sufian, Mohammad Yusuf, Ahmad Hussaini Jagaba, Joshua O. Ighalo, Abdullah A. Al-Kahtani, Hesam Kamyab, Ashok Kumar, Chander Prakash, Jude A. Okolie, Hussameldin Ibrahim
Journal: International Journal of Hydrogen Energy
Year: 2024


📄 Title: Optimization of Operational Parameters Using Artificial Neural Network and Support Vector Machine for Bio-oil Extracted from Rice Husk
Authors: Ahmed, A., Yub Harun, N., Waqas, S., Arshad, U., Ghalib, S.A.
Journal: ACS Omega
Year: 2024


📄 Title: Optimization of Syngas Production from Co-Gasification of Palm Oil Decanter Cake and Alum Sludge: An RSM Approach with Char Characterization
Authors: Abioye, K.J., Harun, N.Y., Sufian, S., Chelliapan, S., Kang, K.
Journal: Environmental Research
Year: 2024


📄 Title: Energy-Efficient Single-Stage Membrane Rotating Biological Contactor for Wastewater Treatment
Authors: Waqas, S., Harun, N.Y., Lock, S.S.M., Alsaadi, A.S.
Journal: Bioresource Technology Reports
Year: 2024


📄 Title: Optimization of Operational Parameters Using RSM, ANN, and SVM in Membrane Integrated with Rotating Biological Contactor
Authors: Waqas, S., Harun, N.Y., Arshad, U., Nordin, N.A.H., Alsaadi, A.S.
Journal: Chemosphere
Year: 2024