Sylvester Sadekla | Sustainability | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Sylvester Sadekla | Sustainability | Best Researcher Award

PhD student, Technical University of Munich, Germany

Sylvester S. Sadekla 🎓 is a dynamic Research Associate at the Technical University of Munich 🇩🇪 with a passion for data-driven insights 📊 and strategic decision-making. He combines expertise in economics, finance, and data science 🤖 to support impactful research and innovation. With a strong background in managing cross-functional teams 👥, Sylvester excels in project management, statistical analysis, and stakeholder engagement. He is fluent in English and proficient in German 🇬🇧🇩🇪, with memberships in cultural and environmental organizations 🎶🌿. Sylvester thrives on using technology and analytics to solve problems, optimize processes, and drive sustainable growth 🌍🚀.

 Profile

🎓 Education :

Sylvester S. Sadekla is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Economics at the Technical University of Munich (2023–Present) 📚. He holds a Certificate in Business Analysis from Brainnest, Bremen (Feb–Apr 2022) 📈, and a Certificate in Data Science & Machine Learning from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (Jun–Oct 2021) 🤖. His academic journey began with an M.Phil. in Finance from the University of Ghana (2015–2017) 💰, followed by a B.Sc. in Mathematics & Statistics from the University of Cape Coast (2005–2009) 📐.

💼  Experience :

Sylvester’s professional experience includes his current role as a Research Associate at the Technical University of Munich (2023–Present) 🧪, where he contributes to high-impact research on technology adoption and sustainability. Prior to this, he served as a Research Project Manager at the Centre for Migration Studies in Accra (2020–2023) 🌍, and as a Business Analyst at AkwaabaLab for Experimental Economics (2018–2020) 📊. He began his career as a Regional Project Manager with the Ghana Mathematics Society (2010–2015) ➕, where he promoted math education across schools and regions.

📚 Professional Development :

Sylvester Sadekla continuously enhances his professional skills through diverse learning experiences and collaborative projects 🎯. He holds certifications in Data Science & Machine Learning from MIT 🧠, and Business Analysis from Brainnest 📊. His professional journey includes optimizing project workflows, managing large-scale research projects, and utilizing tools like SQL, Stata, Python, and Power BI 💻. His ability to blend analytical skills with strategic foresight helps him tackle complex challenges, improve research quality, and lead data-driven decision-making 🚀. Sylvester is also actively involved in stakeholder engagement, resource optimization, and agile project management across academic and applied research settings 🔍🤝.

🔬 Research Focus :

Sylvester’s research centers on technology adoption, sustainability, market analysis, and behavioral economics 🌱📈. He investigates how firms adopt innovative solutions and the influence of consumer behavior and policy on these transitions 💼🧠. His work uses advanced data analytics, econometric modeling, and machine learning techniques 🧮🤖 to understand market dynamics, sustainability practices, and strategic business decisions. With a background in finance and economics, he bridges theory and practical application to support impactful and future-ready research 🌍🔬. Sylvester is especially passionate about using research to inform public policy and sustainable innovation within both local and global contexts 🌐📘.

🏆 Awards and Honors :

Sylvester S. Sadekla has been recognized for his exceptional contributions to research and stakeholder engagement. 🏆 In April 2024, he was awarded Best Presenter at the 10th Hans Eisenmann Forum in Weihenstephan for his compelling presentation and analytical insights. 👏 At the Technical University of Munich, he received informal internal recognition for his outstanding stakeholder engagement and insightful data analysis. 🏅 During his tenure at the Centre for Migration Studies, Sylvester was acknowledged for Outstanding Research Management, reflecting his ability to optimize resources and lead impactful projects. 🏫 He also earned Regional Impact Recognition from the Ghana Mathematics Society for significantly increasing student participation and outreach across schools.

Publication Top Notes : 

Sustainable postharvest processing technologies for dried food commodities and firm-level adoption: A critical review

Authors: [Authors not specified in the provided information]
Journal: Current Food Science and Technology Reports
Volume: 2
Pages: 231–239
Year: 2024
DOI: 10.1007/s43555-024-00026-8

🔚 Conclusion :

Sylvester S. Sadekla’s profile illustrates a rare blend of technical acumen, leadership, and societal engagement—hallmarks of a top-tier researcher. His dedication to using data science for strategic, sustainable development, paired with his ability to manage and deliver collaborative research, makes him highly deserving of the Best Researcher Award. His contributions not only advance academic knowledge but also generate tangible benefits for policy, economy, and society.

 

Dr. Mohamadreza najarzadegan | Wastewater Treatment | Best Researcher Award

Mohamadreza najarzadegan | Wastewater Treatment | Best Researcher Award

Mohamadreza najarzadegan, Isfahan University, Iran

Mohamadreza Najarzadegan is a talented environmental engineer with a focus on water and wastewater systems. He earned a Master’s in Environmental Engineering from Iran University of Isfahan, ranking first in his class. His research explores optimizing water distribution networks and quality monitoring through innovative algorithms. Najarzadegan has contributed to several high-impact journals and industry projects, including wastewater treatment and water network design. He is passionate about sustainable development and the future of water management. 🌍💧🔬

Professional profile :

Google Scholar

Summary of Suitability :

Mohamadreza Najarzadegan is an ideal candidate for the Best Researcher Award due to his exceptional expertise and contributions in the field of environmental engineering, specifically in water and wastewater systems.

Strengths:
  • Academic Excellence: Najarzadegan earned his Master’s in Environmental Engineering from the prestigious Iran University of Isfahan, where he ranked first in his class, showcasing his strong academic foundation and commitment to excellence.

  • Research Contributions: His research focuses on optimizing water distribution networks and quality monitoring using innovative algorithms, a crucial area in ensuring sustainable and efficient water management systems. His work is published in high-impact journals, underscoring the relevance and quality of his research.

  • Practical Impact: Najarzadegan has been involved in significant industry projects, particularly in wastewater treatment and water network design, translating his research into real-world applications that contribute to environmental sustainability.

Area of Interest:

Najarzadegan’s primary focus areas are:

  • Water and wastewater system optimization

  • Quality monitoring algorithms

  • Sustainable development in water management

Education & Experience : 

  • Master of Science in Environmental Engineering, Iran University of Isfahan (March 2019 – August 2022)
    Thesis: Hydraulic analysis of water supply networks 🏫📚
    GPA: 3.88/4
    Rank: 1/8

  • Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering, University of Isfahan (Sept 2015 – Sept 2019)
    GPA: 3.34/4
    Rank: 6/45 🎓

  • Work Experience:

    • Researcher, R&D Department (Sept 2022 – present) 🧑‍🔬

    • Process Expert, Abozaidabad wastewater treatment plant 🏭

    • Teaching Assistant for WaterGems, SewerGems software at University of Isfahan 💻

    • Site Selection for Harat town Wastewater Treatment 🚰

Professional Development :

Mohamadreza Najarzadegan continuously enhances his skills in water engineering through academic and industry collaborations. He has completed internships in concrete and steel construction projects, contributing to civil infrastructure developments. His work on optimizing water distribution and wastewater systems has led to multiple publications in top journals. Furthermore, his teaching experience and leadership in various industry projects, including wastewater treatment plants and industrial water systems, highlight his growing expertise in environmental engineering. 🏗️💡📈

Research Focus :

Najarzadegan’s research revolves around the optimization and design of water and wastewater systems. He uses advanced algorithms, such as Artificial Bee Colony and Dragonfly, to improve the efficiency of water distribution networks. His work also focuses on quality monitoring, sensor placement, and the environmental impact of water management systems. Najarzadegan is dedicated to developing sustainable and efficient solutions for water and wastewater management, contributing significantly to advancements in environmental engineering. 🌱💧🔍

Awards & Honors :

  • Ranked 1st GPA among the graduating class at University of Isfahan (2022) 🏅

  • Elected as brilliant talent student for postgraduate admission without entrance exam (2019) 🎓

  • National Top Thesis in Water and Wastewater Association (2022) 🌟

  • Invention of “Black Soldier Fly Hive” (2024) 🐛

  • Top Thesis in the Water and Wastewater Association 2023 and 2024 🏆

  • Ranked 6th GPA in Civil Engineering at University of Isfahan (2019) 🎖️

Publication Top Notes :

1. Title: Optimal Design of Water Distribution Network Using Improved Artificial Bee Colony Algorithm
Citation:
Najarzadegan, M.R., & Moeini, R. (2023). Optimal Design of Water Distribution Network Using Improved Artificial Bee Colony Algorithm. Iranian Journal of Science and Technology, Transactions of Civil Engineering, 3.

2. Title: Using the dragonfly algorithm to find the optimal location of quality sensor of Lee and Deininger and Second and Third networks of EPANET software to reduce the contaminated
Citation:
Najarzadegan, M.R., & Moeini, R. (2024). Using the dragonfly algorithm to find the optimal location of quality sensor of Lee and Deininger and Second and Third networks of EPANET software to reduce the contaminated. Results in Engineering, 23, 102606.

3. Title: Maximizing the coverage of quality sensors in the water distribution network (case studies: Lee and Deininger and the second and the third EPANET networks)
Citation:
Najarzadegan, M.R. (2025). Maximizing the coverage of quality sensors in the water distribution network (case studies: Lee and Deininger and the second and the third EPANET networks). Results in Engineering, 75, 104334.

4. Title: Maximizing Efficiency and Performance of Water Distribution Systems through the Implementation of Optimization Algorithms: A Comprehensive Analysis of Valve and Chlorine
Citation:
Najarzadegan, M.R., & Eskandaripour, M. (2025). Maximizing Efficiency and Performance of Water Distribution Systems through the Implementation of Optimization Algorithms: A Comprehensive Analysis of Valve and Chlorine. Heliyon.

5. Title: Reducing leakage in urban water distribution networks with a pressure management approach
Citation:
Najarzadegan, M.R., Moeini, R. (2024). Reducing leakage in urban water distribution networks with a pressure management approach. In: The 5th Iranian Congress of Water and Wastewater Science and Engineering.

Conclusion:

Given his strong academic background, impactful research, and passion for sustainable water management, Mohamadreza Najarzadegan stands out as a top contender for the Best Researcher Award. His work addresses critical challenges in water systems, with an emphasis on improving sustainability and operational efficiency, making him a valuable asset to both the academic and industry communities.

Assist. Prof. Dr. Berna Aksoy | Water Quality | Best Researcher Award

Berna Aksoy | Water Quality | Best Researcher Award

Berna Aksoy , Zonguldak Bülent Ecevit University, Turkey

Dr. Berna Aksoy is an accomplished Assistant Professor in the Civil Engineering Department at Zonguldak Bülent Ecevit University in Turkey. Her expertise lies in the field of hydraulics, with a strong focus on water quality, coastal erosion, and the application of artificial neural networks in environmental engineering. Throughout her career, she has been actively involved in numerous research projects and has supervised graduate theses. Dr. Aksoy also contributes to her university through various administrative roles, demonstrating her commitment to both academic and organizational excellence. 🇹🇷📚📊

Professional profile :

orcid

Summary of Suitability :

Dr. Aksoy exhibits a robust combination of theoretical expertise and applied research, especially in hydraulics, water quality modeling, and coastal engineering. Her integration of artificial neural networks (ANNs) into environmental problem-solving showcases her innovative approach and interdisciplinary insight. Her supervision of graduate theses further reflects her dedication to nurturing future scholars.

Education and Experience :

  • Assistant Professor 👩‍🏫: Zonguldak Bülent Ecevit University (2020 – Present)
  • Research Assistant (Doctor) 🔬: Zonguldak Bülent Ecevit University (2018 – 2020)
  • PhD in Civil Engineering 🌊: Zonguldak Bülent Ecevit University (2018) – Thesis on seasonal changes in water quality using artificial neural networks.
  • Research Assistant 🏢: Bülent Ecevit University (2011 – 2018)
  • Master’s Degree in Civil Engineering 🌊: Bülent Ecevit University (2007) – Thesis on determining coastal erosion geometry parameters.
  • Research Assistant 🏢: Zonguldak Karaelmas University (2005 – 2011)
  • Bachelor’s Degree in Civil Engineering 🏗️: Bülent Ecevit University (2004)

Professional Development :

Dr. Aksoy actively engages in the academic community and university administration. She currently holds memberships in the Quality Council and the Education and Training Commission of the Faculty of Engineering. Previously, she served as the Vice Dean of the Faculty of Engineering and held positions on the Faculty Executive Board and Faculty Board. Her involvement extends to the Natural Disaster Application and Research Center as an Executive Board Member and a former Deputy Director of the Environment Problems Research and Application Center, showcasing her dedication to diverse aspects of her field. 🇹🇷🌍📊

Research Focus :

Dr. Aksoy’s research primarily falls within the category of Environmental Hydraulics and Water Resources Engineering. Her focus encompasses the application of innovative techniques like artificial neural networks to analyze and model complex environmental systems, particularly concerning water quality assessment in rivers such as the Filyos River. She also investigates coastal processes, including erosion dynamics and the impact of bed material on hydraulic parameters. Her work contributes to a better understanding of water resource management and the effects of environmental changes on aquatic systems and coastal regions. 🌍🏞️💻

Publication Top Notes :

Title: Effect of Bed Material on Roughness and Hydraulic Potential in Filyos River

Authors: Berna Aksoy, Melisa Öztürk, İsmail Hakkı Özölçer

Journal: Water

Year: 2024

Volume: 16

Issue: 20

Article Number: 2934

DOI: https://doi.org/10.3390/w16202934

Conclusion:

Dr. Aksoy’s research not only contributes to solving pressing environmental issues but also bridges traditional civil engineering with advanced computational techniques. Her strong publication record, active project participation, and leadership roles make her a compelling choice for recognition as a Best Researcher, particularly in the domains of environmental hydraulics and smart engineering solutions.

Dr. Sumit Zanje | Environmental Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Sumit Zanje | Environmental Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Sumit Zanje, Florida International University, United States

Dr. Sumit Zanje is a distinguished civil and mechanical engineer specializing in stormwater management, hydrology, and product design. Currently, he serves as a Lead Civil Project Engineer at COSMOS Technologies, Inc., Pittsburgh, USA, where he spearheads innovative stormwater modeling projects for municipal compliance and optimization. Dr. Zanje earned his Ph.D. in Civil Engineering from Florida International University, where he conducted groundbreaking research on flood mitigation and sewer eruption control. With interdisciplinary expertise, he has secured four design patents in marine and transportation sectors and led prestigious projects funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF). Dr. Zanje has received numerous accolades, including EPA Campus RainWorks Challenge awards and the Dissertation Year Fellowship. As a mentor, he has inspired the next generation of engineers in hydrology and fluid mechanics, exemplifying excellence in research, teaching, and project execution. His impactful contributions continue to advance sustainable engineering solutions globally. 🌍

Professional Profile

Google Scholar

Suitability for Award

Dr. Sumit Zanje exemplifies the essence of the Best Researcher Award through his unparalleled contributions to civil engineering and interdisciplinary research. His NSF-funded project valued at $329,733, coupled with his four design patents, highlights his innovative prowess in addressing complex engineering challenges. Dr. Zanje’s leadership in stormwater management, demonstrated through his work with ALCOSAN’s GROW program, has significantly advanced sustainable urban planning. His academic achievements, including pioneering research in flood mitigation and sewer eruptions, have been internationally recognized with multiple EPA RainWorks Challenge awards. Additionally, his commitment to mentoring future engineers and fostering collaboration underscores his dedication to the field. With a robust portfolio of impactful projects, esteemed recognitions, and contributions to both research and industry, Dr. Zanje’s outstanding career aligns seamlessly with the vision of the Best Researcher Award. 🏆

Education

Dr. Sumit Zanje’s academic journey reflects an unwavering dedication to engineering excellence. He earned a Ph.D. in Civil Engineering from Florida International University (2023), where he developed innovative flood mitigation strategies and advanced sewer system models. During his tenure, he also completed an M.S. in Civil Engineering (2021). His earlier academic pursuits include a Master of Engineering in Design Engineering from Birla Institute of Science and Technology, Pilani (2017), and a Bachelor of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Mumbai (2014). Dr. Zanje’s diverse educational foundation has equipped him with interdisciplinary expertise spanning civil and mechanical engineering. Complementing his technical acumen, he has pursued certifications like Lean Six Sigma Green Belt and FE Mechanical accreditation, enhancing his proficiency in system design, optimization, and simulation. This robust educational background underpins his capacity to tackle complex engineering problems and foster innovative solutions. 🎓

Experience

Dr. Sumit Zanje’s career embodies excellence in engineering and research. Currently a Lead Civil Project Engineer at COSMOS Technologies, he leads stormwater modeling initiatives and evaluates municipal Green Stormwater Infrastructure projects. At VPS Development Partners LLC, he managed hydropower prototype development and project designs, showcasing his leadership in interdisciplinary engineering. As a Graduate Researcher at Florida International University, Dr. Zanje pioneered methodologies to mitigate sewer geysers and developed hydraulic models, earning recognition through publications and awards. Earlier, as a Simulation & Design Engineer at Raychem RPG Pvt. Ltd., he contributed to sustainable product design, filing four patents in the marine and transportation sectors. His teaching tenure at BITS Pilani emphasized mentoring students in advanced engineering concepts. Across these roles, Dr. Zanje has consistently demonstrated expertise in project management, innovation, and collaboration, making him a leader in his field. 🌟

Awards and Honors

Dr. Sumit Zanje has been recognized with numerous prestigious accolades for his exceptional contributions to engineering. Highlights include winning First Place at the 2019 EPA Campus RainWorks Challenge (Master Plan Category) and Second Place in its 9th annual edition, showcasing his leadership in sustainable urban design. He earned the Dissertation Year Fellowship Award (2022), reflecting the significance of his Ph.D. research on flood mitigation. His inventive prowess is evidenced by four design patents in marine and transportation sectors. Additionally, Dr. Zanje has achieved certification as a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt and FE Mechanical Engineer, underscoring his technical excellence. His dedication to engineering innovation and sustainability has earned him both national and international recognition, solidifying his reputation as an industry leader. 🏅

Research Focus 

Dr. Sumit Zanje’s research focuses on sustainable stormwater management, flood mitigation, and advanced product design. His innovative work includes developing CFD models for sewer systems, pioneering retrofitting methods to mitigate sewer geysers using Wire Mesh Sensors and Particle Image Velocimetry, and creating first-of-its-kind field-scaled experimental facilities. His expertise spans hydrologic and hydraulic modeling, Green Infrastructure design, and numerical analysis using advanced tools like HEC-RAS, OpenFOAM, and COMSOL Multiphysics. Dr. Zanje’s interdisciplinary approach bridges civil and mechanical engineering, addressing pressing urban and environmental challenges. His research has resulted in five publications and significant contributions to water resource engineering, including strategies for floodplain mapping and waterway restoration. Through his work, Dr. Zanje continues to advance sustainable engineering solutions, cementing his position as a visionary researcher. 🌊

Publication Top Notes:

  • Siphon Break Phenomena Associated with Pipe Leakage Location
    • Year: 2022
    • Citations: 5
  • CFD Modeling of Storm Sewer Geysers in Partially Filled Dropshafts
    • Year: 2022
    • Citations: 4
  • A Feasibility Study on Harvesting Rainwater from Large Solar Panel Canopies to Supplement Makeup Water for Cooling Towers by Using Remotely Controlled and Self-Cleaning Rain Cistern
    • Year: 2021
    • Citations: 4
  • Experimental and Numerical Investigation of a Small Scale Storm Sewer Geyser
    • Year: 2024
    • Citations: 3
  • Modeling and Simulation of Compact Feeder Pillar System
    • Year: 2018
    • Citations: 3

 

Paulin Sainclair Kouassy Kalédjé’ | Network Environmental | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Paulin Sainclair Kouassy Kalédjé’ | Network Environmental | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Paulin Sainclair Kouassy Kalédjé’, University of Dschang, Cameroon.

Dr. Paulin Sainclair Kouassy Kalédjé is a dedicated hydrogéochemist and environmental specialist with expertise in hydrology, hydrogeology, and environmental sciences. He is a faculty member at the University of Dschang and a lecturer at the University of Yaoundé I, Cameroon. His research focuses on hydrological and geochemical studies, water resource mapping, and environmental management. Dr. Kalédjé has contributed to various scientific publications and has presented his work at international conferences. His academic path spans several degrees, culminating in a Ph.D. from the University of Yaoundé I. 🌿🌍

Publication Profile

Scopus

Education 🎓

  • Ph.D. in Hydrology and Environmental Sciences, University of Yaoundé I, Cameroon (2021)
  • Specialized Master’s in Hydrology, University of Tehran, Iran (2010-2012)
  • Diploma of Advanced Studies (DEA) in Hydrology, University of Yaoundé I, Cameroon (2007)
  • Master’s Degree in Geology, University of Ngaoundéré, Cameroon (2005)

Professional Experience 🧑‍🏫

  • Lecturer, Faculty of Sciences, University of Dschang (since Nov 2022)
    • Teaches practical and theoretical courses in Applied Geology, Mining, and Petroleum.
  • Part-Time Lecturer, Department of Earth Sciences, University of Yaoundé I (since 2021)
    • Involved in teaching courses in Water Resources and Environmental Risks in African Metropolises.
  • Lecturer, Bilingual Sub-regional University Institute Agenla Academy, Yaoundé (2015-2022)
    • Delivered courses in Geological and Petroleum Engineering, Civil Engineering, and Health & Safety.
  • Lecturer, Institute of Applied Sciences and Technology (2014-2016)
    • Taught Mining Engineering, Quality, Safety, and Environmental Sciences.
  • Lecturer, Higher Institute of Agronomy, Bertoua (2013-2015)
    • Coordinated academic and administrative duties while teaching Geology, Hydrogeology, and Climatology.

Suitability For The Award 

Dr. Paulin Sainclair Kouassy Kalédjé is a distinguished hydrogeochemist and environmental scientist, specializing in hydrogeochemistry, hydrology, and environmental sciences. As a lecturer at the University of Dschang and a contributor to multiple academic institutions in Cameroon, he has an extensive teaching and research portfolio. His work focuses on water resource management, climate variability, and geochemical analysis, supported by numerous impactful publications. Dr. Kalédjé’s expertise and contributions to hydrology and environmental research make him an exemplary candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

Professional Development

Dr. Kalédjé has continuously expanded his knowledge and skills, attending international scientific forums, such as the “World Forum on Climate Justice” (2019) and “Water Resources, Environment, and Climate Change Conference” (2018). He is a member of professional societies like the Cameroonian Society of Geosciences (SCG). He has contributed to research in hydrology, water resources, and environmental management, often applying his expertise in practical settings. As a supervisor, he has guided students in projects related to geological and environmental management, contributing to both academic and professional development. 🔬🌍

Research Focus

Dr. Paulin Sainclair Kouassy Kalédjé’s research primarily focuses on hydrogeochemistry and environmental sciences, exploring groundwater contamination, water resource management, and the impact of climate variability on hydrological responses. His studies often analyze water quality and hydrological balance in various African regions, specifically Cameroon. Dr. Kalédjé is particularly interested in water resources mappinggeochemical fluid dynamics, and the hydrological behavior of ecosystems. He aims to bridge the gap between scientific knowledge and practical applications in environmental protection and sustainable resource management. 🌍💧

Publication Top Notes

  1. 🌍 Groundwater quality assessment for drinking and agricultural purposes under arid climate in N’Djamena, Chad (Central Africa)  (2024) – 🌟
  2. 💧 Groundwater quality assessment in the catchment area of Kadey (East-Cameroon): water quality index approach (2023) – 🌟 2 citations
  3. 🌦️ Estimating and analyzing extreme daily rain greater than an equatorial climate threshold: the case of East-Cameroon  (2022) – 🌟
  4. 💦 Quantitative assessment of water resources by the method of the hydrological balance in the Kadey catchment area (East-Cameroon) (2020) – 🌟 5 citations
  5. 🌊 Floods of 18 and 19 November 2016 in Batouri (East Cameroon): Interpretation of the Hydro-Meteorological Parameters and Historical Context of the Post-Event Survey Episode (2019) – 🌟 6 citations